Recognizing Thomas Pelissero

Floor Speech

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Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Thomas Pelissero for his heartfelt tribute to his hometown of Bessemer, Michigan, in his book: ``Bring One Home: A Memoir of Boyhood, Basketball, and Hometown Spirit.''

This book is not only a salute to Bessemer, but the tough, resilient communities across Michigan's Upper Peninsula and middle America.

Mr. Speaker, 60 years ago this week, the Bessemer Speedboys basketball team ended a 42-game losing streak, at the time, the longest in Upper Peninsula high school basketball history.

The people of Bessemer always showed up, cheered, and stood by their team. That loyalty and perseverance reflect the hardy spirit that defines this town and so many communities across our Upper Peninsula.

That spirit remains alive today.

Mr. Pelissero's book launch filled Bessemer City Hall to standing room only and raised more than $5,000 for the Bessemer Public Library. Since its release in November of 2025, ``Bring One Home'' has earned national recognition to include inclusion in the Library of Congress.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Pelissero for capturing the character, resilience, and enduring fellowship of Bessemer and the Upper Peninsula we are all proud to call home.

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