Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 100th Anniversary of the Elk Rapids Golf Club. Nestled on the banks of the beautiful Elk Lake, the course has provided a century of Michiganders with an excellent venue to enjoy the game of golf.

Designed and built by legendary architect Donald J. Ross from 1922 to 1923, Elk Rapids Golf Club opened for play on July 15, 1924. The course's long history is reflected in one of its key attributes--its unique design. Like many of Ross's courses, Elk Rapids was inspired by the small, local courses he learned to play on in his hometown of Dornoch, Scotland. Playing a round at Elk Rapids truly takes one back to the way the game was meant to be played.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the Elk Rapids Golf Club for a century of business. It should take immense pride in the great economic impact it has had on Antrim County and the indelible memory it has left on so many Michigan golfers. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish it all the best in its future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, it is my privilege to honor the life and service of Rick Sedgwick, who passed away at the age of 67 after a lifetime of service to the people of Michigan's First District and beyond.

Born in San Diego, California on November 23, 1954, Rick moved to Michigan when he was a child. After graduating from Saginaw Arthur Hill High School in 1973, he enrolled at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, where he studied the Ojibwe language and culture and earned a degree in education. Rick would go on to work in community mental health, school transportation, the U.S. Postal Service, and various trades in the construction field before serving twenty-five years as a special education teacher for Alcona Community Schools. In addition to his long and distinguished career, Rick and his family spent two years working as missionaries counseling Native Americans at Okontoe Christian Fellowship Retreat Center in Northern Minnesota. This was just one of the many opportunities Rick pursued to spread the gospel and serve others. His church family could certainly confirm the same. Rick and his wife Robin were members of New Life Christian Fellowship in Alpena, Michigan for close to twenty years.

Rick passed away on the morning of September 5, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. His kindness, selflessness, and devotion to others will surely leave a lasting mark on those who had the opportunity to know him.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Rick Sedgwick. His legacy will forever live on in his family, friends, communities, and in the many lives he bettered through his service.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Commander Calvin Jamieson for his years of service to the Garland-Tompkins American Legion Post 399. Through his exceptional leadership, steadfast devotion, and willingness to serve, Commander Jamieson has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District.

Born and raised on Old Mission Peninsula, Commander Jamieson has served his community and Nation his entire life. After joining the United States Army in 1955, he was stationed at Fort Knox in Kentucky. Part of an elite Combat Infantry Division, he and his fellow soldiers were always ready to answer the call of duty.

In 1972, Commander Jamieson joined the Garland-Tompkins American Legion, and in 1996, he became Post Commander. In this role, he worked tirelessly to ensure the successful operation of the Post. From building a new Legion Hall, to planning the Post's dinners, to coordinating community outreach events, Commander Jamieson has been a cornerstone not only of the Post, but also of the Old Mission Peninsula Community.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in recognizing the service of Commander Calvin Jamieson. His life's actions and work have embodied the highest level of patriotism and service to his community.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Secretary- Treasurer Mary Shultz and her husband Dave for their years of service to the Garland-Tompkins American Legion Post 399. Through their exceptional leadership, steadfast devotion, and willingness to serve, the Shultz family has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District.

After the Legion Hall burned down in 1992, Secretary-Treasurer Shultz volunteered to help in the financing and construction of the new hall. For the next 30 years, she served dutifully as the Post's Secretary- Treasurer--paying bills, tracking membership, and providing sound advice to the Post's Commanders. Her `boots on the ground' work ethic has driven the Post's success and inspired a higher level of achievement from its members. During the Post's dinners and community outreach events, Secretary-Treasurer Shultz has worked closely with other senior leadership to ensure that every member and guest feels welcome. In all of her efforts, she has been supported by her husband Dave, who has also played a major role in the execution of the Post's tasks and projects. Serving as a sounding board to the Post's leadership, he has always provided the right advice for the occasion. This family team's collective contributions to the Post and community cannot be overstated.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in recognizing the service of Secretary-Treasurer Mary Shultz and Dave Shultz. Their actions and work have embodied the highest

level of patriotism and service to the citizens of their community.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Commander Dan Dyer and his family for their years of service to the Garland-Tompkins American Legion Post 399. Through their exceptional leadership, steadfast devotion, and willingness to serve, the Dyer family has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District.

