Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate The Pink Pony of Mackinac Island on their 75th anniversary. A bright sight at the end of the ferry dock, The Pink Pony is widely celebrated for their extraordinary live music, refreshing drinks, and mouthwatering whitefish dip.

In 1948, as a part of the Seahorse Cottages, the pub first opened its doors. Though it wasn't until a renewal project by the original owners in 1956 when The Pink Pony was given its iconic name and design. Today, the restaurant maintains its classic warm feel while continuing to provide outstanding service and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Pink Pony has become a focal point for the residents and tourists alike. Sitting at the end of the Port Huron to Mackinac Sailboat Race, the bar is a favorite of sailboat racers and features the ``Pink Pony Yacht Club'', complete with pennants from competitors from all over the world.

Critically acclaimed as one of the best outdoor bars in the United States, The Pink Pony consistently receives rave reviews and national awards. Recognitions include `The Most Iconic Bar in Michigan' by Thrillist, and `One of America's Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining' by the Daily Meal, as well as many more accolades.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize The Pink Pony, for its 75th anniversary. I wish The Pink Pony many more years of success and wish the crew the best in all of their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Horn's Gaslight Bar and Restaurant for 90 years of exemplary service. I would like to congratulate the Horn Family and their staff on their success and wish them many more years of success.

The Horn family has a long and celebrated history in Mackinac. In 1915, Ed Horn first came to Mackinac Island to work for the Michigan Life Saving Service, the predecessor to the United States Coast Guard. During Prohibition, Ed Horn leased the building that would become Horn's and opened a pool hall and snack shop. In December of 1933, following the passage of the 21st Amendment. Ed finally opened Horn's Gaslight Bar and Restaurant as we know it today.

Since its start, Horn's has been a staple of Mackinac Island. During the day you can hear lively piano music drifting out the door and see eager customers dining on the renowned southwest cuisine. When the sun sets, the chairs are pulled aside, and the dance floor comes alive. Horn's is a favorite late-night spot among locals, workers, and visitors alike.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate Horn's Gaslight Bar and Restaurant for 90 years of outstanding service. I'd like to wish the Horn family and their staff all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the Traverse City Young Marines. The incredible organization boasts of half a century of dedication to enhancing the lives of America's youth and of a strong commitment to Drug Demand Reduction efforts.

The Young Marines Program was established in 1959 and officially chartered on October 17, 1965. Open to children 8 years old through high school, the Young Marines promote the importance of self- confidence, academic achievement, honoring our Veterans, good citizenship. community service, and living a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

The Traverse City chapter has consistently demonstrated excellence through their community centric initiatives. The Young Marines conduct a yearly cleanup of M-37, volunteer countless hours of community service, and contribute to honoring our Michigan Veterans by partnering with local organizations such as the Navy-Marine Relief Society. Throughout their 50 years of service, the Young Marines of Traverse City have earned numerous distinctions. Most recently, they were recognized by Encampment 2021 and achieved a division distinction from Encampment 2018. Nationally, the Young Marines have received 12 Fulcrum Shields, a national award highlighting diligence in drug reduction efforts

These exemplary young men and women owe a great deal of gratitude to the numerous volunteers who filled integral positions in the organization for the past 50 years. These volunteers have served as Unit Commanders, Regiment Commanders. Battalion Commanders. and Paymasters, among many other roles. Without the selfless commitment of these leaders, the Young Marines would not be the esteemed organization it is today.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Traverse City Young Marines for 50 years of service and dedication to the Traverse City youth. On behalf of Michigan's First District. I'd like to congratulate the Young Marines and Volunteers, wishing them the best in all of their future endeavors

Mr. Speaker, I was unexpectedly detained during vote proceedings. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 514, and YEA on Roll Call No. 515.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Sheriff Daniel Bean for his 42 years in law enforcement and congratulate him on his retirement. Sheriff Bean has served as the Sheriff of Antrim County for the past 15 years. Valiantly, he has protected and bettered his community every day on the job.

Sheriff Bean began his distinguished service in law enforcement in 1981 with the East Jordan Police Department before transferring to the Mancelona Department, where he spent 4 years as a deputy. In 1985, Dan transferred to the Antrim Police Department and worked tirelessly with the corrections and dispatch teams.

Throughout his impressive career, Sheriff Bean served as a DARE Officer, a school liaison, a road patrol officer, and Undersheriff of Antrim County. In 2008, Dan finally made the decision to run for Sheriff of Antrim County, proceeding to win and hold the position with strength and humility until his retirement.

