[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 156 (Thursday, December 2, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2041]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING RON JELINEK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 2, 2010

  Mr. UPTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to my 
dear friend, State Senator Ron Jelinek of Berrien County on the 
occasion of his retirement. A lifelong Michigan resident, Ron has 
dedicated himself to serving the people of southwest Michigan and 
improving the quality of life for all Michiganders.
  After receiving his degrees from Michigan State University and 
Western Michigan University, Ron began his career as an educator in the 
River Valley School District, where he taught for three decades.
  In 1996, Ron was first elected to the Michigan House of 
Representatives where he was popularly reelected to two additional 
terms. Ron was then elected to the Michigan State Senate in 2002. 
Throughout his 14 distinguished years in public office, Ron has been a 
leading champion of public education and Michigan agriculture.
  Beyond the duties of elected office, Ron has proven himself to be a 
natural community servant. He serves as a member of the Berrien County 
Farm Bureau, the Three Oaks Free Methodist Church, the Michigan 
Coalition of Responsible Gun Owners, and the River Valley Engine Club. 
He also was a co-founder, officer, and volunteer for the Three Oaks 
Ambulance Service, and involved in Future Farmers of America, 4-H, and 
Girl Scouts.
  Ron's leadership, knowledge, and compassion have made him an 
indispensible asset to the citizens of Berrien County and the State of 
Michigan. As Senator Ron Jelinek prepares for his retirement, he leaves 
both an example for future public servants and a legacy that will 
benefit southwest Michigan for years to come. I am truly honored to 
call Ron a colleague and friend.

                          ____________________