Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize a longtime leader in our community, Mark Flegenheimer, as he retires from Michigan Sugar. Mark has been in the sugar industry for 40 years. He first started with Michigan Sugar in 1994 before quickly moving up to become president and CEO in 1998, where he succeeded his father. At one point, the sugar beet industry was on the brink of collapse in Michigan, a fate that many other communities across the country suffered, but through Mark's leadership and the determination of the beet growers and those who work with him, they got through these really difficult times. During Mark's tenure, in fact, Michigan Sugar has doubled its output while using 40 percent less energy to save costs and to protect the environment. In mid-Michigan, we have thousands of family farms, including sugar beet growers. Every day they work with and depend on Michigan Sugar, and so we thank Mark for all he has done over the years. Mark is not only a great businessman but also a really good guy, a great part of our community. He volunteers his time as a member of the Delta College Foundation board of directors and as vice chairman of the board at the Midland Center for the Arts. Mark, thank you for your dedication to mid-Michigan, and congratulations on your retirement. ____________________”