Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Thomas Ranta for being named the 2026 Marquette County Veteran of the Year. I thank him for his decades of dedicated service to our Nation, our Veterans, and the Marquette County community.

Tom learned the importance of helping Veterans from his father, a man who proudly wore the uniform during World War II. After spending 13 years in the United States Army and National Guard, Tom continued his commitment to Veterans through his work with the American Legion and other Veterans organizations.

Tom's involvement in his community began with his own experience as a 1967 American Legion Boys State delegate. He later became the Boys State Chairman for ten years, helping send 56 young men to the Boys State program and preparing them for the experience.

Tom has dedicated countless hours to honoring our Nation's Veterans. Since 2010, he has spearheaded the ``Flags Over School Program,'' coordinating Veterans Day programs at nine schools and two nursing homes. Each year, he leads efforts to display 143 American flags at Harlow Park and coordinates the placement of approximately 1,400 flags at Veterans' graves in Park and Holy Cross Cemeteries. For nearly a decade, Tom has coordinated Memorial Day ceremonies at both cemeteries. After learning that some residents at the Jacobetti Home for Veterans could not attend, Tom established a separate Memorial Day ceremony there so Veterans and their families could participate in honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Tom has held numerous leadership positions with American Legion Post 44, including Post Commander and Boys State Chairman, and is also a member of VFW Post 6 and the Marquette County Veterans Alliance. He also served as a Lieutenant with the Michigan State Police for 33 years.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Thomas Ranta. I thank him for a lifetime of dedication to our Nation, our Veterans, and the State of Michigan.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkiye and to extend my congratulations to the people of Turkiye and to Turkish Americans in Michigan and across the United States.

On October 29, 1923, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk proclaimed the Republic of Turkiye, launching a new era of national sovereignty, modernization, and reform. Over a century later, Turkiye still sits at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, a location of real strategic consequence.

The relationship between our two nations rests on diplomatic, economic, cultural, and security cooperation. Those ties have endured for generations, and they continue to open doors for greater collaboration and mutual understanding.

Turkiye is a steadfast NATO ally, anchoring the Alliance's southeastern flank. In 74 years of membership, Turkiye has stood shoulder to shoulder with the United States and our allies, and in 2026 it hosted the NATO Summit in Ankara. Turkiye remains central to collective defense, regional security, and the pursuit of peace.

That friendship is strengthened by the Turkish American community. Across Michigan, Turkish American physicians, educators, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, artists, and civic leaders make our communities stronger and add to the economic and cultural vitality of our state.

As Turkish Americans gather to celebrate Republic Day, we honor their heritage, their accomplishments, and their commitment to building stronger ties between the American and Turkish people.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in congratulating the people of Turkiye and Turkish Americans in Michigan and across the country on the 103rd anniversary of the Republic of Turkiye. May our friendship continue to grow, grounded in mutual respect, shared prosperity, and an unwavering commitment to peace and security.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Benjamin Twiggs of Traverse City, Michigan, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary, and to commend its enduring commitment to Michigan's cherry industry and the farming families who sustain it.

Founded in 1966, Benjamin Twiggs has become a fixture in Traverse City, a community known for its rich agricultural heritage and its tart cherries. In 2020, fifth-generation fruit farmer Leisa Eckerle Hankins acquired the store with a clear mission: to strengthen the connection between local agriculture and the customers who support it. She later learned that her father had invested in the company at its founding, more than five decades earlier. Her family's story with the business had come full circle.

Today, Leisa and her family continue to build on that legacy by promoting Michigan-grown cherries, teaching visitors about the region's agricultural traditions, and standing behind local farmers. Through its products and outreach, Benjamin Twiggs shows the hard work of Michigan's agricultural community and carries the value of our state's cherry industry well beyond the orchard. Leisa has also helped strengthen the industry by establishing a cherry grower alliance that brings together more than 100 growers around their shared future.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Benjamin Twiggs and the Eckerle Hankins family on 60 years of business and service to Michigan's cherry industry. I commend their dedication to our state's agricultural heritage, and I thank them for supporting the farmers, families, and communities that make Northern Michigan such a special place to call home.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Gordon Cornwell, a respected architect, community leader, and longtime resident of Traverse City, Michigan. Through his professional work, civic involvement, and commitment to preserving the beauty of the Grand Traverse area, Gordon left a lasting mark on the community he called home.

