[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 20, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E5-E6]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          CONGRATULATIONS TO PEOPLES BANK ON 94TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 20, 2004

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that 
I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of 
Peoples Bank throughout its 94 years of service in the Northwest 
Indiana community. To commemorate this special occasion, Peoples Bank 
will be holding an anniversary celebration on Saturday, January 10, 
2004, at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, Indiana.
  Peoples Bank was established in 1910, and was organized to meet the 
needs of consumers. Peoples Bank was originally known as The First 
Polish National Building and Loan Association. During that time, it was 
the main hub for church and social activities in East Chicago, Indiana. 
Over several decades, the association's name changed numerous times, 
and in 1989 it was entitled Peoples Bank.

[[Page E6]]

  Peoples Bank was the first savings and loan association to ever 
receive a federal charter in East Chicago after the Great Depression. 
In the 1950s, the bank played an integral role in assisting former 
servicemen to build or purchase homes through G.I. Loans. At this time, 
Peoples Bank expanded its access to the Northwest Indiana community by 
moving into a multi-office operation. The Woodmar section of Hammond 
was chosen as the second office location along Indianapolis Boulevard.
  It was during the 1960s that Peoples Bank added another branch 
location in Merrillville. Due to the success of these initial offices, 
additional branches were established in the area including Dyer, 
Munster, Schererville, and a second Merrillville office. In the year 
2000, Peoples Bank opened its eighth branch location in Hobart.
  Peoples Bank's Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, Mr. David 
Bochnowski, has served as the leader for the organization since 1981, 
after serving on the board since 1977. Through his guidance, along with 
all the hard work of the staff, Peoples Bank has continued to be an 
active force in providing superior customer service and assistance to 
all of Northwest Indiana.
  Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Peoples Bank on their 
94th anniversary. Their many great accomplishments and hard work 
throughout the years is worthy of the highest commendation.

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