Debbie Dingell

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Taylor Conservatory Foundation for its conservation initiatives in Southeast Michigan. The organization has contributed to a more sustainable and livable southeast Michigan that benefits both residents and visitors. The Taylor Conservatory Foundation was incorporated in 2005 to protect and preserve the natural environment and promote the arts and sciences while creating more sustainable public spaces. Since its inception, the organization has maintained the Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a park containing a garden that is open to the public. The Taylor Conservancy Foundation also promotes community garden development and sponsors educational programs to raise awareness about the effects and importance of conservation on the environment. In addition, the foundation hosts a variety of community events, including a summertime Music & Arts in the Gardens series to promote community development while furthering the organization's sustainability goals. Michigan's environmental heritage is fundamental to its identity and economic health, and it is critical that we continue to safeguard it for future generations. The Taylor Conservancy Foundation, through its conservation work and efforts to raise public awareness of environmental issues, has played an important role in protecting the environment and public spaces in the State of Michigan. Its efforts have been critical to providing education about environmental issues and ensuring that southeast Michigan residents remain well-informed about the social, educational and environmental needs of our country. The growth and development of the Taylor Conservancy Foundation is a testament to the positive impact the group has had on the wider Michigan community, and it is my hope that it continues to further its mission of upholding conservation and sustainability of the environment in Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the growth and success of the Taylor Conservancy Foundation. The organization continues to play a leading role in addressing environmental conservation through its initiatives.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of the Michigan Tech Research Institute on the date of its 10th anniversary celebration. Located in Ann Arbor as a division of Michigan Technological University, MTRI has driven advancements in sensor and information technology to help solve critical problems in a variety of fields. Michigan Tech Research Institute was founded in October 2006 with the goal of utilizing Michigan Tech's resources and expertise to transform research findings into commercial products with real-world applications. The institute has focused on using technology to better understand natural and manmade environments. Today, MTRI supports 64 researchers in over 17,000 square feet of space and has drawn support from federal, industry and universities across North America. MTRI has leveraged cutting-edge academic research to create solutions to real-world problems. Its work on mapping coastal wetlands in the Great Lakes region has been used by federal, state and local agencies to better manage and conserve the environment in these areas. Additionally, MTRI has been able to map the spread of algal blooms in Lake Erie, which has allowed researchers and environmental groups to better understand and combat the spread of this environmental phenomenon. It has also collaborated with federal government agencies like DARPA on defense applications of its research. MTRI has served as a model of collaboration between the public, private and non-profit sectors. By bringing key stakeholders and experts together to tackle environmental, infrastructure and national security challenges, the institute has created breakthroughs in a variety of fields while supporting basic and applied research initiatives. This multidisciplinary approach will continue to be useful for addressing problems at the cross-section of different fields and disciplines, and MTRI's consistent revenue and sponsorship growth is a testament to the success of its organizational model. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the success of the Michigan Tech Research Institute. It is my hope that the organization will continue to build on its track record of success and innovation.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the Arab American Chamber of Commerce for its economic and trade development efforts. The Chamber has served the Michigan community well, and we wish them continued success in helping to build a vibrant and diverse economy for our region and state. Founded in 1992, the American Arab Chamber of Commerce has worked to support the Arab American business community through its networking and development efforts. The Chamber facilitates delegations between Michigan and U.S.- based companies and those in the Middle East. It also provides information and resources regarding opportunities in the Middle Eastern market. As the largest Arab American business organization in the United States, the Arab American Chamber of Commerce has attracted numerous corporate sponsors in its effort to build economic bridges between different cultures. The Commerce's activities have not only led to increased business opportunities among companies in the Arab American community, but its efforts to promote greater economic ties have also improved intercultural dialogue between the Arab American community and its partners. It is great to see the positive impact the Chamber has had in building bridges and promoting greater cultural understanding between Arab American businesses and the community at large. It is my hope that the organization continues to play a leadership role in creating lasting bonds between different cultures and communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the Arab American Chamber of Commerce for its economic and trade development efforts. The Chamber has served the Michigan community well and is committed to work toward success moving forward.