Rep. McDowell offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 425.

A resolution declaring Strongs as the Black Bear Capital of the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, Strongs, has one of the highest black bear populations in Michigan and also the highest bear hunter density in the State; and

            Whereas, Strongs has the predominant rendezvous center in the state for bear hunters. All types of bear hunting is found there; including dog hunting, baiting, firearms, and archery; and

            Whereas, Strongs has a registration center for the bear hunters to check in their kill which is in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources; and

            Whereas, The business people in Strongs have catered to bear hunters for over 50 years; and

            Whereas, Each fall they hold a dinner for the hunters to gather and share stories and socialize; and

            Whereas, since the early 1980's the bear population has increased and the local residents have become more involved in bear hunting. The community has become active in welcoming all types of bear hunters into the area for the bear hunting season; and

            Whereas, Many of the bear hunters that have been coming to this area to hunt bear purchase property and return to the area many times throughout the year; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare Strongs as the Black Bear Capital of the State of Michigan. We offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor Strongs as a historic place in Michigan with the recognition as the Black Bear Capital of the state.