In 1966 at the age of 18, Commander Dyer was drafted into the United States Army. A member of the 1st Infantry Division, Bravo Company, he deployed to Southeast Asia where he served with honor and courage as a radio operator and combat soldier during the Vietnam War. Upon his return to the United States 13 months later, he was stationed at Fort Bragg and served as a Drill Sergeant.

With the support of his wife Cindy and his son Jeff, Commander Dyer has dutifully served the Garland-Tompkins American Legion for more than 20 years. After joining the Post in 2001, he later became Post Vice- Commander and then Post Commander in 2012. In these roles, he worked tirelessly to accomplish the many missions and tasks of the Post. However, he did not do this alone. Both his wife Cindy and his son Jeff have played integral roles in the Post's community outreach efforts-- organizing dinners and fundraisers, writing cards to sick Veterans, assisting Post members with their home maintenance needs, along with much more. This family team's collective contributions to the Post and community cannot be overstated.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in recognizing the service of Commander Dan Dyer, Cindy Dyer, and Jeff Dyer. Their actions and work have embodied the highest level of patriotism and service to the citizens of their community.

Madam Speaker, it is my privilege to honor the life and service of Collin Hagan, whose young life was cut short while battling a wildfire in Oregon. Through his courage, selflessness, and extreme dedication to the public good, Collin became an indispensable part of the communities he served in Michigan and beyond.

A native Yooper, Collin was born in Hancock, Michigan on July 20, 1995. He was raised in Twin Lakes and graduated from Jeffers High School in 2013. With a deep-rooted desire to serve others, Collin furthered his education at Gogebic Community College in Ironwood and Michigan Technological University (MTU) in Houghton, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Forestry. In college, Collin gained forestry field experience while working as an intern with Compass Land Consultants, Inc. in northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Upon graduation from MTU, Collin pursued his passion for wildland firefighting. After a brief stint at Grayback Forestry in LaGrande, Oregon, he worked for two seasons on a Type 2 crew with the United States Forest Service at Flathead National Forest in Montana. His aspirations to become a hotshot firefighter came true this season when he was hired by the Bureau of Land Management to work on the Craig Interagency Hotshot Crew based in Craig, Colorado. Not only was Collin skilled in the art of felling trees; he also enjoyed assisting others in learning the profession.

Collin passed away on August 10, 2022 from injuries received while battling the Big Swamp Fire at Willamette National Forest in Oregon. His compassion, selflessness, and devotion to his community will surely leave a lasting mark on those who had the opportunity to know him.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Collin Hagan. His legacy will forever live on in his family, friends, crewmembers, and in the many lives he bettered through his service.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Edward and Brenda Breitmeyer for their induction into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame. Through their dedicated service, contributions to their community, and steadfast commitment to the education, research, and promotion of agriculture, Edward and Brenda have become an indispensable part of Northern Michigan.

The Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame was created to promote excellence in farming and recognize those in Michigan who have made an extraordinary impact on the industry and their communities. None are more deserving of this honor than Edward and Brenda. Throughout nearly 50 years of farming and ranching, Edward has served on several State and national farm boards. As a member of the Michigan Corn Growers Association, he coordinated meetings to educate local farmers and traveled to Lansing and Washington, D.C. to promote the interests of corn farmers. While participating in the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan, he was involved in activities to promote research and innovation in corn farming. He is also a member of the National Corn Growers Association, where he has co-chaired two teams--Membership Communications and Export Utilization. Edward should take immense pride in his service on the U.S. Grains Council. In this capacity, he was a member of two advisory teams--Communications and Value Added. In his long and successful career, Edward has tackled the challenges of an ever-evolving industry head-on and proven himself to be a leader in Michigan's agricultural sector.

In addition to their work for Michigan's agricultural industry, Edward and Brenda have a long history of serving their community through their work in Buckley area schools, the Grand Traverse Conservation District, the Grant Township Planning Commission, the Grant Township Board of Appeals, and Redeemer Lutheran Church of Interlochen. As charter members, Edward and Brenda have helped build two churches, and they regularly volunteer at the food pantry, Bible study, and Sunday school services.

Agriculture is the second-largest sector of Michigan's economy, and fanning serves a vital role for the people and communities of Northern Michigan. With today's ever-changing world, the work of industry and community leaders like Edward and Brenda has been critical in shaping Michigan's agricultural industry to the success story it is today. Their impact on the people of Michigan cannot be overstated.

Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Edward and Brenda Breitmeyer for their induction into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such dedicated leaders. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Edward and Brenda all the best in their future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Tracey Ann Tippett for being named the 2022 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. Through her dedicated service, exceptional leadership, and steadfast devotion to her community, Tracey has become an indispensable 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 Tracey. During her military career, Tracey served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, where she was decorated with the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Rifle Marksmanship Badge, Letter of Appreciation, and Certificate of Appreciation. Her devotion to the people of her country and community has not wavered since she returned from military service.

It is impossible to fully list all the ways in which Tracey works to better the lives of U.P. Veterans. She is an active member and has served in a variety of leadership positions in the Marine Corps League and Military Order of the Devil Dogs, and she is currently the U.P. Zone Vice Commandant and Department Adjutant and Webmaster for the State of Michigan. At her own expense, she makes copies of the Michigan Marine News and the Woof-O-Gram and mails them to members who do not have access to the Internet. Tracey serves on the Board of Trustees for the Marquette County Veteran's Alliance Committee and as the Secretary of the Marquette County Veteran's Board. She regularly volunteers at the DJ Jacobetti Home for Veterans, and is a member of American Legion Post 44, MODD Northern Wolves Pound 174, and Lake Superior Detachment 764. Within the Detachment, she is a member of the Color Guard, and she volunteers at Memorial Day services, Flag Day celebrations, 4th of July services and parades, Veteran's Day services, and Marine Corps Birthday celebrations. Tracey is dedicated to her fellow Marines and other Veterans, and she graciously does whatever is asked of her to ensure the Detachment's success. She has devoted decades to the people of Michigan, and her tireless efforts have directly improved the lives of thousands of U.P. Veterans.

Outside of her work for Veterans, Tracy is an active volunteer for Toys for Tots, the Marquette and Ishpeming Christmas parades, Negaunee Pioneer Days, and Trinity Lutheran Church. Her contributions to her community were also previously recognized when she was named the 2021 Marquette County Veteran of the Year, the 2021 State of Michigan Veteran of the Year, and the 2022 Marine Corps League Central Division Marine of the Year. Additionally, she is the recipient of the 2022 U.P. Michigan Credit Union League Distinguished Service Award thanks to the 28 years of service she has given to the TruNorth Federal Credit Union. As a servicemember, a Veteran, a volunteer, and a Yooper, Tracey consistently puts the needs of others before her own.

Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Tracey Ann Tippett for her decades of service to fellow Michigan Veterans, and for being named the 2022 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 Tracey all the best in her future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 100th Anniversary of the Cherry Hut of Beulah, Michigan. Throughout its century of business, the Cherry Hut has served up delicious homegrown cherry products to the people of Benzie County and beyond, and has become an indispensable part of Northern Michigan.

In 1922, James and Dorothy Kraker established the Cherry Hut as a roadside stand along Crystal Lake's north shore, where they sold homemade cherry pies. In 1937, the stand moved to its current location off US 31, where its success prompted its expansion into a restaurant. Throughout its long history, the Cherry Hut has been in the hands of only two families, the Krakers and the Cases. Despite additions to the menu over the years, the restaurant continues to use Dorothy's original cherry pie recipe, whose timelessness has kept guests coming back for generations.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Beulah's Cherry Hut for a century of service to Benzie County. It should take immense pride in the great impact it has had on the county and the indelible memory it has left on so many Michigan families. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish it all the best in its future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the Upper Peninsula Luge Club (UPLC) of Negaunee, Michigan for all their accomplishments this past year. A non-profit organization, UPLC has been serving their Yooper community for over forty years with the goal of promoting the sport throughout the region. Through their commitment to excellence and inclusivity, UPLC creates a fun, safe, and accessible activity during the long winter season of the Upper Peninsula.

Built circa 1990 by Swedish Civil Engineer, Per Vinberg, the Lucy Hill Naturbahn Luge Track is the only full-length natural luge track in the United States. In addition to maintaining and operating the track, members of the UPLC help introduce Yoopers to the sport and provide instruction for new sledders, as well as participate in community events like Negaunee's annual Heikki Lunta Winter Festival. On top of promoting local luging, the UP Luge Club supports a national competition team that competes all over the world--including the FIL Junior World Cup in Latzfons, Italy. They also host U.S. athletes that come to the course to train before going to World Cup and World Championship Competitions in Europe. Through more than four decades of dedication to the sport and their local community, the UPLC has become an indispensable part of the Upper Peninsula.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the Upper Peninsula Luge Club for their contributions and service to Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the life of servicemen Wayne C. Beckman, who recently passed away on July 1, 2022, at the age of 88. A proud U.S. Navy Veteran and a lifelong member of the American Legion, Wayne was an indispensable part of Michigan's First District.

