Cori Bush

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to express our grave disappointment that neither the extension nor the expansion of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act is included in this spending bill. Decades ago, our government dumped radioactive waste in communities all across the country, including in my district. To this day, many of my constituents are sick and dying because of their exposure. World War II is still killing people in my district. We were wronged by the Federal Government. Rather than taking responsibility to make it right, Congress couldn't spare a dime on this bipartisan issue, this bipartisan effort, to compensate the victims. Why is it that we always have money for endless war but never enough to repair the harm war has caused? It is past time that this body gets its priorities straight, takes full responsibility, cleans up this waste, and compensates those who have been harmed. The majority has 78 days.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise with the people of St. Louis to honor the outstanding tenure of Reverend Dr. Anthony L. Riley. Rev. Riley has served as Senior Pastor at Central Baptist Church for five years. As a historically Black church in the St. Louis community, Central Baptist Church has a rich 178-year-old history. Rev. Riley has made his mark as the church's fourteenth senior pastor. He formerly served as Executive Pastor for the Luke Church in Texas, where he provided leadership to staff, associate ministers, and diaconate. As a devoted father and dedicated pastor to the congregants of Central Baptist Church, Rev. Riley has consistently answered the call of public service. In 2022, Rev Riley earned his Doctorate of Ministry degree in Leadership and Preaching at Virginia Union University's School of Theology. Within his education and ministry, Rev. Riley has strived to establish holistic practices for the next generation of ministers. His goal of teaching and unifying our communities of faith distinguishes him as a leader for all people. Rev. Riley truly embodies the principles of love, dignity, service, and humility that define the characteristics of a successful leader in ministry. On behalf of Missouri's First District, I congratulate Rev. Riley on his five-year anniversary and thank him for his continued commitment to service.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise with the people of St. Louis to honor the outstanding tenure of Reverend Dr. Anthony L. Riley. Rev. Riley has served as Senior Pastor at Central Baptist Church for five years. As a historically Black church in the St. Louis community, Central Baptist Church has a rich 178-year-old history. Rev. Riley has made his mark as the church's fourteenth senior pastor. He formerly served as Executive Pastor for the Luke Church in Texas, where he provided leadership to staff, associate ministers, and diaconate. As a loving husband, devoted father, and dedicated pastor to the congregants of Central Baptist Church, Rev. Riley has consistently answered the call of public service. In 2022, Rev. Riley earned his Doctorate of Ministry degree in Leadership and Preaching at Virginia Union University's School of Theology. Within his education and ministry, Rev. Riley has strived to establish holistic practices for the next generation of ministers. His goal of teaching and unifying our communities of faith distinguishes him as a leader for all people. Rev. Riley truly embodies the principles of love, dignity, service, and humility that define the characteristics of a successful leader in ministry. On behalf of Missouri's First District, I congratulate Rev. Riley on his five-year anniversary and thank him for his continued commitment to service.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise in celebration of 314 Day, founded by Young DIP, celebrated across St. Louis on March 14-- 314, which is our area code. On 314 Day, we celebrate our amazing sports teams and passionate fans, from the St. Louis Cardinals, Blues, CITY Soccer Club, Battlehawks, Surge, as well as our college and high school teams. On 314 Day, we indulge in toasted raviolis, Imo's Pizza, Red Hot Riplets, and our Chinese food and Vess soda. On 314 Day, we enjoy artists and creators rooted in St. Louis, like Nelly, the St. Lunatics, Tina Turner, Scott Joplin, Michael McDonald, Maya Angelou, and Cbabi Bayoc. Most importantly, on 314 Day, St. Louis is gathered together to bask in the love and the pride that we have for our community. To be from St. Louis is to love St. Louis. Every day it is among one of my life's greatest honors to be your Congresswoman. I love St. Louis. Happy 314 Day.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Madam Speaker, St. Louis and I rise today in solidarity with the Puerto Rican people. Puerto Rico has long been harmed by its status as a U.S. territory. One example of this is what is known as Act 22. This policy allows people who move to Puerto Rico to not pay local taxes on their dividends, capital gains, and certain investments. Unsurprisingly, the wealthy have benefited from this policy while the Puerto Rican people are left to deal with the harms. Because of Act 22, Puerto Rico stands to lose an estimated $4.5 billion in tax revenues between 2020 and 2026, and we are already seeing skyrocketing rents and increased displacement. This must end. Congress must close the Act 22 tax loophole, end the injustice of colonialism, and enact self-determination legislation for the Puerto Rican people. I stand with the Puerto Rican community in St. Louis, in Puerto Rico, and around the country.