Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Gary Chapman for being named Dickinson County Veteran of the Year. This well-deserved honor reflects his steadfast dedication to his fellow Servicemembers, the communities throughout Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and our Nation.

Gary served our Nation honorably from July 22, 1970, to July 21, 1973, with service in the Vietnam War from 1971 to 1973. Throughout his time in uniform, Gary earned numerous awards and decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Marksmanship Badge, and two Overseas Service Bars. Following his honorable discharge, Gary has continued serving his community for three decades as a custodian and bus driver for the Breitung Township School District.

Gary's dedication to service did not end when he hung up the uniform. For more than 40 years, he has faithfully volunteered with American Legion Post No. 363, where he has served as Adjutant. Recognizing the importance of investing in our Nation's youth, he created the first ever Sons of the Legion for Post No. 363 in the early 2000's and continues to host its monthly meetings at his home. Every year he plans and organizes the Kingsford Memorial Day Program at the Quinnesec Cemetery and proudly volunteers countless hours selling Poppies during the American Legion fundraiser event.

His efforts exemplify some of the very best American values: selflessness, determination, and a steadfast commitment to community.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Mr. Gary Chapman for being named Dickinson County Veteran of the Year. I thank him for his enduring commitment to Veterans, his community, and our great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the enduring legacy of the United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Mackinaw and to commend the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum as it approaches the 20th anniversary of preserving the proud history of this legendary ship for future generations.

Constructed during World War II, the USCGC Mackinaw was built to support the Nation's war effort and meet the increasing demand for transporting critical war materials across the Great Lakes. As America's steel production became vital to victory overseas, the movement of iron ore, coal, and limestone to the Nation's steel mills became increasingly important. Recognizing the need to keep Great Lakes shipping lanes open during harsh winter conditions, Congress authorized the construction of the USCGC Mackinaw just ten days after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Through her strength, innovative engineering, and the dedication of the crew, the USCGC Mackinaw was able to extend the shipping season into months where the Great Lakes had previously been covered in thick ice, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of vital materials. Following the war, she continued to faithfully serve the American people through icebreaking operations, search and rescue missions, patrol duties, and resupply operations for Coast Guard stations throughout the Great Lakes region.

In 2006, after an impressive 62-year career of distinguished service, the USCGC Mackinaw was decommissioned. Today she is permanently moored at the old railroad dock in Mackinaw City, where she continues to serve as the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum. Through the dedication of its staff, volunteers, and supporters, the museum preserves an important chapter of Great Lakes and Coast Guard history.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the United States Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw and congratulating the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum as it approaches this remarkable 20-year milestone of preserving history, honoring service, and inspiring future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Don Baty of Grayling, Michigan for his decades of leadership and dedicated service to Northern Michigan and the Republican Party of Crawford County.

Don's story is one rooted in hard work, loyalty, and a deep love for the great state of

Michigan. After graduating from Hastings High School, Don went on to attend the University of Michigan, where he was a member of the Wolverines football team. Upon completing his education, he entered the medical field, working first at the University of Michigan Hospital before moving into medical equipment sales. That work took him to New Jersey and Texas, but Don's heart never left Michigan. When the time came, he chose to retire right here in the 1st District.

Since his retirement, Don has become a cornerstone of the Crawford County community. From volunteering at Grayling Hospital to serving on the board of his church to donating groceries to neighbors in need. Don lives out the American ideals of service, generosity, and looking out for your fellow man. In an era when it is easy to stand on the sidelines, Don has chosen to show up.

Don has also made his mark as a champion of civic participation across the region. As former Vice Chair of the Crawford County Republican Party and a member of the Crawford County Board of Canvassers, he was instrumental in revitalizing the local party when its membership was struggling. To this day, Don can still be found on the streets of Grayling with clipboard in hand, talking to his neighbors and gathering signatures for causes that benefit the whole community. He is a true patriot who understands that you do not need to hold elected office to make a difference and contribute to the Great American Experiment.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Don Baty for his continued service to Northern Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I thank him for his tireless efforts and wish him continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the lasting impact of Oleson's Food Stores as they approach an extraordinary milestone, their 100th anniversary of providing fresh, high-quality food products as well as exceptional service to the communities of Northern Michigan.

