Debbie Dingell

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague and friend from Michigan for this amendment. This bipartisan amendment offered by the gentleman from Michigan and cosponsored by the Republican gentleman from northern Michigan makes it clear--or western Michigan, not from where Dan and I are, but it is Michigan--makes it clear that eligible funding for conservation activities under the Endangered Species Recovery and Habitat Conservation Legacy Fund include invasive species and disease management control and prevention efforts. Invasive species and diseases pose severe threats to our Nation's wildlife population, especially for species that are already threatened or endangered. Few places in the United States are more familiar with invasive species than the Great Lakes region which has been battling sea lampreys, zebra and quagga mussels, and now Asian carp. Native fish species are smaller and less plentiful than they once were thanks to these invasive species. On the disease front, chronic waste and disease, a fatal disease for North America's deer, elk, and moose have spread to 25 States posing significant risks to those populations. To properly recover native species, we must provide the resources and coordinate efforts to eradicate or control invasive species, prevent new introductions, and better understand emerging diseases. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, this amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Arizona and the gentleman from North Carolina adds nonprofit organizations to the list of entities that are eligible to compete for innovation grants funded by the Wildlife Conservation and Restoration Subaccount. Ten percent of subaccount funds are used to fund innovation grants. These grants are meant to catalyze the innovation of techniques, tools, and strategies while fostering collaborative partnerships that accelerate, expand, or replicate effective and measurable recovery efforts for species of greatest conservation need and species listed under the Endangered Species Act. Including nonprofit organizations in this competitive grant process will foster collaboration and ensure that the best strategies and efforts are being funded. Madam Speaker, I am sure that none of the groups are the radical groups that you are referring to, but I don't know. It is a competitive process that will be carefully managed. Madam Speaker, I support my colleague's amendment.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the one- hundredth anniversary of the Alpha Beta Chapter of the Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity at the University of Michigan--Ann Arbor. Their one hundred years of service and dedication to our local community is worthy of commendation. Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity was founded in 1904 by eleven women at Syracuse University. Over the years, the fraternity has expanded to include chapters at 199 different colleges and universities in the United States and Canada and has been home to over 197,000 women. The Alpha Gamma Delta Alpha Beta Chapter at the University of Michigan was founded in 1922. Starting with only 25 members, the fraternity has grown immensely, and members have gone on to be leaders in Michigan and around the globe. At the University of Michigan--Ann Arbor, the Alpha Gamma Delta fraternity has served children, families, and individuals affected by social and economic challenges in the City of Ann Arbor and in surrounding communities. The fraternity is dedicated to making a positive impact through their philanthropy and leadership. Their volunteer work includes partnering with charitable organizations such as Feeding America and Meals on Wheels. A century after its founding, the Alpha Gamma Delta fraternity is working harder than ever to make a difference in Ann Arbor. While fundraising for Fighting Hunger, the fraternity recently raised almost seven thousand dollars to help fight hunger in Ann Arbor and all around the United States. With the help of their enthusiastic members, the Alpha Gamma Delta fraternity has lent vital support to those in need, supporting our local community and beyond. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the one hundredth anniversary of the Alpha Beta Chapter of the Alpha Gamma Delta Fraternity at the University of Michigan--Ann Arbor. We are grateful for the fraternity's century of impactful work and wish Alpha Gamma Delta members and alumni continued success in service in the years ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, as a child, I lived with a man, my father, who should not have had access to a gun. When his temper flared, we would hide in the closet, my brothers and sisters, praying we would see the morning. My baby sister never recovered from those fears and ultimately died by suicide, haunted by the memories. Too many children are living with those fears today, in classrooms, and in their homes. We cannot afford to look away, once again, and do nothing. Twenty-eight years ago, when the assault weapons ban was debated, my husband, then an NRA board member, and who, by the way, slept with a gun under his pillow until the day he died, made one of the toughest votes of his career. He supported the bill, though he didn't agree with everything in it. We all have a job to do for our country. I don't want to take the guns away from any responsible gun owner. But the clock is ticking. Who will be the next mass shooting? Who is the next target? What do we want our American story to be? We need to act now.