Floor SpeechNeutral2026-05-13

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

ImmigrationHealthcareTaxesHousingInfrastructure

Context

On 2026-05-13, Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI-1) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING RAY MINERVINI FOR A LIFETIME OF SERVICE AND VISION IN TRAVERSE CITY" in the House.

Full Text

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

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [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. ____________________

View original source →

RECOGNIZING RAY MINERVINI FOR A LIFETIME OF SERVICE AND VISION IN TRAVERSE CITY Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 81 (Wednesday, May 13, 2026) [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. ____________________