Spanning four generations of family ownership, Oleson's Food Stores has become a cornerstone of the communities they serve. Their success is not a story of luck, but one of hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to customers. In 1926, Gerald and Frances Oleson opened a small grocery store in Traverse City, Michigan. Over the next century, the Oleson family transformed that modest storefront into a trusted regional business, growing to four stores across three counties while remaining true to their founding values.

Beyond their success as grocers, Oleson's Food Stores have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to giving back. Through partnerships such as Food Rescue and the company's Community Share Program, Oleson's has provided more than 1.1 million pounds of food to those in need and contributed nearly $1.9 million to local organizations and community initiatives. They have also worked closely with Grand Traverse Area Genealogical Society to provide nearly $2500 in contributions to support the society's mission of genealogical education. These efforts reflect an understanding that strong businesses help build strong communities.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Oleson's Food Stores as they celebrate a century of service, the dedication of four generations of family leadership, and the hard work of the employees who have contributed to their lasting success. The Oleson family's enduring commitment to service, community, and excellence embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and hometown values that define Michigan's 1st Congressional District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Eugene ``Gene'' Smith of Germfask, Michigan, as he celebrates his 102nd birthday.

Born in Utica, Michigan, on June 7, 1924, Gene came to Germfask as an infant and has spent more than a century building a legacy of service, hard work, and dedication to his community. After losing both of his parents while still in elementary school, Gene was raised by his uncle, John Losey, and developed the resilience and character that would later serve him well.

In February 1943, Gene was drafted into the United States Army Air Forces, serving as a Sergeant and cook in England during D-Day and later in France. Following his service, he returned home and worked for twenty-nine years with the Schoolcraft County Road Commission before spending another twenty years as a heavy equipment operator and mechanic.

For more than five decades, Gene has been a pillar of the Manistique and Germfask communities. Since 1969, he has served as a member, Postmaster, and Chaplain of Lakeside Lodge No. 371, while holding numerous leadership positions throughout Masonic organizations across the Upper Peninsula. He is also a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), a past VFW commander, and a faithful member of the Germfask Methodist Church.

Many residents recognize Gene's familiar face in regional Independence Day parades, where he has spent decades driving his beloved ``Little Indy'' Shriners parade car. In recognition of his lifelong service, he was awarded a special proclamation signed by local officials and Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Eugene ``Gene'' Smith on this remarkable milestone and thank him for a lifetime of service to his country, community, and fellow citizens.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Benjamin Twiggs, ``The Original Cherry Store,'' as they celebrate 60 years of offering the finest cherry products in the country.

Since 1966, Benjamin Twiggs has crafted cherry goods from 100 percent homegrown Michigan fruit, providing beloved treats for locals and visitors alike. As part of the larger cherry industry, their multigenerational enterprise has helped make Traverse City, the cherry capital of the world.

Benjamin Twiggs is owned by Leisa Eckerle Hankins, a fifth-generation Leelanau County cherry farmer and one of the most respected leaders in the Michigan cherry industry. The Eckerle family farm, operated by Leisa's parents, Jim and Shirley, spans more than 300 acres in Suttons Bay and includes six additional farms across Leelanau County, encompassing more than 20,000 cherry, peach, and apple trees. Leisa's parents, husband, and children work the farm year-round, and her son, Zach, plans to eventually take over the family business. The Eckerle family represents the best of Northern Michigan--hard work, strong family roots, and a deep commitment to their community.