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Madam Speaker, St. Louis and I rise in honor of the life and legacy of Bridgeton, Missouri, mayor, Terry Briggs. Mayor Briggs was a loving husband, father, and dedicated public servant. As a three-term mayor of Bridgeton in St. Louis County, he cared deeply about his community and those in it. One issue we worked together on was the cleanup of Manhattan Project waste dumped in Westlake Landfill and surrounding areas. Together, we fought not only for the cleanup of this waste but also for compensation for those impacted. Mayor Briggs was also a champion for the rights of those living with disabilities. He worked to ensure that everyone was treated with dignity and given the resources to thrive through his service on the Productive Living Board, Special Olympics Board, Special School District Board of Education, and the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis. Mayor Briggs was deeply loved, and his legacy will live on through the lives he has touched. My heart goes out to Mayor Briggs' family and friends and all of Bridgeton. May he rest in peace.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise today to celebrate the final day of Black History Month and to pay tribute to the contributions made by Black Americans to free enslaved Black people. I proudly introduced a resolution to honor Mary and John Meachum, formerly enslaved Black abolitionists in St. Louis, Missouri, who dedicated their lives to the liberation of all Black people, especially those who were enslaved. In defiance of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, the Meachums' home became a stop on the Underground Railroad, guiding countless enslaved Black people to freedom in Illinois. Mary continued this work after her husband's death in 1854. In May of 1855, Mary Meachum was implicated in a plot to smuggle a small group of enslaved Black people across the river and was arrested by a group of law enforcement and enslavers working together. Today, their legacy is memorialized at the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing on the St. Louis Riverfront Trail. I am dedicated to ensuring that the stories of individuals like Mary and John Meachum are told for generations to come.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, I, along with the people of St. Louis, rise today to honor the exceptional career of Colonel Elvert L. Gardner. This March, Col. Gardner will retire with over 30 years of active duty military service. Col. Gardner is a St. Louis native who graduated from Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School in 1988. He was commissioned in May 1993 through the Reserved Officer Training Corps at the distinguished Detachment 015, Tuskegee University, home of the Tuskegee Airmen. Upon receiving his commission as Second Lieutenant in 1993, Col. Gardner spent 26 years in the U.S. Air Force before transferring to the U.S. Space Force. In 2015, he was promoted to the rank of Colonel, further signifying his excellent leadership and resolve. As the Director of Space Strategy, Policy, and Plans at U.S. Space Force headquarters and the Pentagon, Col. Gardner consistently dedicated himself to supporting national security objectives. Other examples of his commitment to supporting our Nation include his roles as Space Force Service Chair, National Security Studies Department Chair, and Assistant Professor at the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy. In each of these positions, Col. Gardner has distinguished himself as an individual who leads with full intention to serve the community at large. Col. Gardner has demonstrated exceptional leadership, courage, perseverance, and hope throughout his career. His retirement is a well- earned milestone over the course of his professional life. We thank Col. Gardner for his remarkable service to our country, and I know his beloved niece, our dear sister and friend, Cora Faith Walker, would be incredibly proud of her uncle and his outstanding career. On behalf of Missouri's First District, I send my heartfelt congratulations to Col. Gardner on his retirement after 30 years of service in the U.S. military.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, I, along with the people of St. Louis, rise to honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Erna Je'Neen French. Erna was a giant in the gospel community, a mother, grandmother, and sister who dedicated her life to spreading the joy and love of God through her powerful voice. Erna professed her devotion to Jesus Christ at the early age of five, and she knew she would one day be a famous gospel singer. Inspired by her mother Lavera, gospel music was always central to Erna's life. Erna was a scholar of spiritual hymns, and she understood the weight those verses carried. Before the age of 12, Erna recorded three national gospel records with the Thomas A. Dorsey National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses under the St. Louis Gospel Choral Union, the O'Neal Twins, and the Stan Lee Gospel Music Workshop. Later in her life, Erna recorded with numerous artists and ministries nationally and internationally and was a member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, the Sanctified POSSE, GEMCA, Dello Thedford and the Gospel Symphonic Choir, Rusty Watson, One Voice, the Psalms of David, and countless other ministries. In 2018, Erna accomplished a lifelong dream releasing her project ``Always'' with the help of Levi Too King. A student of the University City School District, she was a proud member of the graduating class of 1985. In 1986, Erna began a career as a professional driver. She drove school buses until 1998 when she joined the Bistate Development Agency/Metro St. Louis Transit Agency, from which she retired in 2021. Most importantly, Erna loved spending time with her family. Her daughter Alysha De'Nise French and grandson CJ were the lights of her life. Erna shared her deep passion for gospel music with her older sister, Monica. I offer my deepest condolences on behalf of Missouri's First District to Erna's entire family and all those who loved her.