After earning his bachelor's and master's degrees in architecture from Syracuse University and serving as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy during World War II, Gordon and his wife, Jean, moved to Traverse City in 1947. There he established his own architectural practice and began a career that would span hundreds of projects throughout Northern Michigan. His designs included Traverse City Central High School, West Junior High, St. Francis High School, the City-County Building, and numerous churches, hospitals, and residences.

Gordon's commitment to Traverse City extended far beyond his profession. He served 35 years on the Traverse City Planning Commission and played an instrumental role in drafting the city's original zoning ordinance. He was a founding member of the Traverse Area Development Fund, now known as the Traverse Area Community Foundation, and served as a board member of the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce, where he chaired its downtown development committee. Gordon also served for many years on the board of Child and Family Services of Northwest Michigan and was a member of Kiwanis for six decades. Through these roles, Gordon demonstrated a steadfast commitment to strengthening local institutions, supporting families, and ensuring Traverse City remained a welcoming place to live and work.

Gordon also understood the importance of preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Northern Michigan special. As a founding member of the Grand Traverse Yacht Club and Grand Traverse Ski Club, he helped foster a lasting tradition of outdoor recreation in the region. His support for community sailing reflected his desire to share his love of Grand Traverse Bay with future generations. Above all, Gordon will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his faith, and his neighbors. He and Jean raised four children in Traverse City and built a life rooted in service, integrity, and an appreciation for the community around them. His warm smile, ready wit, and universal acceptance of others touched the lives of those who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jean, their family, and all who mourn Gordon's passing. I thank Gordon Cornwell for his decades of service and his lasting commitment to the people and community of Northern Michigan.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize the Alpena Lions Club as they celebrate 100 years of dedicated service to the community of Alpena, Michigan and the humanitarian mission of Lions International.

The Alpena Lions Club's story is one of a community that has chosen, decade after decade, to show up for its neighbors. Since 1926, generations of volunteers have dedicated their time and effort to the club's mission of serving their community, meeting humanitarian needs, encouraging peace, and promoting international understanding. As a proud affiliate of Lions Club International, the global leader in community and humanitarian service, the Alpena Lions Club has demonstrated that the spirit of service knows no borders.

Currently led by President Audra Smith, the club has stayed true to their mission across all 100 years, working every day to improve the lives of Northern Michiganders. By providing free health screenings, organizing food drives, supporting the visually impaired, assisting families affected by childhood illnesses, and advocating for the responsible stewardship of our natural resources, the club embodies the Northern Michigan values of hard work, generosity, and looking out for your fellow man. From small acts of kindness to providing support in areas of disaster, the Alpena Lions Club is living proof that ordinary people can do extraordinary things, and that even one person, answering the call to serve, can make a difference.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the Alpena Lions Club for a century of dedicated service to Alpena, to the country, and to the world. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I thank President Smith and all the club's members for their tireless efforts, and wish them continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant First Class Gary Gladue for his distinguished service to our Nation and his continued dedication to Veterans and the community of Menominee, Michigan.

Sergeant First Class Gladue's commitment to service did not end when he left the military. Today, he continues that work in his community as Commander of American Legion Post 146 in Menominee and Adjutant of VFW Post 1887. Gary dedicates his time to supporting fellow Veterans, bringing them together, and making sure their service is remembered and recognized.

Gary's dedication to his fellow Veterans is evident in the countless ways he continues to serve. As a volunteer driver for the Disabled American Veterans, he frequently makes the nearly two-and-a-half-hour round trip to transport local Veterans to the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain, ensuring they can access the care and benefits they have earned. Through the Military 20 Year Club, Gary helps provide military funeral honors, support community events, and award scholarships to local students. He also volunteers with UP Health System Home Care and Hospice, where he visits Veterans nearing the end of their lives, listens to their stories, and provides companionship when it matters most.

Outside of his work with Veterans organizations, Gary is always willing to lend a helping hand to a neighbor or fellow Veteran in need. He recently accepted two donated mobility chairs and is repairing them so they can be provided to Veterans who need them. He and fellow volunteers also delivered a donated lift chair to a disabled Veteran in Stephenson, Michigan. His wife, Lisa, is often by his side in these efforts, and together they have made helping their neighbors a regular part of their daily lives.

