house resolution no.400

Rep. Wentworth offered the following resolution:

A resolution of tribute for Gary L. Randall.

Whereas, It is with great appreciation that the members of this legislative body take this moment to honor Gary L. Randall as he retires from his position of Clerk of the House of Representatives. His steadfast devotion to this institution, his calm and measured approach, and his respect for tradition while embracing the future have set the highest standards of excellence for his successors; and

Whereas, Gary Randall earned his position of leadership in our state as the result of his lifetime commitment to hard work and public service. Son of Clifton and Elsie Randall, he was raised in the city of Ithaca. He went on to obtain his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1970 and his master’s degree from Central Michigan University in 1972. He married his wife, Brenda, in 1973 and is the father of two children, Clifton and Amy, and the proud grandfather to Eli, Charlie, and Molly; and

Whereas, Gary Randall began his professional career as program director at WFYC Radio in Alma. He later moved to WCMU TV/WCML TV in Mount Pleasant to become the director of public affairs and served in that role from 1970 to 1979. His work exemplified his ability to lead and connect with others, skills which he would bring with him to the Legislature; and

Whereas, Gary Randall was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1978, and served for 18 years. He excelled in serving his constituents in Montcalm, Clinton, Clare, Isabella, and Gratiot counties throughout his tenure as a legislator. As a member of the House of Representatives, he served as the assistant Republican leader; chaired committees on business and finance, commerce, and joint capital outlay; was a vice chair for the committees on public utilities and social services and youth; and was a member of the committees on agriculture, finance, education, administrative rules, conservation, environment and Great Lakes, legislative retirement, capitol restoration, and the legislative council; and

Whereas, Gary Randall remains committed to the betterment of the state of Michigan. He served loyally as Assistant Clerk of the House of Representatives from 1997 to 1998 and from 2007 to 2010, and served as Clerk of the House of Representatives from 1999 to 2006 and again since 2011. Throughout his time in this role, his legislative expertise and knowledge have been an invaluable asset to this legislative body. He was also chair of the Michigan State Capitol Commission, which was formed in 2014 to preserve, operate, manage, and maintain the Capitol and Capitol Square. As chair, he oversaw four projects in 2015 and 2016 to renew and restore the capitol building and its surrounding grounds. In 2019, he oversaw the approval and construction of Heritage Hall, a magnificent welcome center for the Michigan Capitol building that will enhance the visitor experience for years to come. Today, Heritage Hall serves as a reminder of the selfless efforts made under his leadership; and

Whereas, His love of giving back to his community expanded beyond his work in the Legislature. Mr. Randall served as a member of the Education Broadcast Association, Michigan Farm Bureau, the Lions Club, Jaycees, the Elks, and Sigma Delta Chi. He was also on the Library of Michigan Board of Trustees. His great care and concern for others motivated him to give many, many hours of his time as a mentor and counselor to countless people on both professional and personal matters. We are proud to say that the state of Michigan is better because of his devotion; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we honor Gary L. Randall for his 44 years of distinguished service to this legislative body and wish him well in his future endeavors; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Gary L. Randall as a token of our appreciation and respect.