[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 92 (Monday, June 18, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1058]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MR. RICHARD ZILKA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 18, 2012

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Richard Zilka, 
outgoing president of the Clearing Civic League in Chicago, Illinois, 
for his lasting service to the community.
  Mr. Zilka's community owes him an enormous debt. A member of the 
Clearing Civic League since 1965, he has been president for 26 years 
during which time he has distinguished himself as a tireless fighter 
for the success and safety of the neighborhood. Instrumental in 
securing a public library for the citizens of Clearing and establishing 
the Clearing Night Watch, he also successfully campaigned against the 
installation of high-pollution medical incinerators in the area. These 
are just some of the many successes that he spearheaded on behalf of 
the residents of Clearing.
  Mr. Zilka and his wife of 54 years, Marie, have two sons and one 
daughter. Prior to his retirement he worked for International 
Harvester, which has since become Navistar. He has also fulfilled a 
number of diverse roles in the community, including serving on the 
advisory council of Chicago's John F. Kennedy High School, and the 
Community Advisory Council in Bedford Park. He has also served as a 
member of the nearby Garfield Ridge Civic League. In recognition of his 
achievements, South Rutherford Avenue was recently renamed in his 
honor.
  A resident of Chicago his entire life, Richard Zilka has been a 
tireless fighter for the well being of his neighbors on the Southwest 
Side. Held in the utmost regard within the community, I have been 
inspired by his loyal and enduring service. As he retires from his 
position as president of the Clearing Civic League, I wish him all the 
very best for the future.

                          ____________________