Debbie Dingell

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Aubrey Patino, the Executive Director of Avalon Housing in Ann Arbor, MI. After eighteen years with Avalon, including seven as ED, she is moving on. Her work in service to the homeless population of Washtenaw County is worthy of commendation. Aubrey graduated from Western Michigan University in 2004 before achieving her Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan in 2005. During this time, she was an assistant at the Michigan Neighborhood Partnership in Detroit as well as an intern with Avalon. Before coming onto Avalon's team full time, she was the Intensive Case Manager at the Downtown Emergency Service Center in Seattle, WA, where she dealt with Homeless Outreach and Transition. Aubrey joined the Avalon team in 2007 where she started as a Senior Property Manager. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the Housing Support Services Leader in 2010 and the Associate Director of Avalon Housing in 2012. In 2014, as one of five homeless services providers across the country, she was invited by the National Alliance to End Homelessness to complete the Transatlantic Practice Exchange, where she went to the United Kingdom and studied best practices in the field of housing and homelessness. Her experience in the UK still guides her work in Washtenaw County to this day. In 2017, Aubrey was selected as the new Executive Director of Avalon Housing. Her tenure at the helm has been a world of change and has been a boon to the homeless in her community. Aubrey's work on supportive housing funding has resulted in growing and innovative efforts. As a key member of the Washtenaw Housing Alliance, Aubrey helped develop the City of Ann Arbor's affordable housing millage ballot initiative, which citizens overwhelmingly supported. This millage provides a significant, ongoing source of financing for affordable housing development. Aubrey has also consistently advocated for harm reduction across the agency and the community, using a compassionate, evidence-based model for engaging people who struggle with substance use disorders. She continues to advocate for unarmed crisis responses at Avalon properties and throughout the community. Aubrey has also built productive relationships with local law enforcement. Aubrey's efforts have in turn led to Avalon providing full-time staff at the Washtenaw County jail to support returning citizens. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognition of Aubrey Patino's hard work and dedication to the homeless community. Though we will miss her presence at Avalon, she has set them on a great path of success. We wish her the best in her future endeavors, and thank her for her service. I thank Aubrey.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and life-saving actions of Kadri Cakrani, an Albanian national who served his country in resistance to the Nazis during the Second World War. His service to the Allied war effort and his efforts at democratization afterwards are worthy of commendation. At the outbreak of WWII, General Cakrani served as the Commandant- General of the Berat region of Albania. During the German occupation of his nation, General Kadri protected the people of Berat, including over 600 Jewish refugees, from becoming victims of the Holocaust. His heroic acts include hiding and protecting sacred 6th century biblical texts from Nazi looting and, under the threat of death, repeatedly lying about the whereabouts of Jews in the area, many of whom sheltered within his own house. After a United States Army plane crash landed, General Cakrani hid the three surviving Army nurses for over five months before successfully and secretly returning them to the Allies. When the communist dictator Enver Hoxha came to power in 1944, General Cakrani was now labeled an enemy of the state. With the assistance of British Intelligence, he escaped, spending time in Italy and Syria before President Truman granted him political asylum in the United States in 1951. He arrived on our shores with the clothes on his back and $7 in his pocket, dedicating the rest of his life to bring democracy back to Albania. Until his death in 1972 he worked closely with U.S. Intelligence, but was unable to share his story publicly due to the danger it would undoubtedly put his family in who remained in Albania. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating and honoring the life and service of Commandant-General Kadri Cakrani. Despite the constant threats to his life, he took on the responsibility of protecting Albanians, Americans, and anybody else who were fleeing the Nazi regime. Though not an American, he spent his entire life fighting for the same things we hold dear: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I thank him for his service, and thank his surviving family, including his grandson, Lee, who lives in my district, for sharing his amazing story with the world.