Sheriff Bean's devotion to his coworkers and community remains unrivaled. He could often be found going above and beyond the call of duty to give back, including through his mentoring of students and volunteering to serve lunch at the Antrim County Commission on Aging. When asked why he didn't leave his strenuous line of work sooner, Dan said he didn't want to go anywhere else, for he loved his county.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Sheriff Dan Bean for his 42 years of service and dedication to Antrim County. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I'd like to thank Sheriff Bean for his devotion to Antrim County and congratulate him on a well-deserved retirement.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the late Thomas ``Cal'' Jenerou for his dedication to the working men and women of Northern Michigan and his posthumous induction into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame.

Cal answered the call of service to our Nation at the young age of 17 as he joined the Navy. During World War II, Cal spent 3 years serving aboard the USS Evarts, a destroyer escort. After more than seven successful escort missions, Mr. Jenerou was honorably discharged on November 13, 1945. Following his valiant service, he returned to Michigan, eventually moving with his wife, Dorothy, to Gulliver, Michigan.

Beginning his career as a boilermaker in 1959, Cal joined the Boilermakers Local 169 and became their local business agent seven years later. Within that role, he worked tirelessly to defend and advocate for the rights of workers in Area 4. Cal's diligence and empathy pushed him to persistently fight for the laborers he represented, ensuring they had proper jobs and sufficient support.

In addition to serving thousands of workers as a business agent, Cal acted as President of the U.P. Building Trades Council and a member of the AFL-CIO Executive Board. He leveraged those platforms to be an essential voice for member unions and contractors, one known for his strong leadership as President and toughness as a negotiator.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the late Thomas ``Cal'' Jenerou for his exemplary leadership and service to our country in many capacities. On behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I'd like to recognize the late Mr. Jenerou for his posthumous induction into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Nino Green for his dedication to the working men and women of Michigan and to congratulate him on his induction into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame.

Nino began his accomplished career as a lawyer in 1964 and soon thereafter was appointed as the first executive director of the Upper Peninsula Legal Services, where he provided free, high quality legal advice and representation for individuals and families in need. In 1969, Mr. Green transitioned to a private practice where he tirelessly worked to defend the rights of Michigan laborers.

A celebrated mediator, Nino Green represented federal employees before the E.E.O.C., Merit System Protection Board, F.A.A., and U.S. Forest Service. He also argued cases before the Michigan Workers Compensation Board, Employment Security Commission. Employment Relations Commission, Civil Service Commission, Department of Civil Rights, and State Employee's Retirement System. In addition, he led negotiations for collective bargaining agreements which settled strikes at St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba, Lodal in Kingsford, and Celotex in L'Anse.

Mr.Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Nino Green for his extensive efforts to protect workers' rights and serve his community. On behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I'd like to thank Mr. Green for his devotion to the workers of Northern Michigan and congratulate him on this well-deserved accomplishment.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize the remarkable life of Ms. Kay Fischer of Benzie County and wish her a most joyous 100th birthday. Ms. Fischer has led an inspiring and full life of service, including as an integral member of the Manhattan Project.

In 1943, the Michigander and her husband moved to Chicago, where she began work at the University of Chicago in the chemistry department. As a young scientist, Ms. Fischer worked across multiple programs within her department, lending her expertise, diligence, and grit to her colleagues and the country. She proudly worked alongside the brightest minds of the 20th century, including Dr. Robert J. Oppenheimer, Dr. Enrico Fermi, and Dr. Leo Szilard.

Ms. Fischer's work also extended to the study of the effects of radiation on organic matter. She was responsible for conducting autopsies and reporting on the results of sustained exposure to radiation, an inquiry which ultimately influenced the deployment of the first atomic bomb. After leaving this line of secret research, she recalled a few months later listening on the radio as the United States had dropped the result of her work above Hiroshima.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Ms. Kay Fischer for her steadfast commitment to her country. I wish her a birthday full of joy and reflection on the many wonderful memories and milestones in her impactful life. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish her and her family the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Gregory J. Seppanen for his induction into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame. Mr. Seppanen dedicated his career to improving the lives of students, advocating for fellow educators, and serving the Upper Peninsula communities.

Mr. Seppanen graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1979 and soon found a passion for serving others. Greg was first appointed to the Marquette County Planning Commission in 1982, where he combined his love for environmental activism with community planning. It was there that Greg learned that collaboration and communication with the community was the key to an effective plan.

Greg began his distinguished career in education in 1986 as a high school counselor and later as a counselor-teacher. Two roles were not enough for Mr. Seppanen, as he also became the building representative for the district's executive board of the Marquette Education Association. He tirelessly worked to better his school, support his fellow educators, and create a welcoming community. Greg retired from an exemplary tenure with Marquette Area Public Schools in 2010.