To advocate for herself and her fellow farmers, Leisa founded the Michigan Cherry Growers Alliance in 2024, helping give cherry farmers a stronger voice at the legislative level. This past April, she was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Cherry Committee, a state-level body established to create greater marketing opportunities for Michigan's cherry growers. Her work as owner of Benjamin Twiggs and as an industry leader has helped strengthen and revitalize Michigan's cherry industry.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Benjamin Twiggs, ``The Original Cherry Store,'' for 60 years of dedicated service to Traverse City and the cherry industry of Northern Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I want to thank Leisa and the Eckerle family for their hard work, dedication, and stewardship of a proud Northern Michigan tradition, and wish them continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Isabella Weller on earning the most prestigious award in Girl Scouting, the Gold Award. Isabella is a member of Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore, Troop 8686, and has exemplified extraordinary leadership, innovative problem-solving, and a demonstrated commitment to making a lasting, positive impact.

Gold Award Girl Scouts are recognized as trailblazers who are willing to tackle the most pressing challenges facing their communities and the world with measurable, sustainable, and far-reaching results. To earn the Girl Scout Gold Award, high school-aged Girl Scouts must identify and investigate an issue they care about, devise a plan, and then lead a team of experts and community members to implement a project that produces lasting change. Over the course of 1 to 2 years, Gold Award Girl Scouts demonstrate significant initiative, commitment, and leadership, distinguishing them from their peers. Through their resourcefulness and perseverance, they embody the Girl Scout Law to truly make the world a better place.

Isabella's project, the ``Caring Closet,'' sought to help students in her high school who were not able to access clothing or Winter necessities. Isabella developed a clothing closet in partnership with the Northmen Den and Petoskey High School, allowing students to access essential items including shirts, pants, shoes, coats, and more in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. Amassing over 2,500 pounds of donated clothing, Isabella's closet served many students at her high school by creating a sustainable and reliable resource for those in need.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate Isabella Weller for achieving the highest distinction in Girl Scouts, the Gold Award. I thank Isabella for her leadership and the positive, lasting change she has made in our community.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Stevie Cupps, a devoted member of the Harbor Springs community whose presence embodied the very spirit of hometown pride.

For years, Stevie Cupps was a staple inside the Harbor Springs High School gymnasium. To the residents of Harbor Springs, Stevie was more than a fan, he was a fixture of the community. His bright smile and contagious energy always generated a buzz around Rams basketball. Winning or losing, Stevie could always be found courtside.

His love for Harbor Springs High School athletics was not casual; it was steadfast and informed. Stevie knew the players, the schedules, the matchups, and most importantly, how to bring people together through that shared passion. Whether it was recapping a game, celebrating a player's performance, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of a packed gym, his energy and enthusiasm was contagious.

Stevie found joy in life's simplest moments, like his long-awaited arrival of a Harbor Springs sweatshirt, reflecting his genuine appreciation for the people and traditions of his beloved community. Though his seat behind the home bench may sit empty, his impact will not. His legacy lives on in the generations of players, fans, and community members who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's 1st District, I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Cupps family. Stevie Cupps will be dearly missed, but I have no doubt that he is still cheering for the Rams from Heaven--we all know he would never miss a game.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and to recognize Habitat for Humanity, Grand Traverse Region (Habitat-GTR), as they celebrate 40 years of dedicated service to strengthening communities throughout Northern Michigan.

For decades, Habitat-GTR has worked to build more than just homes. Through offering affordable housing, financial education, and services to families in need, they have created countless opportunities for hardworking families in Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties. As an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, every donation made locally remains in the community, providing direct benefits for the families of Northern Michigan. Their work reflects the values that define our region: hard work and neighbors helping neighbors.

Habitat-GTR homeowners are not simply given free homes. Rather, they earn the opportunity for homeownership through financial responsibility and sweat equity. Each family that participates must complete an extensive financial and homeownership education, demonstrate a history of stable employment, and contribute hundreds of hours towards the construction of their home. As a result, these new homeowners become even more invested in their community, create lasting stability for future generations, and achieve long-term financial independence and security.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Habitat for Humanity, Grand Traverse Region for their continued service to Northern Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I thank them for their tireless efforts and wish them continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ray Minervini, an extraordinary Northern Michigan leader, on being named the 2025 Distinguished Service Award recipient by Traverse Connect, one of the region's most prestigious civic honors, which has been presented annually since 1929.

