Debbie Dingell

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10th annual Cesar Chavez Day of Celebration at Eastern Michigan University. This annual observation allows for the recognition of the campus' diversity and the life of Mr. Chavez. Born in Arizona in 1927, Cesar Chavez was the child of hardworking Mexican American migrant laborers. He spent most of his early years in migrant camps with his parents, attending school sporadically and serving the United States for two years in the Navy. Once he returned, he joined together with Hispanic farmworkers in states including Arizona and California to bargain for better working conditions for American workers. Mr. Chavez's work as a leader of the movement implemented institutional change that would forever alter the American workplace. Changes included union recognition as well as the creation of the United Farm Workers of America, which remains a prominent union today. Cesar Chavez's lifetime of hard work inspired millions and opened the doors for workers across our nation. Since 2009, Eastern Michigan University has participated in a Cesar Chavez Day of Celebration, inviting local students, university faculty, and community members to commemorate his life's work and its influence today. The University's event includes poetry reading by local middle schoolers, keynote speakers, mariachi music, and a procession to the Cesar Chavez Fountain located on campus. Cesar Chavez Day is an important opportunity for residents of southeastem Michigan to come together and discuss the doors that he opened for students and workers as well as to discuss ways to continue to serve underserved student populations both at Eastern Michigan University and in local K-12 schools. It is my honor to join Eastern Michigan University in today's celebration, and it is my hope that this event will continue to take place in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Eastern Michigan University as they celebrate their 1oth Annual Cesar Chavez Day of Celebration. This event allows for important conversations to take place as we celebrate Mr. Chavez's contributions to our country.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished public service of Commander Jeff Witmer, the 2017 Taylor Auxiliary Police Officer of the Year. He has protected the City of Taylor and its residents for over 14 years. Established in 1962 as a volunteer civil defense organization to assist the Taylor Police Department, the Taylor Auxiliary Police play a key role in safeguarding the public. In addition to helping the full- time police department staff community events like high school sports events and assisting with regular police patrols, the auxiliary police also serve as a reserve force to assist the City of Taylor in the event of a disaster or emergency situation. Additionally, the auxiliary has partnered with the city to further crime prevention initiatives, including Taylor on Watch, an education and outreach program that shares best practices for neighborhood and community safety. These initiatives and the service of officers, including 2017 award recipient Commander Jeff Witmer, have helped to make Taylor a safe city to live and work. Commander Jeff Witmer has served the Taylor Auxiliary Police Department in various capacities for the past 14 years, including range instructor, Platoon Lieutenant, and the department's Operations Commander. As Operations Commander, Mr. Witmer is entrusted with the command of department operations making sure platoons run smoothly, and that all patrol rides go out on schedule. He is a well-respected member of both the department and the City of Taylor for his positivity, dedication, and community-oriented leadership. Due to his years of service and the trust placed in him, Commander Witmer oversees the training department for new recruits and serves as a mentor for junior department members. Our city is better because of Commander Witmer's leadership, and he is truly deserving of being named the 2017 Taylor Auxiliary Police Officer of the Year. We are grateful for Commander Witmer's service and look forward to his continued contributions to protecting our city and growing the auxiliary department in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Commander Jeff Witmer for his years of service to our local community. He has impacted countless lives through his work with Taylor's Auxiliary Police Department.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished public service of Dave Gorgon. He has enriched our community through his positive leadership. Established in 1962 as a volunteer civil defense organization to assist the Taylor Police Department, the Taylor Auxiliary Police play a key role in safeguarding the public. In addition to helping the full- time police department staff community events like high school sports events and assisting with regular police patrols, the auxiliary police also serve as a reserve force to assist the City of Taylor in the event of a disaster or emergency situation. Additionally, the auxiliary has partnered with the city to further crime prevention initiatives, including Taylor on Watch, an education and outreach program that shares best practices for neighborhood and community safety. These initiatives and the service of officers are well documented by Dave Gorgon, a photographer with the City of Taylor. Mr. Gorgon is a well-loved member of our local community who is known for his passion and leadership. Known around Downriver as ``Mr. Taylor,'' he has served the city in various capacities, including as an interim member of the Taylor City Council and as a reporter and photographer for the Southgate News-Herald. Those who know Mr. Gorgon laud him as a special person who is always willing to go out of the way to make someone feel special. and positively impact their day. He is a strong supporter of both the Taylor Police Department and the Taylor Auxiliary Police Department and often attends events to take photos of the departments in action and share the good work being done by local officers. Taylor Auxiliary officers credit Mr. Gorgon as a positive force for the community and an irreplaceable member of the department. He is truly deserving of being named an Honorary Taylor Auxiliary Police Officer; we are grateful for his lifetime of service and positivity and look forward to his