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

            House Resolution No. 43.

            A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for Richard Sofio, former member of the House of Representatives.

            Whereas, Members and staff of the Michigan Legislature were saddened to learn of the passing of Richard Sofio, who served as a member of the House of Representatives for 2 terms and who served the people of the western Upper Peninsula in many capacities. As we express our gratitude for his public service, we also extend our sincere condolences to his family; and

            Whereas, A native of Bessemer, Richard Sofio was a graduate of Gogebic Community College who earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Northern Michigan University and also studied at Michigan State University. He devoted himself to education, as a teacher of political science in high school, as a coach, as an instructor at the community college level, and as a school board member. This commitment to the service of others was further apparent in his 14 years as a county commissioner and his efforts with the Citizens Mental Health Advisory Council and the Governor's Air Service Task Force; and

            Whereas, In 1986, Richard Sofio was elected to bring his talents and insights to the Capitol as a state representative. His tenure was marked by his dedication to the people of the 110th District and his contributions to committees dealing with higher education, agriculture, state affairs, and tourism and outdoor-related activities. During the Eighty-fifth Legislature, he chaired the House Forestry and Mineral Committee. We are grateful for the positive impact he had on our state and on the lives of his students; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Richard Sofio, a member of this legislative body from 1987 to 1990; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Sofio family as evidence of our lasting esteem for his memory.