[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 172 (Wednesday, November 7, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2343-E2344]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO MRS. MARGARET DREWNIAK

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 7, 2007

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration 
that I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of 
Mrs. Margaret (Marge) Drewniak. I can truly say that Marge is one of 
Northwest Indiana's most dedicated, distinguished, and honorable 
citizens. She is one of the most involved citizens that I have ever 
known, especially when it comes to her service to the people of 
Whiting, Indiana. For the past 37 years, Marge has been a constant 
fixture in Whiting, fully committed in her various capacities as a 
public servant. Most notably, Marge has served as the Clerk-Treasurer 
for the City of Whiting for the past 26 years. Though Marge has decided 
not to run for re- election, her efforts over the course of her tenure, 
and the impact she has had on the city and the people of Whiting will 
forever be remembered. To honor Marge, a reception will be held at the 
Knights of Columbus Hall in Whiting, Indiana, on Saturday, November 10, 
2007.
  One of 3 children, Margaret Kotyuk was born to Frank and Emma (Mitro) 
Kotyuk in Whiting, Indiana. A lifelong resident of Whiting, Marge 
attended the Whiting public schools. Upon her graduation, prior to 
beginning her career as a public servant, Marge was employed as a 
bookkeeper. Undoubtedly, it was during that time that Marge developed 
the skills that would be critical in her role as clerk-treasurer.
  Marge began her career in the public sector in Whiting in 1970, where 
she served in various capacities within several departments under 
former Mayor Frank Harangody. In 1974, she was named deputy clerk-
treasurer, a position she held until 1981, when she was appointed to 
complete the term of the late clerk-treasurer, Mary Jancek. This began 
Marge's 26-year tenure as Whiting's clerk-treasurer. During that time, 
she worked with four mayors: Frank Harangody, Joseph Grenchik, Robert 
Bercik, and current Mayor Joseph Stahura. Marge also served as a 
precinct vice-committeeperson and volunteered countless hours for the 
Whiting Democratic Precinct Organization during her tenure.
  In her capacity as clerk-treasurer, Marge has been a member of many 
organizations throughout the years, including: the Indiana League of 
Municipal Clerks and Treasurers, the International Institute of 
Municipal Clerks and Treasurers, the Municipal Treasurers' Association 
of the United States and Canada, the Government Finance Officers 
Association, and the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns. Outside 
her elected position, Marge is

[[Page E2344]]

well-known to be an active member in several organizations within the 
Whiting community, including: the Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of 
Commerce, the Knights of Columbus Wives Club, the Daughters of 
Isabella, the Whiting-Robertsdale Historical Society, the Sacred Heart 
Rosary Society, and the Friends of the Library.
  While Marge's everyday presence will be missed at Whiting City Hall, 
she will now have a chance to spend more time to those closest to her--
her family. A loving wife, mother, and grandmother, Marge's commitment 
to her community is surpassed only by her love for her family. Marge 
and her loving husband, Henry, have been married for an astonishing 55 
years. With Marge's retirement, they plan to spend as much time as 
possible with their 3 children: Nancy (Michael) Pappas, James (Martha) 
Drewniak, and Ron (Lisa) Drewniak, and their adoring grandchildren: 
Brian and Kelly Pappas and Eric and Scott Drewniak.
  Madam Speaker, Marge Drewniak has selflessly given her time and 
efforts to the people of Whiting, Indiana, throughout her years of 
service. At this time, I ask that you and all of my distinguished 
colleagues join me in commending her for her lifetime of service and 
dedication, and I ask that you join me in wishing her the best of 
health and happiness in the years to come.

                          ____________________