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

            House Resolution No. 401.   

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Mary Valentine.

            Whereas, We are pleased to pay tribute to the Honorable Mary Valentine for her outstanding record of public service and for the commitment that she displayed for the residents of the state while serving two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. Her interest in public service and the well-being of others in her community has been also shown throughout her professional career as an educator in Michigan public schools.  Mary Valentine earned a bachelor's degree in speech therapy from Central Michigan University and a master's degree in education from Northern Michigan University. It is most appropriate that we take this opportunity to express our gratitude to this esteemed legislator; and

            Whereas, Since her election to the House of Representatives in 2006, Mary Valentine has worked diligently to represent the residents of Muskegon County and Ottawa County. Also important to all state residents has been her work as chair of the Families and Children's Services Committee and her contributions to the work of the Agriculture, Education, Health Policy, Commerce, Great Lakes and Environment, and Retiree Health Care Reforms Committees. Her thoughtfulness and her tenacity for finding a solution to an issue have been shown in her legislative work; and

            Whereas, Demonstrating a strong awareness of potential areas for improvement in her district and throughout the state, Representative Valentine introduced important bills which offered solutions to many vital issues the state has been facing. Among the measures which became public acts are those pertaining to the Friend of the Court system, education, transportation funding, and retirement investment. Her effectiveness as a legislator has had a positive impact on life in the Ninety-first House District, and her leadership will be truly missed; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the Honorable Mary Valentine be accorded the highest tribute of this legislative body for her tremendous commitment to the people of the state of Michigan; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Representative Valentine as evidence of our admiration and respect.