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[Pages H2837-H2838]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
MOTORCYCLE COMMUNITY PROFILING
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from
Michigan (Mr. Walberg) for 5 minutes.
Mr. WALBERG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to bring awareness to the
issue of motorcycle profiling.
This week, I joined Congressman Burgess, my fellow co-chair of the
Congressional Motorcycle Caucus, to introduce a resolution that
encourages
[[Page H2838]]
greater collaboration between the motorcycle community and law
enforcement officials to prevent instances of profiling.
There is no doubt, motorcycles represent more than just a mode of
transportation to those of us who ride them. They often signify a sense
of freedom, identity, and camaraderie. In Michigan, we have thousands
of local riders and many more who come from out of State to enjoy our
Great Lakes, scenic highways, and the great outdoors.
As an avid motorcyclist myself, I have heard from many in the riding
community who felt that they had been profiled by law enforcement at
least once, oftentimes solely because of their motorcycle-related
apparel. While I certainly support actions taken to enforce violations
of the law, we should all be concerned about profiling of riders based
on their attire and absent any wrongdoing.
To be clear, motorcyclists have a deep appreciation for our Nation's
law enforcement officers. We understand the difficulties they face on a
daily basis, and we are not disparaging that in any way. Our resolution
simply seeks to bring increased awareness and encourage a cooperative
effort to address an issue that affects many of our constituents in the
motorcycle community.
By having an open dialogue, I hope we can foster a greater
understanding of the issues surrounding motorcycle profiling and ensure
our roads and highways are safe for all to enjoy.
Recognizing the Maitland Family
Mr. WALBERG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim and Cheri
Maitland of Jackson, Michigan. The Maitlands recently made history by
becoming the first family to visit all 418 national parks and units.
From Alaska to the River Raisin National Battlefield Park in Monroe,
Michigan, they have logged more than 300,000 miles over the span of 8
years. The Maitland children, Jamison and Gerald, each have an
impressive collection of Junior Ranger badges from learning about all
the parks.
The family earned the nickname the ``Parkbound Maitlands'' after
watching a documentary series on America's national parks, which then
sparked a desire on their part to see the beauty across our great land.
When the Maitlands are not exploring in their RV, you might find them
volunteering at River Raisin National Battlefield Park in Monroe,
Michigan. It is a wonderful park and destination in our community where
the family has spent more than 1,000 volunteer hours.
Their philosophy is to leave each park a little bit better than how
they found it.
Madam Speaker, I share the Maitlands' love of the outdoors and our
national park system. This is truly a remarkable accomplishment and one
that makes me pretty jealous.
Congratulations to the Maitland family on your incredible journey. I
am grateful for your commitment to keeping our parks in pristine shape.
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