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Brenda McKinney on the occasion of her retirement from Superior Township, Michigan, where she has served as Treasurer for over 25 years. Her significant contributions to our community are worthy of commendation. Ms. McKinney has a long history of service to Washtenaw County, Michigan. In 1996, she retired from the Washtenaw County Treasurer's Office after 15 years of service. She decided to bring her wealth of knowledge back home and run for Treasurer of Superior Township in August of 1996. Ms. McKinney was successful. She made history as the township's first elected African-American treasurer and has been reelected every 4 years since. Responsible for managing the Township's funds and investments, she has modernized and improved the Township's tax collection and cash management systems. Her efforts to improve the functioning of the Treasurer's office will benefit the Township and its residents for years to come. For the past 26 years, Ms. McKinney has been a crucial leader in Superior Township and has always been willing to step up to the plate. Recently, she worked with local leaders in ministry to ensure that all members of the community have access to the vaccinations they need to be healthy. When people are hungry, she makes sure they are fed and connects those in need to affordable housing and health care services. Active in charitable causes and serving on several humanitarian boards, she is a mentor to her fellow public servants and a friend to many. Everything she does is in service of her fellow neighbors, and the passion she has for her community is evident in her work. Ms. McKinney continues to reside in Superior Township with her family. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Treasurer Brenda McKinney. We are grateful for her nearly 40 years spent serving the citizens of Superior Township and Washtenaw County. Her wisdom, experience, and caring heart has guided me in my own public service, and I am blessed to call her my friend. I join with Brenda's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my best wishes to her in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Michigan Water Color Society as they celebrate their seventy-fifth anniversary. Their significant contributions to our community and their seventy-five years spent promoting local artists and their work throughout the state of Michigan are worthy of commendation. In September 1946, a group of about 70 watercolorists interested in forming a statewide society met in the galleries at Detroit's Scarab Club to discuss creating what became the Michigan Water Color Society. Their exploratory meeting focused on the need for integrity, professionalism, and inclusion of all points of view. By the end of the year, the Society was established, with Emil Weddige of the University of Michigan and William Bostick of the Detroit Institute of Arts serving as the first co-presidents. Their first exhibition was held in Detroit in June 1947, featuring fifty-nine unique paintings. Annual juried exhibitions are the Michigan Water Color Society's premier event, these exhibitions feature watercolor paintings by Michigan artists and are on display for Michiganders and art enthusiasts of all ages to see. Winning artists receive cash prizes, and their paintings are then shown at museums around the state. The Michigan Water Color Society also provides other opportunities for Michigan artists to display their art such as ``Out of the Box''--a ``not necessarily watercolor'' art showcase that exhibits other artistic mediums beyond watercolor. A volunteer-run organization, the Michigan Water Color Society has created a welcoming community for artists of all ages and backgrounds. They work tirelessly to promote and showcase the talents of our Michigan artists and share their passion for art with us all. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Michigan Water Color Society on this special day. We are grateful for their seven and a half decades spent enriching our culture in the state of Michigan. We wish them the very best in the years to come and congratulate them on their seventy-fifth annual exhibition at the Kayrod Gallery in Detroit, the city where it all began so many years ago.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Tri-City Community Development Corporation on the occasion of their Memorial Day Salute to Veterans Ceremony in Detroit, Michigan. The group's work to improve the lives of our entire community and honor our servicemembers is worthy of commendation. Today and every day, we honor the veterans of the greater Detroit area and honor those brave and patriotic servicemembers who we have lost. Freedom is not free, and today we pause to remember those who gave their all for their country. We commend our veterans for their honorable service to this country and all of the work they continue to do for our communities. We are proud to honor and recognize them this Memorial Day at the future site of Eden Park. Eden Park is a vibrant outdoor area located in Southwest Detroit and will be the first park in Michigan catered specifically for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. It will also offer senior, veteran, and disabled citizens' accommodations. This environmentally conscious park will contain beautiful botanical gardens, large and eco-friendly trees, raised vegetable gardens, walking paths, a playground for children, an amphitheater, a veteran's memorial, and other picnic and play opportunities. