[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 133 (Tuesday, August 6, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1039]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING SMOKEY BEAR'S 75TH BIRTHDAY

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                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 6, 2019

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the 75th 
birthday of Smokey Bear. Through his dedication to responsible outdoor 
recreation, public safety, and environmental conservation, Smokey has 
become an indispensable part of our nation.
  The state of Michigan is home to some of the most pristine forests in 
the country--attracting visitors from around the world and providing 
Michiganders with a quality of life that is second to none. However, 
something as simple as a cigarette butt or unattended campfire could 
spark a disastrous fire in the right conditions, making our precious 
lands susceptible to unimaginable damage. Since 1942, the U.S. Forest 
Service has used Smokey Bear, the beloved hat-clad grizzly, to educate 
Americans on the importance of responsible fire practices.
  With our ongoing struggle against devastating wildfires, Smokey's 
mission is as important today as it has ever been. Between the 
Hiawatha, Ottawa, and Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan's First 
District is home to nearly three million acres of National Forests. We 
in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula understand the importance 
of safe and responsible outdoor recreation. Smokey Bear continues to 
play a critical role in our efforts to promote access to the outdoors 
while protecting the health and beauty of these natural treasures. I'm 
grateful for Smokey Bear's and the U.S. Forest Service's 75 years of 
advocacy and work to ensure future generations can enjoy the same 
natural beauty we so deeply treasure. Smokey's birthday will be 
celebrated on August 9th at Straits State Park in St. Ignace, 
overlooking the Straits of Mackinac and the Mighty Mac bridge.
  Madam Speaker, it's my honor to celebrate Smokey Bear's 75 years of 
education, public safety, and conservation. On behalf of my 
constituents, I wish him and the U.S. Forest Service all the best in 
their future endeavors.

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