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to send our love and condolences to Kansas City, Missouri, in the wake of yesterday's mass shooting. This preventable and despicable epidemic of gun violence affects us all. It impacts my district in St. Louis. It impacts your districts. It impacts our entire country, and it does not need to be this way. Missouri has some of the weakest gun laws in the country. Instead of addressing this epidemic, Missouri Republicans continue to eviscerate and obstruct gun safety laws. Therefore, to the Missouri Republicans who are pointing their finger at the people of Kansas City, Missouri, and calling them thugs-- Missouri Republicans need to get a better vocabulary--this blood is on your hands. My colleagues don't get to scapegoat the victims of this shooting when they are actively blocking gun violence prevention legislation. Their allegiance to the NRA over the needs of the people of our communities is absolutely shameful. Missouri needs action. Join Democrats in passing meaningful, commonsense gun safety legislation so that we can put an end to this crisis and save lives.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with the people of St. Louis, to honor the life and legacy of former First Lady of Missouri and United States Senator Jean Carnahan. Jean Carnahan was an exemplary public servant, wife, and mother who dedicated her life to the people of Missouri. She was appointed as Missouri's first female senator in the face of great personal tragedy after the loss of her son, Roger, and husband, Governor Mel Carnahan. Jean Carnahan was a trailblazer who showed courage and fortitude by choosing to step up and serve her community. She worked to hold corporate greed accountable, and as a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, she introduced and won passage of a law requiring corporations to make swift, electronic reporting of insider trading. As First Lady of Missouri, she was an activist and advocate fighting for on-site daycare centers for working families, promoting childhood immunization, funding domestic abuse centers, and of course, the arts. She was passionate about making government accessible to the people of Missouri, starting with raising funds to restore the Governor's mansion, so that everyone could visit and enjoy the beautiful grounds. Senator Jean Carnahan was an accomplished author of seven published books and co-wrote many of her husband's speeches. She provided guidance and inspiration to so many people throughout Missouri to serve others and be a vehicle for change. I offer my deepest condolences on behalf of Missouri's First District to the entire family and all those who loved her. May her Memory forever be a blessing.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise today to honor the exceptional career of Ms. Vivian Martain. Ms. Martain is retiring at age 81 after spending over five decades working to service our St. Louis community. Ms. Martain's commitment to service is evident in each of her pursuits. Since 2018, she has served as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Compliance Officer and Project Pave Administrator at Millstone Weber. In 2019, Ms. Martain became Millstone Weber's first Civil Rights Compliance Manager, where she worked to ensure that minority contractors were represented on the massive I-270 North Project. Prior to that, she served a 14-year term as Executive Director of the Construction Prep Center. As the chief architect of Millstone Weber's Project PAVE Initiative, she strived to guide, educate, and support students in North St. Louis County high schools and encourage them to pursue careers in heavy design, engineering, and construction. Ms. Martain fondly recounts stories of every single student and how each of them excelled after being in the program. Ms. Martain has committed her professional life to serving the people of Missouri, and her retirement signifies a well-deserved reprieve from her tireless service. The impact of Ms. Martain's work is immeasurable. We thank her for an unwavering dedication to public service and congratulate her on an outstanding career.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Tonya Latrice Finley-McCaw. Mrs. Finley-McCaw was a remarkable servant leader who touched the lives of so many people across the St. Louis community. A passionate advocate, Mrs. Finley-McCaw fought tirelessly for the rights of families and workers, including aiding efforts across the region and state for living wages and the right to unionize. Together, alongside her inspiring son and a stalwart community leader, Rasheen, the pair were never far from a picket line, joining striking workers and allies demanding fair wages in the ``Fight for $15'' movement. Mrs. Finley-McCaw was indefatigable. In addition to her strong support of labor rights and economic justice, she also chaired St. Louis City's Moms Demand Action chapter in an effort to tackle the crisis of gun violence in our communities and received several leadership certificates and accolades for her wide-ranging work and advocacy throughout the St. Louis region. Born on July 7, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois, to her loving parents, Samuel and Dorothy Finley. She was also blessed with an amazing sister, Teijuania Finley. Finley-McCaw attended and graduated from Parkway South High School, where she was crowned prom queen. She later pursued higher education at St. Louis College of Health Careers and obtained her certification