continued contributions to the Downrivers in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Dave Gorgon for his years of commitment to the community that he loves. His passion and dedicated service have bettered Taylor for years to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim Wagner as he retires from a lifetime of distinguished public service to the Downrivers of Michigan. This week he will retire as Trenton City Administrator, but his service has been long and extensive. He has brought our community together for years through his leadership. A lifelong resident of Wyandotte, Michigan, Mr. Wagner grew up with a passion to serve the community that he loves. He operated Wyandotte Sporting Goods in his early adult life and was known for his kind demeanor, friendliness and helping anyone that needs it. At age 34 in 1979, Mr. Wagner was approached and told that he would be a good candidate for Wyandotte Mayor. He served as Mayor for 8 years and later served in various capacities before being appointed as Trenton City Administrator in December 2011. In his role as Trenton City Administrator, he was responsible for identifying the city's top priorities and effectively utilizing the city's resources. He has held this role for over 6 years and leaves behind a legacy of passionate and successful leadership as he retires from this position. He has helped guide Trenton, Wyandotte and surrounding areas through tough economic times and challenging circumstances and is an important reason that the Downrivers remain strong. Mr. Wagner is known by community members throughout the region as someone who has a deep knowledge of the area and worked hard to create local partnerships to make continued improvements. One of the most successful projects spearheaded by Mr. Wagner was the ``Say Yes to Downriver'' slogan that increased the area's visibility and brought new families and businesses to Trenton and the surrounding cities. Other successes included creating the yearly business summit held by the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber of Commerce, helping establish the Downriver Community Conference, assisting residents who have lost their jobs, authoring a national grant to retrain workers, addressing serious environmental issues in both Brownfield and superfund sites and continuing to renovate the International Wildlife Refuge. His colleagues have said that there need to be more public servants like him and that he is leaving behind a legacy of excellence. Mr. Wagner looks forward to seeing the Downriver area continue to flourish in his retirement, and his hard work and expertise is valued and the community will continue to tap his wisdom in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Jim Wagner's lifetime of leadership and public service. Mr. Wagner has effectively served the Downriver area throughout his career.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Gregory D. Bill for receiving the Tertzag Tribute Dinner's 2018 Purple Sport Coat Award for his distinguished work as a judge. His commitment to justice and the Detroit community throughout his career with the 3rd Circuit Court of Michigan is worthy of recognition. After receiving his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his J.D. from Western Michigan University's Cooley Law School, Judge Bill began his own practice with a specialization in aviation law. He has always had a passion for public service and served as a legislative aide for a member of the Michigan State Senate, where he honed his knowledge of the state's issues and policy procedures. Judge Bill served as a member of Michigan's 20th District Court before receiving an appointment to the Wayne County Circuit Court, a position he has held since 2000. Throughout his tenure, he has served in a variety of capacities and currently serves in the criminal division. Judge Bill has been an outstanding public servant throughout his decades of work with the judiciary and is widely recognized and respected for his legal expertise. His colleagues have previously recognized him for his work, including being awarded the Michigan Special Legislative Tribute for Outstanding Service to the People of Michigan. The Purple Sport Coat award is granted in honor of the late Judge Kaye Tertzag who was known for his integrity and strict interpretation of the law. Judge Bill lives up to the legacy of public respect and judicial integrity that Judge Tertzag is remembered for and is truly deserving of this award. He has provided outstanding service to our state throughout his career as a judge, and I look forward to his continued work in the years to come. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Judge Gregory Bill for being named the recipient of the 2018 Purple Sport Coat Award for his distinguished work as a judge. Judge Bill has been an outstanding public servant during his legal career.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Hartig on the day of his retirement from the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, the only International Wildlife Refuge in North America. His distinguished leadership has helped shape a new future for the Detroit River and surrounding wildlife. A longtime Michigan resident, Mr. Hartig fondly recalls childhood vacations up north and weekends spent fishing on Belle Isle. His exposure to Michigan's wildlife and understanding of intense lake and river pollution inspired him to receive his Doctorate in Limnology, the study of inland waters, from the University of Windsor and begin what would become a lifetime of work restoring and transforming the Great Lakes states through cleanup and public education. Mr. Hartig has held various positions over the years including serving as an environmental scientist at the International Joint Commission, as an adjunct professor at Wayne State University, and as River Navigator for the Greater Detroit American Heritage River Initiative before being named Refuge Manager at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, a position he has held since 2004. In these positions, Mr. Hartig has overseen the transformation of the Detroit River, which was one of the most polluted waterways in the country in the 1960s, the revival of various animal populations including the bald eagle and lake sturgeon, as well as increasing public access to Michigan's beautiful