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Board of Directors and Staff of Tri-City Community Development Corporation and the Eden Park Community Project Steering Committee on this day. We would especially like to thank Crystal Ancrum, Reverend William J. Price, and Miranda White-Redley who all served our country honorably in the United States Army and put together this special event. We are thankful for the work that this organization has done to improve the lives of Detroiters through their tireless advocacy and look forward to the opening of Eden Park. I thank them for coming together today to honor those who have served our country.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize General Joseph M. Martin on the occasion of his retirement. We are honored to have him returning home to serve as the Grand Marshal for the City of Dearborn's ninety-sixth annual Memorial Day Parade. His honorable years of service to our community and to our entire country are worthy of commendation. Born and raised in Dearborn, Michigan, General Martin is a graduate of Dearborn High School. He went on to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point and earned degrees at the University of Louisville, the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, and the U.S. Army War College. After graduation from West Point, he joined the 1st Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, 1st Armored Division. Following years of successful brigade command domestically and during deployments through Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom, he became the Chief of Staff of III Corps at Fort Hood. Some of his other assignments include Observer/Controller at Fort Irwin, Aide to the Commanding General at the U.S. Armor Center at Fort Knox, Battalion and Brigade Operations Officer and Aide to the III Corps Commanding General at Fort Hood, Armor Branch and Fires and Effects Division Chief at the U.S. Army Human Resources Command, and Initiatives Group Director for the Commander of U.S. Forces Iraq and U.S. Joint Forces Command. General Martin was appointed to serve as Vice Chief of the Chief of Staff of the Army on July 26, 2019. Having served in the Army for thirty-six years, General Martin is the recipient of numerous awards and commendations for remarkable service, including the Army Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star Medal. Even though he is the third-highest ranking officer in the U.S. Army and is highly decorated, he serves this Nation with the pride and humility of a true patriot. In his role as Vice Chief of the Chief of Staff of the Army, he is always searching for new ways to support our men and women in uniform, including focusing on mental health efforts to save soldiers at risk of death by suicide. He resides in the Washington, DC area with his wife Leann and their two children, Joey and Kylie. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring General Joseph M. Martin for a career of exemplary service to our Nation in the U.S. Army. I join with General Martin's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to him from a grateful Nation and thank him for all he has done for our armed forces. We also thank him for serving as Grand Marshal this Memorial Day as we come together to honor those who gave their all for this country. We wish him the best in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Robert S. Kober of the Dearborn Fire Department on the occasion of his retirement. His honorable twenty-five years of service to our community is worthy of commendation. A native of Dearborn and a graduate of Edsel Ford High School, Captain Kober began his career at the Dearborn Fire Department in April 1997, beginning as a Firefighter 1. In 2003, he was promoted to Firefighter 2 and then to the role of Fire Engineer in 2006. Due to his excellence in service, he was named Lieutenant in 2012 and then Captain in 2017. Known for his bravery and leadership, he received the Medal of Valor in 2014. He is also the recipient of several awards, including numerous Fire Chief Unit Commendations and Meritorious Company Commendations. Involved in the Dearborn community, Captain Kober participates in the annual Dearborn Firefighter Burn Drive and other community events, such as the 9/11 memorial services and Santa at the Firehouse. Caring deeply about public service and helping those in need, he has supported his fellow firefighters and other officers through activism at the Michigan State Capitol. When not at the fire station, he can be found spending time cheering on his kids at sports events. He resides in Dearborn, Michigan with his family. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Captain Robert S. Kober for a career of exemplary service to the Dearborn Fire Department. I join with Captain Kober's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to him for his honorable service in protecting our community and thank him for his role in serving the people of the City of Dearborn for the past twenty-five years. We wish him the best in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Ted Darnall of the Dearborn Fire Department on the occasion of his retirement. His honorable twenty-five years of service to our community is worthy of commendation. Lieutenant Darnall began his career at the Dearborn Fire Department in 1997, beginning as a Firefighter 1. In 2003, he was promoted to Firefighter 2 and then to the role of Fire Engineer in 2006. Due to his excellence in service, he was named Lieutenant in 2012. Always looking to grow professionally, in 2016, he earned three Professional Certification Awards from the Michigan Urban Search and Rescue Training Foundation in the areas of Rope Rescue Operations, Confined Space Task Force, and Collapse Technician. He is also the recipient of numerous awards, including the Fire Chief Life Saving Award, the Fire Chief Company Citation, and numerous Fire Chief Unit Commendations and Meritorious Company Commendations. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Lieutenant Ted Darnall for a career of exemplary service to the Dearborn Fire Department. I join with Lieutenant Darnall's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to him for his honorable service in protecting our community and thank him for his role in serving the people of the City of Dearborn for the past twenty-five years. We wish him the best in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fire Engineer Lori Barch of Livonia, Michigan on the occasion of her retirement from the Dearborn Fire Department. Her honorable twenty-five years of service to our community are worthy of commendation. Fire Engineer Barch began her career at the Dearborn Fire Department in May 1997, beginning as a Firefighter 1. In 2003, she was promoted to Firefighter 2 and then to the role of Fire Engineer in 2006. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Award, the Fire Chief Company Citation, the Meritorious Company Commendation, two Departmental Commendations, and several Safe Driving Awards and Certifications of Special Recognition. Fire Engineer Barch is deeply involved in the Dearborn community, participating in the annual Dearborn Firefighter Bum Drive and Safety Town, which teaches children safety lessons on fire, traffic, guns, and other common dangers. Always there to lend a hand, Fire Engineer Barch is known by her peers to be kind and caring, as shown by her work benefitting the community's children and animals. Beyond her work at the fire department, she is an active member of Timothy Lutheran Church located in Livonia, Michigan. She resides in Livonia with her husband Jeff, daughter Riley, and their beloved pets. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Fire Engineer Lori Barch for a career of exemplary service to the Dearborn Fire Department. I join with Fire Engineer Barch's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to her for her honorable service in protecting our community and thank her for her role in serving the people of the City of Dearborn for the past twenty-five years. We wish her the best in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Emergency Management Coordinator Bradley Smith of the Dearborn Fire Department on the occasion of his retirement. His honorable twenty-five years of service to our community is worthy of commendation. A graduate of Annapolis High School in Dearborn Heights and the Eastern Michigan University School of Staff and Command, Coordinator Smith began his career at the Dearborn Fire Department in July 1997, beginning as a Firefighter 1. In July 2003, he was promoted to Firefighter 2 and then to the role of Fire Engineer in 2005. Due to his excellence in service, he was named Emergency Management Coordinator in 2008. He is also the recipient of several awards, including two Fire Chief Life Saving Awards, the Meritorious Service Award, and numerous Certificates of Special Recognition. Coordinator Smith was responsible for identifying and analyzing potential hazards that the City of Dearborn could face, including man- made and natural disasters. He has ensured that the city has emergency plans and safety procedures in place, helping prepare residents for when disaster strikes. Beyond that, he has worked to incorporate special concerns of those with disabilities and differing religious beliefs into those plans. Known for his leadership, kindness, and willingness to help those in need, Coordinator Smith is a friend and mentor to many. Despite all the work he has done to keep our community safe, he still has time to teach karate at PKSA in Flat Rock. An active member of his church, he resides in Carleton, Michigan with his wife Kelly and their children. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Emergency Management Coordinator Bradley Smith for a career of exemplary service to the Dearborn Fire Department. I join with Coordinator Smith's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to him for his honorable service in protecting our community and thank him for his role in serving the people of the City of Dearborn for the past twenty- five years. We wish him the best in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Kevin Long of the Dearborn Fire Department on the occasion of his retirement. His honorable twenty-six years of service to our community is worthy of commendation. Captain Long began his career at the Dearborn Fire Department in October 1996, beginning as a Firefighter 1. In April 2002, he was promoted to Firefighter 2 and then to the role of Fire Engineer in May 2006. Due to his excellence in service, he was named Lieutenant in April 2011 and then Captain in August 2012. Known for his bravery and leadership, he received the Departmental Medal of Valor in 1997 and the John D. Dingell Medal of Freedom Memorial Commendation in 2019. He is also the recipient of several awards, including the Fire Chief Life Saving Award, the Meritorious Service Award, the Fire Chief Unit Commendation, and numerous Meritorious Company Commendations. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Captain Kevin Long for a career of exemplary service to the Dearborn Fire Department. I join with Captain Long's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to him for his honorable service in protecting our community and thank him for his role in serving the people of the City of Dearborn for the past twenty-six years. We wish him the best in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Yvonna C. Abraham of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, on the occasion of her investiture as a judge of the Wayne County Third Circuit Court. Appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer on July 1, 2021, Judge Abraham is the first Palestinian American judge in the state of Michigan. Her significant contributions to our community are worthy of commendation. Judge Abraham is a graduate of the University of Michigan--Dearborn and earned her law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy. Prior to her appointment to the circuit court, Judge Abraham served as magistrate and director of probation for the 20th District Court in Dearborn Heights. She also taught courses in Business Law at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield. As a judge serving in the Family Division, she handles cases involving domestic relations; including divorce, child custody, and personal protection matters. Paving the way for future legal professionals, Judge Abraham is the first Palestinian American judge in the state of Michigan. Known for her integrity and fairness in difficult matters, Judge Abraham continues to serve her neighbors inside and outside of the courtroom. A mentor to aspiring law students, she serves on the court's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. She is also a member of the State Bar Judicial Ethics Committee and was President of the Michigan Association of District Court Magistrates. At home she is a member of the Wayne Mental Health Advisory Board, the Women Lawyer Association of Michigan, and the Arab American Women's Business Council Board. Judge Abraham resides in Dearborn Heights with her husband Marwan and daughter Lena. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Judge Yvonna C. Abraham on the occasion of her investiture as a judge of the Wayne County Third Circuit Court. This is a historic day and a culmination of Judge Abraham's lifetime of hard work and dedication to our community. We wish her the best as she takes on this new role.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize A Serendipity Cakery and Ice Cream Shoppe in Riverview, Michigan, on the occasion of their 10th anniversary. Their decade spent as a staple of our community is worthy of commendation. A Serendipity Cakery was born in the kitchen of Tammie and Alan Bachran in 2012, where Tammie spent her days baking sweet treats for eager friends and family. As demand for her specialty baked goods grew, they opened a storefront in Wyandotte, Michigan in 2015. A household name throughout the Downriver area, A Serendipity Cakery moved to their current, larger space in Riverview, Michigan in 2019. This new space allowed Tammie and Alan to expand their business, offering more treats than ever before and opening a space for guests to host birthday parties and other memorable celebrations. Among the desserts that A Serendipity Cakery offers are custom cakes, cake drops, cupcakes, and a variety of chocolate-dipped items. Their special cake drops are known to sell out quickly and customers can choose from over fifty flavors. Despite being a busy bakery with cakes coming in and out each day, A Serendipity Cakery still has time to give back. They have adopted families through their ``Adopt a Family Fund'' and frequently donate their baked goods to local auctions and fundraisers, including for those battling cancer and for The Lincoln Center in Wyandotte, Michigan, that serves students with autism spectrum disorder and cognitive and emotional impairments in local schools. Their work goes beyond just baking and providing delicious treats for our downriver families, including my own--Tammie and her team help uplift their neighbors and spread awareness for various causes close to their hearts. For that we are a stronger community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 10th anniversary of A Serendipity Cakery and Ice Cream Shoppe in Riverview, Michigan. Please join me in congratulating them on a fantastic decade of business and in wishing them the best of luck in the years to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his incredible support, and I thank my Republican colleague for his kind words and how we work together. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Reauthorization Act. This bipartisan legislation, which I am leading with my other colleagues, Congressman Darin LaHood, Congressman Paul Tonko, and Congressman David Joyce, supports fish and wildlife conservation efforts in the Great Lakes. Since 1998, the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act has provided critical resources for coordinating conservation efforts across the Great Lakes ecosystem. This longstanding bipartisan backing underscores the efficacy of the proven conservation mechanisms in this legislation, including collaborative, private-public partnerships that maximize the impact of Federal funding to make landscape-level improvements to our fish and wildlife habitats. A recently released report on the program by the Department of the Interior, found that as a result of the fish and wildlife grant program authorized by the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act, that significant progress has been made in addressing the six Great Lakes' restoration goals specified in the legislation. This includes control of sea lamprey populations across the Great Lakes, progress on the restoration of lake trout in Lake Huron leading to reducing stocking targets, and other species recovery efforts vital to sustaining the very unique ecosystem of the Great Lakes Basin. However, continued work is required to protect the Great Lakes for future generations given the environmental pressures that this region faces. To this end, the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act would authorize funding for the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act for 5 years, from fiscal years 2022 through 2027, at the current funding levels. This legislation has broad bipartisan support, as well as the backing of a variety of groups dedicated to safeguarding the Great Lakes, including Ducks Unlimited and the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. These Great Lakes are 90 percent of the freshwater in the United States. We must protect them. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this important legislation, which will ensure our Great Lakes are protected for many generations to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize President and Chief Executive Officer Emily L. Barr on the occasion of her retirement from Graham Media Group after a decade of stellar work. Her service to our community is worthy of commendation. A native of Massachusetts, Mrs. Barr's career has been nothing short of exemplary. She began her career in broadcasting in 1980 as a news editor in St. Paul, Minnesota, before working as a writer and producer at a station in Washington, D.C. Until 1988, Mrs. Barr served as the Director of Creative Services and Advertising and Promotion Manager at KHOU-TV in Houston, Texas. In 1988, she became the Director of Broadcast Operations and Programming at WMAR-TV in Baltimore, Maryland. Later, she led the ABC-owned station in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina as the President and General Manager before she became President and General Manager of ABC 7 Chicago. In 2012, Mrs. Barr joined Graham Media Group, which includes WDIV Detroit, as the President and Chief Executive Officer. Her work propelled Graham Media Group to evolve from a broadcast-based model to seven local media hubs. She led the acquisition of top social media software, and developed Graham Digital, a digital media and technology development group in Detroit. Her fierce dedication to her work has transformed Graham Media Group to represent nearly 7 percent of coverage in the United States. As a leader in our community, Mrs. Barr's work did not end in the broadcasting space. She has been a leader for women wherever she has been and has supported civic causes throughout her career. At home, she led citywide efforts to raise funds for the Haitian earthquake relief effort and serves on the Board of Trustees at her alma mater, Carleton College in Minnesota. Mrs. Barr is also the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Broadcaster of the Year Award, the Vincent T. Wasilewski Broadcaster of the Year Award, the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award, the Golden Mike Award, and holds an Honorary Doctorate from Robert Morris University. Amongst this, she has been inducted into the Silver Circle of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and will be elected to the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame this Spring. Mrs. Barr currently resides with her husband Scott and two daughters in Chicago. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mrs. Emily Barr for her outstanding career. She has led with compassion and integrity, ensuring the success of Graham Media Group and has been an innovative leader in media for over two decades and who truly cares about the Midwest. I join with Mrs. Barr's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my best wishes to her in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chris and Lisa Jeffries on the occasion of the naming of Jeffries Hall at the University of Michigan Law School located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Their significant contributions to the University of Michigan and our greater community are worthy of commendation. A 1974 graduate of Michigan Law School, Chris Jeffries is a philanthropist and the cofounder of Millennium Partners, a real estate development company. Upon graduation from Michigan, he worked as a partner at Keywell & Rosenfeld in Southfield, Michigan. He has also contributed to other Michigan institutions, such as the Henry Ford Health System based in Metro Detroit, to help them deliver better care and develop innovative treatments for patients. Mr. Jeffries recalls his time at Michigan Law as formative and memorable, and he wants to ensure that students who lack financial resources are given the same opportunity to thrive at Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. Jeffries have committed $33 million to the University of Michigan Law School, the largest gift in the Law School's history. The gift will used for student support, including scholarships and financial aid, summer funding programs and debt management. They previously gave $5 million toward the building of South Hall in 2007 and $2.5 million to support the establishment of the Law School's 1L Summer Funding Program in 2015. Mr. and Mrs. Jeffries currently reside in Miami, Florida. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Chris and Lisa Jeffries on this special day as the ribbon is cut at the entrance to the new Jeffries Hall that was named in their honor. We are truly grateful for their generosity and for this historic gift that will help support Michigan Law School and their students for years to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Daniel Geb of Allen Park, Michigan, on the occasion of his 80th Birthday. His continued service to our community is worthy of commendation. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, he is a graduate of John Pershing High School. A proud Teamster, he worked at Hudson's until his retirement. A well-known activist in Southeast Michigan, Mr. Geb was invited to join the Michigan Committee to Protection Pensions in the fight to protect hard-earned Teamster retiree pensions. He travelled all over the country with the committee, including throughout the Midwest and to the Nation's capital to advocate for his union brothers and sisters. Described by his peers as a true fighter, whether it's in conversations with heavy-hitter legislators or battling health issues, Dan always perseveres and comes out on top. No stranger to Michigan politics, Mr. Geb is a friend to many elected officials and advocates in our State. President of the Allen Park Democratic Club, he has an unmatched memory for historic political events and has attended numerous conventions and events through his life. According to his friends, he knows more representatives, has been to, and remembers the time, the dates, the people there, and the outcome of political events better than anyone. There hasn't been a person who has met Dan that didn't like him; his warmth, kindness, and passion for his country shines through with everything that he does, and we are truly lucky to have him in our downriver community. A lifelong Michigander, Mr. Geb continues to reside in Allen Park, Michigan. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating Daniel Geb on his 80th birthday. I join with his family and friends and Teamster brothers and sisters in extending my best and warmest wishes to him on this special day.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3807, the Relief for Restaurants and other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act. As you are hearing from my colleagues, the food service industry has been one of the hardest hit throughout this pandemic, with many restaurants temporarily closing their doors or dramatically limiting their capacity during the worst surges but still feeding their community. Far too many are never opening again. Right now, many more are looking to close their doors permanently if we don't give them help and live up to our commitment to support them through this unprecedented time. We have all heard stories from our districts of small businesses seeking assistance, many of which have been eligible but just can't get the funds. Like my colleagues, the Coney Island that I have gone to for 35 years is looking at closing. The waitress who worked there for 35 years was in total tears last week because she doesn't know what she is going to do. There are other restaurants throughout my district just needing help. This legislation provides critical funding that we need to grant to these restaurants in our communities. I strongly urge my colleagues to support this important bill.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the bipartisan supply chain provisions included in the House-passed America COMPETES Act. Every day, we are hearing from our constituents about inflation and rising prices, and one critical factor contributing to these issues is continued disruptions in the domestic supply chain. The America COMPETES supply chain subtitle establishes an office of manufacturing security and resilience within the Department of Commerce to monitor, identify, map, and mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities. It also authorizes billions in grants and loans to support the manufacturing of critical goods, equipment, and cutting-edge technologies that are essential to our national and economic security. The investments included in the bipartisan America COMPETES supply chain subtitle will allow us to preempt future shocks to our supply chain, and we must be proactive in strengthening our manufacturing capacity to secure our future. I hope that this critical subtitle remains in the bill and is retained in any final package the conference process yields.