For decades, Ray Minervini has exemplified what it means to serve a community with vision, integrity, and purpose. Starting under the guidance of his father, Ray's career in construction and development has had a lasting impact on Traverse City and Northern Michigan. Ray began his career in residential construction in the 1960s, building his sister a cottage just outside of Kingsley, before transitioning to the commercial sector in the 1980s.

After relocating to Traverse City in the 1990s with his wife, Marsha, Ray could have chosen a quiet retirement. Instead, he chose to help redevelop the historic Traverse City State Hospital, a decision that would forever shape the future of the region. Through the Minervini Group, he acquired the property in 2002 and launched what would become the first redevelopment of a former asylum in the United States.

What followed was nothing short of remarkable--today, the once abandoned property has been transformed into a 500-acre property filled with trails, parks, and various community entities. His work has not only protected a vital piece of Northern Michigan's history, but also created jobs, expanded housing opportunities, and fostered a sense of community that continues to draw residents and visitors alike. His dedication has earned him numerous honors over the years, but what may be most meaningful is the gratitude of a community he has so faithfully served.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Ray Minervini for this well-deserved recognition. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I thank him for his enduring contributions to Traverse City and Northern Michigan.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the lasting impact of the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena as it approaches an extraordinary milestone, their 100th anniversary of service to the youth of Northern Michigan.

Over the last 100 years, the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena has stood as a pillar of opportunity, mentorship, and community. What began as a small effort to provide local youth with a safe and supportive place after school has grown into a vital institution that has positively shaped the lives of multiple generations throughout Northern Michigan. The Club continues to provide a safe and enriching environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. Their work not only supports students' individual achievements but also strengthens families' bonds and contributes to a more vibrant and resilient community.

For the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena, this milestone represents 100 years of changing lives, uplifting families, and fostering civic engagement among young people. This work would not have been possible without the countless staff members, volunteers, and supporters whose steadfast dedication has sustained this program for a century.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena for its remarkable legacy and its continued commitment to building great futures for the next generation. May the community of Alpena keep up the great work.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Eliza Aldridge, a senior at Leeland Public School, for being named the 2026 Michigan Poetry Out Loud State Champion. This outstanding achievement reflects not only Eliza's dedication and talent, but also the strength of educational opportunities available to students across Northern Michigan.

Poetry Out Loud is a nationally recognized program that encourages students from across the country to engage with poetry through memorization and performance. The competition begins at the local level in classrooms and communities, with winners advancing to state and ultimately national competition. Now in its 21st year, over 3,000 students and 77 teachers participated across Michigan.

Eliza distinguished herself from more than 16 finalists from across the state during the competition at Central Michigan University. She displayed exceptional poise, depth of knowledge, and appreciation for the richness of literature through her impressive recitations of ``Chicago'' by Carl Sandburg, ``Introduction'' by Alice Duer Miller, and ``A Lady'' by Amy Lowell. Her success is also a testament to the important role educators and mentors play in shaping the next generation. I further recognize the efforts of Michigan Humanities, the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, and all partners who make programs like Poetry Out Loud possible.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Eliza Aldridge for being named the 2026 Michigan Poetry Out Loud State Champion. I am confident she will continue to exemplify hard work, determination, and excellence which define our Northern Michigan communities, and I wish her the very best in her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Aviation Maintenance Technician Chief Jason Vaughn of the United States Coast Guard for his outstanding service to our Nation and his steadfast commitment to the Grand Traverse community as he retires from his distinguished military career.