as a phlebotomist. Mrs. Finley-McCaw was married to the love of her life, Rick McCaw, for 27 years. She is the proud mother of three sons: Rashaad Crawford, Rasheen Aldridge, and Rasheed Finley. She is the stepmother to Rickey McCaw, Rikeyia McCaw, Malik McCaw, and Bernard Wings. When she wasn't spending time with her family or working to improve the lives of her St. Louis neighbors, Mrs. Finley-McCaw loved to cook (especially on holidays), play with her dogs, travel, and spend time with her grandchildren. Mrs. Finley-McCaw was a great friend and mother figure to many. I have fond memories of her. I have fond memories of her helping to support me as I worked hard to represent the people of Missouri's First District. She provided unparalleled guidance and never faltered in the work of ensuring St. Louis has the representation it deserves at every level of government, I got to witness what a remarkable human she was to those around and what an incredible mother she was through my personal friendship with Rasheen. She touched so many of our hearts and she will be deeply missed. May her memory forever be a blessing.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the City of Richmond Heights, located in Missouri's First District. Richmond Heights was incorporated on December 29, 1913 with just 18 families residing in the area. Since then, the population has grown to 9,286. Richmond Heights has been home to many Missourians who brought the joys of art and music to St. Louis, such as jazz singer Mae Wheeler, rock-n-roll legend Chuck Berry, artist Ernest Trova, gospel singer Doris Fiddmont Frazier, architect Henry Hampton, and filmmaker Henry Hampton Jr. Moreover, Richmond Heights is home to many impactful social justice advocates such as Dr. Thomas E. Rusan, Jr., Georgia Tallier Rusan, and Rev. James E. Fiddmont. It is also home to one of the most recognizable voices in St. Louis, the legendary sports commentator, Jack Buck. Richmond Heights enriches Missouri's First District with community institutions such as the Esquire Theater, Tropicana Lanes, SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital, the Saint Louis Galleria, and the Boulevard. It includes four school districts: the Maplewood Richmond Heights School District, Clayton School District, Brentwood School District and Ladue School District, as well as Little Flower, Immaculata School, and the International Schoolhouse. As the Congresswoman for Missouri's First District, I congratulate the residents of Richmond Heights and their current leadership, including Mayor Jim Thomson and Councilmembers Lisa Eppert, Greg Vescovo, Reginald Finney, Maurice Muia, Megan Moylan, Ashley Metcalf, Danny Hebenstreit and Scott Huston on 110 fruitful years. Here's to 110 more.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to wish a happy 103rd birthday to Willie James Thomas, Sr. On behalf of Missouri's First District, we are thankful for everything he is and everything he has done to provide for his family, neighbors, coworkers, and friends. 103 is a remarkable milestone and worthy of great celebration. Mr. Thomas has seen and lived through segments of history that most of us can only rely on through books and education, and from being in close community with elders like him. His trials, triumphs, and everything in between are a beautiful testament to a remarkable and full life. Throughout his life, Mr. Thomas has had many blessings. He is the beloved father of three, a grandfather of 10, a great-grandfather of 21, and great-great-great-grandfather of six. As a World War II Army Veteran serving in England, France, and Germany, we thank him for his dedication to his family and service to our country. I am so grateful for the opportunity to celebrate his life because it is an inspiration to so many of us in St. Louis. I wish Mr. Thomas peace and continued joy tending to the best yard in University City throughout his 103rd year. Happy birthday and bountiful blessings to Mr. Willie James Thomas, Sr.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise today with gratitude to St. Louis Public Libraries and St. Louis County Libraries for their continued partnership in providing lifesaving resources as part of my office's Congress in Your Neighborhood program. This initiative was started in October 2021 at four public libraries in the region to help residents across Missouri's First District in navigating federal agencies, handling casework, and meeting with casework staff in their communities. Its success is largely attributed to the reliability and proximity of our beloved network of public libraries. Our libraries continue to help build healthy communities. Not only do they provide access to free education, but they also do the essential work of providing vital services and safe spaces to gather. Constituent service is about meeting our neighbors where they are, and our libraries do that every day. I am proud to partner with our public libraries, and I will be forever grateful to our librarians, administrators, staff members and volunteers for their dedicated service to our community.