Key Speaker

The Honorable John Moolenaar

U.S. Representative (MI-02)

Discussion Summary

On February 23, 2023, a diverse group of Michigan travel industry leaders met with Rep. John Moolenaar (MI-02) at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park to discuss the 15,000+ jobs and $1.8 billion in annual visitor spending that travel brings to his district. Throughout the meeting, the Congressman was interested in expanding his knowledge of the continuing temporary workforce shortage as well as the imperative to increase the H-2B visa cap.

It was further noted that for many seasonal travel businesses located in northern Michigan, this workforce shortage was particularly onerous. As the conversation concluded, the Congressman reaffirmed his support for the travel industry and agreed to be a campion in his role as a U.S. Representative and as a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

Attendees

  • Dr. Karl Boss, Consumers Power EV Education & Outreach
  • Rochelle Caslavka, Travel Michigan
  • Katie DeWeerd, VanDyke Conference Center
  • Camille Jourdan Mark, Michigan’s Adventure
  • Cindy Larsen, Chamber Director
  • Dave Lorenz, Travel Michigan
  • Robert Lukens, Muskegon CVB & Airport
  • Andrew Newhart, U.S. Travel Association
  • Jum Rudicil, Outdoor Park Director
  • Dr. Al Steinman, Anis Water Resources Institute, Grand Valley State University

Attendee Testimonial

“Michigan’s vibrant travel industry isn’t just about exploring picturesque landscapes; it’s an engine that fuels our economy, uplifts big and small communities, and empowers small businesses to thrive. Each traveler’s journey through our Great Lakes state stitches together the very fabric of Michigan’s success story.”

– Dave Lorenz, Travel Michigan

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