Throughout twenty years of distinguished service, Chief Vaughn has exemplified the Coast Guard's core values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Since being assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City from 2020 to 2026, he has served faithfully as maintenance Control Chief, acting as the airworthiness authority for twenty-two heavy maintenance cycles, forty-eight functional check flights, and more than 200,000 maintenance labor hours. In addition, he has managed a $7.9 million parts inventory and $1.1 million support equipment inventory, helping to ensure mission readiness.

Chief Vaughn's steadfast leadership has extended well beyond the confines of a hangar. He has successfully coordinated complex operations, displaying Coast Guard capabilities for three consecutive National Cherry festival airshows while strengthening partnerships and enhancing public trust.

Additionally, his contributions to the testing and implementation of the ATLAS emergency rescue device have helped improve safety for Coast Guard aircrews across the Northern Michigan Fleet. Equally commendable is Chief Vaughn's commitment to service beyond the uniform. He has dedicated more than 1,000 volunteer hours to the Grand Traverse community, supporting veterans, local organizations, and families in need. From organizing food pantries and community projects to serving as an Honor Flight guardian, his efforts earned him the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Chief Vaughn for his dedicated service to the United States Coast Guard and for his steadfast commitment to the Grand Traverse community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and to recognize Michelle Crocker, the longest serving county clerk currently in office in the state of Michigan, as she marks the 30th anniversary of her swearing in as Leelanau County Clerk.

Since assuming office in 1996, Michelle Crocker has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to public service and the people of Leelanau County. Her time as county clerk reflects not just longevity, but an unwavering dedication to the responsibilities entrusted to her office. Her career in public service is not limited to her time as county clerk: in fact, she has spent 45 years serving in local government starting with Clerk Dorothy Wunderlich in 1981, making her the longest serving employee in county government. Throughout her distinguished career, she has helped guide Leelanau County through significant changes, including the conversion of county financial systems from paper spreadsheets to computerized financial programs. Her leadership has ensured that local government continues to operate efficiently and transparently.

Michelle Crocker's service has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, she was presented with a special tribute by the Michigan State Legislature for her steadfast leadership through unprecedented challenges and evolving expectations in local government. Her ability to meet the demands of public service with professionalism and a genuine commitment to others sets a strong example for public officials across our state.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Michelle Crocker for her lasting contributions to Leelanau County and the State of Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I extend my sincere appreciation for her extraordinary service as she celebrates this remarkable milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor two remarkable voices of Northern Michigan, Ron Jolly and Colleen Wares McClelland, whose decades of service in the broadcasting industry informed, entertained, and connected communities across the state of Michigan. As they signed- off for the final time on April 10, 2026, we honor their lasting contributions to local journalism and public discourse.

For more than 30 years, Ron Jolly was a trusted voice for communities in Northern Michigan. Joining WTCM (AM) in Traverse City in 1994, he became a constant presence in the lives of countless listeners. Alongside him, Colleen Wares McClelland built an equally impressive career, spanning over 45 years with Midwestern Broadcasting. Her steady presence and thoughtful engagement helped shape the Ron Jolly Show into one of the region's most beloved morning broadcasts.

Together the pair created more than just a morning radio program: they built a community of listeners who tuned in every weekday morning from 7 to 10 a.m., bringing high-level discussion of local, state, national, and global issues into cars, homes, and businesses across Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Their conversations invited diverse perspectives and reminded listeners that even without seeing each other, as Michiganders, we are all connected. Their open phone lines fostered meaningful dialogue and thoughtful conversations, strengthening civil engagement throughout the region. When announcing their retirement, they spoke candidly about how difficult it will be to step away, yet, easy or hard, they would ``hold hands and jump at the same time,'' a final testament to their partnership that was built on trust, respect, and a commitment to serving others.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Ron Jolly and Colleen Wares McClelland for their dedicated service to informing the public, preserving local history, and entertaining communities throughout our great state. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude to Ron and Colleen and wish them all the best in a well-earned retirement.