natural lands. Mr. Hartig is a leading voice nationwide due to his conservation work, and Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge was singled out at the 2006 White House Conference on Cooperative Conservation as a national model in public-private partnerships for conservation and sustainability. In addition to being a long time board member of the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy, Mr. Hartig is a prolific writer on the Great Lakes and has received many awards including the John Muir Association's 2015 Conservationist of the Year and the 2013 Conservation Advocate Award from the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. He was recently selected as a Fulbright scholar and will spend the next three years in that capacity traveling the Great Lakes region and continuing his lifetime's work of addressing pollution and reviving public lands. Mr. Hartig has been an invaluable leader, and we look forward to his continued work protecting our precious natural resources. He will be greatly missed at the Wildlife Refuge, but his legacy will provide a solid foundation for its future. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring John Hartig for his lifetime of conservation work and invaluable contributions to our state. He has forever changed the Great Lakes ecosystem through his passion, hard work and ingenuity.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Amanda Edmonds for her service to our southeastern Michigan community and Growing Hope, an Ypsilanti based non-profit, over the past 15 years. She has enriched countless lives as a local leader and Executive Director of Growing Hope. Raised in Missouri, Ms. Edmonds has been a passionate community leader and social justice advocate since she was a young student. After receiving her B.S. and M.S. from the University of Michigan's School of Natural Resources and Environment, Ms. Edmonds became involved as a volunteer in Ypsilanti in 1999. She started volunteering at Perry Learning Garden, now Growing Hope, in Ypsilanti and is looked to as a leader in sustainable gardening, economic development and local food access. Through her passion for food sustainability, she worked to expand the Perry Learning Garden into Growing Hope, a non-profit that serves southeastern Michigan communities with start-up and gardening assistance, teaching classes, and hosting local farmer's markets. Ms. Edmonds is a beloved leader in our community and has served as the Mayor of Ypsilanti since 2014. As Growing Hope's Executive Director, Ms. Edmonds has greatly expanded the facility's urban farm and instituted teaching programs for students and adults all throughout Michigan. The program serves as an example for other sustainable urban farms, and Ms. Edmonds travels to share how Growing Hope's success can be mirrored in other communities throughout the country. Her work as Growing Hope's Executive Director has seen her appointed to the Michigan Food Policy Council, where she chaired the Healthy Food Access Task Force for the state, as well as Vice Chair of the Washtenaw Food Policy Council and Ypsilanti Parks & Recreation Committee. Ms. Edmonds has been an invaluable leader at Growing Hope, and we look forward to her continued positive impact on our Michigan community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Amanda Edmonds as she retires from her position at Growing Hope. Her work has bettered Ypsilanti's food sustainability and access for years to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Linda Yohn for her outstanding career with WEMU Radio. She has worked tirelessly on behalf of Michigan's music community for the past 30 years. After receiving her bachelor's degree from Otterbein College in Ohio, Ms. Yohn started working at WKSU, a TV station in Kent, Ohio, where she discovered that radio was her true passion. Ms. Yohn has been a lover of jazz music her entire life and then took a job as a jazz music publicist in New York City where she stayed until joining the WEMU Radio team in April of 1987 as Music Director. She hosted Cafe Du Jazz on weekday evenings throughout her first few years at WEMU before taking the morning jazz slot which she has held for the past 25 years. Through Ms. Yohn's work, the station saw a sizable growth in the station's audience and its relationships with jazz artists and record companies. Ms. Yohn has fostered deep relationships with members of the jazz community, both locally and nationwide. Ms. Yohn's work at WEMU has been critical to the growth and success of the station as well as cultivating the community of dedicated listeners that WEMU is known for. Southeastern Michigan's vibrant jazz scene is attributed to Ms. Yohn's work at WEMU and the relationships that she continues to cultivate. Her work has been recognized many times over the years and she serves as a board member for the Southeast Michigan Jazz Association and attends panels at various conferences and conventions throughout the country. Ms. Yohn has been named National Jazz Programmer of the Year five times, has received the Duke Dubois national award for service and has been named Ypsilanti's Ambassador for Jazz. Over the past 30 years, she has served as a mentor to the entire WEMU team; though her title was Music Director, she was also the heart and soul of the station. Ms. Yohn leaves behind a generation of passionate jazz listeners and on-air hosts. Her advocacy, passion, and hard work have made her a beloved leader in our Michigan community, and I look forward to her continued positive impact on our Michigan community in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Linda Yohn for a distinguished 30 year career with WEMU Radio. She has made a lasting impact on southeastern Michigan's jazz community.