[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1274]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMEMORATING THE 50 MILLIONTH VISITOR TO THE SLEEPING BEAR DUNES 
                           NATIONAL LAKESHORE

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                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 11, 2019

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the Sleeping 
Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for welcoming its 50 millionth visitor. 
Through a commitment to conserving this natural treasure and ensuring 
it can be enjoyed by visitors from throughout the world, the Sleeping 
Bear Dunes has become an indispensable part of Northern Michigan.
  Our state is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in 
the country--attracting visitors from around the world and providing 
Michiganders with a quality of life that is second to none. Perhaps 
first among these picturesque landscapes is the Sleeping Bear Dunes 
National Lakeshore. Located in the northwest corner of the Lower 
Peninsula, the Sleeping Bear Dunes covers a 35-mile stretch of Lake 
Michigan's coastline. Its bluffs, forests, beaches, inland lakes, and 
unique wildlife have been enjoyed by locals and visitors for centuries. 
The land was established as a National Lakeshore under the National 
Parks Service in October of 1970--and over the next 49 years, millions 
would come to enjoy everything it has to offer. On August 19, 2019, the 
National Lakeshore welcomed its 50 millionth visitor. This incredible 
milestone, coming at the cusp of its 50th anniversary, clearly shows 
how dearly the Sleeping Bear Dunes are held in the hearts of 
Michiganders and all Americans.
  Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize the Sleeping Bear Dunes 
National Lakeshore for welcoming its 50 millionth visitor. Michiganders 
can take immense pride in knowing that the First District is home to 
such an important and beloved natural treasure.

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