[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 137 (Monday, December 6, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2148]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING MR. JACK MERKEL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 6, 2004

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. I rise today to honor the 2004 Chelsea Area 
Citizen of the Year, Mr. Jack Merkel. A lifelong resident of Chelsea, 
Jack Merkel has dedicated his life to the betterment of his community. 
Mr. Merkel is a respected business owner, community leader, husband, 
father, and grandfather.
  He has served on countless boards and commissions throughout his 
life, including the Chelsea Village Council, Mayor of Chelsea, Chelsea 
Community Hospital, Silver Maples of Chelsea, Chelsea Area Chamber of 
Commerce, Chelsea City Charter Commission, and is an active member of 
St. Mary's Catholic Church. A distinguished businessman, Jack and his 
brother, Bob, owned and operated Merkel's Furniture, a Chelsea 
landmark, for 46 years.
  Mr. Merkel was the leader of the Chelsea Cityhood initiative. Over 12 
years, he provided tireless leadership, focus, and support to the 
project, which culminated in a City Charter first approved by the State 
of Michigan and approved by the residents of Chelsea in March of 2004.
  On behalf of the Congress of the United States of America, I am proud 
to honor Mr. Jack Merkel for his commitment to family and community, 
and his dedication to improving his hometown. We commend him for his 
selfless service to others, and honor his contributions to his 
community.

                          ____________________