[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 16 (Tuesday, February 10, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E135]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


  RECOGNIZING THE MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE HAMMOND COUNCIL PARENT 
                          TEACHER ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 10, 2004

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that 
I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of the 
Hammond Council Parent Teacher Association (PTA) as it celebrates the 
PTA's 2004 Founders' Day. This very important occasion will be 
celebrated on Friday, February 13, 2004 at the Dynasty Banquet Hall in 
Hammond, Indiana.
  The National PTA was founded in 1897 by Ms. Alice McLellan Birney and 
Ms. Phoebe Apperson Hearst. In 1970, the National Congress of Colored 
Parents, which was founded by Ms. Selena Sloan Butler, joined the 
National PTA. Due to the vision and determination of these women, the 
organization has taken the lead in promoting the welfare of children 
throughout the country.
  The Hammond Council PTA was chartered on April 30, 1945 as a member 
of the Indiana PTA and the National PTA. Being a member of the state as 
well as national PTA, the Hammond Council has provided continuous 
support and resources to local families which focus on the health and 
education of children. The Hammond Council has continued the legacy of 
the PTA's founders through many projects such as Hammond's Survive 
Alive Program which has developed and saved the lives of many students 
and their families.
  Each year, the Hammond Council also recognizes the top ten students 
from the four Hammond high schools through a special scholarship 
program. The recipients are honored in partnership with the School City 
of Hammond and the Hammond Rotary Club. Along with their leadership in 
their local community, members from the Hammond Council have also gone 
on to serve as officers for the Indiana PTA. Some of the local leaders 
include, past President Ms. Beverly Zawadski, the current President Ms. 
Marilyn Jones, the President Elect Ms. Dee Jones, and the Secretary Ms. 
Pat Taylor.
  Each year in February, the PTA celebrates Founders' Day to recognize 
the accomplishments and dedication of teachers, volunteers, 
administrators, and community leaders who have made a positive impact 
on their community. During the celebration on Friday, February 13, the 
Hammond Council PTA will announce its 2004 winners of the 15th 
Volunteer of the Year Award, the Outstanding Local Unit Award, and the 
Membership and National PTA Lifetime Achievement Awards.
  Mr. Speaker, as this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Hammond Council 
PTA and all its members as they celebrate the 2004 Founders' Day. Their 
many great accomplishments and service to the children of the Hammond 
community, as well as throughout the state, is worthy of the highest 
commendation.

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