[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 149 (Thursday, September 18, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1847-E1848]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING DOUGLAS KAPNICK

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. TIMOTHY WALBERG

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2008

  Mr. WALBERG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Douglas Kapnick of 
Adrian, MI on the celebration of his retirement from Kapnick Insurance 
Group. For 43 years he has successfully operated the company and has 
contributed to various organizations within the area in an effort to 
give back to the community.
  Upon graduating from the University of Michigan in 1965 with a 
Business Administration degree, Douglas Kapnick joined his father's 
insurance business, Kapnick and Company. From the beginning, he focused 
on expanding the agency beyond home and auto insurance and worked to 
extend its reach into Adrian's neighboring areas. In 1974 he bought the 
15-person operation from his father, Elmer Kapnick, and in 1975, he was 
elected to serve as its president. As chairperson and chief executive 
officer, he succeeded in growing the business into one of the most 
respected insurance agencies in the Midwest.
  In July 2001, the company doubled its benefits operation through the 
purchase of Harbors Benefits Services located in Ann Arbor, MI, and in 
2005, it changed its name to Kapnick Insurance Group. The company has 
gained recognition as an innovative, well managed company with a 
reputation for providing quality service and creative solutions to its 
clients. The company's success can be traced to Douglas' inspiring 
leadership and ability to bring out the best in each employee. Carrying 
on the family tradition, Douglas Kapnick's two sons, Jim and Mike 
Kapnick, bought the company from him in 2006. On September 5, 2008, 
Douglas spent his last official day in the office.

[[Page E1848]]

  In his personal and professional life, Douglas has devoted his time 
to giving back to the community. He has served as a member of the board 
of several community organizations such as YMCA, United Way, Lenawee 
Chamber of Commerce, and Croswell Opera House. Douglas has served 
several terms on the Adrian Public School's Board of Education, 
including 5 years as board president. He served 19 years as a trustee 
on Siena Heights University Board of Trustees, with 8 years as 
president, and continues as a chairperson. He has served as president 
for the Bank of Lenawee and Pavilion Bancorp. Douglas' life and service 
is a direct reflection of his longtime commitment to giving back to the 
community.
  Douglas' contributions to the community have not gone unnoticed. He 
is one of only three recipients to receive the Lenawee Maple Leaf 
Award, the county's most prestigious award which is given in 
recognition of outstanding leadership, community service, and 
citizenship. In addition, he has been honored with a Lifetime 
Achievement Award from Hanover Insurance Company.
  Madam Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing 
Douglas Kapnick for 43-years of service to Adrian, MI and its 
surrounding areas. His ability to expand his father's company from a 
six-person operation to a company of 135 employees demonstrates his 
business expertise and good judgment. Additionally, he has devoted 
himself to serving his community, an endeavor that he will continue to 
practice long into his retirement. May others know of my high regard 
for Douglas Kapnick as well as my best wishes for him in the future.

                          ____________________