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of the Messias Temple Church. It is my honor and privilege to recognize the contributions Messias Temple Church has made to our community. Established in 1941 by John T. Elder and Sister Laura Elder, the Ypsilanti Messias Temple Church is dedicated to building a permanent sanctuary for people of the community to have a place to connect with each other, and strengthen their faith. Messias was built on a principle that welcomed people of all walks of life, giving positions of leadership not common within the Church for its time. In 1949 after the passing of Elder John T. Elder, his widowed wife, Sister Laura Elder, was elected as Church Pastor and remained until her retirement in 1974, demonstrating that this Church would celebrate the diversity of Ypsilanti, and lead by progressive example. Jesse Ross was then chosen to serve as pastor, and personally led the congregation to its new permanent home on Harriet Street in 1984. Pastor Ross continued to serve until his death in 1991, when Harry Grayson was selected to continue the proud tradition of service and leadership. Today we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Messias Temple Church, as well as the 25th anniversary of Suffragan Bishop Grayson's appointment. Providing strong leadership within the community has long been the cornerstone of Messias Temple Church, and the tradition continues as the church looks forward to the next 75 years of serving the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in gratitude to honor the 75th anniversary of Messias Temple Church. For seventy-five years now, Messias Temple has displayed an immense passion and deep devotion for improving the lives of its members, and also the people of Ypsilanti, and we wish them many more years of success.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. on its outstanding work and its exceptional service on the date of its 75th Anniversary Dinner. The Tuskegee Airmen were courageous individuals who served the United States with dignity during World War II while pioneering efforts to improve racial equality. The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of young men and women who volunteered to become America's first African-American military airmen during World War II. These individuals distinguished themselves through an exemplary combat record, as well as their bravery and sacrifice. Approximately 1,000 pilots and 15,000 ground personnel served in thousands of combat sorties during the war, earning a record of distinction that persists to this day. The Tuskegee Airmen's record of service also broke down barriers and was instrumental in President Harry S. Truman's decision to desegregate the United States Armed Forces in 1948. The Tuskegee Airmen were instrumental in helping the United States win the Second World War while furthering racial equality and equal opportunity. These brave men and women stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American ideals of bravery. The work of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. is critical to preserving the historic legacy of these individuals, and I congratulate them on the organization's success in raising awareness of the importance of their contribution to American progress. Events like the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc.,'s 75th Anniversary dinner are critical to keeping their legacy alive, and it is my hope that the group continues to build on its record of success to preserve the memory of these men and women and their historic accomplishments. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. The organization has worked tirelessly to preserve the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen for future generations and raise awareness about their role in American history.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael B. Staebler, a leader in Michigan's legal community, on the day of his retirement. Mr. Staebler has served the state of Michigan in a variety of roles throughout his distinguished career. Mr. Staebler graduated from the University of Michigan Law School in 1969 and has extensive experience in the legal field. From 1975 to 1980, Mr. Staebler was the president and CEO of Michigan Capital and Service Inc., a Small Business Investment Corporation (SBIC) that provided financing for small businesses in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He has served on several advisory boards and trade groups, including working on the Small Business Committee of the American Bar Association. Mr. Staebler has also been a partner for Pepper Hamilton, LLP, where he led the firm's practice on the formation and development of SBICs. Mr. Staebler's work with Pepper Hamilton has focused on small business financing. As a partner of the firm and leader of its SBIC practice, he has helped create over 270 SBICs, which have provided startup funding for hundreds of small businesses across the country. Additionally, Mr. Staebler serves as co-chair of the firm's Funds Services Group, a division of the firm that provides advisory services for investment advisors and managers. He has served as counsel to numerous venture capital and public employee pension funds to help them better manage their investment activities. Mr. Staebler has been active in a variety of community groups and nonprofit organizations. He has been the director for the American Heart Association and Legal Aid as well as the Defender's Association of Michigan. Mr. Staebler has also utilized his small business expertise to promote economic development in the state of Michigan. He has worked as the director of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Ann Arbor SPARK, public-private partnerships that encourage entrepreneurship and business formation in Michigan. In addition, Mr. Staebler has supported individual rights and freedoms through his involvement with the American Civil Liberties Union. He served as co-chair of the ACLU Michigan Annual Dinner in 2011 and 2012 and has been instrumental in helping provide resources and raising awareness on behalf of the organization. Mr. Staebler has been widely acclaimed for his work and has been named one of the Best Lawyers in America by his peers. He is recognized as one of the foremost experts in the area of small business financing and has lectured extensively on his experiences in his practice. