Debbie Dingell

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Clarence ``Bud'' Ennis, the chairman of the Trenton Recreation Commission who retired in July 2019. His service is worthy of commendation. A key member of various sports teams during his high school years, Mr. Ennis has always shown a passion for recreation within his community. After graduating from Trenton High School in 1944, he answered the call to serve his country during World War II, training in San Diego and then joining the Marines in the Pacific. When Mr. Ennis returned to Michigan, he attended Central Michigan University and was a member of the university's baseball team. He married his wife Pat in 1949, and together they have three children. Clarence ``Bud'' Ennis has served in countless roles in the Trenton community over the years. He founded the Trenton Hockey Association and coached in that role for 10 years. He was appointed to the Trenton Recreation Commission in 1969 and was named chairman in 1994. He continued to serve in that role until his retirement in July 2019. He was inducted into the Trenton Sports Hall of Fame in 1998. In 2013, the field at Slocum Park, on which Mr. Ennis played baseball in high school was dedicated to him and named ``Ennis Field.'' Clarence ``Bud'' Ennis is a vocal advocate for parks and recreation in the Trenton community, and his lifetime of involvement is a testament to that dedication. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 48 years of service of Clarence ``Bud'' Ennis to the Trenton, Michigan community and to his country. His leadership, knowledge, wisdom, and passion will be truly missed on the Trenton Recreation Commission.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Sue Moore on her retirement and recognize her thirty-two years of distinguished service in the Belleville Police Department. Her contributions to the community are worthy of commendation. Sue Moore has been an important member of the Belleville Police Department since 1987. Serving as the Police Department Records Clerk, Moore has been responsible for a host of duties that are necessary for a police department to function effortlessly. For over three decades, Moore has kept a watchful eye on budgets, handled all department billings, scheduled officers' enrollment in various training and schools, and prepared and edited an innumerable amount of warrants, among other tasks. Throughout her tenure, Moore has served under five police chiefs and worked tirelessly with the prosecutor's office, state officials, and numerous other individuals. Sue Moore is known for her high degree of professionalism, kind demeanor, and passion for helping all she encountered. Over these thirty-two years, Moore has become a pillar of the Belleville Police Department and will always be remembered for her outstanding job performance. Through her work, Moore has truly demonstrated a commitment to the entire Belleville community, and it is my honor and privilege to recognize her great dedication today. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sue Moore for her thirty-two years of service to the Belleville Police Department and congratulate her on completing her final day with the department on June 28, 2019. We thank her 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 Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom for her appointment to the Advisory Committee on Minority Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health. This achievement is worthy of commendation. Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom, M.D., M.S., is the Senior Vice President of Community Health & Equity and the Chief Wellness & Diversity Officer at Henry Ford Health System. Formerly, Dr. Wisdom served as Michigan's and the nation's first state-level Surgeon General from 2003 to 2010 and was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the Advisory Group on Prevention, Health Promotion and Integrative and Public Health in 2012. In addition, Dr. Wisdom has served on the faculty of the University of Michigan Medical School's Department of Medical Education since 1987 and has taught as an adjunct professor in U of M's School of Public Health. Dr. Wisdom's work focuses on health disparities, health care equity, chronic disease, unhealthy eating habits, and infant mortality, to name a few. Throughout her professional endeavors, Dr. Wisdom has witnessed firsthand the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce that can provide equitable treatment to patients. Dr. Wisdom's exceptional efforts have been instrumental in improving the health of those disproportionately affected by poor health outcomes, and her work continues to make a difference in patient care. Dr. Wisdom's passion and professional expertise makes her an excellent addition to the Advisory Committee on Minority Health, where she will assist the committee in discovering ways to improve the health of racial and ethnic minority populations. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in congratulating Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom on her appointment to the Advisory Committee on Minority Health. We are grateful for her lifetime of impactful work and wish her many years of continued success.