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Pastor Samuel Lee Peppers and to grieve his passing. A dedicated public servant, his devotion to his community, state, and nation is worthy of remembrance and commendation. Pastor Samuel was born on October 16, 1949 in Itta Bena, Mississippi as the 2nd of 11 children in the Peppers family. He graduated from Valley State University before furthering his education at the University of Kentucky. After graduating from UK, he was recruited to the University of Michigan to continue his studies, where he eventually was employed in the Printing Department for over 30 years. Pastor Samuel came to faith at an early age, and when he moved up to the University of Michigan, he found a new home in the Greater Fountain Church of God in Christ in Ann Arbor. He served there for over 50 years, having been their Pastor since 1995. His motto was ``You have to be `FAT': Faithful, Available, and Teachable to Serve the Lord!'' Known by many in his community as a ``living embodiment of the Word of God'', he was a man of great integrity and wisdom whose influence will be felt long after his passing. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating and honoring the life and service of Pastor Samuel Lee Peppers. A spiritual leader to many, his presence will be greatly missed but his memory will live on in his three brothers, six sisters, and a host of nieces and nephews. An avid Michigan sports fan and a long-time season ticket holder, he was certainly smiling down on us as our Wolverines finally won the National Championship in Houston this past Monday. Go Blue.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Superintendent Kenneth H. Walls III and to grieve his passing. A dedicated public servant, his devotion to his community, state, and Nation is worthy of remembrance and commendation. Superintendent Walls was born in 1977 in Ypsilanti and graduated from Ypsilanti High School. He showed his spirit at an early age, delivering his first service at the age of three at the former Wells Temple Church of God in Ann Arbor, where his grandfather, Esque Wells, Sr., served as Pastor. He was licensed as a Minister at the age of seven, making history in Michigan as the youngest licensed Minister in the Prelate of Michigan Southwest Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. At the age of 21, Superintendent Walls was ordained as an Elder in the Church of God in Christ, later becoming an Assistant Pastor at the Greater Shiloh Church of God in Christ. While there, Superintendent Walls filled many roles for the church, including District Youth President, National Adjutant in the Church of God in Christ, and Chief Adjutant for the Great Lakes Second Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. He was finally blessed with a Pastorship in 2019 when he founded Dunamis Institutional Church of God in Christ in Ypsilanti. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating and honoring the life and service of Kenneth H. Walls III. A leader in his community and a friend to many, his presence will be greatly missed but not forgotten. His memory lives on in his mother, Shirley, and his family. We offer them prayers of solace in this difficult time, and thank them for sharing their son, brother, and uncle with us. He made our corner of Michigan a better and more welcoming place for all.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 4468, the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act. I love my colleagues on the other side, but it is just disappointing that, yet again, another Republican messaging bill is coming to the floor intentionally to mislead and harm the American people. Even the United Auto Workers, who my colleagues say they are helping, say that this bill seeks to inject American union-made vehicles as a wedge issue in the culture war. I remind my colleagues, some of whom are young while some of us are seasoned, that it was years ago when gas prices went up and consumers wanted smaller cars. Japanese carmakers were prepared, and our domestic auto industry was flatfooted. We weren't ready to build small cars, and we took a beating. We cannot make that mistake again. We need to be ready to innovate, build these electric vehicles now, and do so in a competitive way. This bill is a blatant attack on the EPA and on our ability to, and how we will and must, compete in a global marketplace. It prevents the EPA from finalizing recently proposed new standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles, which will save consumers up to $12,000 over the lifetime of their vehicles. It will also reduce fine particle pollution that not only harms our environment but leads to increased asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, lung cancer, and premature death. To be really clear, EPA is not imposing an electric vehicle mandate. EPA's standards actually would expand vehicle choice by accelerating innovation in hybrid and fully electric vehicles and promote American manufacturing to keep us from relying on our adversaries. In total, EPA estimates that the net benefits of these standards would exceed $1 trillion. The bill we are debating will have widespread harmful effects on the future of our auto industry. What scares me the most is this is going to enable China even more to potentially lead the global EV transition. I ask my colleagues, are we going to help China do anything? I am not. I will not cede American leadership to anyone. We cannot let future mobility be dictated to us by foreign competitors when we are the ones who put the world on wheels. Mr. Speaker, we must continue to invest in our EV transition so we don't lose to China.

