Debbie Dingell

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim Hoecker, someone who has been the voice of the electric transmission industry and a dedicated public servant at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Mr. Hoecker has announced his retirement from his current role as Executive Director and Counsel to the WIRES coalition at the end of this year. His distinguished career is worthy of commendation. Mr. Hoecker is a widely-recognized expert in the field of electric transmission. His invaluable insight has helped advance the interests of the electric grid among policymakers, industry leaders, and others who share WIRES' belief in the need to invest in the nation's transmission network. Prior to working with WIRES, Mr. Hoecker held several positions at FERC, serving as legal counsel, commissioner, and ultimately as chairman from 1997 to 2001. Among his achievements at FERC were the developments of electric transmission and natural gas pipeline open access and the creation of regional transmission organizations. After his career at FERC, Hoecker founded Hoecker Energy Law & Policy PLLC and joined Husch Blackwell LLP, where he will remain active in his law and consultancy practice. Hoecker holds a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School and a Ph.D from the University of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Jim Hoecker and his exemplary career. Taking the steps to ensure that our country has a robust electrical transmission grid is no small task, and Mr. Hoecker has more than risen to the challenge. We thank him for his tireless advocacy on behalf of the electric transmission grid with WIRES and at FERC.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, for the last month, my brothers and sisters in the UAW have been standing up for their livelihoods, their families, and their future. When home, I have joined them at all hours and all shifts just to listen, to support, and to understand. Being on a picket line is hard work, but UAW workers are committed workers who are a crucial component of building America's auto industry and driving our Nation's economy. This strike has been about the collective community and workers across America being treated fairly, with dignity and respect. Many UAW members are newer hires and temporaries, workers who are paid less than their colleagues whom they work side by side with. Many temps work 7 days a week, get no overtime, have no sick pay, and can't take time for a family emergency. The good news for the country is that a tentative agreement between the UAW and GM is now going for ratification. All workers need to recognize they benefit from the courage, commitment, and caring of these UAW workers. We need their jobs here; we need manufacturing here in this country; but we need fair pay, fair benefits, and commitment to produce here in the United States of America. Their fight is the fight of all workers.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Michigan Muslim Community Council. Its meaningful work across the state is worthy of commendation. The Muslim community is an important component of Michigan's identity. Since the community's humble beginnings in the state over 100 years ago, the Muslim community in Michigan has grown significantly and today represents one of the most diverse groups in the nation. Seeing a need for greater unification among the smaller communities divided by Muslim sects, ethnicities, and races, the Michigan Muslim Community Council (MMCC) was established in 2012 through the merger of two other Muslim organizations, the Council of Islamic Organization of Michigan and the Islamic Shura Council of Michigan. Since its inception as a new, consolidated organization, MMCC has worked tirelessly to promote unity and cooperation by mobilizing the entire Muslim community statewide. Together as one voice, the council strives to purse social justice, improve human relationships, and uphold human rights for all. The Michigan Muslim Community Council's 33rd Annual Unity Banquet exemplifies the council's continued commitment to unifying, coordinating, and empowering Muslim communities across the state. Like the name suggests, the MMCC Unity Banquet brings countless community members together to honor our state's diverse Muslim communities every year. In addition, the banquet serves as a great opportunity to celebrate the impactful work of notable community figures who strive for unity throughout our state's vibrant and diverse Muslim communities every day. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Michigan Muslim Community Council and celebrate their 33rd Annual Unity Banquet. We are grateful for the council's dedicated efforts to unite Muslim communities and promote social justice across our state.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Express, Fulfill, Prosper for its dedication to our community. Its meaningful work is worthy of commendation. Established by the students at the University of Michigan in 2017, Express, Fulfill, Prosper (EFP) is a voluntary organization committed to supporting anyone in need of assistance, especially those struggling with mental health issues. The volunteers of EFP strive to help people feel acknowledged and offer them the opportunity to talk through their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, allowing them to feel supported by the community around them. Members of the organization work on campus, in hospitals and schools, and throughout the local Ann Arbor Community to uplift others while simultaneously developing their own valuable leadership skills. Through the organization's efforts, EFP hopes their members' work will encourage individuals to express themselves, fulfill their goals, and prosper. Social and fundraising events are essential to EFP's success in aiding others. Thus, EFP's First Annual Fundraising Dinner for Mental Health Awareness demonstrates the organization's unrelenting commitment to supporting those struggling with mental health issues. Hosted during the week of world mental health awareness, this inaugural event will generate greater awareness about mental health and begin to challenge the troubling stigmas associated with it. I am proud of EFP's commitment to mental health and I am very excited for the future dinners to come. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring EFP and celebrate their First Annual Fundraising Dinner for Mental Health Awareness. We appreciate EFP's dedicated work in our community and wish the organization continued success ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Paquetta Palmer on her retirement from Community Public Health and recognize her years of distinguished service. Her contributions to the community are worthy of commendation. Paquetta Palmer's work at Washtenaw County's Community Mental Health has been paramount in addressing our community's mental health needs. As a Customer Resource Specialist, Palmer provided mental health services to people with mental illnesses, emotional disturbances, and developmental disabilities, giving them the tools necessary to work through their struggles. Palmer is known among her colleagues for her high degree of professionalism, kind demeanor, and passion for helping others. Paquetta Palmer's commitment to serving Washtenaw County extends far beyond her professional work. Palmer has used the bulk of her free time working tirelessly with a variety of organizations to advance racial, economic, and social justice for all within the community. Palmer is a volunteer cook at Food Gatherers and participates in Neutral Zone, an organization dedicated to promoting the personal growth of our community's youth. Furthermore, Palmer has been an informal Health and Human Services advocate, a longtime community advocate for affordable housing in Washtenaw County, and even was a pioneer in comprehensive healthcare reform for low-income residents, fighting for the adoption of the Washtenaw County Health Plan long before the Affordable Care Act was even implemented. Palmer's steadfast dedication to supporting the entire community is truly remarkable. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Paquetta Palmer's retirement. Over her decades of service, Palmer has become a pillar of the Washtenaw County community, and it is my honor and privilege to recognize her dedication today. We are grateful for her outstanding work and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Arab American Civil Rights League. Their meaningful work throughout Michigan is worthy of commendation. Founded in 2011, the Arab American Civil Rights League (ACRL) is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the civil rights and liberties of the Arab-American community. Through education and advocacy, the Dearborn-based organization is committed to building inter-community coalitions that promote cooperation, broaden the understanding of the Arab-American community, and dispel negative stereotypes associated with Arab-Americans. With a mission to protect the civil rights of all ethnic minorities, the ACRL aspires to be a driving force that will propel America forward, effecting meaningful and lasting change throughout the entire nation. The ACRL's 8th Annual Fight for Justice Gala exemplifies the organization's continued commitment to supporting the Michigan Arab- American community. Every year, the gala brings countless elected officials, civil rights activists, and community leaders together to discuss major civil rights issues within the state, generating a wider dialogue that is necessary to tackle these important matters. In addition, the gala serves as a great way to celebrate the outstanding progress and achievements that have already been made. The ACRL's work truly make a difference, and I am proud to be part of a community that is so dedicated to promoting equality and justice for all. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Arab American Civil Rights League. Their efforts to defend the constitutional rights of Arab-Americans and unite the country are much appreciated. We are grateful for the impact the ACRL has made--and continues to make--on our vibrant and diverse community.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the American Human Rights Council. Their exemplary efforts in defending and protecting human rights are worthy of commendation. The American Human Rights Council (AHRC) was founded in 2014 as a non-profit organization committed to protecting, promoting, and defending human rights as defined by the U.S. Constitution and outlined in the United Nations' 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Since its inception, the AHRC has worked tirelessly with community leaders and human rights advocacy organizations to intervene in situations where human rights are at risk. Through high-level legislative work, media outreach, and grassroots mobilization, the AHRC strives to protect individuals whose rights are being violated regardless of geographical or other boundaries. The AHRC's Annual Community Forum and Dinner Reception exemplifies the council's continued commitment to protecting and uplifting human rights worldwide. The 2019 forum titled ``Human Trafficking: Universal Challenge, Common Responsibility'' will focus on the challenges of human trafficking and generate awareness of its prevalence on a local, national, and global scale. Human trafficking constitutes a serious human rights violation and must be handled with the upmost care and concern. Thus, the AHRC strives to use its platform to educate attendees further on the impacts of human trafficking and provide opportunities to learn about ways to combat this alarming human rights crisis. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the American Human Rights Council. The AHRC's meaningful work plays a crucial role in protecting human rights worldwide, and we are grateful for the tremendous dedication to solving the world's toughest human rights challenges.