[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E438]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING RAY MINERVINI FOR A LIFETIME OF SERVICE AND VISION IN 
                             TRAVERSE CITY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 13, 2026

  Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ray Minervini, an 
extraordinary Northern Michigan leader, on being named the 2025 
Distinguished Service Award recipient by Traverse Connect, one of the 
region's most prestigious civic honors, which has been presented 
annually since 1929.
  For decades, Ray Minervini has exemplified what it means to serve a 
community with vision, integrity, and purpose. Starting under the 
guidance of his father, Ray's career in construction and development 
has had a lasting impact on Traverse City and Northern Michigan. Ray 
began his career in residential construction in the 1960s, building his 
sister a cottage just outside of Kingsley, before transitioning to the 
commercial sector in the 1980s.
  After relocating to Traverse City in the 1990s with his wife, Marsha, 
Ray could have chosen a quiet retirement. Instead, he chose to help 
redevelop the historic Traverse City State Hospital, a decision that 
would forever shape the future of the region. Through the Minervini 
Group, he acquired the property in 2002 and launched what would become 
the first redevelopment of a former asylum in the United States.
  What followed was nothing short of remarkable--today, the once 
abandoned property has been transformed into a 500-acre property filled 
with trails, parks, and various community entities. His work has not 
only protected a vital piece of Northern Michigan's history, but also 
created jobs, expanded housing opportunities, and fostered a sense of 
community that continues to draw residents and visitors alike. His 
dedication has earned him numerous honors over the years, but what may 
be most meaningful is the gratitude of a community he has so faithfully 
served.
  Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Ray Minervini for this 
well-deserved recognition. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional 
District, I thank him for his enduring contributions to Traverse City 
and Northern Michigan.

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