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the career and achievements of Michael B. Staebler. His achievements in business and the community are a testament to his hard work and character, and his outstanding work on behalf of the state of Michigan have been critical to driving innovation and attracting jobs to the state.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Laurel Call for her service as a member of the Congressional Award Board of Directors. The United States Congress established the Congressional Award in 1979 to recognize initiative, achievement, and service in young people. It began as a bipartisan effort in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives. The original bill was sponsored by the late Senator Malcolm Wallop of Wyoming and the late Congressman James Howard of New Jersey. Originally signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, the legislation (Public Law 96-114) established the Congressional Award as a public-private partnership, which receives all funding from the private sector. Every president since, both Democratic and Republican, have signed legislation to continue the program. The Congressional Award Board of Directors is comprised of 48 members and supports the work of the foundation by providing mission-based leadership and strategic governance. Every member of the Board serves as a volunteer to help make the program a national opportunity available in every congressional district. During this past year, over 40,000 participants from all 50 states were actively working toward earning a Congressional Award and 5,000 new participants enrolled in the program. Since its inception, over 7 million hours of service have been contributed to communities nationwide. The example set by Laurel is one we all should strive for. Her willingness to serve her community and our nation's young people sets her apart as an outstanding individual, and I have been honored to serve alongside of her as Leader Pelosi's congressional appointee to the Board. I ask that all of my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me in thanking Laurel for her service and wishing her nothing but continued success.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dan Cohen for his service as a member of the Congressional Award Board of Directors. The United States Congress established the Congressional Award in 1979 to recognize initiative, achievement, and service in young people. It began as a bipartisan effort in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives. The original bill was sponsored by the late Senator Malcolm Wallop of Wyoming and the late Congressman James Howard of New Jersey. Originally signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, the legislation (Public Law 96-114) established the Congressional Award as a public-private partnership, which receives all funding from the private sector. Every president since, both Democratic and Republican, have signed legislation to continue the program. The Congressional Award Board of Directors is comprised of 48 members and supports the work of the foundation by providing mission-based leadership and strategic governance. Every member of the Board serves as a volunteer to help make the program a national opportunity available in every congressional district. During this past year, over 40,000 participants from all 50 states were actively working toward earning a Congressional Award and 5,000 new participants enrolled in the program. Since its inception, over 7 million hours of service have been contributed to communities nationwide. The example set by Dan is one we all should strive for. His willingness to serve his community and our nation's young people sets him apart as an outstanding individual, and I have been honored to serve alongside of him as Leader Pelosi's congressional appointee to the Board. I ask that all of my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me in thanking Dan for his service and wishing him nothing but continued success.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Paul Kelly for his service as a member of the Congressional Award Board of Directors. The United States Congress established the Congressional Award in 1979 to recognize initiative, achievement, and service in young people. It began as a bipartisan effort in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives. The original bill was sponsored by the late Senator Malcolm Wallop of Wyoming and the late Congressman James Howard of New Jersey. Originally signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, the legislation (Public Law 96-114) established the Congressional Award as a public-private partnership, which receives all funding from the private sector. Every president since, both Democratic and Republican, have signed legislation to continue the program. The Congressional Award Board of Directors is comprised of 48 members and supports the work of the foundation by providing mission-based leadership and strategic governance. Every member of the Board serves as a volunteer to help make the program a national opportunity available in every congressional district. During this past year, over 40,000 participants from all 50 states were actively working toward earning a Congressional Award and 5,000 new participants enrolled in the program. Since its inception, over 7 million hours of service have been contributed to communities nationwide. The example set by Paul is one we all should strive for. His willingness to serve his community and our nation's young people sets him apart as an outstanding individual, and I have been honored to serve alongside of him as Leader Pelosi's congressional appointee to the Board. I ask that all of my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me in thanking Paul for his service and wishing him nothing but continued success.