Mr. Speaker, let us join in recognizing Sergeant First Class Gary Gladue for his lifetime of service to our Nation, our Veterans, and his community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gloria Mae Gurlea, a lifelong daughter of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, as she celebrates her 100th birthday on October 16, 2026. Gloria has spent a century living by the values of faith, family, service, and devotion to our Nation.

Born in Escanaba in 1926 to Maurice and Katherine Connor, Gloria grew up alongside her sister and best friend, Faye, in Turin and later New Swanzy. She graduated from Gwinn High School in 1944. In 1949, Gloria answered the call to serve her country and enlisted in the United States Navy, completing basic training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center.

Gloria's first assignment brought her to Washington, D.C., where she served as a Cryptologic Technician 2nd Class at the Naval Operations Center on Nebraska Avenue during the Korean War. While stationed in Washington, she met Corporal Victor Gurlea, whom she married in 1951.

Following her honorable discharge, Gloria spent the next two decades traveling the world alongside Victor as he continued his career in the United States Army. Together, they raised two sons, Timothy and Paul, building a family grounded in service and resilience.

Following Victor's service in Vietnam, the Gurlea family returned home to the Upper Peninsula in 1969 and settled once again in New Swanzy. Today, Gloria remains part of that same community as a resident of Mill Creek Assisted Living in Marquette.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Gloria Mae Gurlea on this remarkable milestone and thanking her for her service to our Nation. May she and her family continue to be blessed for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize former Swedish diplomat and business leader Goran Rannefors on the occasion of his retirement and to commend his decades of service to Sweden, the United States, and the international community.

As Co-Chairs of the House Friends of Sweden Caucus, it is an honor to recognize Mr. Rannefors for his contributions to strengthening the longstanding friendship between our two nations and advancing the value of educational and cultural exchange.

Following his service in the Swedish Armed Forces, Mr. Rannefors held leadership positions in Sweden's private sector before being appointed Sweden's Trade Commissioner to the United States in 1986. He served in that position for nearly a decade, helping strengthen economic ties between Sweden and America. In 1994, Mr. Rannefors joined Education First (EF), beginning more than three decades of leadership with an organization dedicated to international education and cultural exchange. During his tenure, EF expanded its reach around the world, creating opportunities for students to travel, study, learn English, and experience different cultures. His leadership also helped establish Hult International Business School and expand EF's international educational programs, including its au pair program.

Over the course of his career with EF, Mr. Rannefors helped create opportunities for more than one million students around the world. He has also continued his commitment to service through the Cultural Care Kids First Foundation, which supports children in need around the globe.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in thanking Mr. Rannefors for his many years of service and wish him and his family the very best in retirement. His work has benefited countless Swedish and American families and helped demonstrate the enduring value of friendship, education, and cultural exchange.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding Michiganders who recently graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and answered the call to serve our Nation as commissioned officers in the United States Army.

More than 12,000 men and women applied to join the Class of 2026, yet only a select few earned the opportunity to attend West Point and successfully complete its rigorous four-year program. Earning a place at the Academy is an accomplishment in itself, but graduating requires far more than academic excellence. It demands discipline, perseverance, and a willingness to put service to our Nation before oneself.

As a Marine who served our Nation for four decades, I know firsthand that military service asks a great deal of those who choose to wear the uniform. I also know that the strength of our military ultimately rests not only on equipment or technology, but on the character of the men and women willing to serve. As

they begin assignments across our Nation and around the world, these new Second Lieutenants will have the opportunity to lead our Soldiers through the challenges of military service. I have no doubt that the lessons they learned at West Point will serve them well as they take on this responsibility.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I extend my sincere congratulations to these graduates and their families. May they continue to lead with courage, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to defending our Constitution and our Nation. I wish each of them success as they begin this next chapter of their service to our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Louis ``Louie'' Krupa of Sault Ste. Marie and Rudyard, Michigan, on achieving a lifelong dream of becoming a Major League Baseball umpire. Louie's journey to the Major Leagues was not a stroke of luck, but rather a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and a passion for the game of baseball.

