Reps. Richardville and Julian offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 368.

            A resolution for the Honorable Rick Johnson, Speaker of the House.

            Whereas, It is with great respect for his distinguished service to our state that we unite in saluting Rick Johnson, the Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives, as he brings to a close his tenure with this legislative body.  During this period, Speaker Johnson's characteristic commitment to hard work, fairness, and solving problems provided effective leadership; and

            Whereas, A proud son of Michigan agriculture, born and raised in Osceola County, Rick Johnson began his involvement in civic affairs on the Pine River Board of Education and devoted eight years as a member of the Osceola County Commission.  He brought the insights he gained from these experiences to Lansing with his election to the House of Representatives in 1998.  Most importantly, he brought his ability to work productively with people on all sides of contentious issues to achieve progress in public policy; and

            Whereas, Speaker Johnson's penchant for hard work, trustworthiness, and integrity led to his selection as the Speaker of the House for both the Ninety-first and Ninety-second Legislatures.  This period was marked by several major events, including an exceptionally high number of new members as term limits went into full effect in both the House and the Senate, some of the most difficult financial situations to face Michigan in many years, a change in the Governor's office, and the unique difficulties that confronted our state and nation with the attack of September 11^th.  In the face of these formidable events, Speaker Johnson's common sense and unwavering dedication have strengthened our state in many ways.  The impact of these gifts will long endure; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank Rick Johnson, Speaker of the House, for his excellence in service to this legislative body and to our entire state; and be it further

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