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Rouge River fire and celebrate the ground breaking of the new Fort Street Bridge Park. On October 9, 1969, sparks from an acetylene torch ignited debris in the Rouge River. With flames rising 50 feet into the air, the burning river quickly became a symbol of societal indifference to pollution and became a catalyst for change in our community. Years before the Rouge fire, the river also served as an important site for another event that provoked societal transformation. On March 7, 1932, thousands of unemployed auto workers embarked on a march from Detroit to the Ford Rouge Factory in Dearborn to protest the economic devastation in Detroit's automotive industry during the Great Depression. In a painful part of our community's history, the marching autoworkers clashed with police and Ford Motor Company security guards on the historic Fort Street Bridge above the Rouge River, resulting in the death of five protestors and leaving dozens of others injured. Later known as the Ford Hunger March, this event laid the groundwork for the formation of the United Auto Workers in 1935. Without a doubt, the Fort Street Bridge and Rouge River are prominent symbols of Detroit's past. In the half century since the Rouge River fire, heightened public and political attention to America's environmental crisis has generated both formal legislation like the Clean Water Act of 1972 and independent action to transform the severe health hazard into a regional asset. Thanks to the river's renewed heath and viability, members of our community have taken the initiative to commemorate the legacy of the Ford Hunger March by planning the creation of a pocket park located at the foot of the Fort Street Bridge. The new park will honor our community's vast history and highlight the significance of the Rouge River fire and the Fort Street Bridge for generations of Michiganders to come. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 50th anniversary of the Rouge River fire and celebrate the ground breaking of the future Fort Street Bridge Park. I am grateful for our community's efforts to ensure our history is never forgotten.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 110th anniversary of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM). The Mission's years of service to Detroit are worthy of commendation. On February 14, 1909, the Detroit Rescue Mission was founded by David C. Stucky. The Mission began as a soup kitchen in an old poultry store, offering food, clothing, shelter, and church services to Detroit's homeless. As the years passed, the Mission evolved to meet the changing needs of the inner city and provide support to even more groups of disadvantaged people. As it grew, it began to offer new services like substance abuse treatments, educational courses, and job preparation training to help rebuild lives destroyed by poverty, homelessness, and addiction. Since its inception, the Mission has remained fully committed to supporting people across Detroit. Even during the trying years of the Great Depression, DRMM volunteers sacrificed food from their own personal shelves to ensure families would not be left to starve. Decades later, DRMM still continues its selfless mission and truly has become an invaluable resource to many in our community. From offering medical treatments to low-income mothers and their children to providing permanent housing solutions to our nation's veterans, DRMM has proven an overwhelming and lasting commitment to Detroit. I am grateful for its dedicated efforts to provide hope to hopeless, abused, and disadvantaged members of our community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 110th anniversary of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries. We deeply appreciate DRMM's 110 years of remarkable service and wish the organization continued success in the decades ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Yemen American Benevolent Association. Its meaningful work in Michigan is worthy of commendation. Established in 1969, the Yemen American Benevolent Association (YABA) was created to support targeted communities. YABA endeavored to strengthen families, grow a sustainable regional economy, promote environmental protections, cultivate leadership, and encourage mutual respect for all. Since its inception, YABA has been dedicated to its mission and offers services like immigration assistance, Arabic language classes, fax services, and tutoring, to name a few, to achieve its goals. The association's efforts truly make a difference and positively impact the communities it serves. The Yemen American Benevolent Association has been a valued part of our Michigan community for half a century. Although YABA's dedicated work continues to uplift targeted communities across Michigan, the association especially supports Dearborn and addresses the community's changing needs. Through its efforts to create links between people and the services they require, YABA has helped the Yemeni-Arab-American community in Dearborn thrive. YABA's wide range services prove to be an indispensable resource for many, and I deeply appreciate the association's tremendous work in our community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 50th anniversary of the Yemen American Benevolent Association. For half a century, YABA has been an essential part of our Yemeni-American community. We are grateful for its impact and wish it continued success ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the opening of the Beautiful Luxe School of Cosmetology, the first black-owned beauty school in Ann Arbor. In 2010, Aisha Gatlin established Beautiful Luxe Hair Company, an Ypsilanti-based luxury hair extension boutique and salon. Seeing a need for more salon options for textured hair care, Gatlin endeavored to create a salon that would provide a high-quality and luxury experience to all people regardless of hair type. As such, she put her vision into action and became CEO of Beautiful Luxe Hair Company, a salon that caters to all phases of hair and specializes in hair extensions and natural hair. Like its name, the salon strives to help people feel their most beautiful. The opening of the Beautiful Luxe School of Cosmetology further enhances the vision of the Beautiful Luxe Hair Company and exemplifies Aisha Gatlin's continued commitment and passion for natural hair care. Through Gatlin's efforts, cosmetology students in our community will be given the skills necessary to launch successful careers in cosmetology with the confidence to serve all hair types. The Beautiful Luxe School of Cosmetology will train students to master techniques in cutting, coloring, and styling different phases of textured hair, as well other services like skin treatments and nail care. In addition to opening the beauty school, Gatlin has generously offered $2,500 in scholarships to help students embark on their careers in cosmetology, truly benefiting our Ann Arbor community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Aisha Gatlin and celebrate the opening of the Beautiful Luxe School of Cosmetology in Ann Arbor. I am grateful for Gatlin's meaningful efforts to facilitate greater inclusivity in the haircare industry, and her impactful work is worthy of commendation.