Louie developed his love for umpiring early, working his first Little League game when he was just 12 years old. But even before stepping onto the diamond, friends and family recall that when attending baseball games, Louie's attention often drifted from the players to the men behind the plate and scattered across the field. That fascination grew into a calling. He enrolled in umpire school in 2014, and while a professional opportunity did not immediately follow, he refused to walk away. He returned in 2015, determined to earn his place in professional baseball, and this time, his perseverance paid off.

Louie worked his first professional game in the Gulf Coast League in the summer of 2015, launching a career defined by steady advancement and hard-earned respect. He moved through the New York-Penn League in 2016, the Midwest League in 2017, and the Florida State League in 2018 and 2019. In August of 2019, he earned a well-deserved promotion to Double-A and an assignment to the Eastern League.

Following the cancellation of the 2020 Minor League season due to COVID-19, Louie returned to the Eastern League in 2021 and was named a crew chief in 2022. In 2023, he reached Triple-A, where he has continued to officiate games across the country. In 2024 and 2025, Louie was selected to work the Arizona Fall League, an important step for umpires pursuing opportunities in the Major Leagues.

Louie's hard work reached its ultimate reward in 2026 when he was invited to Major League Spring Training for the second consecutive year and received his Major League uniform number, No. 27. On April 24, 2026, he made his Major League debut behind the plate for the Colorado Rockies at the New York Mets. Since then, he has continued working both Major League and Triple-A games.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in congratulating Louie Krupa on reaching the Major Leagues. I wish him continued success as he begins this exciting new chapter of his career.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dennis Iott of Kalkaska County on his induction into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame and to honor his more than four decades of dedication to Michigan agriculture.

For 45 years, Dennis has worked to build Iott Seed Farms into one of Michigan's premier agricultural operations. Under his leadership, the farm has nearly tripled its seed potato production and now grows approximately 27 million pounds of seed potatoes each year, making Iott Seed Farms the largest supplier of seed potatoes in Michigan. His commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as the 2026 Frito- Lay Seed Supplier of the Year, the 2025 Kalkaska Business of the Year, and the 2024 Michigan Association of Conservation Districts Conservation Farm of the Year.

Dennis's impact extends well beyond his own farm. As President of Potato Growers of Michigan and Chairman of the Kalkaska Conservation District Board of Directors, he has been a steadfast advocate for Michigan farmers and for responsible stewardship of our natural resources. He has worked with Michigan State University researchers, welcomed students and policymakers to his farm, and participated in field trials that advance agricultural practices strengthening both productivity and conservation. He has also been a consistent voice in discussions surrounding Michigan's water resources, advocating for sound science, responsible management, and continued access to water for farmers.

Perhaps most importantly, Dennis has invested in the people who will carry Michigan agriculture forward. Through mentorship, agricultural education, and years of service to farming organizations and his community, he has generously shared his knowledge with fellow farmers, students, researchers, and the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Dennis on this well-deserved honor, thank him for his decades of service, and wish him and his family continued success for many growing seasons to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Army Specialist David Anthony Wilkey, Jr., a native of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Specialist Wilkey was born in Norway, Michigan, and grew up nearby in Wilson. As a teenager, he moved to Elkhart, Indiana. After graduating from Jimtown High School in 2003, David worked alongside his father at Plastic Components Inc. before answering the call to serve and enlisting in the United States Army. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, based at Fort Riley, Kansas, and deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

On June 17, 2007, while traveling with a Humvee convoy in Baghdad, an improvised explosive device detonated near David's unit, leaving him with wounds that would claim his life the following day. On June 18, 2007, at just 22 years old, Specialist Wilkey gave his life in defense of our Nation and in service to his fellow Soldiers.

Those who knew David remember him as someone who was always willing to help others. He was the kind of person who was always ready to lend a hand, smooth out rough edges, and make a friend wherever he went. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, sports, repairing things, shopping, and poetry. Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, son, and friend who remained deeply connected to his loved ones even while serving thousands of miles from home.

David was ultimately laid to rest in Powers, Michigan, near the Upper Peninsula community where he grew up. Though his military service took him far from home, he returned to the place that helped shape him and where his memory remains part of the community which he called home.

Mr. Speaker, may we always remember Specialist David A. Wilkey, Jr., honor his service, and never forget that the freedoms we enjoy were defended by brave Americans like him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Steve Kwarciany on being named the 2026 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. For more than a decade, Steve has been a steadfast leader within numerous Veteran organizations across the Upper Peninsula, dedicating countless hours to improving the lives of those who have served our Nation.

