[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 135 (Saturday, November 20, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2096]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING JUDGE MICHAEL BATCHIK

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 19, 2004

  Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor 
Judge Michael Batchik upon his retirement after 25 years of service to 
the citizens of the 52nd District Court, 1st Division and the 52nd 
District Court, 2nd Division of Oakland County, Michigan.
  Professionally, Judge Batchik served as chairman of the Judicial 
Conference Committee of the State Bar of Michigan, and has been an 
active member of numerous judicial organizations, including the 
Representative Assembly and the American Judges' Association. Mike has 
served as president of the Michigan District Judges' Association and 
president of the Oakland County District Judges' Association. He is 
also a past president of the Walled Lake Rotary.
  During his tenure in the 52nd District Court, Judge Batchik initiated 
and implemented a highly successful jail alternative program. The 
program involves sentencing non-violent offenders to work in a 
structured community service program in lieu of jail, including a 
garden program that produces food for charitable organizations in the 
district. He has also been actively involved in implementing the very 
positive and successful ``Sobriety Court'' program at the Court. This 
program has been a key turning point in the lives of many drunk 
drivers, as well as reducing recidivism.
  Mr. Speaker, I extend our entire community's sincere appreciation and 
gratitude to Judge Michael Batchik for his fine service to our 
community and our country; and wish him and his wife, Connie, the very 
best as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

                          ____________________