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

            House Resolution No. 279.

            A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for Russell R. "Rusty" Hellman, former member of the House of Representatives.

            Whereas, It is with great appreciation for his lifetime of service to his home community, his beloved Upper Peninsula, and our entire state that we honor the memory of Russell R. "Rusty" Hellman.  A member of the Michigan House of Representatives for 20 years, Mr. Hellman exerted a major impact on many of Michigan's institutions through his hard work and dedication; and

            Whereas, Born in Dollar Bay in Houghton County, Rusty Hellman was a man who devoted himself to hard work and community service from an early age.  He bought a gas station and began his work in the business world when he was only a senior in high school.  At age 21, he was elected as Osceola Township Supervisor, where he led the development of the community's water system.  This spirit of responsibility remained his hallmark.  In 1960, he was elected to the first of his 10 consecutive terms as State Representative; and

            Whereas, As a lawmaker, Rusty Hellman was a tireless and passionate advocate for the Upper Peninsula.  He incorporated his business experience into his responsibilities as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, where he chaired the Joint Capital Outlay Subcommittee.  His leadership contributed a great deal to Michigan Technological University, Gogebic Community College, and universities and colleges throughout the entire state.  Rusty Hellman's strong voice was also important in the establishment of the Great Lakes Coho Salmon program and the development of programs in forestry that managed these important resources wisely.  Michigan continues to benefit from his unique contributions; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Russell R. "Rusty" Hellman, a member of this legislative body from 1961 to 1980; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Hellman family as evidence of our sincere condolences.