The Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 470.

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Tom Casperson.

            Whereas, It is most appropriate to recognize the service of Representative Tom Casperson to our state and the residents of the One-hundred-eighth District as he reaches the end of his tenure with the Michigan House of Representatives. Over the last 6 years, Representative Casperson has been a tireless advocate for the people and businesses of Michigan's Upper Peninsula and the entire state; and

            Whereas, A lifelong resident of Escanaba, Tom Casperson brought a wealth of knowledge to the legislative process from his more than 25 years of experience working for and running his family's log trucking business. He has been a leader in promoting safe timber hauling, and has served on the board of directors and the transportation committee of the Michigan Association of Timbermen, held the presidency of the Michigan Professional Log Truck Council, and been a member of the legislative committee of the Timber Producers Association; and

            Whereas, Representative Casperson's experience and knowledge on forestry, transportation, and business issues have served as an invaluable resource for the Michigan Legislature. During his tenure, he has served as the assistant majority whip, as the chair and minority vice-chair of the standing committee responsible for natural resources, forestry, outdoor recreation and tourism, and as a member of the Transportation, Agriculture, Energy and Technology, and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committees and numerous subcommittees. Representative Casperson leaves the House of Representatives with a distinguished record of tackling tough issues that matter to Michigan, particularly the residents and businesses of the Upper Peninsula; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our gratitude to the Honorable Tom Casperson as he brings to a close his tenure in this legislative body; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Representative Casperson as evidence of our gratitude and best wishes.