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to recognize the extraordinary life and legacy of the late Frederick Douglas Deloch, affectionately known as ``DIRT'', and to express our deepest condolences to his family on news of his passing. His passing has left a void in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him. Frederick's journey was marked by resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to service. His pursuit of engineering, despite financial constraints, led him to enlist in the Army, where he excelled both academically and in the line of duty. Serving with honor during the Korean War, Frederick's sacrifices were justly acknowledged with the Purple Heart, a testament to his bravery and dedication to the defense of our Nation. Beyond his military service, Frederick continued to serve within the community. His 37-year tenure with the United States Postal Service, starting as a Postal Clerk and rising to the esteemed position of Postal Inspector, is a reflection of his exemplary character and dedication to public service. A true pillar of faith and community, Frederick was a devoted member of the Antioch Baptist Church for over 50 years. His commitment to community service extended through his active involvement in organizations such as the National Organization of Blacks in Law Enforcement (N.O.B.L.E.), exemplifying his dedication to making a positive impact beyond his immediate circles. Frederick's contributions to the Albert Holman Lodge No. 179 of Prince Hall Masons, where he achieved the prestigious rank of a 33rd Degree Mason, and his role as Honorary Past Potentate of Medinah Temple No. 39, Prince Hall Masons, are indicative of his commitment to the principles of brotherhood, charity, and service. In remembering Frederick, one cannot overlook his motto: ``If I can help someone along the way, then my living will not be in vain.'' His 90 years were a testament to a life well-lived, sowing seeds of goodwill and leaving an indelible mark on his community. In recognition of Frederick Douglas Deloch's extraordinary life and service to his country and community, Missouri's First District and I again extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his legacy continue to inspire others and serve as a source of strength for those whose lives he touched.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to celebrate the 50th reunion of the Beaumont High School Class of 1973. May this reunion weekend be filled with loving memories, reflection, and laughter. The Class of 1973 has lived through many historic events from snowstorms to teacher strikes. Despite all of this, more than 480 students persisted on and are a part of its graduating class. As the Beaumont Blue Jackets Alma Mater states: ``Beaumont High we pledge our love, let our chorus ring above. Beaumont's warm and friendly walls, campus broad and ample halls. Pay we now the honor due to Beaumont's Gold and Blue; The gold of youth, the blue truth and staunch loyalty. Straight toward the North Star's guiding rays, Beaumont looks with steady gaze; Like a compass needle true, Points the course of all we do. On her guidance we rely. So march we in the van, to hold on high her winged staff of service to man.'' On behalf of Missouri's First District, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Beaumont High School Class of 1973 on their 50th year of celebration.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to wish a happy 103rd birthday to Willie James Thomas Sr. On behalf of Missouri's First District, we are thankful for everything he is and everything he has done to provide for his family, neighbors, coworkers, and friends. One hundred and three is a remarkable milestone and worthy of great celebration. Mr. Thomas has seen and lived through segments of history that most of us can only rely on through books and education, and from being in close community with elders like him. His trials, triumphs, and everything in between are a beautiful testament to a remarkable and full life. Throughout his life, Mr. Thomas has had many blessings. He is the beloved father of three, a grandfather of 10, a great-grandfather of 21, and great-great-great-grandfather of six. As a World War II Army Veteran serving in England, France, and Germany, we thank him for his dedication to his family and service to our country I am so grateful for the opportunity to celebrate his life because it is an inspiration to so many of us in St. Louis. I wish Mr. Thomas peace and continued joy tending to the best yard in University City throughout his 103rd year. Happy birthday and bountiful blessings to Mr. Willie James Thomas Sr.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to congratulate the St. Louis Metro Area Chapter Coalition of Black Trade Unionists on their 50th anniversary. For 50 years, CBTU has been the voice of Black workers within the trade union movement in St. Louis. By pushing organized labor to create more equitable conditions and meet the needs and aspirations of Black and low-income workers, CBTU has truly been a voice for the people. The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists played an integral role in defeating right-to-work in Missouri, and they never stopped fighting and coordinating workers across our region and state to vote and remain civically engaged. Through education and outreach, CBTU has been on the frontlines fighting for our workers, teachers, and most marginalized communities, and ensuring that our democracy is protected. St. Louis and I are forever grateful for CBTU's unwavering solidarity. CBTU is continuously leading with compassion for our entire St. Louis community in the struggle for racial equity, justice, and freedom. Congratulations on 50 years of service.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to honor Maharat Rori Picker Neiss, Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of St Louis for her steadfast advocacy for the people of St. Louis. As Congresswoman for Missouri's First District, I have seen firsthand how her leadership has helped to bring greater understanding and compassion throughout our district and the state of Missouri. Rori is a passionate advocate for the Jewish community, the LGBTQIA+ community, and for social justice, and she is a trailblazer in her own right. As one of the first graduates of Yeshivat Maharat, a groundbreaking institution training Orthodox Jewish women to be spiritual leaders and halakhic authorities, she has paved the way for others to follow. Rori also works relentlessly to advance interfaith initiatives by bringing together diverse local and national leaders. She has been a strong advocate and friend to my office as we work to do the most for every person in St. Louis--starting with those who have the greatest need, and we are grateful for her leadership. Missouri's First District is undoubtedly enriched by Rori's service. On behalf of Missouri's First, I thank her for all that she does to strengthen our community.