Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible efforts of the Thelander and Zarate families, who have spearheaded a conservation and awareness program for thousands of beautiful monarch butterflies that began their lives as caterpillars in Michigan's 11th District before attempting the 2,000-mile migration to central Mexico every year. A couple of years ago, Maecy Zarate, who was then just 8 years old, petitioned the Highland Township board to establish the Milkweed Mile, a beautiful stretch of land along highway M-59 in Highland Township that provides a sanctuary for monarchs. Along this stretch of road, which is designated as a no-mow zone, milkweed is left to grow and thrive freely, creating an ideal environment for monarch caterpillars to complete their lifecycle. Each summer, these conservation efforts culminate in the Highland Monarch Butterfly Festival, an annual celebration of these amazing butterflies, in an effort to raise awareness of this species that has seen their global populations plummet in recent years. I was honored to visit the Highland Monarch Butterfly Festival in August of 2019, and it was so inspiring to meet young Michiganders passionate about conservation and biodiversity in our great State. This is also part of the work that we are doing on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, to protect and to promote biodiversity throughout the world. The Thelander family also tags and releases hundreds of monarchs every year.…”