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Beth Chappell for her distinguished leadership as the Detroit Economic Club's President and CEO as she leaves to begin her next chapter. She has been an effective leader and advocate for Michigan's businesses and entrepreneurs. Born and raised in Michigan, Mrs. Chappell attended Michigan State University's Broad College of Business where she received her bachelor's degree in Marketing before entering the workforce. She spent 16 years at AT&T Corporation, where she served as Vice President of Global Services and cultivated relationships with a worldwide clientele. Mrs. Chappell also served as Executive Vice President of Compuware Corporation and led the Chappell Group before being named President and CEO of the Detroit Economic Club (DEC). Throughout her 12 year tenure as DEC President, Mrs. Chappell has increased the connectivity of Detroit's business community. The Detroit Economic Club was founded in 1934 to serve as an organization committed to growing Michigan's business community and providing a platform for international leaders to address global economic change. Mrs. Chappell was successful in growing the DEC and expanding its accessibility to a diverse group of local and national leaders. She launched a young leaders group to ensure that students and young business leaders have the opportunity to learn from successful local leaders and receive mentorship from those who have walked in their shoes. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her dedication to the Michigan community and continued innovation to best serve business owners and consumers. Mrs. Chappell is a member of multiple boards including Detroit Regional Chamber, St. Joseph Mercy Foundation, Michigan Economic Growth Authority and Citizens Research Council. She has had a tremendous positive impact on the Detroit Economic Club through her work as President, and I look forward to seeing her continued contributions in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Beth Chappell for her distinguished tenure as Detroit Economic Club President and CEO. She has worked diligently on behalf of Michigan's business owners throughout the years.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career of Damon B. Flowers, Vice President of Facilities, Development and Operations, and the recognition of his lifetime of work by Washtenaw Community College's which renamed a plant operations building after him. This building is being renamed in celebration of Damon B. Flowers' work at the school, so that his legacy will inspire generations of students to come. Damon B. Flowers has served Washtenaw Community College in various capacities for over 23 years, including his current position of Vice President of Facilities, Development and Operations. Throughout his time at WCC, two campus master plans were implemented. These plans allowed him to oversee more than $120 million in renovations and allowed for over 130 construction projects, including the Business Education Building, the Great Lakes Regional Training Center and the Health and Fitness Center. Vice President Flowers is known for his creative thinking and is recognized for the implementation of WCC's energy conservation campus standards and expanded recycling operations. Under his leadership, the campus has developed a partnership with the City of Ann Arbor and Ann Arbor Township to develop backup water resources and vegetated building roofs. He also secured WCC four Department of Energy grants through his dedication to implementing campus wide sustainability practices. Vice President Flowers has received many awards throughout his tenure at Washtenaw Community College, including the Innovative Architecture and Design Award from Recreation Magazine, the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Campus USA Designation and the Grand Award from the Professional Grounds Management Awards Program. His years of hard work have impacted countless lives and forever bettered the design of WCC's campus. His leadership will be missed, and I look forward to seeing his continued contributions to our local community in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Vice President Damon B. Flowers for his outstanding service to Washtenaw Community College. His thoughtful leadership and influence will make a difference for decades to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3017, the Brownfields Enhancement, Economic Redevelopment, and Reauthorization Act of 2017. The bill before us today is a good bipartisan, compromise bill that will reauthorize $250 million in funding for the brownfields program under the Environmental Protection Agency for each fiscal year through 2021. The EPA's brownfields program has a long history of empowering States, local communities, and other stakeholders to work together to prevent contaminated sites from endangering public health and the environment. Brownfields grants continue to serve as the foundation of the EPA's brownfields program. These grants support revitalization efforts by funding environmental assessments, cleanup, and job training activities nationwide. Additionally, this bill makes a number of overall improvements to the law that will strengthen brownfields remediation into the future. In 2013, the Downriver Community Conference in my district received a brownfields funding grant to clear out asbestos and other hazardous materials from a hangar at the Willow Run Airport. Once the original home of Rosie the Riveters during World War II, today the site of the Arsenal of Democracy is now the home of the American Center for Mobility, a national DOT proving ground for the testing and validation of connected and automated vehicles, autonomous vehicles. There are many success stories like this one and all across the country that would not have been possible without brownfields grant funding. This matters. Mr. Speaker, I thank every member of the Energy and Commerce Committee for working across the aisle to find a bipartisan way forward on reauthorization. We need to do more of this. This program has proved its merits again and again and has historically had strong bipartisan support. It is my sincere hope this will carry over to today's vote and will continue through the appropriations process.