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. It is my honor and privilege to recognize its century of dedication and service to the Ann Arbor community. Since 1919, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market has striven to connect local businesses with members of the Ann Arbor community. Every week, the market invites vendors to sell fresh produce, flowers, artisanal products, baked goods, crafts, and a host of other Michigan goods. All products are sold exclusively by the people who grow or make them, allowing producers and community members to establish meaningful and lasting relationships with one another. People in the Ann Arbor area are invited to stroll the farmers market year-round to experience all it has to offer. Over the course of 100 years, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market has significantly transformed. From humble beginnings on 4th Avenue in Ann Arbor in 1919, the farmers market has since grown to become a pillar of our community. Today, the farmers market creates a space for over 100 vendors and countless community members to gather. In addition, the farmers market hosts an array of additional special events for all of Ann Arbor to enjoy. Throughout the year, members of our community look forward to the food truck rallies, live music opportunities, cooking demonstrations, and holiday gatherings that the farmers market offers. The Ann Arbor Farmers Market truly fosters an inclusive, lively, and enjoyable environment where all feel welcome, and I cannot thank it enough for its century of exceptional service to our community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring the 100th anniversary of the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. We are grateful for its impactful contributions to our community and wish it many more years of continued success.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County for receiving Governor Gretchen Whitmer's Outstanding Volunteer Organization Award. The association's tremendous dedication to ending homelessness has made a meaningful impact in the Washtenaw County community and makes them a deserving recipient of this honor. Since 1982, the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County has supported individuals struggling with homelessness in the community. The association provides a variety of services to a diverse group of people experiencing homelessness that are designed to return their sense of hope and dignity. Thanks to the compassionate service of the association, people are given a renewed sense of stability through consistent access to food, shelter, medical care, and other programs that help them learn how to succeed independently. The volunteers of the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County have made a meaningful difference in Washtenaw County. Through their efforts, they have become the primary provider of services and emergency shelter in the community, and their ceaseless efforts continue to make a positive impact in the lives they touch--evident in their new Art Break Studio that has fostered a safe, creative, and welcoming space that has allowed many to reduce their anxiety and build a greater sense of self-esteem. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County for their exceptional efforts. Their lasting impact on the Washtenaw County community is worthy of commendation.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the volunteers of Friends in Deed of Ypsilanti. They have received the Outstanding Volunteer Program Governor's Service Award for their commitment to the service of those in the Washtenaw County community. Since 1983, Friends in Deed of Ypsilanti has provided assistance to their neighbors in need in Washtenaw County. These services include direct monetary assistance, adaptive services, the providing of needed furniture, such as beds, and their own Circles program which helps families get out of poverty. These programs ``fill the cracks of assistance'' between other nonprofits and agencies. The Friends in Deed mission is ``Helping People in Need; Building Community to End Poverty.'' Over 200 volunteers serve nearly 7,000 hours per year at Friends in Deed of Ypsilanti. They assist their neighbors and their families in navigating crisis, help families with payment related to emergency medical needs, repair needed means of transportation, and other one- time payments. Those who are assisted by Friends in Deed are given the confidence, independence, skills, support and resources, to help them escape poverty. Friends in Deed of Ypsilanti's designation of Outstanding Volunteer Program of the Year is well deserved. Their services have vastly impacted and improved the lives of countless families in Washtenaw County. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the volunteers of Friends in Deed of Ypsilanti. Their commitment to helping and serving their community is unmatched.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kimberly Ismail, winner of the Volunteer of the Year Governor's Service Award. Her service to the Dearborn community is worthy of commendation. Kimberly Ismail is employed by Dearborn Public Schools and has inspired her fellow staff everyday with her kindness and drive to help others in every way that she can. Ms. Ismail chairs the Dearborn City Beautiful Commission, which promotes beautification efforts and improvement of the appearance of the City of Dearborn. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Dearborn Symphony and as Vice President of the League of Women Voters of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights. Ms. Ismail is known among her colleagues for her selfless dedication in her service to others. For years, she has organized the Forgotten Harvest hunger walk and was the first to introduce the ``Arrive Alive'' anti-distracted driving campaign in Michigan. During the school year, Ms. Ismail helps provide the school supplies that local children need to succeed. She has also taken the lead in helping new refugees gain access to food and other community resources and during the holidays she can be found organizing food and gift drives for the less fortunate. The designation of Michigan Volunteer of the Year is well deserved. Her passion for volunteerism, patience, kindness, and devotion to the community is inspiring to all. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kimberly Ismail and her lifelong commitment to the Dearborn community. Ms. Ismail has positively impacted countless lives in the City of Dearborn as well as across the state of Michigan.