[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 49 (Tuesday, March 16, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E257]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT OF BILL SPEER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 16, 2021

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Bill Speer, 
who retired as the publisher and editor of The Alpena News after 42 
years in journalism. Through his tireless work ethic and devotion to 
his community, Bill has become an indispensable part of Northern 
Michigan.
  After graduating from West Virginia University in 1978, Bill began 
his career in journalism working at The Wheeling Intelligencer, where 
he was initially responsible for covering local governments and the 
area's steel and coal industries. His skills as a writer and reporter 
were recognized quickly, as he was named Ohio Bureau Editor of The 
Intelligencer just three years later. In 1988, he and his wife Diane 
moved to Alpena, Michigan, where he would serve as the editor of The 
Alpena News. As the paper's head, Bill oversaw its transition to new 
ownership, the move from an evening to a morning publication, an 
expanded Weekend Edition, and the rise of the internet in modern 
journalism. Bill's dedication and effective leadership has allowed The 
Alpena News to thrive today. His commitment to the Alpena community and 
the state of Michigan touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and 
the impact of his work cannot be overstated.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of my constituents, I ask you to join me in 
recognizing the career of Bill Speer. Michiganders can take great pride 
in knowing the First District is home to such a dedicated leader. On 
behalf of my constituents, I wish Bill all the best in his future 
endeavors.

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