[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 161 (Friday, October 11, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1279-E1280]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING HELEN KEATING DILLON FOR HER RETIREMENT AS CAPTAIN OF THE 
                             IRONTON FERRY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 11, 2019

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Helen Keating 
Dillon for

[[Page E1280]]

her retirement as Captain of the Ironton Ferry. Through her thirty 
years of experience and commitment to excellence and public safety, 
Captain Helen has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First 
District.
  First starting operations in 1876, the Ironton Ferry has made the 
600-foot trip across the Ironton Narrows on Lake Charlevoix for more 
than 140 years--providing vehicles, cyclists, and walkers a shortcut 
from the 20-mile route around the lake's south arm. What started as a 
simple rowboat eventually turned into a horse-powered cable ferry, 
before being replaced with its current incarnation in 1926. The ferry 
has received national fame as a subject in the Ripley's Believe it or 
Not! series, and was even referenced in writings by Ernest Hemingway. 
Since 1989, Helen has captained the ferry and has helped continue its 
history of success. Notably in October 2015, Helen successfully docked 
the ferry after an onboard car caught fire. Her skill and calm demeanor 
in ensuring the safety of those on the ferry was recognized with 
multiple accolades, including a plaque of meritorious commendation from 
then-Sheriff Don Schneider. Her 30 years serving as Captain of the 
Ironton Ferry is commendable, and her impact on the people of her 
community cannot be overstated.
  Madam Speaker, it's my honor to congratulate Captain Helen Keating 
Dillon for her decades of service to the people of Northern Michigan. 
Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home 
to such a dedicated individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish 
Helen all the best in her future endeavors.

                          ____________________