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize BASF for receiving Governor Gretchen Whitmer's Corporate and Small Business Community Leader Award. BASF's commitment to the community and the state of Michigan makes them an excellent recipient of this great honor. Since its establishment, BASF has striven to create a sustainable future. Their innovative work in chemistry not only rises to meet today's most pressing challenges, but also simultaneously promotes environmental protection and social responsibility. In 1969, BASF became a part of the Michigan community, opening a site in Wyandotte, Michigan. The corporation has been a dedicated and charitable member of the community ever since. BASF continues to pursue a brighter future by investing in the future leaders of Michigan: our children. BASF employees volunteer at the BASF Kid's Lab, a program that aims to inspire children's interest in chemistry by bringing hands-on service and demonstrations to classrooms and science centers throughout southeast Michigan. The program is an interactive, fun, and free education program designed to expose young children to the marvels of chemistry through simple and safe experiments. Each demonstration exhibits how chemistry can benefit the environment and lead to a brighter future for all. These generous efforts clearly reflect BASF's commitment to investing in the next generation and exemplify their tremendous service to Michigan. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating BASF for their exceptional work. Their lasting impact on the Michigan community is worthy of commendation.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Scott and Chairman Neal for their leadership and taking a lot of words and putting it into real action.

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Scott for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank both Chairman Scott and Chairman Neal for their leadership on this issue. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 397, the Butch Lewis Act. This is a historic moment for working men and women in this country, and it has been a long time coming because people have been working on this for a long time. Today, we are telling millions of Americans who worked a lifetime for their pensions that are now in jeopardy, through no fault of their own, that we are standing with you. We are listening. We are taking action. For too long, these working men and women have worked in fear, not knowing what was going to happen. They have given up pay raises. They played by the rules. They thought they would have a safe and secure retirement. By passing the Butch Lewis Act, we are sending a loud message that we hear them and are taking steps to ensure that their retirement that they worked for, for a lifetime, will be there when they need it. This is money hardworking men and women earned and counted on to retire safely, to afford to stay in their homes, to afford food on their table, and to afford their medicine. American workers have done their part. The House will soon do its part. I hope the Senate will also act quickly because I know the men and women, they have come to my door at 7 a.m., they have threatened suicide. They are scared. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record two letters in support of this legislation. One is from the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, and one is from UNITE HERE. International Brotherhood of Teamsters, July 18, 2019. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Representative: The House of Representatives will soon have the opportunity to ensure that more than a million retirees and workers who have played by the rules will receive the pension benefits they have earned through years of hard work. On behalf of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, its retirees and working families, I ask for a yes vote on H.R. 397, the Rehabilitation for Multiemployer Pensions Act (often referred to as The Butch Lewis Act). As you know, this legislation is of the highest priority for the Teamsters Union. The multiemployer pension system has for many decades been an essential foundation for providing financial security in retirement for millions of Americans and their families. Now, through no fault of their own, the earned pension benefits of millions of retirees are being threatened due to the ``critical and declining'' (financial) status and the impending insolvency of a number of multiemployer pension plans. No doubt you have heard from retirees and families who live with this uncertainty and whose lives have been turned upside down. H.R. 397 will ensure that we meet our obligations to current retirees and workers for years to come and to do so without retiree benefit cuts. It will strengthen these plans and provide a path forward for financial stability and solvency. It will provide improved retirement security for both workers and retirees. And, it will lessen the financial pressure on the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (PBGC) which also faces insolvency. The bill creates a Pension Rehabilitation Administration (PRA) which would sell Treasury-issued bonds on the open market and then loan money from the bond sale to these critical and declining multiemployer pension plans. Plans borrowing from the PRA must set aside the money in separate investments that match pension payments for retirees. Retirees and their families are guaranteed their promised benefits. It will also free up remaining assets and future contributions to protect the benefits for active workers. PRA loans will not be sufficient to help all financially troubled multiemployer pension plans. Some will need additional help. For such plans, the bill proposes that the PBGC provide such help. In doing so, the cost to the Federal government and the U.S. economy will be far less than allowing Plans and the PBGC to fail. Unlike the current federal pension insurance program, H.R. 397 protects benefits before plan failure. The financial distress many of these plans