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare's (NCPSSM) 35th anniversary on the day of its Anniversary Open House. NCPSSM has played a critical role in protecting Social Security and Medicare for all Americans. With the passage of Medicare in 1965 under Title XVII of the Social Security Act, our country made a promise that seniors can age with dignity and security after a lifetime of hard work. As with the implementation of any historic program, it's important that there are organizational watchdogs that ensure our government makes good on its promise to the American people. There has been no group more committed to protecting the tenets of Social Security and Medicare than NCPSSM over the past 35 years. Founded in 1982 by Congressman James Roosevelt, NCPSSM served as response to proposed changes to Social Security and Medicare during a time when 24/7 news programs did not exist and seniors needed to be informed and mobilized. NCPSSM works side by side with federal, state and local lawmakers to protect and build on the safety net programs that Americans of all ages depend on. Then, as it does now, the Committee provided seniors with a way to organize and make their voices heard by lawmakers as well as writing highly regarded, in depth analysis on Congressional legislation and Presidential Executive Orders regarding Social Security, Medicare, and the federal budget. These documents are invaluable in helping everyday Americans understand the real impact that legislation will have on their day to day life. NCPSSM's efforts have been instrumental in passing bills that better the lives of seniors and that protect Social Security and Medicare. In 2016, the Committee and its members fought hard to pass the ``Older Americans Reauthorization Act of 2016'' which funds critical services that keep older adults healthy and independent, including job training, senior centers, benefits enrollment and caregiver support. Additionally, the Committee continues to encourage Americans from all corners of the country to participate in petitions, surveys and phone banking, with a total of over 90 million petitions and letters sent to Congress and the President to date. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare and its 35 years of success. Their advocacy has influenced legislation that protects the programs seniors and hardworking Americans depend on.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this legislation because it presents us with a choice that we should not have to make. I take a backseat to nobody in this institution in terms of fighting for children and families. But we live in the United States of America, the greatest Nation in the world. I reject the notion that we have to rob Peter to pay Paul or, in this instance, jeopardize the future of Medicare and steal $6 billion from critical prevention programs to pay for children's healthcare. They are all equal priorities, and we shouldn't have to sacrifice the health of one population to pay for another. It is that simple. The changes that the bill makes to Medicare may sound innocuous--and I have great respect for the chairman--but the reality is they will threaten the future of Medicare. Means testing Social Security is a good sound bite, but it is a very slippery slope. I'm not worried about whether wealthy families can be able to afford to pay for increased Medicare premiums, but I am worried that these changes will result in wealthy people abandoning the program in large numbers, which would worsen the risk pool and ultimately increase the costs for middle- and lower-income seniors. It would fracture completely the universal nature of Medicare and put the entire program at risk. It is an unwise proposal that should be rejected.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Ken Hobbs for being named 2017 Firefighter of the Year by the Washtenaw 100 Honors' Board of Membership. He has distinguished himself through his outstanding public service and advocacy on behalf of the Ypsilanti Fire Department and community. Since joining the Ypsilanti Fire Department in 1986, Lt. Hobbs has worked tirelessly to protect Ypsilanti residents and promote a positive relationship between the department and city at large. The City of Ypsilanti Fire Department is a full-time department that provides prevention and protective fire services to Ypsilanti and the Eastern Michigan University campus, and Lt. Hobbs is well regarded by the more than 40,000 constituents served by the department. Throughout his career, he has made it a priority to give back to the community he serves by holding community fire prevention and education workshops and attending various fundraisers throughout the year. In addition to being recognized as Washtenaw 100 Honors' Firefighter of the Year, Lt. Hobbs has served as President of the Ypsilanti Firefighters Union for many years and has received widespread acclaim for promoting unity between the union and fire department. Additionally, he has played a key role in securing grants for the department through the Department of Homeland Security, which has allowed for increased firefighting staff and much-needed equipment. Their success in securing federal grants over the years speaks to the quality of their applications and the great work being done by Lt. Hobbs and his fellow firefighters. Lt. Hobbs has also been instrumental in fostering greater diversity at the department and advocated for hiring a female firefighter with a 2014 Department of Homeland Security grant. His dedication and efforts on behalf of the city of Ypsilanti are worthy of commendation, and I know that Lt. Hobbs will continue his diligent work on behalf of the area residents in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Lt. Ken Hobbs for being named Ypsilanti's Firefighter of the Year. His advocacy and service on behalf of the citizens and firefighters of our community are worthy of public acclaim.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Detective 1st Lieutenant Mary Kapp for over 33 years of distinguished service to the Michigan State Police Department. She has worked tirelessly to help keep Michigan communities safe through her career as a law enforcement officer. Lieutenant Kapp has served in the Michigan State Police Department since the 1980s. Prior to becoming a trooper, she was an athletic trainer in Lansing; she chose to pursue her dream career as a police trooper after the Michigan State Police Department dropped its height requirement. She has served in various capacities at the Michigan State Police Department, including as commander of the Monroe Post, as administrative leader of the Monroe Area Narcotics Team and Investigative Services, as a law enforcement officer overseeing Detroit casinos and as leader of the Downriver Area Narcotics Organization. The initiatives and programs implemented by Lieutenant Kapp has helped to make Michigan communities safer to live and work in. Throughout her tenure, Kapp has been a tireless advocate for drug reform and community outreach, especially to high school students. She was named the 2016 Prevention Person of the Year by the Michigan Prevention Association, in honor of her work collaborating with local organizations and coalitions. Successful programs ran by Kapp include the Downriver Anti-Trafficking Coalition, Stop Underage Drinking and Drugs Coalition, and regular visits to local high school classrooms. Kapp is committed to educating community members about substance abuse and aided the department in collecting over 990 pounds of prescription drugs in 2016. She has performed the critical work of ensuring that Michigan residents remain safe at great personal risk. She is loved in our community, and her hard work and expertise will be missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Detective 1st Lieutenant Mary Kapp for her service to the state of Michigan. She has helped make the community safer through her work and outreach.