[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 91 (Thursday, June 17, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1138]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       HONORING JOEL L. DERETCHIN

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEVIN BRADY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 17, 2010

  Mr. BRADY of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joel L. 
Deretchin, a great community leader and a dear friend. Mr. Deretchin 
has held numerous leadership roles throughout the community in The 
Woodlands, Texas. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Deretchin 
has served several executive positions with many respected 
organizations in the Woodlands area. He held leadership positions at 
The Woodlands Development Company, served as a board member of The 
Woodlands Community Association, and served as President and sitting 
board member of both the Woodlands Association and the Woodlands 
Commercial Owners Association.
  Mr. Deretchin has strived to keep the community focused on improving 
education in The Woodlands by supporting and establishing The 
University Center, The John Cooper School and the Academy for Lifelong 
Learning at Montgomery College--all which have given valuable 
opportunities to students in and around The Woodlands community. The 
Conroe Independent School District has recognized and honored Mr. 
Deretchin's achievements by naming one of their elementary schools in 
his honor, the Joel L. Deretchin K-6 Elementary School.
  As you can see, he has truly impacted innumerable lives in The 
Woodlands community. His servant leadership on the Interfaith of the 
Woodlands Board and the South Montgomery County/Woodlands Chamber of 
Commerce Board are clearly evident as he continuously volunteers his 
time and lends a hand to organizations and non-profits.
  For his countless service efforts, Mr. Deretchin was awarded 
``Citizen of the Year'' by the South Montgomery County/Woodlands 
Chamber of Commerce in 1990. He was also honored in 1999 as a 
``Hometown Hero'' during the Woodlands 25th Anniversary Celebration. 
While these awards and honors are significant, nothing can truly 
commemorate the extent of service Mr. Deretchin has provided for his 
community. His leadership and commitment to The Woodlands is selfless 
and something that merits applauding.
  His compassionate heart as well as his desire to help others has 
continued to drive him to remain active throughout the community--he 
never expected to be honored with these awards, but boy is he 
deserving! Wanting nothing in return, Mr. Deretchin committed over 33 
years to The Woodlands community and has watched it flourish and grow. 
I know Mr. Deretchin is proud to have been so heavily involved in the 
community development of The Woodlands, but I also know The Woodlands 
is proud to say he is one of our residents. The Woodlands has more than 
benefited from his leadership, knowledge and philanthropic focus.
  Madam Speaker, it is such an honor to recognize Joel Deretchin as a 
significant part of The Woodlands' community and pay tribute to his 
contributions to the people of The Woodlands as he retires, however 
there is no doubt in my mind that he will continue be heavily involved! 
I urge you to join me in recognizing Mr. Deretchin and his 
achievements.

                          ____________________