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Patrick McLain for his service as a member of the Congressional Award Board of Directors. The United States Congress established the Congressional Award in 1979 to recognize initiative, achievement, and service in young people. It began as a bipartisan effort in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives. The original bill was sponsored by the late Senator Malcolm Wallop of Wyoming and the late Congressman James Howard of New Jersey. Originally signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, the legislation (Public Law 96-114) established the Congressional Award as a public-private partnership, which receives all funding from the private sector. Every president since, both Democratic and Republican, have signed legislation to continue the program. The Congressional Award Board of Directors is comprised of 48 members and supports the work of the foundation by providing mission-based leadership and strategic governance. Every member of the Board serves as a volunteer to help make the program a national opportunity available in every congressional district. During this past year, over 40,000 participants from all 50 states were actively working toward earning a Congressional Award and 5,000 new participants enrolled in the program. Since its inception, over 7 million hours of service have been contributed to communities nationwide. The example set by Patrick is one we all should strive for. His willingness to serve his community and our nation's young people sets him apart as an outstanding individual, and I have been honored to serve alongside of him as Leader Pelosi's congressional appointee to the Board. I ask that all of my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me in thanking Patrick for his service and wishing him nothing but continued success.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Arab American Civil Rights League on the day of the organization's 5th annual Fight for Justice Gala. The ACRL plays an integral role in advocating on behalf of the constitutional and civil rights of Arab Americans through its legal and outreach efforts and continues to serve as a driving force toward meaningful change. The ACRL was founded in 2011 in Dearborn, Michigan to protect and advocate on behalf of the wider Arab American community. The organization acts as a conduit between Arab Americans and the media to ensure adequate and accurate representation on issues affecting the Arab American community. The ACRL is dedicated to combating negative stereotypes through education and outreach, and providing legal representation for individuals whose civil rights have been violated. The organization plays a vital role in addressing discrimination and helps shape public policy initiatives that protect and preserve Arab Americans' civil rights. ACRL also works to better the wider community through charitable efforts, including recent efforts to provide bottled water to families in Flint. The ACRL has effectively served the Arab American community at a time when the principles of religious tolerance and respect are under threat. The ACRL's efforts show that, in a time of uncertainty, there is far more that unites us than divides us. We must all come together to combat the most extreme elements of society while recognizing our common humanity. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the ACRL. The organization serves in the public interest through its anti- discrimination initiatives, and it is my hope that it continues to be an effective advocate for the Arab American community.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 35th anniversary of Athena International. Athena International strives to create balance in leadership worldwide by seeking to encourage, educate, and support our next generation of female leaders. Its roots trace back to Michigan where it began as a local program, and it has grown into a global movement, serving to inspire female leaders both domestically and throughout the globe. Founded in 1982 by Martha Mertz, Athena International began as a small non-profit organization in Lansing, Michigan. Recognizing a need for stronger female leadership in her business community, Mertz launched the Athena Award program. This award would go to individuals who not only excelled at their professions, but who also gave back to their communities and helped motivate others in their communities to lead, particularly women. Additionally, the organization developed the Athena Leadership Model, a program seeking to best prepare women to be successful leaders. This model identifies eight distinct attributes for women in leadership: Authentic Self, Relationships, Giving Back, Collaboration, Courageous Acts, Learning, Fierce Advocacy, Celebration and Joy. These personal traits are intuitive for women, and when paired with traditional leadership characteristics, prepare them to become leaders. Martha Mertz's vision has become a global movement. There have now been over 7,000 recipients of the Athena Award, with these awards presented in 500 communities throughout 8 countries. The organization continues to provide awards to individuals who empower women and best position them to become our future leaders, and provides an annual leadership forum and luncheon for female leaders to make meaningful connections with one another. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Athena International Organization. Their commitment to preparing our future leaders deserves praise, and we wish them many more years of success and prosperity.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 543.