face were and are beyond the control of these retirees and workers. Multiemployer pension plans have been buffeted by economic turbulence over the decades--from deregulation to financial melt downs to recessions. Pension statutes and legislation are extraordinarily complex, none more so than multiemployer and Taft-Hartley pension plans. They are both unique in their structure, and the challenges they have faced. If these plans fail, it will not only impact the retirees receiving the benefit, there will be a broader impact on their communities and the economy--adverse effects on economic growth and tax losses to state, local and federal governments. H.R. 397, the Rehabilitation for Multiemployer Pensions Act provides a mechanism for ``critical and declining'' multiemployer pension plans to address their serious underfunding problem. It will strengthen these plans and provide a path forward for financial stability and solvency. Importantly, the bill does this while avoiding retiree benefit cuts. I hope that I can report to our retirees and members in your district that you stood with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters family to enact this critically important legislation. Vote to protect retirement benefits. Vote yes on H.R. 397. Sincerely, James P. Hoffa, General President.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Frederick John Horne, II for his dedicated service. His commitment to country and community is worthy of commendation. Sergeant Horne entered the Armed Forces on September 7, 1967 and was stationed at Fort Knox in Kentucky. He served in Vietnam where he was wounded in combat twice and received two Purple Hearts. Sergeant Horne was honorably discharged for his dedicated service on September 1, 1973. He returned to Michigan after a year at Valley Forge Hospital in Pennsylvania and worked for General Motors until his eventual retirement. Today we celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of Sergeant Horne receiving his Purple Heart for his sacrifice. He has shown tremendous bravery and selflessness throughout his decorated service. Sergeant Horne has shown a tremendous love for his country and community. His years as a member of the United States Military exemplify the selflessness of public service and stand as a testament to duty, honor, and country. We thank Sergeant Horne for his commitment to protecting the American people. His service underscores the significant price of freedom, and the dedication and sacrifice of our servicemembers in the Armed Forces and their families. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sergeant Frederick John Horne, II for his exemplary service. He has effectively served Michigan and our nation through his selflessness and leadership.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the City of Dearborn, which is celebrating its 90th birthday. Dearborn is a vibrant city with an immense history and diverse community. Originally established as the Detroit Arsenal and coined the ``Dearbornville'' United States Military installation in 1864, Dearborn housed and supplied Union soldiers during the Civil War. Situated on the River Rouge in southeast Michigan, Dearborn was officially incorporated as a city in 1927. The birthplace of manufacturing pioneer Henry Ford, Dearborn rapidly industrialized in the early 20th century. The city is home to the River Rouge Complex and now-closed Ford Airport, which were once the largest integrated factory and most advanced airport in the world, respectively. A melting pot of races, ethnicities, and religions, Dearborn embodies the diversity of our nation. During the 19th and 20th centuries, immigrants from across the world flocked to Dearborn in pursuit of safety, tolerance, and economic opportunity. Similarly, during the Great Migration, African Americans moved to the city to escape racial violence and discrimination. This tradition of heterogeneity continues today, as Dearborn has the highest per-capita Muslim population of any city in the country and is home to both the Arab American National Museum and the largest mosque in the United States. We recognize and thank the Dearborn community for their commitment to economic and cultural excellence. They have built a vibrant, inclusive, diverse community that serves as a role model across the nation. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the city of Dearborn for its 90th birthday. I wish Dearborn a successful celebration as they mark this special milestone.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Chair, I would like to first thank Chairman Smith and the House Armed Services Committee for all their good work crafting the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020. This is a strong bill. It includes many top priorities that will care for our servicemembers and keep the United States well defended, including serious provisions to address PFAS chemical contamination, which is a serious threat at too many of our military bases. PFAS chemicals are manmade and harmful to human health and our environment. Developed in the 1940s, PFAS can be found across multiple industries and all around us in many of our communities. PFAS contamination is widespread. It is in red States; it is in blue States, in small water systems, in large ones, on military sites, and in residential communities. Recently, experts with the Environmental Working Group have identified 712 sites in 49 States that have some level of PFAS contamination, and most are not being cleaned up. These sites are associated with drinking water systems serving about 19 million people, and the number of sites is expected to grow across the country because States are just beginning to test for these chemicals. The Environmental Working Group has also identified 219 military- specific sites that have PFAS contamination because--and, at the time, it is what existed--PFAS firefighting foams were used. Yet, in many States--my home State of