RECOGNIZING DON BATY FOR HIS YEARS OF LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE TO NORTHERN MICHIGAN

On 2026-06-24, Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI-1) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING DON BATY FOR HIS YEARS OF LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE TO NORTHERN MICHIGAN" in the House.

RECOGNIZING DON BATY FOR HIS YEARS OF LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE TO NORTHERN MICHIGAN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 106 (Wednesday, June 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E616-E617] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING DON BATY FOR HIS YEARS OF LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE TO NORTHERN MICHIGAN ______ HON. JACK BERGMAN of michigan in the house of representatives Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Don Baty of Grayling, Michigan for his decades of leadership and dedicated service to Northern Michigan and the Republican Party of Crawford County. Don's story is one rooted in hard work, loyalty, and a deep love for the great state of [[Page E617]] Michigan. After graduating from Hastings High School, Don went on to attend the University of Michigan, where he was a member of the Wolverines football team. Upon completing his education, he entered the medical field, working first at the University of Michigan Hospital before moving into medical equipment sales. That work took him to New Jersey and Texas, but Don's heart never left Michigan. When the time came, he chose to retire right here in the 1st District. Since his retirement, Don has become a cornerstone of the Crawford County community. From volunteering at Grayling Hospital to serving on the board of his church to donating groceries to neighbors in need. Don lives out the American ideals of service, generosity, and looking out for your fellow man. In an era when it is easy to stand on the sidelines, Don has chosen to show up. Don has also made his mark as a champion of civic participation across the region. As former Vice Chair of the Crawford County Republican Party and a member of the Crawford County Board of Canvassers, he was instrumental in revitalizing the local party when its membership was struggling. To this day, Don can still be found on the streets of Grayling with clipboard in hand, talking to his neighbors and gathering signatures for causes that benefit the whole community. He is a true patriot who understands that you do not need to hold elected office to make a difference and contribute to the Great American Experiment. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Don Baty for his continued service to Northern Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I thank him for his tireless efforts and wish him continued success in the years ahead. ____________________