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember a friend and dear colleague who was taken from us far too soon. Congressman Mark Takai was a true statesman, public servant and an inspiration to each and every person who had the honor of knowing him. All of us in this Chamber are heartbroken by this loss. Throughout his life--as a National Guardsmen, a leader in the Hawaii state legislature, and as a Member of Congress, Mark epitomized what it means to serve. He fought tenaciously to better the lives of his constituents, and showed courage and strength in the face of adversity. Mark loved his family--his wife Sami and his children Matthew and Kaila. He wanted to make this country better for them and for everyone who calls it home. Mark was an example of what Congress should be, and his legacy will live on through his vision and unyielding commitment to bettering the lives of others. My sincerest thoughts and prayers continue to be with Mark's family. I can only imagine the sense of loss they feel, because I lost a friend and there is a hole in my heart. We thank them for sharing Mark with us. May they find comfort in knowing that his impact on the American people and the people of Hawaii is indelible and will not be forgotten.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the House of Representatives prepares to leave Washington for seven weeks--52 days-- without addressing some of the most critical issues we face. Instead of working together--Republicans and Democrats--toward meaningful solutions to protect the American people, Congress spent this week debating a bunch of bills that will never become law. Meanwhile, we have failed to meaningfully respond to the Flint water crisis, which has left families in my home state of Michigan reeling for months. We have failed to provide critical resources to respond to the Zika health crisis. And we have failed to come together around reasonable solutions to the gun violence epidemic plaguing this country. I am embarrassed to be a Member of this body. We need to do the job the American people elected us to do. We need to come together to find solutions to the biggest problems we face. That's what we were sent here to do. That's what the American people expect and it's what they deserve. Let's do our job.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mary Jezowski- Surge, a longtime Michigan resident, and an original Rosie the Riveter. Mary was born on September 1, 1922 and is celebrating her 94th birthday this year. Mary and the original Rosie the Riveters paved the way for women in the workforce, forever changing our nation with their bravery, grace and gusto. In World War II, enlistment left gaping holes in the labor force, prompting women to join the ranks of male factory workers. These inspiring women were collectively nicknamed ``Rosie the Riveter'' and worked building planes, tanks, and other armaments for soldiers fighting abroad. Mary worked at the Cadillac Plant in Detroit building tanks for American troops. She began her time in the factory as a grinder, eventually becoming a welder. She recalls the thrill that came with climbing up on top of the tanks to do her welding. Mary eventually left the Cadillac Plant to begin work at the Lincoln Plant where she built airplane engines. More than 310,000 women joined the U.S. aircraft industry in 1943, comprising a stunning 65 percent of the aviation industry's total workforce. Mary and other women who worked in Michigan's aviation plants were honored for their efforts and have their names engraved on a plaque at Yankee Air Museum in Belleville, Michigan. The contributions of Mary and the original Rosie the Riveters made victory in World War II possible, and their patriotism and hard work will forever remain part of the American story. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Mary for her contributions to the war effort, and for her fearlessness as a trailblazer for women in the workforce. The values that Mary and the Rosies embodied--patriotism, bravery and resolve--are ones we all must strive to emulate. The Rosies are a vitally important part of American history, and their impact on the workforce will never diminish. Their story is one we will continue to share with our children and grandchildren for generations to come, and their spirit and legacy will forever remind us that we all wield the power to positively contribute to our country.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the House of Representatives prepares to leave Washington for 7 weeks--52 days-- without addressing some of the most critical issues we face in this country. Instead of working together, Democrats and Republicans, towards meaningful solutions to protect the American people, we spent the week debating bills that are going to go absolutely nowhere. Our constituents are tired of our not getting things done. We have failed to meaningfully respond to the Flint water crisis, which has left families in my home State of Michigan reeling for too long. My women friends are afraid to go outside because they are afraid they are going to be bitten by a mosquito, and we failed to provide critical resources to respond to the Zika health crisis. When I meet with victims of domestic violence, which I do quietly every week, they want to know why can't we just talk about it. People want to know why I am coming home for so long. They want action in this Chamber. We need to do the job the American people elected us to do. We need to come together to find solutions to the bigger problems we face. Let's do our job.