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I have talked to those dealers. The dealers aren't opposed to EV vehicles. There is a rulemaking, and the rulemaking needs to take their input into consideration. I am a car girl. I was born one, raised one, worked in it, and my district depends on it. Let's get serious. We need to get to work, and blocking our domestic auto industry from innovating is no way to lead. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose the bill.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kerreen Conley as she ends her twelve-year tenure as Mayor of the City of Belleville, Michigan after serving her local Wayne County community for over three decades. Her tremendous dedication to public service while also maintaining a full-time career is impressive and worthy of commendation. Kerreen graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management before pursuing Master's degrees in Business Administration (MBA) and in Human Resources and Organizational Development from Eastern Michigan University. She began her decades of public service in 1990, working as Controller for the City of Ypsilanti before becoming Belleville City Manager in 1995 and Novi's Director of Developmental Services in 1998. Kerreen was successfully elected to the Belleville City Council in 2000, and was elected as the City's Mayor in late 2011. After serving three consecutive terms, she decided not to seek re-election and plans to dedicate her full attention to Human Resources Consulting when her political tenure draws to a close. Kerreen can look back on an accomplished mayoral record that truly benefitted her community. Chief among her achievements is the preservation of essential city services, such as the Belleville District Library. The library, which is over a century old and sits in the heart of downtown Belleville, recently received some much-needed renovations that will ensure it can continue to serve tri-community residents for years to come. As mayor, Kerreen also served on the bipartisan Board of Directors of the Conference of Western Wayne alongside the chief elected officials of seventeen other member communities. She has chaired the Conference since January 2020, coordinating emergency services and working to alleviate countless other needs for an area encompassing 340 square miles and over 700,000 residents. Perhaps most impressively, Kerreen was a dedicated mayor while simultaneously juggling various other demanding roles. She has been the Chief Executive Officer of RD Advisors, LLC for over a decade and served as Redford Township's Human Resources Director from 2014 through 2016 before assuming a similar role in Canton Township. Two years ago, she took on her current title of Senior Manager Human Resources Consultant at Rehmann. In addition to her time in local government and HR work, Kerreen has made many other significant contributions to our local community. She has dedicated herself to various organizations over the years, notably serving as an advisory board member at the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan for seven years and being an avid fundraiser for various local non-profits, including the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Kerreen's devotion to serving the residents of Wayne County and beyond is nothing short of inspirational, and I am proud to have such a selfless individual leading our local community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating Kerreen Conley for her lifetime of dedication to serving Wayne County's local communities as she wraps up her tenure at the helm of the City of Belleville. For the last three decades, Kerreen has worked tirelessly to benefit those around her and has made significant contributions to preserving and providing invaluable local services. We thank her for her tremendous efforts, and wish her all the best as she embarks upon her next endeavor.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of William ``Bill'' A. McFarlane and to grieve his passing. A dedicated public servant, his devotion to his community, state, and nation is worthy of remembrance and commendation. Bill graduated from Willow Run High School in Ypsilanti, Michigan in 1965, later being inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2004. His secondary education was interrupted by the conflict in Vietnam, which at that time was growing in its size and intensity. William proudly served his country in the Army under Colonel George S. Patton IV in 1968 and 1969, during which he was awarded two Bronze Stars for ``heroic achievement in a combat zone'' as well as two Purple Hearts. After his service in the Army, Bill graduated from Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan. A true leader in his community, he was appointed as Head Detective for the Washtenaw County Sherriff's Office before serving as the Township Supervisor for Superior Township for 20 years. In his position as Township Supervisor, Bill was crucial in the negotiations that resulted in Hyundai establishing their American HQ in Superior Township in 2003. During his tenure, Superior Township saw a marked increase in population as well as their median income. Not yet satisfied, he would also serve six years on the Washtenaw County Road Commission. Bill was integral in facilitating transportation improvements in Superior Township and throughout Washtenaw County, providing increased mobility and access to all of our residents. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating and honoring the life and service of Bill McFarlane. A leader in his community and a friend to many, his presence will be greatly missed but not forgotten. His memory lives on in his wife, Sharon, two children, and four grandchildren. We offer them prayers of solace in this difficult time, and thank them for sharing their husband, father, and grandfather with us. He made our corner of Michigan a better and more welcoming place for all.