[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 138 (Friday, August 15, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E766]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





 RECOGNIZING THE LAKES PILOTS ASSOCIATION FOR OVER 60 YEARS OF SERVICE 
                 TO THE GREAT LAKES MARITIME COMMUNITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LISA C. McCLAIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 15, 2025

  Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the 
Lakes Pilots Association, on their completion of their new docks and 
seawall project to preserve the maritime heritage and identity of Port 
Huron as a Great Lakes port city.
  For over six decades, the Lakes Pilots Association has provided 
expert pilotage services to foreign-flagged vessels operating in the 
critical waters of District 2. Under the leadership of President 
Captain Tony Brando, the Association has played a vital role in 
ensuring the safety of navigation, protecting the environment, and 
supporting economic activity in the Blue Water Area, including the Port 
Huron region.
  The Lakes Pilots Association is a trusted guardian of our waterways. 
With a team of 17 highly trained pilots and 9 full-time dedicated 
employees, the Association is known for its unwavering professionalism, 
safety, and reliability. Their efforts not only safeguard ships, cargo, 
and crews, but also help maintain the physical and economic integrity 
of the waterways they serve.
  The Association's contributions extend beyond maritime operations. 
Through community outreach efforts like the ``Touch a Freighter'' 
program, supported in partnership with the local community foundation, 
the Lakes Pilots Association has fostered public understanding and 
appreciation of Great Lakes shipping and its importance to our region's 
heritage.
  Their recent investments--including $1 million in new docks and a 
seawall--as well as $3.5 million in new pilot boats, demonstrate a 
strong commitment to strengthening infrastructure, enhancing 
operational capacity, and ensuring long-term service to the region.
  The Lakes Pilots Association maintains a close partnership with the 
City of Port Huron and other local harbor stakeholders. Their ongoing 
collaboration helps preserve the city's identity as a historic port 
city, enrich its maritime legacy, and contribute meaningfully to its 
economic vitality.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and immense pride that we 
honor and thank the Lakes Pilots Association for their decades of 
dedicated service, commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, 
and for their indispensable role in sustaining commerce and maritime 
heritage throughout the Great Lakes region.

                          ____________________