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

            House Resolution No. 142.

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

            Whereas, The members of this legislative body were saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Connors, a member of the Eighty-third and Eighty-fourth Legislatures. This conscientious gentleman devoted much of his life to public service in some capacity, and his commitment to others will long be remembered far beyond his beloved family and friends; and

            Whereas, A proud and loyal son of the U.P., Jim Connors was born in Matchwood in Ontonagon County, earned his bachelor's degree at Northern Michigan University, and later earned his master's degree in social work from Wayne State University. An Army veteran who served 2 years in Germany, Jim Connors devoted his considerable skills and compassion to those in need. He worked as a social worker for a Cuban refugee program within the Marquette Diocese, later becoming director of Catholic Social Services in Iron County. His talents were also channeled through responsibilities with the Dickinson County Friend of the Court and the Dickinson-Iron Intermediate School District and through his efforts in the insurance industry; and

            Whereas, A longtime stalwart of numerous civic and charitable organizations, Jim Connors brought this strong sense of concern to Lansing in 1985 following his election as State Representative. In his 2 terms as a lawmaker, he demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges facing Michigan families. Even after his legislative tenure, he worked on behalf of his community and our state as a key staff member for former Senator Koivisto; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Jim Connors, a member of this legislative body from 1985 to 1988; and be it further

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