The Michigan House of Representatives used part of its Dec. 9 floor session for tributes and farewells.

Minority Floor Leader Fitzgerald introduced a special tribute recognizing two Special Olympics Michigan Unified women’s 3-on-3 basketball teams that competed at the first Special Olympics North America tournament in Indianapolis. Fitzgerald said the teams—identified on the floor as Team Hustle and Team Grit—returned with a bronze and a gold medal and were commended for representing Michigan.

Speaker Hall led a tribute to Andy Brancato, who is retiring after 40 years of service in state government and as an enrolling clerk in the Michigan House. Hall recounted Brancato’s past roles, noted national recognition for her work, and presented a signed tribute on behalf of House leadership and the governor. Family members were present in the gallery to accept the tribute.

Representative Thompson offered a farewell and thanks to intern Drew Bennett, noting Bennett’s work contacting constituents and assisting with casework involving child welfare, guardianship and unemployment claims. Thompson introduced other staff members in the gallery and described Bennett as a resource to constituents and the district office.

These recognitions preceded the routine legis­lative business and committee reports that occupied the remainder of the session.