[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 153 (Tuesday, October 28, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2147]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 A TRIBUTE TO JOANNE KONKLE ON HER RETIREMENT AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE 
                  CALHOUN COUNTY MEDICAL CARE FACILITY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 28, 2003

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joanne 
Konkle on her well deserved retirement following more than 30 years of 
dedicated service to the health and well-being of the citizens of 
Calhoun County, Michigan.
  For the past 19 years, Joanne has served as the Administrator of the 
Calhoun County Medical Care Facility. In this capacity, Joanne has been 
responsible for the management and operation of the facility, which 
serves the needs of some of the county's most vulnerable senior 
citizens. Her leadership and sound fiscal stewardship has earned the 
center numerous quality awards and a reputation of being one of the 
most outstanding medical care facilities in the State of Michigan.
  Joanne's career accomplishments are notable not only because they are 
numerous, but also because they represent a dedicated focus on service 
to others. In addition to her work as a Clinical Social Worker at the 
V.A. Medical Center, Joanne is a member and past president of the 
Michigan County Medical Care Facilities Council, served three-terms as 
a Calhoun County commissioner, 24 years as a member of the Community 
Mental Health Board and, for the past 45 years, has served as a board 
member of the Calhoun County Association for Retarded Citizens.
  She has been a staunch supporter and volunteer for organizations such 
as the Substance Abuse Council, Special Olympics and the Alzheimer's 
Association, as well as a passionate advocate on issues and legislation 
affecting the elderly and mentally handicapped.
  While so much of her life has been dedicated to others, Joanne has 
never lost sight of the importance of family. She and her husband Ted 
have been married for 51 years, and have raised four wonderful 
children. In addition, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren 
will undoubtedly play a major role in the Konkle's retirement plan.
  I am honored to recognize Joanne Konkle for her commitment to 
community and her tireless and selfless service to others. I wish her 
and her family all the best as she embarks on a well deserved 
retirement.

                          ____________________