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize KLA Corporation and celebrate the groundbreaking of its new campus in Ann Arbor. KLA Corporation (KLA) is a leader in process control and yield management systems for the semiconductor industry and other related nanoelectronics industries. KLA develops equipment and services that facilitate innovation and tackle the world's toughest technical challenges. With 18 global locations and over 10,000 employees worldwide, KLA's vision hinges on collaboration, as working side by side diversifies perspectives and leads to maximized discovery and solutions. In addition, KLA invests significantly in research and development, continually striving to find new ways to drive progress and transform the industry. The opening of KLA's second headquarters in Ann Arbor exemplifies the corporation's continued commitment to innovation, research, and technological advancement. The new R&D center will be home to 600 engineers, scientists, and professionals from our community and will spur future partnerships with institutions throughout Southeast Michigan, especially within our automotive industry. Furthermore, KLA's new campus will strengthen the corporation's relationship with the University of Michigan and enhance opportunities for technical collaborations with students in the College of Engineering. As a leader in the sciences, I am excited to welcome KLA into our driven Ann Arbor community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the opening of KLA's new headquarters in Ann Arbor. I look forward to its positive impact on our Southeast Michigan community and wish the corporation continued success in the years ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Eva Feldman for receiving the 2019 Distinguished Achievement Award from the Michigan Medicine Alumni Society. Her esteemed work in neurology is worthy of commendation and makes her an excellent recipient of this great honor. Dr. Eva Feldman received her Ph.D. and M.D. in neuroscience at the University of Michigan Medical School in 1979 and 1983, respectively. After performing her residency in neurology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital--becoming the first neurologist to receive The Johns Hopkins Award for Medical Teaching and Excellence--she returned home to the University of Michigan to complete a Neuromuscular fellowship in 1988. She has been part of the University of Michigan faculty ever since and continues to devote her career to understanding neurological disorders and developing new and innovative treatments. Under her supervision, nine scientists have received their Ph.D. degrees, and over 100 postdoctoral fellows and neurologists have been trained to treat neurological diseases. Today, Dr. Feldman serves as the Director of the University of Michigan ALS Center of Excellence and runs the Program for Neurology Research & Discovery, her own 30-scientist laboratory. In addition, she is the principle investigator of the first two FDA-approved human trials of intraspinal stem cell implantation therapy for ALS. Furthermore, Dr. Feldman formerly directed the A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute until 2017. Dr. Feldman is renowned for her neurological expertise. Throughout her tenure, Dr. Feldman has published over 420 original peer-reviewed articles, four books, and 70 book chapters, and has received continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health for more than 30 years. She is the Past President of the Peripheral Nerve Society and served as President of the American Neurological Association from 2011 to 2013. In addition to being an elected member of the Association of American Physicians and National Academy of Medicine, Dr. Feldman has earned a vast list of awards and recognitions including the 2016 Castle Connolly National Clinician of the Year Award and the 2017 Endocrine Society Gerald D. Aurbach Award for Outstanding Translational Research, to name only a few. Most recently, Dr. Feldman was honored with the 2019 PNS Alan J. Gebhart Prize for Excellence in Peripheral Nerve Research. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Dr. Eva Feldman for her extraordinary work in neurology. We are grateful for her lifetime of impactful work and wish her many years of continued success. The 2019 Distinguished Achievement Award is well deserved.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in the House and on the PFAS Task Force who have come to the floor this week to call on our congressional leadership, House Armed Services Committee, and all the conferees tasked with conferencing the fiscal year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act to include a strong PFAS package. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith for his leadership and tireless work crafting this year's NDAA. It is a good bill, and it includes many top priorities that will care for our servicemembers and keep the United States well defended, but we are in the midst of a growing nationwide human health and environmental crisis. PFAS chemicals are harmful man-made toxic substances wherever they are found. We know that there are up to 297 military installations that have confirmed PFAS contamination. This puts our military families at risk and the communities surrounding them at risk, and it puts our national security at risk if we do not include robust PFAS provisions. The American people are counting on us to protect them, and we must include this provision. Our military is arguing that this needs to be cleaned up. Please keep PFAS in the bill.