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the occasion of Western Michigan University recognizing a lifetime of work by three leaders who bonded in college and remained friends through life, by naming two residence halls within the Western Heights complex Hall-Archer-Pickard West and East. These dormitories are being renamed in celebration of three legendary Western Michigan graduates, and their legacy will inspire generations of university students to come. Ronald Hall Sr., Dennis Archer, and William Pickard attended Western Michigan University in the 1960s and enjoyed membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, America's first intercollegiate African-American fraternity. The three men's undergraduate experience at Western Michigan University instilled a desire to give back to the greater Michigan community and invest in meaningful educational and social change throughout the state. Hall, Archer, and Pickard are remembered for the close, meaningful friendship they cultivated at Western Michigan and their passion to make change after graduating. After graduating from Western Michigan University, the three men remained in Michigan to influence change to the community they love. Ronald Hall Sr. served as president of the Michigan Minority Business Development Council and founded Bridgewater Interiors, LLC. He passed away in May 2016, and is remembered for turning Michigan's Minority Business Development Council into one of the country's lead minority business organizations. Dennis Archer served as Mayor of Detroit from 1994 to 2001, and has served as president of the American Bar Association and on the Michigan Supreme Court. William Pickard is an executive member of the NAACP Detroit Branch, and is the founder of the Michigan-based Global Automotive Alliance. Their post-graduate work has impacted countless lives and opened doors wider for students of color, and their friendship is a testament to the meaningful bonds forged during college. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Western Michigan University and their three distinguished alumni, Ronald Hall Sr., Dennis Archer, and William Pickard. Their influence and community engagement will make a difference for decades to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Byron Bunker for receiving the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal. Mr. Bunker's work as Director of Compliance Programs for the Environmental Protection Agency was key to uncovering Volkswagen Group's automotive emissions evasion scheme and safeguarding public health. Since 1999, Mr. Bunker has worked for the EPA's National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which conducts tests to certify that vehicles and engines meet the United States' emissions and fuel economy standards. As Director of the NVFEL's Compliance Division, Mr. Bunker tests automobiles and their components to ensure that they comply with clean air regulations. Working in conjunction with academic researchers and other federal officials, Mr. Bunker helped uncover and halt a scheme by Volkswagen to evade emissions standards through the use of software designed to intentionally fool regulators about the true emissions levels of its diesel vehicles. This discovery eventually resulted in the largest penalty ever levied against a car manufacturer and helped lay the foundation for additional criminal investigations. These have resulted in $4.3 billion in civil and criminal penalties, as well as indictments against Volkswagen executives. Mr. Bunker's expertise and tireless efforts played a critical role in uncovering this wrongdoing and underscore the importance of the EPA's enforcement efforts. As a result of Mr. Bunker's work, the EPA was not only able to detect a sophisticated and widespread emissions evasion scheme, but also strengthen its testing procedures to prevent similar deceptions in the future. Through his rigorous work and collaboration with other officials in the EPA, Mr. Bunker has been an important driver of efforts to protect Americans' health and the environment, and it is my hope that he continues to effectively safeguard public health and safety in the years ahead. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Byron Bunker for being awarded the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal. Mr. Bunker's rigorous enforcement work has been important in protecting public health and safety.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 532.