[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 146 (Tuesday, November 14, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S11531]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN RECOGNITION OF MR. WOODROW W. WOODY

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, on Thursday, November 16, 2000, the 
people of Michigan, will pay tribute to Mr. Woodrow W. Woody, president 
and owner of the longest running car dealership in the Nation--Woody 
Pontiac Sales, Inc. Mr. Woody, who continued active participation in 
the business, until he was 92 years old in June 2000, when he 
officially closed the Pontiac dealership he opened in the city of 
Hamtramck, MI in 1940.
  Mr. Woody has come to be known as the pillar of his industry. In 
1966, his dealership hit its peak year with the sale of 2,200 cars. 
Revered by his peers and the people of Michigan, he was inducted into 
the Automotive Hall of Fame. Over the 60-year operation of his 
dealership, Woody, as he is called by friends and family, estimates 
that he sold over 100,000 Pontiacs, one of General Motors' leading 
products. He says his success is due to his genuine love of life and 
people.
  This immigrant from Lebanon, embodies the ultimate success story of 
the American dream. Much of why he is being honored is because of his 
dedication and loyalty to the citizens of the city of Hamtramck and his 
beloved Lebanon. When the economy recessed and auto sales reflected a 
downturn, Woody never considered moving his dealership from the 
community that supported him through prosperous times. Hailed for his 
philanthropic activities, he spearheaded a drive to build a new 
facility for the Hamtramck Public Library. In addition, he has worked 
with Junior Achievement and the Rotary Club for more than 50 years 
accomplishing projects which support community growth. Woody has also 
been just as committed to the people of his homeland, where he has 
built a school and medical clinic.
  Although Woody promises to continue his work in the community, 
interacting with various civic and fraternal organizations for the good 
of the community, the industry has lost its senior statesman and he 
will be sorely missed. We all wish Woody continued health, happiness 
and prosperity in the years ahead. I am sure my colleagues join me in 
the celebration of the life of Mr. Woodrow W. Woody, extending to him 
the good will and wishes of the Senate.

                          ____________________