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Juanita Tunis, a longtime resident of Livonia, Michigan and an original Rosie the Riveter. Juanita was born on November 18, 1913 and passed peacefully on May 23, 2016 in South Lyon, Michigan. She lived her full life of 102 years as the cherished matriarch of her family, and an American hero. Juanita was among the trailblazing women who stepped up during World War II to fill the industry positions traditionally held by men. Collectively nicknamed ``Rosie the Riveter'', these inspiring women entered the workforce with grace and gusto to build planes, tanks and other armaments that sustained the war effort and kept American industry afloat. Juanita worked for three years at the Willow Run Bomber Plant in Ypsilanti building B-24 bombers. She often recalled the camaraderie among the women working at the plant, and remembered the bus rides to and from work with her fellow Rosies with particular fondness. In a time of worldwide strife, these pioneering women pulled together and went to work every day to keep our country going. The contributions of Juanita and the original Rosie the Riveters made victory in World War II possible, and their patriotism and hard work will forever remain part of the American story. They instilled a newfound hope in their communities, embodying positivity in a time of great turmoil and uncertainty, and inspired a social movement that forever redefined the role of women in the workplace. The number of working women in the United States increased to 20 million in 1944, and has never since fallen to pre-war levels. Juanita and her fellow Rosies paved the way for generations to follow. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Juanita Tunis for her contributions to the war and her role in inspiring generations of American women. Her story is one that embodies the best of American values and spirit and one that we will continue to share with our children and grandchildren for decades to come. The values that Juanita and the Rosies embodied patriotism, bravery and resolve are ones we all must strive to emulate. We salute the Rosies for their contribution to American history. Their legacy will forever remind us that we all have the power to do something more for our country.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of The Roeper School. This anniversary is a reflection of the hard work of the students, faculty and staff of The Roeper School that have established a legacy of educational excellence which continues to this day. Ever since George and Annemarie Roeper founded The Roeper School in 1941, it has been a leader in gifted education. George and Annemarie were refugees from Germany and witnessed first-hand the full measure of the human cost of Hitler's Third Reich. They dedicated their lives to creating an environment in which a powerful few would never again be able to impose their will upon an unchallenging majority. The Roeper School has been known for educating and empowering children at every level and instilling the attitudes, values and skills that will enable them to be leaders in the community. The school the Roepers founded continues to be a highly valued resource for gifted education, consulting on educational projects as varied as the creation of Children's Television Workshop, to the publications of the President's Council on Gifted Education. The Roeper School continues to fulfill its mission: educating and inspiring gifted students to think as individuals and engage as a community with compassion for each other and this world. Their current ``no cut'' policy allows all students to participate in sports they wish to play. Roeper students pursue a challenging curriculum in math, science, arts and technology that prepares them for college and beyond. The Roeper School has a dedication to diversity, democracy, and community service that dates to its founding and is still very present today. Armed with a first class education, Roeper graduates have gone on to make extraordinary contributions to our society in every imaginable field of study and work. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring the 75th anniversary of The Roeper School. For 75 years, The Roeper School has supported students' academic, intellectual, emotional and social growth and we wish them many more successful years to come.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Phyllis Roullier, a longtime resident of Belleville, Michigan and an original Rosie the Riveter. Phyllis was born on August 24, 1924 and has lived her full life as the cherished matriarch of her family, and an American hero. Phyllis was among the trailblazing women who stepped up during World War II to fill the industry positions traditionally held by men. Collectively nicknamed ``Rosie the Riveter'', these inspiring women entered the workforce with grace and gusto to build planes, tanks and other armaments that sustained the war effort and kept American industry afloat. Phyllis was 18 when she started working at the Willow Run Bomber Plant in Ypsilanti dimpling airplane skins. She recalls carpooling to work with other women from Detroit and having to pool gas stamps in order to make it to work every day. To this day, Phyllis proudly recalls the remarkable contributions of the Rosies at Willow Run, who produced more aircraft every month than Imperial Japan did in a year, earning Willow Run, and the area surrounding southeast Michigan, worldwide fame as the center of America's ``Arsenal of Democracy''. The contributions of Phyllis and the original Rosie the Riveters made victory in World War II possible, and their patriotism and hard work will forever remain part of the American story. They instilled a newfound hope in their communities, embodying positivity in a time of great turmoil and uncertainty, and inspired a social movement that forever redefined the role of women in the workplace. The number of working women in the United States increased to 20 million in 1944, and has never since fallen to pre-war levels. Phyllis and her fellow Rosies paved the way for generations to follow. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Phyllis Roullier for her contributions to the war and her role in inspiring generations of American women. Her story is one that embodies the best of American values and spirit and one that we will continue to share with our children and grandchildren for decades to come. The values that Phyllis and the Rosies embodied--patriotism, bravery and resolve-- are ones we all must strive to emulate. We salute the Rosies for their contribution to American history. Their legacy will forever remind us that we all have the power to do something more for our community and our country.