Supplementing his role as an educator, Mr. Seppanen served on the Marquette County Board of Commissioners and as the Chocolay Township Supervisor. In that capacity, Mr. Seppanen fought extensively to better the communities within his purview and foster collaboration among their citizens. Most recently, Mr. Seppanen returned to Northern Michigan University, this time as an appointee to the Board of Trustees.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Gregory J. Seppanen for his incredible service to Northern Michigan and induction into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame. On behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I'd like to thank Mr. Seppanen for his contributions to our community and his dedication to advancing education.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mishler's Drive-In for 57 years of excellent service in Evart, Michigan. Since opening in 1966, they have remained both a staple of their community and a must-see destination for travelers. In addition to their renowned root beer, hamburgers, and raspberry truffles, the Mishler family and staff has maintained a glimmering reputation through old-fashioned hospitality and dedication to quality. Mishlers Drive-In has truly become an irreplaceable part of the community and individuals throughout Michigan, including myself, are saddened by their closing after over half a century.

In the early 1990s, Steve Mishler gained ownership from his parents and has since continued to operate the restaurant with an increased focus on customer experience. As a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike, individuals have trekked long distances and endured intense weather conditions for a meal at Mishler's Drive-In. It is easy to see why they have been a landmark of Evart, Michigan for the last 57 years, and I'd like to extend my appreciation to all involved in their success.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mishler's Drive-In for 57 years of continuous and exemplary operation in Northern Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish the Mishler family, its staff, and the local community the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to recognize Bruce Closser for his impressive bicycle trek between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. After months of training, Bruce became the oldest individual to complete this 3-month journey at the age of 78. As a resident of Marquette and the great state of Michigan, Bruce shines as both a pillar of health and an example of ongoing resilience.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the spring of 2019, Bruce has worked to maintain his active lifestyle. Despite his illness, he has defied all expectations in conquering the 4,200-mile trek between the United States' major coasts. His achievement is officially recognized by Guinness World Records and will be remembered by individuals throughout the world. As lifelong Yooper, Bruce has always valued the outdoors and its numerous activities. In addition to cycling, he is an avid skier, spending many winters at Marquette Mountain. Beyond enjoying nature, Bruce is deeply involved with the Parkinson's Foundation. His efforts have included raising awareness, educational advocacy, and fundraising. To the local communities of the Upper Peninsula and our Congressional District, Bruce is truly an inspiration.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Bruce Closser for this impressive accomplishment. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I extend my gratitude to Bruce and wish him and his family the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Howard Seid for his numerous efforts to better the lives of veterans across Ontonagon County and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Through his bountiful service, charitable nature, and continued leadership, Howard has become irreplaceable to the people of the great State of Michigan.

None are more deserving of recognition, as Howard has gone above and beyond in his commitment to the local communities of Northern Michigan. Prior to his work with veterans, Howard served in the United States Air Force, where he held the roles of Trainer Pilot, Airlift Pilot, and Wing Commander. After 27 years, he retired at the rank of Colonel. His devotion to the people of his country and fellow servicemen remains steadfast.

It is difficult to fully encapsulate all the ways in which Howard works to better the lives of veterans. Since 1992, he has been an active member of The American Legion Post 92. In 2017, he became the chapter's Commander and continues to hold that position today. Under his leadership, the post has become a profitable and active community center with many veterans attending weekly events. Similarly, he has served both as the Western U.P. representative on the U.P. Veterans Community Action Team and as Vice-Chairman of their Steering Committee for the past 6 years. Furthermore, Howard has been instrumental in ensuring that veterans in the U.P. have access to sufficient medical facilities and treatments. As a volunteer for Disabled American Veterans, he has logged over 10,000 hours transporting individuals to doctor appointments and hospital visits. Additionally, he works to honor veterans across the Upper Peninsula, organizing events like an annual veteran fishing day on a private and handicap-accessible pond. Since retiring from the Air Force, Howard has spent years serving veterans, and his efforts have provided a much-needed support for our military heroes.

Outside of his work for veterans, Howard is an active and charitable community member. He has been responsible for planning and executing Rockland community's annual Christmas gathering for the last 7 years. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, he ensured that every child received a hand-delivered gift from Santa traveling atop a firetruck. In addition, he serves as a member of the Ottawa Lions Club, St. Paul Methodist Church, U.P. Sport Fishing Association, and Rockland Volunteer Fire Department. As a Colonel, a veteran, a volunteer, and a Yooper, Howard has consistently put the needs of others before his own.