As a Life Member of VFW Hiawatha Post 2998, AMVETS Escanaba Post 123, DAV Delta County Chapter 24, and Bark River American Legion Post 438, Steve has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving his fellow Veterans. His leadership roles as Commander of the Delta County Veterans Council, Quartermaster of VFW Post 2998, Senior Vice Commander of DAV Chapter 24, and Chairman of the Delta County Department of Veterans Affairs Board reflect the confidence and respect he has earned from his fellow Veterans.

Steve played a vital role in the ballot referendum that established the Delta County Department of Veterans Affairs, helping ensure that local Veterans have greater access to the resources and services they deserve. His service as Director of the Delta County Veterans Council's Memorial Day, POW/MIA Recognition Day, and Veterans Day ceremonies, along with his work as Funeral Honor Guard Commander and member of the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight Welcome Home Honor Guard, demonstrates his enduring commitment to honoring those who have worn the uniform.

Steve's work has left an enduring mark on the Upper Peninsula, Whether coordinating the annual VFW Poppy Sale, serving as a mentor for young people while at the Bark River-Harris Leo Club, or volunteering with the U.P. Off Road Races, Steve has consistently placed service above self. By exemplifying the highest standards of leadership, he has inspired countless others to embrace the values of citizenship, volunteerism, and patriotism.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Steve Kwarciany on being named the 2026 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate Steve on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his extraordinary service to our Nation, our Veterans, and the people of the Upper Peninsula.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Dr. Richard Bates on his retirement from Thunder Bay Community Health Service. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Bates has dedicated himself to improving access to quality healthcare for the people of Northern Michigan while exemplifying compassionate leadership and an unwavering commitment to rural communities.

A graduate of Alma College, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University School of Medicine, Dr. Bates has served Northeast Michigan for more than twenty-five years as both a trusted physician and respected healthcare leader. During his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Thunder Bay Community Health Service, he expanded access to care by growing the organization's services, including the launch of its Women's Health program, ensuring more families throughout the region received the care they deserve.

Beyond his leadership within the clinic, Dr. Bates has been a tireless advocate for Community Health Centers, regularly traveling to Washington to champion the needs of rural healthcare providers. He has led discussions with my office on behalf of health centers across our region and has been a valued partner in advancing policies that strengthen healthcare access for the people of Northern Michigan. His dedication to delivering quality care has also touched countless families, delivering thousands of babies throughout Northeast Michigan over the course of his medical career.

Although retiring from his role as Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Bates will continue serving patients as a part-time clinician to assist with Thunder Bay's expanding women's health services, ensuring his experience and passion for medicine will continue to benefit our communities.

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Dr. Richard Bates for his extraordinary service, leadership, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of Northern Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate him on his well-earned retirement and wish him, his wife Cheryl, and their family many years of health, happiness, and continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the countless hardworking hotel employees across Michigan's 1st Congressional District and throughout our Nation on National Hotel Employee Day. These dedicated individuals are the backbone of the hotel industry, providing the exceptional service, professionalism, and care that make travelers feel welcome.

Hotel employees do far more than greeting guests at check-in. From room attendants and front desk staff to engineers, chefs, sales managers, and countless other professionals, hotel staff ensure safe, comfortable, and memorable experiences for millions of travelers each year. Their dedication strengthens our communities, supports our economy, and reflects the very best of American hospitality.

The hotel industry plays a vital role in our Nation's economy, supporting one in every twenty-five American jobs and contributing approximately $900 billion annually to our Nation's Gross Domestic Product. In Michigan's 1st Congressional District, travel and tourism are central to our local economy, with destinations like Mackinac Island welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. The 552 hotels and more than 10,000 hotel employees across my district provide the warm and welcoming service that keeps visitors returning to experience all that Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula have to offer.

On National Hotel Employee Day, we recognize the men and women whose contributions often happen behind the scenes, but whose impact is felt everyday by travelers, families, and communities across the Nation, Their hard work and dedication embody the values of service and excellence that make our country stronger.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing hotel employees across Michigan's 1st Congressional District and throughout the United States on National Hotel Employee Day. We thank them for their continued dedication, professionalism, and commitment to providing exceptional service to all who travel.