Wayne, a lifelong Yooper and native of Ironwood, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1951 and served in the Korean War aboard the USS Moale as a Radarman. Throughout his service, he was awarded the National Defense, Korean Service, United Nations, and Navy Occupation Medals. One of his most prized accomplishments was sailing around the world before turning 18 years old. After nearly three years, Wayne was honorably discharged in 1954. After his service to our Nation, he returned home where he met his wife, Bonita Beckman. They were married in 1958 and raised four children together. Wayne was also a proud grandfather and great- grandfather. He was known as a ``pillar of the community,'' and enjoyed attending his kids' and grandkids' extracurricular activities.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life and service of Wayne C. Beckman. His dedication to his country, community; and family will never be forgotten.

Mr. Chair, I was delayed by metal detector issues entering the floor. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 379.

Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support today of S. 3373, the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022.

I associate myself with the comments of our Republican leader on the Veterans' Affairs Committee, Mr. Bost, who also happens to be a fellow marine. He articulated very well the elements of where we were, where we are, and where we are going.

This is the latest version of what many of my constituents know as the PACT Act, and it has only improved since it passed the House last March.

As a Vietnam veteran myself and as the ranking member of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, I am more than familiar with the struggles faced by veterans, young and old, across our Nation who have been exposed to toxic substances during their time of service.

This legislation will finally establish a comprehensive framework for the VA to provide veterans and their survivors for generations to come with the toxic exposure-related care and benefits that they deserve.

For example, this bill will instantly provide presumptive benefits for veterans and survivors who are terminally ill, homeless, over the age of 85, experiencing extreme financial hardship, or able to show another emergent need.

It will also supercharge toxic exposure research, improve the way in which the VA interacts with toxic-exposed veterans, and authorize 31 major medical facility leases.

Whether it is from burn pits or Agent Orange, toxic exposure is perhaps the most widespread and urgent issue facing our military community.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bipartisan solution based on what the veterans themselves have been telling us for a long time. It is time to act.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 40th Anniversary of Thunder Bay Community Health Service, Inc. (TBCHS) of northeast Michigan. Throughout their many years of service in healthcare, TBCHS has displayed steadfast devotion to their community and has become a crucial part of Michigan's First District.

Thunder Bay Community Health Service was founded in 1980 by a group of Michiganders motivated to create greater access to primary care services in the Great Lakes region. TBCHS opened their first clinic in Hillman, Michigan, in 1982 while also becoming a National Health Service Corporation solo practice. Today, they are a non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center, allowing them to provide a broad variety of much-needed programs and services within rural areas.

Throughout the years, TBCHS has continued to expand--building facilities to support the people of Montmorency, Alpena, Cheboygan, Otsego, and Presque Isle Counties. Most recently, they opened their site in Fairview, adding Oscoda County to their community of care. TBCHS prides itself on offering services such as dental and general health to ensure their population can find proper care, creating healthier Michigan communities.

Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Thunder Bay Community Health Service, Inc. for decades of success and service to northeastern Michigan. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such dedicated citizens. On behalf of my constituents, I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I have spoken before about President Biden's and House Democrats' flawed economic record. I continue to hear from constituents from across Michigan's First District who feel cast aside by the policies of this administration.

Inflation has hit a high of 8.6 percent, and this President continues to blame everyone but himself. High inflation isn't an act of God. High inflation isn't solely an act of the Federal Reserve. High inflation certainly isn't an act of Putin, either.

President Biden said the buck stops with him, but maybe he has changed his mind. Don't be deceived; his stated plan to address inflation is a farce.

The President and his advisers told the American people inflation was transitory, all while passing trillions in new spending. Instead of taking responsibility, this President continues to push tax-and-spend legislation that worsens inflation while leaving working families to pick up the tab.

I am asking the President and my colleagues to listen to the American people, stop the spending, and confront inflation head-on.