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

            House Resolution No. 500.

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Rick Shaffer.

            Whereas, As he brings to a close his tenure with the Michigan House of Representatives, it is a pleasure to offer this expression of respect and thanks to Rick Shaffer for his contributions to this legislative body. His focus and emphasis on the public good and concern for the residents of Cass and St. Joseph Counties have been beneficial to our entire state; and

            Whereas, Rick Shaffer, who earned an associate's degree in nursing from Kellogg Community College and a bachelor's degree in health care studies at Western Michigan University, has long been a health care leader in southwest Michigan. He has served as an administrator at the Hope Nursing Home, Dosca Manor, Borgess Nursing Home, and Heartland Health Care. Prior to his election to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2002, he was the director of the Three Rivers Area Hospital Homecare and Hospice. In addition, he has been committed to local government, serving on the St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners for 12 years; and

            Whereas, Representative Shaffer has contributed to the work of the Appropriations Committee throughout all 3 of his terms and he served as the Minority Vice Chair of the Human Services and Joint Capital Outlay Subcommittees during the Ninety-fourth Legislature. His work in the House over the past 6 years has been deeply appreciated by his colleagues, as well as the people of his district and our state; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this resolution to commend and thank the Honorable Rick Shaffer for his many contributions to the people of Michigan; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Representative Shaffer as evidence of our gratitude and best wishes.