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

            House Resolution No. 472.

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Marsha Cheeks.

            Whereas, It is with great appreciation that we honor and thank Representative Marsha Cheeks for her service to the people of Michigan. For the last 6 years, Representative Cheeks has been a tireless advocate for the Sixth District and an invaluable member of the House of Representatives. We wish her well in all her future endeavors; and

            Whereas, Marsha Cheeks graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in business administration. Prior to joining the Michigan Legislature, she worked for years as an educator, receiving the prestigious Outstanding Educators Congressional Award in 2000. She was a leader in promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning to students and instrumental in establishing the Science, Engineering, Mathematics, and Aerospace Academy program in Detroit; and

            Whereas, Representative Cheeks brought her experience and energy to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2002, and has fought since then to help better the lives of people in her community and throughout Michigan. She served for 6 years on the Appropriations Committee and its subcommittees, including leading the General Government Subcommittee and serving as vice-chair of the Transportation Subcommittee. During tough economic times, she has worked to balance Michigan's budget, while maintaining vital local services, and to keep people in their homes; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Marsha Cheeks for her contributions to this legislative body and to our entire state; and be it further

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