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ele's Place for its tremendous service to the children of Michigan and celebrate the grand opening of its new Ann Arbor center. In 1991, Ele's Place was founded in the basement of a church by a group of grieving parents, healthcare professionals, and other volunteers to support children experiencing the death of a loved one. Realizing children and teenagers process grief in entirely different ways than adults, the organization knew it needed to find a way to properly help youth cope with their feelings of sadness, anger, and loss. Through a great deal of research, the organization determined that peer support programs offered the best way for children to work through their grief and began extending these services to children and their families multiple times a week. Since its humble beginnings, Ele's Place has significantly expanded. With the addition of its new Ann Arbor space, Ele's Place today offers peer support services at four centers in Michigan, aiding dozens of communities across the state. Decades after its establishment, Ele's Place still works tirelessly to find new ways to support children experiencing loss and is fully dedicated to reaching its mission of ensuring no child in Michigan ever has to grieve alone. The efforts of Ele's Place are critical and have a real impact on our community, as its services help hundreds of children and teens each week. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ele's Place for its commitment to grieving children throughout Michigan and congratulate the organization on the opening of its new home in Ann Arbor. We are grateful for its impact on the children of our community and wish it continued success ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the City of Ann Arbor's community-led solar installation project. The city's efforts to increase its use of renewable energy are worthy of commendation. The Ann Arbor City Council passed the Climate Action Plan in December of 2012 to help combat the effects of climate change by reducing the city's emissions. In the years since, the city has striven to discover new ways to implement clean and renewable energy alternatives within the city's daily operations, exploring possibilities with sun, wind, landfill gas, and hydro energy sources. Having an average of 4 to 6 hours of sun exposure every day, sun in Southeast Michigan can satisfy a significant portion of the Ann Arbor community's needs. Thus, the city is increasingly investing in solar energy opportunities and seeking new ways to incorporate its use. The City of Ann Arbor's solar installation project exemplifies the community's continued commitment to climate action, environmental protection, and public safety. Through the hard work of dozens of community volunteers from all walks of life, the project will lead to the installation of solar panels on the roof of Ann Arbor Fire Station 6, thereby lowering the station's harmful emissions. The solar installation project has a real and meaningful impact on Ann Arbor, as it brings our community together not only to decrease the city's carbon footprint, but to enhance the ability to guard against future, unpredictable disruptions to the city's public safety services like the fire department. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the City of Ann Arbor's community-led solar installation project. I am proud to be part of a community that is so dedicated to protecting our climate and environment.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 20th anniversary of the Program in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Michigan Medical School. In 1999, the Program in Biomedical Sciences (PIBS) at the University of Michigan Medical School was established to offer students a unique flexibility in their academic pursuits. As an interdisciplinary gateway, the program allows students to access 14 different Ph.D. programs through one application. Although students can immediately begin training in one program, PIBS is designed to give students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of different research rotations to find their ideal mentor and project match. Based on their discovered research interests and the help of over 500 faculty members, program directors, and academic advisors, students choose a permanent program to continue by the end of their first PIBS year, sometimes in a far different research area than originally anticipated. The biomedical sciences are demanding disciplines, but PIBS has made the fields of study less daunting for many students who have entered its Ph.D. programs. Throughout the past two decades, PIBS has been helping students become more confident in their career paths by allowing them to take the time to cultivate their interests and explore different opportunities to discover their research passions. Thanks to the program, countless students have been trained to guide the nation in scientific discovery, truly becoming the leaders and best. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Program in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Michigan Medical School for its significant work in the biomedical sciences. For twenty years, PIBS has played a fundamental role in educating our nation's sharpest minds.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 239, the Christa McAuliffe Commemorative Coin Act of 2019. We all remember where we were on January 28, 1986, the day we lost the space shuttle Challenger and its crew, and Americans all across the country mourned. Among the brave crew members was New Hampshire's own Christa McAuliffe, who had been chosen as the first teacher in space. Through her spirit and enthusiasm for pioneering the unknown, she encouraged a generation to reach for the stars. Her quest for knowledge and her commitment to inspiring young people to pursue their dreams has had a lasting impact on children everywhere. To honor her and keep her dream alive for the next generation, my dear friends Representative Upton, who has been incredible, Representative Annie Kuster, and Representative Pappas, Michigan and New Hampshire, have worked together for this, and I thank them for their leadership. The bill will mint a commemorative coin, with the proceeds going to support the New Hampshire-based nonprofit FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. Each year, they host the first robotics competition, and we see young people building these robots, encouraging and inspiring them to invest in science and math. I try to go to them every time I can. I was just at an all-women's one last Saturday. They strive to inspire young people to be leaders in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. There is no better way to honor the memory and life of Christa McAuliffe than to continue to inspire and encourage young people to be at the forefront of innovation and technology. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce. The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce was established in 1944 to serve business owners throughout the Dearborn and Southeast Michigan communities. Since its inception 75 years ago, the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce has been creating a forum for business members to meet and network with other local businesses to create lasting partnerships, generate exposure, and inspire economic growth. The Chamber provides a strong, unified voice for the entire business community and actively advocates on their behalf at all levels of government, striving to assist members in meeting each of their business objectives. Through its five core strategies of member development, community promotion, travel and tourism, government affairs/advocacy, and education, the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to cultivating a strong local business climate in our community. The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce continues to support the expanding business communities in Dearborn and Southeast Michigan. Today, these communities are more vibrant and diverse than ever, but the Chamber works tirelessly to meet the challenges of an increasingly dynamic and ever-changing business world. The Chamber's dedicated efforts have been paramount in ensuring Dearborn continues to be a welcoming destination for businesses, families, students, young professionals, and the like, and that businesses have the tools necessary to thrive. Thanks to its tremendous work, the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is recognized as one of the best Chambers in the State of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 75th anniversary of the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce. We are grateful for its impact on our community and wish it many more years of continued success ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Helal Farhat on his appointment to the Wayne County Third Circuit Bench. Since receiving his Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School in 2002, Farhat has been an active member of the legal community. For the past 16 years, Farhat served as the principal attorney at Farhat & Associates, a firm he established that specializes in commercial and business litigation, criminal law, family law, and immigration, and formerly served as partner at Salamey & Farhat. In addition to his work as an attorney, Farhat served as a magistrate judge on the 19th District Court in Dearborn. He held this position from 2009 to 2012, and then again from 2016 until his appointment to the Wayne County Circuit Court by Governor Whitmer on March 28, 2019. Helal Farhat has established himself as a pillar of the Dearborn community, earning his impeccable reputation amongst his peers, the legal community at large, and the judiciary through his accomplished legal background. Aside from serving southeast Michigan in a professional capacity, Farhat also dedicates a significant amount of time to charity work and involvement with advocacy organizations. Notably, Farhat is the President of the Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Michigan families by supporting their social, health, educational, and economic well-being. Throughout all his work, Farhat displays an overwhelming commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all Americans, and his efforts have received widespread acclaim, evidenced through his designation as a Super Lawyer and President of the Dearborn Bar Association. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Helal Farhat for his appointment to the Wayne County Circuit Court. His legal expertise, character, and public service experience will make him an excellent judge who will dutifully serve the people of Michigan.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Helal Farhat on his appointment to the Wayne County Third Circuit Bench. Since receiving his Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School in 2002, Farhat has been an active member of the legal community. For the past 16 years, Farhat served as the principal attorney at Farhat & Associates, a firm he established that specializes in commercial and business litigation, criminal law, family law, and immigration, and formerly served as partner at Salamey & Farhat. In addition to his work as an attorney, Farhat served as a magistrate judge on the 19th District Court in Dearborn. He held this position from 2009 to 2012, and then again from 2016 until his appointment to the Wayne County Circuit Court by Governor Whitmer on March 28, 2019. Helal Farhat has established himself as a pillar of the Dearborn community, earning his impeccable reputation amongst his peers, the legal community at large, and the judiciary through his accomplished legal background. Aside from serving southeast Michigan in a professional capacity, Farhat also dedicates a significant amount of time to charity work and involvement with advocacy organizations. Notably, Farhat is the President of the Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Michigan families by supporting their social, health, educational, and economic well-being. Throughout all his work, Farhat displays an overwhelming commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all Americans, and his efforts have received widespread acclaim, evidenced through his designation as a Super Lawyer and President of the Dearborn Bar Association. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Helal Farhat for his appointment to the Wayne County Circuit Court. His legal expertise, character, and public service experience will make him an excellent judge who will dutifully serve the people of Michigan.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of Ambassador Ronald N. Weiser in so many arenas but today specifically for his leadership in launching the Weiser Diplomacy Center at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan. The Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan is America's first graduate public service training program. Since 1914, the Ford School has been teaching students how to address the public's most pressing concerns by using research and cutting-edge problem-solving methodologies to develop actionable policy solutions. The Ford School is renowned for its quantitative analysis of a wide- range of policy issues, making the school a frequent destination for distinguished policymakers from around the world. Thanks to the wisdom and understanding of University of Michigan alumni and Regent Ronald Weiser and his wife Eileen, the Weiser Diplomacy Center was established at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy in January 2019. The Weiser Diplomacy Center provides a forum for leading diplomats and foreign policy experts to gather and offer practical training sessions and simulations to students to supplement their studies. The center will bring a diverse cadre of seasoned diplomats and foreign policy experts to campus. This year alone, the center will successfully connect students with distinguished leaders like Condoleezza Rice, Hillary Clinton, and Samantha Power, to name a few. In addition, the center sponsors a program for Weiser Diplomacy Fellows and helps students find internships pertaining to foreign affairs. The center will include lessons for students to practice international diplomacy and opportunities to learn from diplomats from around the world. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ambassador Ronald N. Weiser for his dedication to the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. The immediate success of the center is due in no small part to his work and tremendous leadership. Ambassador Weiser's own experience has demonstrated to him the importance of preparing students in a quickly shifting foreign policy world through engagement with experts. The Weiser Diplomacy Center will be an invaluable resource not only for the students participating, but to our country as it trains the leaders of the future. This new diplomacy center will be critical for young people to engage with members of the foreign policy community and inspire a new generation of the importance of this field.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of NSF International. The organization's wide impact on global public health is worthy of commendation. The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) was created in 1944 at the University of Michigan's School of Public Health. At the time, poor sanitation guidelines jeopardized the health of American diners, and the risk of foodborne illness continually grew. The newly-established NSF quickly set out to develop science-based hygiene and sanitation standards for commercial foodservice equipment to combat the prevalence of foodborne illness. The transparent, consensus-based process used to develop the NSF's first sanitation standard is the process that is still used to develop all the organization's public health and safety standards today. For the past 75 years, NSF has been working diligently to anticipate, recognize, and control potential human health hazards to improve all human health. To reflect their expanded global mission, the organization changed its name to NSF International in 1990. Currently, NSF International has 70 active public health and safety American National Standards and over 70 active protocols for appliances, foodservice equipment, and drinking water filters, among other products. NSF International's standards have had a profound impact on global public health, and the NSF mark has become highly respected and valued by consumers, regulatory agencies, and manufacturers worldwide. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 75th anniversary of NSF International. Over the years, NSF International has proven its commitment to serving public health needs, and I am appreciative of its impactful and reliable work.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that my name be removed as a cosponsor from H.R. 2407.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Waldorf education system. The first Waldorf school was established in 1919 in Stuttgart, Germany to reflect the principles of education outlined by Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian philosopher, artist, and scientist. These principles aim to nurture the needs of growing children from preschool through twelfth grade and enable them to fully develop their intellectual, artistic, emotional, and physical skills. A Waldorf education allows children to experience music, theater, literature, and writing in unique ways that help them cultivate their imagination and creativity and truly be confident of their place in the world. The Waldorf Education system plays an important role in our community. Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor, one of the over 160 Waldorf schools across North America, opened its doors in 1980, beginning as a school for grades one through four. Since then, the school has significantly transformed. Today, Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor offers a complete pre-k to 12th grade program and continues to encourage students to take risks, be passionate, and strive to reach their personal goals. Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor is truly dedicated to inspiring our nation's next generation and preparing them to tackle life with confidence, self-knowledge, and a true understanding of the world. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the centennial of the Waldorf education system. We are grateful for its impact on the children of our community and wish it many more years of continued success.