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to honor Lew Moye on his 80th birthday for his years of dedication and service to our communities in Missouri's First Congressional District. Lew Moye exemplifies civil rights leadership that prioritizes doing the most for everyone--starting with those who have the greatest need. For more than 50 years, Mr. Moye has passionately fought to ensure that Black & brown workers are represented fairly within unions, and he has never backed down in joining others in the name of social and economic justice. As President Emeritus of the St. Louis Chapter of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Lew has ensured that the voices of marginalized workers are heard. In the 1960s, Lew Moye was one of the founding members of Black Employees for Equity at Chrysler. Their group filed a racial and sexual discrimination complaint and took direct action forcing Chrysler to comply with the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Lew's leadership opened up job opportunities in skilled trades, clerical and supervisory positions for Black and brown workers as well as women on the assembly line. In 1978, Lew Moye and the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists played an integral role in defeating right-to-work in Missouri, and they have never stopped fighting, coordinating workers in North St. Louis County and across our region to get out the Black Vote. St. Louis and I are forever grateful for his unparalleled leadership, his visionary guidance, his generous spirit, his unrelenting solidarity--and for leading with love for our entire St. Louis community in the struggle for equity and justice. On this joyous occasion, we honor Lew Moye and express our deepest gratitude to him and his family as we wish him and all those he loves more life and joy.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise because we are tired of extreme Republican antics that seek to put politics over the needs of people. Under Republican leadership, the House has successfully passed just 14 bills. Some of these were bills to punt an impending government shutdown, which we all know was only avoided thanks to the Democrats. Let us not forget that their complete and utter inability to govern resulted in an entire Chamber of Congress being unable to perform its basic duties for 17 days, 17 failed Speaker votes, and multiple failed Speaker candidates. Their House is not in order. Republicans haven't delivered on any top public priorities like strengthening Social Security, delivering environmental protections, or boosting our economy. Politically motivated censures like this one that target Black and Brown Members of Congress like this one are not only a waste of time, they are a distraction. The people aren't falling for it. Republicans should actually legislate rather than play useless political games like this attempt to censure Representative Jamaal Bowman.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, I was not present during today's vote series. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 676 and Present on rollcall No. 677.

Ms. BUSH

Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise with great honor to recognize Better Family Life on the occasion of their 40th anniversary. Endurance, faith, and unwavering commitment to service have been the cornerstones of their remarkable journey, shaping the lives of countless individuals and families across the St. Louis region. Better Family Life's workforce development programs have provided community members with vital job skills while fostering economic empowerment and stability. Their unwavering commitment to youth, family, and clinical services has created a nurturing environment for the growth and well-being of young people. While Better Family Life's journey began in the basement of their founders' home, it has since grown into a formidable organization, marked by significant milestones and achievements. The Better Family Life Cultural Education Center enriches our understanding of the African Diaspora through Afrikan Dance, artistic traditions classes, and the largest area Kwanzaa expo. The Business Center and Melanated Marketplace stands as a testament to the organization's dedication and impact, serving as a hub for Black education, small business empowerment, and community engagement. As Congresswoman for Missouri's First District, I am proud of the various ways my office has been able to support Better Family Life's mission, including by securing $3 million in congressionally directed federal funding for the Lifehouse Phase 1 initiative to help revitalize North City and support residents in securing homes. This funding is vital to sustaining the economic vibrancy of North City, and it was an honor to partner with Better Family Life to deliver meaningful federal resources for initiatives that will benefit residents across the district for years to come. As Better Family Life celebrates this momentous milestone, I extend my deepest appreciation for their unwavering dedication and congratulate them on the tremendous impact they have had on our St. Louis community over the past four decades.