[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 176 (Friday, November 2, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1490]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING MR. JEFF STRACK WITH THE 2018 DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN 
                                 AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                  in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 2, 2018

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration 
that I take this time to recognize the recipient of the 2018 
Distinguished Citizen Award, presented annually by the Boy Scouts of 
America Calumet Council. To commemorate this special occasion, the 
organization will host a celebratory event on Wednesday, November 7, 
2018, at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, Indiana.
  For 26 years, the Boy Scouts of America Calumet Council has presented 
the Distinguished Citizen Award to individuals whose selfless efforts 
have tremendously impacted their communities in Northwest Indiana and 
across the state. This year, the Boy Scouts of America Calumet Council 
will honor Mr. Jeff Strack.
  In May of 2016, Jeff Strack was appointed President and Chief 
Executive Officer of Indiana Grocery Group/Strack & Van Til. As a 
third-generation head of the company, Jeffs legacy began with his 
fondest memories of shadowing his father as he worked tirelessly to 
keep Strack & Van Til successful. After eighth grade, Jeff was 
officially hired into the company, eventually working his way through 
every department within the store before leaving for college. After 
obtaining his master's degree, Jeff embarked on a journey with Strack & 
Van Til that helped him learn every aspect of the business, rightfully 
earning his way to leading the company.
  Almost a year after Jeff's appointment as President and Chief 
Executive Officer, he was faced with challenges that to many would have 
seemed insurmountable. In 2017, after its parent company, Central 
Grocers, filed for bankruptcy, Strack & Van Til was forced to shut down 
numerous stores. However, Jeff was determined to save the family 
business that has served as an economic driver in Northwest Indiana for 
almost six decades. After he and a group of investors formed Indiana 
Grocery Group and successfully purchased back Strack & Van Til, Mr. 
Strack vowed to keep it a family-owned business. Jeff fought for the 
business and for the jobs of many individuals by securing twenty 
locations in communities throughout Northwest Indiana. In addition, Mr. 
Strack's many contributions to the community have supported local 
schools, military, first responders, and families in need.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in commending the steadfast leadership and dedication of Mr. 
Jeff Strack. Mr. Strack's family business continues to serve as a 
cornerstone of Northwest Indiana, and their continued charitable 
efforts and service in our local communities are to be admired. Jeff is 
undeniably deserving of the 2018 Distinguished Citizen Award. His 
exceptional leadership and commitment to Northwest Indiana will have a 
positive impact on generations to come.

                          ____________________