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, for 35 years, Fred Upton has been a devoted public servant for southwest Michigan, all of Michigan, and our Nation. Throughout his career, he has always put the people he served first. To him, bipartisan and compromise are not forbidden words. Fred knew well that if we are going to deliver real solutions for the American people, we need to come together and listen to all perspectives, no matter how complicated the issue might be. It is because of that thinking, he was able to get so much done in Congress. I am especially proud of all that we have been able to accomplish together. Thanks to his partnership, we were able to pass legislation to protect the Great Lakes for future generations and lower the cost of healthcare for all Americans. Together, we have championed removing the harmful PFAS chemicals from our Nation's drinking water, and I am confident we are going to get this to the President's desk. While we may not have found harmony on every issue, Fred and I always managed to disagree without vitriolic rhetoric and mean-spirited language. Even through our toughest discussions, Fred always found a way to make me laugh, except today. It is his civility that I--and Congress--will miss the most. Fred really believed that he was an American first, that reaching across the aisle was important, that working together is how we get things done for the American people. His retiring is a loss for this country, and especially the people of Michigan. Fred is a dear friend to me, was John's best friend, and was there when John died. The Dingell family loves him. He is one of the greatest Michiganders to serve our country. I wish him, Amey, and their family the best as they prepare for the next adventure. And there will be one. Thank you, Fred.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the Medical Marijuana Research Act, legislation that would modernize Federal rules and procedures to facilitate additional medical research into the impacts of medical marijuana. We have seen dramatic changes in the legal status of marijuana at the State level, my State included. Sales of recreational marijuana began in my home State of Michigan in 2019, and medical marijuana is now legal in 37 States. However, the Federal framework for conducting marijuana research is decades old and has not kept pace with these changes. Currently, scientists in the United States looking to conduct research on marijuana must contend with a heavy-handed, duplicative registration and licensure process. Additionally, researchers are limited to using marijuana grown at a single location overseen by the National Institute on Drug Abuse at the University of Mississippi. Collectively, these outdated, bureaucratic barriers and Federal roadblocks greatly limit our understanding of the health impacts of marijuana and prevent qualified researchers from engaging in further study. The Medical Marijuana Research Act will modernize the cumbersome process by streamlining marijuana research registration applications. It will also direct FDA to issue guidelines on the production of marijuana and ensure that adequate amounts are available for research. The legislation also mandates a comprehensive review of the available body of research on marijuana by the Secretary of Health and Human Services 5 years after enactment. I thank my colleagues, Representatives Blumenauer, Harris, Norton, Cohen, Griffith, Barbara Lee, and Case, who led this with me to get this legislation passed. Additionally, I recognize Chairman Pallone and Ranking Member Rodgers of Washington, as well as the Energy and Commerce Committee staff, for their very thoughtful input and efforts. Madam Speaker, it is high time we modernize our Nation's Federal regulations to facilitate legitimate medical research into the impacts of marijuana, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Monica Gayle on the occasion of her retirement from FOX 2 Detroit after twenty-five years. Her significant contributions to our Metro Detroit community are worthy of commendation. A Washington State native, Ms. Gayle graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Communications in 1982. She began her career in local news at home in Washington and then joined CBS in New York. She joined the main news anchor team at WJBK-TV in 1997. Along with her co-anchor, Huel Perkins, she is a part of one of the longest running anchor teams in Metro Detroit and has spent the last twenty- five years keeping the people of Southeastern Michigan informed on the issues of the day. Together they've covered the stories that define us--9/11, the inauguration of President Obama, Kwame Kilpatrick, and the implosion of the Hudson Building in Downtown Detroit. Described by her co-anchor Huel as compassionate and brilliant, full of love and kindness Ms. Gayle has been a familiar face behind the news desk for a quarter of a century. She is a five-time Regional Emmy Award winning journalist and has anchored for a number of top-rated television markets throughout her over four decades-long career. Her work has taken her overseas to cover important stories in England, Ireland, Russia, Bosnia, and Honduras. A mother herself, she has always had a passion for covering the issues that matter to women and families and in 2006 she received the Operation Smile ``Humanitarian of The Year'' award. Ms. Gayle continues to reside in Michigan with her husband Dean and son Tanner. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Monica Gayle for an exemplary career at FOX 2 Detroit. I join with Ms. Gayle's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to her for her tireless commitment to our community and to thank her for her role in keeping the people of Michigan informed for over two decades. Though we will miss her skilled reporting and seeing the familiar faces of Monica and co-anchor Huel on FOX 2, we wish her the very best in retirement.