Michigan included--cleanup of these sites is not happening. Unfortunately, the military is part of that problem. They are arguing that, in these communities, they don't have to clean up the PFAS contamination because the Superfund law does not require them to do so. In May of 2018, the then-EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt proudly announced that EPA would propose designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Superfund law. Under EPA Administrator Wheeler's leadership, EPA hasn't even issued a proposed rulemaking, let alone finalized an action. At this rate, it will be at least another year--at least--and probably longer before this vital step is taken. Americans deserve better. Congress needs to act, and this amendment would be a meaningful step forward. It is clear. PFAS chemicals are hazardous, and it is time these chemicals are properly designated as hazardous substances. Our amendment would simply require the EPA to list PFAS chemicals-- including PFOA, PFOS, GenX, and many other harmful chemicals--as hazardous substances under the EPA's Superfund cleanup program within 1 year. Designating this will jump-start the cleanup process at military facilities, which is needed, and in communities across this country; and that is why it is imperative that this amendment be included. I am proud to have offered this amendment, and I thank all who have supported this approach and make this possible for us to consider today. Today, we have a real opportunity to help accelerate the cleanup process wherever PFAS contamination exists and protect the health of all Americans, and our servicemen and women, and the environment, now and for future generations. I urge all of my colleagues to support this amendment. Madam Chair, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Kildee), who I have been proud to work with on this.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Chair, I rise to speak on two important amendments that have been included in this en bloc. Michigan has been hit very hard by this PFAS contamination. It is in our drinking water, groundwater, rivers, lakes, and ponds. We can't eat the fish that are being caught. These harmful chemicals are found in way too many places, and they are discovering more contamination sites each day. Just today, 100 new PFAS contamination sites were identified, with many sites registering PFAS levels above 100,000 parts per trillion. EPA's nonenforceable health advisory is 70 parts per trillion. And the more we test, the more we find. There are two amendments here. I was proud to work with Fred Upton, Dan Kildee, and Tim Walberg on legislation that is included in this en bloc that would require the Department of Defense to enter into cooperative agreements with States to mitigate PFAS contamination resulting from their facilities. Unfortunately, firefighting foam was used at more than 100 military bases and has impacted them and the surrounding communities across the country. We need an all-hands-on-deck response to the growing PFAS contamination at military facilities. Also included is a bipartisan amendment to protect our servicemembers from ever being exposed to harmful PFAS chemicals in MREs, Meal, Ready- to-Eat. MREs are carried by our servicemembers in the field of operations or when engaged in training exercises. Our warfighters depend on MREs for their survival, so it is critical these food packages are completely safe. Currently, there is no prohibition on the use of PFAS chemicals in MREs, and they are in there. This bipartisan amendment would proactively correct this and simply prohibit the Defense Logistics Agency from using any food contact substances with PFAS to assemble or package MREs. I thank Chairman Smith for including both of these amendments.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Police Corporal Gordon Morse for his many years of service to the Dearborn Police Department. Corporal Morse recently retired after twenty-five years of exemplary work with the department. Corporal Morse began his service at the Dearborn Police Department in 1993. In 2002, he was selected to be a K-9 Officer. During his tenure, he has served in a variety of roles including as a field training officer, a range officer, explorer advisor, and department chaplain. Corporal Morse has represented his department by engaging in significant outreach to the Dearborn community through school and church demonstrations. He has also served as an instructor for the Oakland Police Academy K-9 Training Center for fifteen years. In this role, he trained numerous police officers and has created a safer environment for everyone in the Dearborn community. Corporal Morse served the Dearborn community in various roles for a total of twenty-five years. His commitment to protecting the Dearborn community has impacted hundreds of his fellow officers and residents. His work training officers has been crucial to the continued safety of Dearborn, and his outreach efforts have strengthened the relationship between his department and the community. His exemplary service stands as a role model of the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment of our police officers. His dedicated leadership will be missed, but we wish him good health and every happiness in his retirement years. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the twenty- five years of service of Police Corporal Gordon Morse to his country and to the Dearborn, Michigan community. His commitment to public safety is worthy of commendation.