Mr. Speaker, It is my honor to congratulate Howard Seid for his decades of service to fellow Michigan veterans. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless and devoted individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Howard all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize James Provost for being named the 2023 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. Through his continued service, charitable nature, and strong leadership, James has become an essential part of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

The U.P. Veteran of the Year is chosen annually by a selection committee consisting of past commanders of various service organizations throughout the peninsula. It is given to recognize Yooper veterans who go above and beyond in their service to their local communities and fellow veterans. None are more deserving of this honor than James. Prior to his work with veterans, James served in the United States Marine Corps, where he was decorated with the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnamese Service Medal, Vietnamese Campaign Medal, and two Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citations. His devotion to the people of his country and community has not wavered since returning from military service.

It is impossible to fully list all the ways in which James works to better the lives of U.P. veterans. Since the organization's founding in 2014, he has been the Chairman of the Marquette County Veterans Alliance. Similarly, he has served on the Marquette County's Veterans Affairs Committee for the past 9 years. As a member of the committee, he works on the veterans crisis team, finding resources and housing for individuals in need. Furthermore, James has played a pivotal role in ensuring that veterans in the U.P. have consistent access to medical services. Through his fundraising efforts, he has helped the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 22 Veteran Transportation Program to purchase new vehicles and has personally logged thousands of hours transporting veterans to doctor appointments and hospital visits. Notably, in 2016 James was responsible for the AVTT Traveling Vietnam Wall's arrival in Marquette. He organized many commemorative veterans events to coincide with the tribute. Since returning from the Vietnam War, James has spent years as an advocate for veterans, and the initiatives that he has begun have created the infrastructure of support that our military heroes need and deserve.

Outside of his work for veterans, James is an active community member. After providing the loan to start the Marquette County Youth Football League in 1990, he became the league commissioner for the following 20 years. In addition, he coached Marquette Junior Hockey for 12 years, serving twice as Vice President. Later, he founded the Central Upper Peninsula Hockey League and served as both Marquette Senior High School and Northern Michigan University's Goal Judge for over two decades. His contributions to his community have been previously recognized by Senator Peters, Senator Stabenow, Governor Whitmer, and myself. Just last year, he was also honored as the 2022 Marquette County Veteran of the Year. As a servicemember, a veteran, a volunteer, and a Yooper, James has consistently put the needs of others before his own.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate James A. Provost for his decades of service to fellow Michigan veterans and for being named the 2023 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless and devoted individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish James all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Tom Bensley for his 14 years of service as Sheriff of Grand Traverse County. Throughout his time working for the people of Northern Michigan, including nearly five decades in law enforcement, Tom has shown considerable poise and professionalism while making his community a safer place.

Following 3 years of service in the United States Army, Sheriff Bensley attended Northwestern Michigan College. In 1971, he joined the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office as a seasonal marine officer. By 1974, Tom was promoted to a full-time road patrol officer. In the spring of 1983, he was named supervisor of the department's marine safety section. He received numerous awards for his service including the 1985 Employee of the Year and two Awards of Merit. Tom temporarily retired in 1999, before being elected as the 34th Sheriff of Grand Traverse County in 2008. He would go on to hold this position for 14 years, until announcing his upcoming retirement in September of 2023. Additionally, he was an active member of the Sheriff's Office dive team for 35 years.

Throughout his distinguished career, Sheriff Bensley prioritized his community's safety and well-being above all else. Tom's longtime devotion to our country is commendable, and the

impact of his work on his fellow officers and the people of the Grand Traverse County cannot be overstated. We owe Tom our utmost gratitude for his continued effort to better himself, his colleagues, and the community he has served for the past 50 years.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Tom Bensley for his decades of combined service to the United States Army and the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Department. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I extend my gratitude to Tom and his family and wish them the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the Resort Bear Creek Fire Department for 75 years of continued service to the residents of Petoskey and for their upcoming celebratory event being held on August 17, 2023. Resort Bear Creek Fire Department has been a staple of the community for decades and has become the standard in fire prevention and mediation for Petoskey residents throughout their history. Their desire to educate others on safe practices pertaining to fire management and control has had a direct hand in the prevention of countless tragedies within their constituency. I am heartened by the department's impact on local residents and am confident that their exemplary leadership will continue for years to come.

Fire departments across Northern Michigan have the immense task of keeping a vast wooded area safe from the possibility of fire. The residents, their homes, and local businesses rely on professionally run and operated departments like Resort Bear Creek to ensure that their investments and livelihoods remain protected. Their work has been a blessing to all within their service area and I cannot thank them enough for their efforts over these past 75 years.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 75th Anniversary of the Resort Bear Creek Fire Department in Petoskey, Michigan and their celebratory event being held on August 17, 2023. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish everyone involved in the Resort Bear Creek Fire Department's history of success the best in their future endeavors and a successful celebratory ceremony.