[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 41 (Friday, March 19, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E425]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING DICK PURTAN

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 19, 2010

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 
retirement of WOMC-FM radio host Mr. Dick Purtan after 45 years on the 
air in Detroit.
  During his 45-year career, Mr. Purtan has become a well recognized 
radio personality nationwide. From his work at WOMC-FM, Mr. Purtan has 
been inducted into the Michigan Broadcasters Hall of Fame, National 
Radio Hall of Fame and won the Marconi award for being the Nation's top 
radio personality.
  Mr. Purtan is also known for his dedication to philanthropic works 
benefitting the Metro Detroit area. In September 2009, he and his wife 
Gail were named ``Goodfellows of the Year'' by the Detroit Goodfellows 
Organization. Since 1988, Mr. Purtan has raised $22 million for those 
in need through an annual Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army's Bed 
and Bread program. Also, Mr. Purtan supports Children's Hospital as 
well as the Karmanos Cancer Center through the Gail Purtan Ovarian 
Cancer Research Fund.
  Madam Speaker, Mr. Dick Purtan will be remembered for his award 
winning personality and as a philanthropist and friend to Metro 
Detroit. As we celebrate his retirement, I ask my colleagues to join me 
in recognizing his many achievements and honoring the contributions he 
made to society.

                          ____________________