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Police Corporal Michael Nelson for his many years of service to the Dearborn Police Department. Corporal Nelson recently retired after thirty years of exemplary work with the department. Prior to his service in the Dearborn Police Department Corporal Nelson served three years in the United States Army and was deployed to Grenada. Corporal Nelson began at the Dearborn Police Department in 1989 as an Animal Control Officer. In 1994, Corporal Nelson became a certified Motor Carrier Officer and a regional instructor specializing in commercial vehicle enforcement. In this role, he trained hundreds of police officers and created a safer environment for everyone in the Dearborn community. In 2003, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal and was placed in charge of the Animal Control and Parking Systems Operations. Corporal Nelson served the Dearborn community in various roles for a total of thirty years. His commitment to protecting the Dearborn Community has impacted hundreds of his fellow officers and residents. His work training officers in commercial vehicle enforcement has been crucial to the continued safety of Dearborn. His exemplary service to the community stands as a role model of the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment of our police officers. His dedicated leadership will be missed, but we wish him good health and every happiness in his retirement years. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the thirty years of service of Police Corporal Michael Nelson to his country and to the Dearborn, Michigan community. His commitment to public safety is worthy of commendation.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Ann Arbor's 100th City Tennis Tournament. The event provides a vital outlet promoting community building and healthy competition. Established in 1919, the Ann Arbor City Tennis Tournament is one of the oldest city tennis tournaments in the country. Starting with a tournament of 24 men at West Park, the competition has expanded to over one hundred players across several categories, adding a women's event in 1922 and parent-child matches. The Ann Arbor Area Community Tennis Association organizes the tournament, youth programs, and charity events with the support of corporate sponsorships and local donations. The Town Tennis Celebration, a citywide event featuring afternoon clinics, food, and a viewing of the doubles finals of the competition, marks the conclusion of the tournament. The Ann Arbor City Tennis Tournament provides an outlet for community building and allows local athletes to showcase their commitment to the sport. The tournament underscores a dedication to fellowship and friendly competition and its continued success highlights the importance of these events in our communities. We are grateful for the commitment of the Ann Arbor Area Community Tennis Association for their exceptional work supporting physical fitness, charity, and community building. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Ann Arbor's 100th City Tennis Tournament. We thank the Ann Arbor Community Tennis Association for their exemplary work supporting the city of Ann Arbor.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the participants and organizers of the 37th annual Metro Detroit Youth Day. This event provides young people in Southeastern Michigan the opportunity to engage with local officials and role models. The Metro Detroit Youth Day started in 1981 to promote stronger relations between Detroit residents and the business community. Since it's inception, the event has expanded to offer approximately 35,000 children a day of recreation and education on Belle Isle in the Detroit River, becoming the largest youth event in the state of Michigan. Metro Detroit Youth Day hosts over 360 organizations and 260 businesses, allowing participants to build connections with civic leaders and nonprofit groups that offer local employment and educational opportunities. The event also provides college scholarships to several graduating high school students each year. Metro Detroit Youth Day has received numerous accolades for its work, including a Point of Light Award from President George H.W. Bush, and a Michigan Governor's Award on Physical Fitness for its promotion of physical activity and health. The event's continued success underscores its significant impact on our nation's youth by instilling the importance of education and health. It has also provided over 1,800 college scholarships since 1991, making it an important fixture of educational opportunity in the Detroit area. Metro Detroit Youth Day provides vital contributions to the vibrant and diverse community of Detroit through its engagement of youth in Southeastern Michigan. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the efforts of the organizers and participants of the 37th annual Metro Detroit Youth Day. It is my hope that Metro Detroit Youth Day continues to serve young people in Michigan and grow in the coming years.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nancy Hamood for her exemplary service with the Dearborn Police Department. Her years of dedicated work are worthy of commendation. A lifelong resident of Dearborn, Nancy Hamood dedicated her life to serving her community. Ms. Hamood was hired by the Dearborn Police Department in 1979, initially working with the department's operations division. After a brief period in that position, Ms. Hamood became the Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Police, where she served under Dearborn's past five police chiefs. In her role, she helped coordinate important community events as well as meetings with Heads of State, Federal Government Officials, and State leaders. Ms. Hamood's efforts ensured that the department ran efficiently and effectively during her tenure. After forty years of service to the Dearborn community, Nancy Hamood retired from the Dearborn Police in June of this year. Throughout her decorated career, Ms. Hamood has served with distinction. Called the ``ultimate professional'' by coworkers, Nancy Hamood was highly respected during her extended career. She often undertook tasks and responsibilities beyond the normal purview of her position, highlighting her dedication to service. We thank Nancy Hamood for her commitment to professional excellence and we congratulate her on her retirement. Her dedicated leadership will be missed, but we wish her good health and every happiness in her retirement years. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Nancy Hamood for her four decades of service with the Dearborn Police Department. Her work has had a profound impact on the police department and on the larger Dearborn community.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Cynthia Canty for her exemplary service as a radio and TV host. Her continued dedication to journalism is worthy of commendation. A lifelong resident of Detroit, Cynthia Canty is the host of Michigan Radio's Stateside talk show and has dedicated her life to journalism in a career spanning over 40 years. Prior to working at Michigan Radio, she was a television news anchor, producer, and radio host in the Detroit area. In her various roles, she has interviewed numerous influential figures including governors, authors, musicians, and experts in a variety of fields. Mrs. Canty has received several awards for her work, including an Emmy Award and honors from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, the Associated Press, and the Detroit Press Club. After her many years of service, Cynthia Canty will retire from Michigan Radio at the end of 2019. Throughout her decorated career, Mrs. Canty has explored critical issues impacting the residents of Michigan. Her talent for encouraging thought-provoking dialogue has been crucial in dissecting these important topics. Beyond her work in journalism, Mrs. Canty has dedicated numerous hours to supporting healthcare and cancer treatment in partnership with the American Cancer Society, the Karmanos Cancer Center, and the Henry Ford Health System. We thank Cynthia Canty for her commitment to journalistic excellence and we congratulate her on her retirement. Her dedicated leadership will be missed, but we wish her good health and every happiness in her retirement years. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Cynthia Canty for her expertise in the realm of TV and radio journalism. Her work discussing art, culture, politics, and lifestyle has had a profound impact on the people of Michigan.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mother Gloria Edwards for her dedicated work in service of the community of Washtenaw County, Michigan. Her leadership and devotion to faith and community are worthy of commendation. Mother Gloria Edwards is the President and Founder of The Pastor's Wives of Washtenaw County. She began her religious education in 1972 at New Hope Baptist Church and graduated with a certificate in Christian Training and Biblical Counseling from the William Tyndale Bible College. In 2009, she started the Ecumenical Prayer Hour ministry in coordination with several local churches in Washtenaw County. Her efforts have brought together a strong, diverse community connected through faith. Since its first meeting on September 12, 2009, the Ecumenical Prayer Hour, now called the Community Hour of Prayer Group, has dramatically expanded to include over 20 churches representing numerous denominations. Mother Gloria Edwards has had a significant impact on Washtenaw County through her leadership and support of community outreach organizations. Noted for her loving and nurturing personality, she teaches and counsels women in her congregation and the greater Washtenaw community. We thank Mother Gloria Edwards for her exemplary service to Washtenaw County and continued leadership. Her work stands as a role model of generosity and compassion and demonstrates a tremendous love for her community and her faith. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mother Gloria Edwards for her exceptional work. She has effectively served the residents of Washtenaw County by providing guidance and counsel through faith.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Chairman, I rise to speak in support of the en bloc amendment which contains an amendment I have offered. In order to ensure the Environmental Protection Agency is able to effectively carry out its responsibility to protect human health and the environment for future generations, we need to ensure emergency responders and investigators are there when we need them. Closing EPA's facilities or relocating personnel tasked with the ultimate responsibility to answer the call during an environmental emergency or investigate the cost and whom to hold accountable in the aftermath is the wrong approach. Future generations will be less safe, and the health of our environment will be at increased risk. This amendment would simply prevent the EPA from closing or relocating any office or facility that houses either emergency responders or a criminal investigation unit responsible for carrying out the agency's mission. EPA emergency response personnel serve in offices--some large and some small--across this Nation. These brave and dedicated public servants respond to oil spills; chemical, biological, and radiological releases; and large-scale national emergencies. They also provide additional response assistance when State and local first responder capabilities have been exhausted or need additional support. Located in my district is the Large Lakes Research Station on Grosse Ile, an island in the Detroit River. This facility serves the Great Lakes region. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I want to echo the words of my colleague, Mr. Guthrie, and thank all of those who helped bring this bill to the floor today. I give particular thanks to Chairman Pallone and Ranking Member Walden for their leadership. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to support H.R. 3253. As a caregiver, I have met so many people in the last few years who are desperate and scared and who need us to care. This bill does that. I hope the House today will show this country we can act bipartisanly, giving hope. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.