[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 48 (Tuesday, March 17, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E225]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMENDING JAMES AND WENDY FALKNER ON THE PURCHASE OF KILWINS IN 
                        TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 17, 2026

  Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate James and Wendy 
Falkner for their many years of dedication to Kilwins Chocolates, 
Fudge, and Ice Cream, and to commend them on their recent purchase of 
the Kilwins store in Traverse City, Michigan.
  James and Wendy's story is one that is rooted in hard work, 
perseverance, and a deep appreciation for their community. James began 
working for Kilwins in 1994 as a summer employee at the Mackinaw City 
store while pursuing a degree at Michigan Technological University. A 
year later, Wendy began working at the Mackinac Island Kilwins store as 
a summer employee while pursuing her studies at Kuyper College in Grand 
Rapids. What began as a summer job would later turn into a lifelong 
calling.
  After completing their college education, James and Wendy initially 
went to work in their respective fields of study. However, their 
passion for selling ice cream, making fudge, and spreading joy 
throughout their community quickly brought them back to Kilwins in 
Holland, Michigan, as part time employees. Another opportunity soon 
followed when they took full-time positions managing the Kilwins of 
Frankenmuth. Later, they co-operated a Kilwins in Charleston, South 
Carolina, where they honed their skills in leadership and business.
  In 2015, James and Wendy took the next step with the Kilwins 
franchise by purchasing their very own store in Mackinaw City, and a 
few years later, they proudly restored Kilwins presence on Mackinac 
Island. Recently, they have expanded their business ventures with the 
purchase of the Kilwins in Traverse City. Under their leadership, 
Kilwins stores have become gathering places for celebrations of all 
kinds, such as wedding anniversaries, family vacations, academic 
achievements, and victories after a baseball or softball game. In an 
era defined by technology and automation, James and Wendy have managed 
to preserve something fleeting: genuine human connection.
  Mr. Speaker, let us all join in congratulating James and Wendy 
Falkner for their outstanding service and continued commitment to 
communities across the great State of Michigan.

                          ____________________