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Chair, my amendment strikes language in the bill that would exempt a number of potentially damaging activities in our national forests from full consideration under the National Environmental Policy Act. Simply put, this sort of language has no place in an appropriations bill. Our national forests are a true public legacy that sustains both our environment and our economy. They provide clean air, clean water, precious wildlife habitat, and they support approximately 450,000 jobs throughout the country. We should all be coming together to ensure that our forests are healthy and that future generations will be able to enjoy them. Yet, the language that my amendment proposes to strike could allow many types of damaging activities to occur in our national forests without a full review under the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, as we call it. NEPA has a simple premise; you look before you leap. This landmark law gives the public an opportunity to review and comment on actions proposed by the government, adding unique perspectives to the evaluation process that highly specialized, mission-driven agencies might otherwise ignore. The underlying legislation proposes to make six different activities in our national forests eligible for a categorical exclusion under NEPA, which means a full review would not be conducted and the public would not have the right to be heard. While some of these activities may be appropriate to consider for a categorical exclusion, they should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and should not automatically be eligible for categorical exclusion, as this legislation proposes. As the Council on Environmental Quality has stated: ``Categorical exclusions are appropriate in many circumstances but should not be relied on if they thwart the purposes of NEPA, compromising the quality and transparency of agency decisionmaking or the opportunity for meaningful public participation.'' I couldn't agree with them more. CEQ was right, and that is exactly what this bill proposes to do. As an example, the underlying bill proposes to exclude all activities related to reducing hazardous fuel loads from a full NEPA review. This makes little sense. If a hazardous fuel load reduction is not done properly, it could destroy an entire forest. This is exactly the sort of activity that should have a thorough and comprehensive NEPA review. I hope my colleagues will join me in standing up for public participation in government decisionmaking by supporting this amendment. Madam Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Chair, I want to quickly respond to the comments made by my dear friend. We are good friends, and we all do need to work together to protect our great lands in this country, but I would respectfully disagree. I have nothing but the utmost respect for both of my Republican colleagues that I hate disagreeing with, and we agree on the same goal, but I respectfully disagree on your disagreeing on my amendment. Some of these activities may be appropriate for a categorical exclusion, but that should be decided by the agency on a case-by-case basis, not be dictated by Congress, which you tell us many times, in an appropriations bill. Make no mistake, mandating the use of categorical exclusions, like this bill proposes, is simply a ruse to make an end run around NEPA and the public process that is so important to it. We often hear that NEPA is a scapegoat for projects being delayed, and I would not want that to be the case; but GAO and others have found that outside issues, including the complexity of the project, local opposition and, most importantly, funding issues, are almost always the cause of the delays. We shouldn't be limiting public comments and involvement in government decisions, but, instead, should be enhancing them. This bill does the opposite, and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 25th anniversary of the Superior Township Chapter of the Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy. The Superior Township Chapter (STC) of the Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy (SMLC) has protected and preserved the natural habitats of Superior Township for the last 25 years. Starting with humble origins as a committee of the Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy, this group of active citizens formed to protect what was deemed the ``last frontier'' between Ann Arbor and Detroit in order to maintain the rural character and natural ecosystems of Superior Township. Since 1991, the STC has been steadfast in its dedication to protecting this land, fostering a healthy environment, and engaging and educating the public about the need for conservation. Started after a class lecture at Henry Ford Community College, Bill Secrest and Jack Smiley began organizing interested citizens with the goal of advancing environmental preservation. From the start of this project with the generous donation of thirty acres to establish the Springhill Nature Preserve, the STC has continued to grow and has not looked back. The STC now protects over twenty four hundred acres in our community, safeguarding this precious natural habitat and resources for future generations. Today the STC operates twelve nature preserves which are all open to the public and the new Superior Greenway Nature Trail, which is a project that leads the way in environmental maintenance, preservation, and education. The STC has implemented a long term plan for the nature preserves which will ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy them. Our natural resources are invaluable and must continue to be cherished and protected. The Superior Township Chapter has worked tirelessly with local stakeholders to ensure environmental harmony and preservation in Superior Township and beyond, and for that we owe them a great deal of gratitude. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 25th anniversary of the Superior Township Chapter of the Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy. We look forward to their next twenty five years of success and beyond.