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Barbara Niess- May for her 15 years of service at SafeHouse Center in Washtenaw County. As Executive Director of SafeHouse Center, Mrs. Niess-May's leadership and expertise have impacted countless lives and greatly enhanced the Center's programming capabilities. SafeHouse Center first opened its doors in 1978 with the hope of providing leadership and support for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in Washtenaw County. The organization's founding mission has endured throughout the years, and SafeHouse has been able to expand its services through popular public support and a 1992 millage that funded a new facility with increased boarding capacity. Today, due to the Center's new location, over 5,500 women and children are served out of the shelter every year. Since joining SafeHouse as Executive Director in 2002, Mrs. Niess-May has overseen the agency's daily operations and is critical to the continued growth and success of the organization. She has advocated for survivors and implemented programs to help both women and children get back on their feet by finding safe and affordable housing, employment, and childcare. Successful SafeHouse programs include a children's playroom, Teen Voice Peer Education at local schools, and four different onsite support groups. Additionally, Mrs. Niess-May works as an adjunct faculty member at Eastern Michigan University's School of Social Work and Graduate School of Criminology, bringing her real world experience to the classroom and educating the next generation of social workers. She has saved many lives, been a shelter for those desperate for a hand, and is a leader in changing the dialogue on domestic abuse. It is my hope that Mrs. Niess-May continues to advocate on behalf of domestic violence survivors and build on her lifetime of distinguished work supporting women and children. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Barbara Niess-May for 15 years of outstanding service at SafeHouse Center. Her tenure at SafeHouse has greatly contributed to the organization's ability to provide important services and support to women in need.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mariam Saad Bazzi on her investiture as Judge of the Third Circuit Court of Wayne County. Judge Bazzi has served Wayne County and southeast Michigan with distinction and honor throughout her involvement in community organizations and previous judiciary service. After graduating from Wayne State University Law School in 2005, Judge Bazzi began her legal career as a law clerk at the Law Offices of Hamood, Runco & Fergestrom. A year later, she was hired at the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, where she most recently served as the lead attorney on the Deed and Mortgage Fraud Task Force. During her 11 year tenure at the Prosecutor's Office, Judge Bazzi also oversaw a unit that prosecutes financial crime, with a focus on complex mortgage and property related fraud, and earned respect for her commitment to the law and to the southeastern Michigan community. Her work as an assistant prosecuting attorney brought her years of experience in complex and diverse parts of the law as well as a respect and deep understanding of the role of the judiciary. Judge Bazzi has also distinguished herself through her outstanding record of community service. She served as president of the Dearborn Board of Education and chair of Henry Ford College's Board of Trustees until Governor Snyder appointed her as Wayne County Circuit judge, where her leadership was integral to the district's high graduation rates and top national ranking. Additionally, Judge Bazzi is a member of the Michigan Middle Eastern Affairs Commission, the Governor's Environmental Justice Task Force, and the Arab American Political Action Committee. Judge Bazzi has been an impactful leader and involved citizen, and it is my hope that she continues to build on her success and involvement in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Judge Mariam Bazzi for her appointment to Wayne County's Third Circuit Court. Her commitment to the rule of law and exemplary service to Wayne County will surely continue in her new role.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Chairman, while I have great respect for my friend and colleague from Georgia, this misguided amendment would undermine FDA's work to enforce the critical patient safety protections that were passed in the Drug Quality and Security Act in response to a deadly fungal meningitis outbreak that killed 22 people in my home State of Michigan. Passing this amendment could ultimately lead to another crisis like what we saw. This amendment would prohibit the FDA from finalizing a draft memorandum of understanding that outlines when and in what quantity traditional compounding pharmacies can distribute compounded drugs across State lines. Hamstringing FDA's ability to ensure that interstate shipments are only made from pharmacies in States that are exercising oversight over that activity could create a gaping loophole and would turn back the clock to the days when bad actors like NECC were free to ship tainted products and murder people across the country without oversight. It is completely unacceptable. We should be standing up for the strong patient protections in DQSA rather than turning back the clock.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, for yielding and for her leadership on making this happen, as well as thanking Chairman Latta, Chairman Walden, Ranking Member Pallone, and my good friend Fred Upton from Michigan. The hard work here has gotten us to the point where we are today. The SELF DRIVE Act is going to improve our economy and save lives on the road. Passing this bill today means we are one step closer to signing a responsible framework for the deployment of highly automated vehicles into law. It means we are going to improve mobility for seniors and people with disabilities, reduce congestion on the road, improve energy consumption, and, as everyone has said, actually improve safety on the road. More than 35,000 people died on our roadways. And as you heard Mr. Upton say, we are hearing 40,000 self-driving cars has the promise to save lives when 90 percent of those are by human error, but only if we get it right. And that is why it is so important that we study these issues and do this the right way. Our legislation ensures that safety is at the forefront by requiring manufacturers to submit safety assessment certifications before one self-driving vehicle hits the road. It also requires that manufacturers, for the very first time, submit a plan for how we will address both cybersecurity and data privacy. It is moving the needle forward on safety while providing a reactive and flexible framework for the regulation of self-driving cars. Today we are one step closer to reshaping American innovation for generations to come. We cannot let this opportunity slip by us. It is essential to ensure the future of American innovation because this is fundamentally an issue of American competitiveness. Automated vehicles are going to be developed, whether we want it or not, and it is a question about whether we are going to remain in the driver's seat and not secede it to China or India or Western Europe. The SELF DRIVE Act steers us in the right direction on these important issues.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert Cunningham Jr. for his distinguished career with the Dearborn Fire Department. For the past 25 years, Mr. Cunningham has served the City of Dearborn and its residents with distinction. As the Battalion Chief for the Dearborn Fire Department, Mr. Cunningham oversees the operation of several fire stations and fire companies that serve the City of Dearborn as well as nearby Melvindale. As a key member of the 140-man department, Mr. Cunningham helped coordinate the response to fires and other emergencies, and served as a liaison between the department and the communities in which it operates. Throughout his career, Mr. Cunningham established a reputation as a dedicated and welcoming presence in the community, and is well known among his peers for his leadership and expertise. He has received multiple commendations for his service, including a Certificate of Special Recognition for going above and beyond the call of service, as well as multiple Meritorious Company Commendations and Fire Chief Unit Life Saving Awards for his actions in the line of duty. Mr. Cunningham's work with the Dearborn Fire Department played a key role in protecting the health and safety of the residents of Dearborn and surrounding communities. As a leader in the department, Mr. Cunningham helped the firefighters handle an increasing number of calls for service throughout his tenure, including 15,000 in 2016 alone. His courageous actions throughout his career helped save lives while safeguarding his fellow firefighters and emergency responders. Mr. Cunningham's career and actions embody the values of public service, and he will be missed as he retires from his current position. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Robert Cunningham Jr. for his career with the Dearborn Fire Department. Mr. Cunningham's work has helped save lives and make Dearborn a safe place to live and work.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Bob Allison for his outstanding career in Michigan broadcast media and community activism. For the past 55 years, Mr. Allison has brought joy to countless households through his ``Ask Your Neighbor'' radio program and work in the Detroit community. In February 1962, Mr. Allison launched his ``Ask Your Neighbor'' program on WWJ-AM in Detroit, Michigan, and the program quickly became a staple of southeast Michigan culture. A light and conversational radio program, ``Ask Your Neighbor'' is a two-hour call-in show featuring area residents sharing recipes, helpful tips and community news moderated by Mr. Allison. The program is well-known as a civil forum that brings listeners together, with Mr. Allison receiving acclaim for his polite and genial rapport with callers. In addition, Mr. Allison also hosted ``Bowling for Dollars'', a popular game show in the 1970s that awarded prizes based on contestants' performance in a game of bowling. He is also known for his work and involvement with charitable causes in the Detroit community. An accomplished pianist, Mr. Allison has performed at local service club meetings, weddings and other events. He and his wife, Maggie, have also generously underwritten many charitable endeavors and nonprofits, including donations to Wayne State University's Department of Dance and local healthcare organizations. Mr. Allison's career and work have helped shape the direction of Detroit culture and played an important role in the city's development. His kind demeanor and involvement with local organizations have made him beloved figure, and he is well-known among the community for his philanthropic work. He continues to serve as a host of ``Ask Your Neighbor'', which remains popular among Detroit-area listeners. He has been a strong voice for the city and its residents, it is my hope that he remains engaged in the community in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Bob Allison for his career in media and involvement with Detroit-area nonprofit and charitable organizations. Mr. Allison has impacted countless lives through his work.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Pastor Phillip L. Ferrell for his 25 years as Pastor of the Mt. Hermon Baptist Church in Belleville, Michigan. Pastor Ferrell has provided important spiritual leadership and community assistance during his decades of service. A lifelong resident of southeast Michigan, Pastor Ferrell has been a strong voice for justice and recognized leader in the community. He gave his first sermon in 1990 and served under Rev. Garther Roberson Jr. in the Mount Olive Baptist Church in Ypsilanti, Michigan, as an Associate Pastor until 1992. In June 1992, Pastor Ferrell was named as Pastor of the Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, where he has served since. Throughout his tenure, Pastor Ferrell has distinguished himself as a pillar of the southeast Michigan community. In addition to serving as a spiritual leader through his work with the church, Pastor Ferrell has been involved with nonprofits as a member of the Washtenaw County Literacy Council, which provides tutoring and books for needy children, as well as the local branch of the NAACP. These efforts have helped provide important aid to area residents in need. Pastor Ferrell's leadership has helped create a vibrant and thriving community in southeast Michigan. He is well regarded among his peers, having served as President of the Ministers' Alliance of Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor and Vicinity. In this position, Pastor Ferrell helped promote unity and social justice by leading a group of ministers based in southeast Michigan in coordinating their outreach and efforts to address issues facing the region. He currently serves as Treasurer for the organization and continues to remain active in a number of other charitable causes and religious groups. He has been an effective advocate in the ministry and in the community, and it is my hope that Pastor Ferrell continues to serve as a leader and remain engaged with these causes in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Pastor Phillip Ferrell for his 25 years as Pastor of the Mt. Hermon Baptist Church. Pastor Ferrell's religious leadership and activism have impacted countless lives.