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alison Foreman, President and CEO of the Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels (YMOW) program, as she closes out 10 years in Ypsilanti, MI and prepares to take her expertise to Mobile Wheels of Toledo. Her lifelong dedication to serving those in need is worthy of commendation. Alison began non-profit work shortly after graduating from Eastern Michigan University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Juvenile Justice coupled with a Masters's in Public Administration. She joined YMOW in 2013 as the program's first full-time Executive Director, getting involved at a time when the organization was struggling to make ends meet. As one of her initial tasks, Alison was challenged to raise $25,000 during her first year. She delivered above and beyond what was asked of her, and the program flourished as a result. In recognition for her steadfast efforts, Alison was named President and CEO in 2021. As she celebrates her 10th anniversary with YMOW, the group now operates on a $1.8 million annual budget and has expanded to offer a full suite of services that benefit over 400 local seniors and homebound adults each year. Her team credits her with reviving an organization struggling to make ends meet, adding that she has worked tirelessly to realize YMOW's vision of ``a community where every senior feels nourished, valued, and supported.'' In caring for some of Ypsilanti's most vulnerable citizens, Alison has done a tremendous job at strengthening and nourishing her community. In addition to her laudable efforts at YMOW, Alison has made many other significant contributions to our Ypsilanti home. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to various local non-profits as both a volunteer and an employee, most notably the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the Book Industry Charitable Foundation. Alison has been an active member in a plethora of local organizations, serving on the boards of the Ypsilanti Area Community Fund, the Washtenaw Leaders Advisory, SOS Community Services, and her alma mater's MPA Advisory Group, among others. She is also a founding member of the Say Yes to Seniors Initiative, part of the Ypsilanti Kiwanis Club, and a Washtenaw County grant reviewer. Alison's devotion to alleviating Ypsilanti's great diversity of needs is inspirational, and I am proud to have such a selfless individual leading our local community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating Alison Foreman for her decade of dedication to serving the Ypsilanti area as she wraps up her tenure at the helm of the Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels program. Alison has worked tirelessly to benefit her local community and has made significant contributions to improving the lives of our most vulnerable neighbors. We thank her for her tremendous work and wish her all the best as she embarks upon her next endeavor.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Michael Mitroka, a longtime resident of Southgate, MI and veteran of the Second World War, on the occasion of his 100th birthday. His service to our country is worthy of commendation. Born on November 20, 1923, Michael enlisted in the Army as a Private in May of 1943. Over the next two and a half years of service he would traverse the Pacific, seeing combat in places like New Guinea and the Philippines. The Japanese conquest of the Philippines just a couple of years earlier was one of the worst military defeats in U.S. military history, and the retaking of the islands, though sure to be a long and hard affair, was a point of pride for General MacArthur and the Army. By the time Michael left the Army as a Sergeant in December of 1945, he had earned the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, a good conduct medal, a purple heart, and two bronze stars, awarded for ``heroic or meritorious service in a combat zone.'' Michael carried on his service after the war by working in his local school district. He retired in 1985 as the Supervisor of Maintenance, Custodial, and Transportation after 35 years with the Southgate School District. Michael married his wife, Rosemary, just a few weeks before his discharge from the Army in 1945. Though Rosemary passed away in 1994, her legacy carries on in their two sons, Paul and Michael Jr., three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Still an active member of his current and former community, Michael is a member of St. Aloysius-Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Royaltown, IL, the American Legion Post 975 in Dowell, IL, and the Knights of Columbus Council Post 3965 in Southgate, MI. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 100th birthday of Michael Mitroka. A veteran who served our country with honor and bravery during our darkest hours eighty years ago, he spent the last eight decades continuing that service within his local community and uplifting those around him. As we celebrate the milestone of a centennial, Michael should know that he is appreciated and valued by his family, friends, community, and nation. We thank him for his service, and wish him a 101st year filled with laughter, love, and many blessings. I thank Michael.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the Brown Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Ypsilanti, Michigan on the 180th anniversary of their founding. The services they have provided to the Ypsilanti community and all those seeking a better life are worthy of commendation. The Brown Chapel AME Church was founded in 1843 with a goal of worshipping God without any form of discrimination. They wanted to be a home for those searching for peace, solitude, and freedom at a time when oppression and religious abuse was extremely prominent in society. This church played a key role in the Underground Railroad, as it was one of the last stops for escaped slaves on their way to freedom in Canada. The Brown Chapel is the second oldest active AME Church in the state of Michigan. The congregation has continued to serve their surrounding community while maintaining the ideology of a global church with a local touch. The Brown Chapel hosts a Brotherhood Banquet that has focused on brotherhood and racial unity for the past 70 years. The church also has a 30-year-old weekly Good Samaritan Feeding Program that works to provide fresh food, produce, and canned goods for anyone in need in the community. They partner up with educational institutions and nonprofits like Food Gatherers, Growing Hope, Crop Walk, the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, and more, to help provide care and community for those in need. The chapel also has worked with the Michigan Conference of the AME Church to further impact not only the city of Ypsilanti, but those throughout our state. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 180th anniversary of the Brown Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Ypsilanti, Michigan. At a time of such discord throughout the country and around the world, the unifying work of Brown Chapel AME Church is more important than ever. We are proud to have such leaders as our neighbors and are excited to see all the good work they can accomplish over the next 180 years.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sue Schooner, the founder and Executive Director of Girls Group in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Her work to mentor and support the young women of Washtenaw County over the last 20 years is worthy of commendation. Sue was born in Boston, but her family moved almost every year for her father's Army career. She worked full-time as a high schooler, graduated at the age of sixteen, and worked three jobs to pay for her tuition at Ithaca College. After graduation, she attended the Harvard Business School where she attained her MBA. Sue is a retired automotive executive and developed mentoring programming at both the Chrysler Corporation and Textron Automotive. What began as a volunteer stint working with girls at Peace Neighborhood Center and the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan (now the Jean Ledwith King Women's Center) became a passion. In 2003 Sue founded Girls Group to support young women who face obstacles to completing high school. Its goal is to first get them through high school--and then to help them become first-generation college graduates. What started as one woman hoping to mentor a few young ladies is now a staff of over 20 helped by interns from nearby universities, numerous volunteers, and 16 board members who do a lot of hands-on work. Today, Girls Group facilitates weekly programs within the public schools, an intensive college prep program that includes college tours, SAT and ACT prep courses, and scholarship opportunities, as well as a returning mentor program created for women who have graduated high school and are now in a position to mentor the next generation. Girls Group now works with over 750 young women, and that number is growing steadily. ``The reality is these girls are super smart, but if you can't manage your anger and you can't self-soothe it doesn't matter how smart you are,'' Schooner says. ``You still have to be able to focus in class, not get in fights with other kids, and do your homework.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring the 20 years of service that Sue Schooner and the Girls Group have provided to the young women of Washtenaw County. Through her efforts and the efforts of all those involved in Girls Group, an entire generation of young women have been given the tools to succeed. We are excited to see what advances can be made in the next 20 years. I thank Sue.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chris Madzik, Captain of the Northville Fire Department in Northville, MI on the occasion of his retirement. His dedication and commitment to the City of Northville over the last 28 years is worthy of commendation. Chris joined the Northville Fire Department in 1995 because they were offering free training for a three-year commitment as an on-call firefighter. He fell in love with public service and became a full-time firefighter in 1998. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2002, followed quickly by another promotion to Lieutenant in 2003. He has been a Captain with the Northville FD since 2017. Armed with a Masters of Human Resources and Labor Relations, Chris has spent his time with the Northville FD revamping policies and developing HR training. Chris, a charter member of Local 3961, served as the first union Vice- President and worked to implement 24-hour staffing for the fire department. When the Department transitioned to Advanced Life Support, Chris attended and graduated from Eastern Michigan's School of Fire Staff and Command in addition to earning his Paramedic's license. He served as a representative on the Westen Wayne Hazardous Materials Response Team for over 10 years, and he was selected by his peers as the Firefighter of the Year in 2017. Almost 12 years ago, Chris rediscovered his love of music. Currently, he is a tenor in the Livingston County Choir and participates in concerts hosted by Expressions Music Academy in Novi. He has had the unique opportunity of representing the Department while singing the National Anthem at First Responder nights for the Detroit Tigers, Red Wings, and Pistons. He plans to continue his work in public service for Howell Public Schools as a paraprofessional, where he will assist impaired children. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Captain Chris Madzik for the 28 years of service he has dedicated to the City of Northville. Chris's dedication and respect for the job serves as a constant reminder that local communities are dependent on the commitment of such public servants to keep its residents safe. We need more public servants like Chris, and though he may be retiring from fighting fires, I am hopeful that we will continue to hear that beautiful voice ringing out for years to come. I thank Chris and we wish him the best of luck with his future endeavors.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Dave Cresico of the Ypsilanti Township Fire Department in Ypsilanti, MI on the occasion of his retirement. His tremendous dedication to protecting our community is worthy of commendation. Born and raised in Ypsilanti Township, Captain Cresico joined the Fire Department in 1993. He consistently moved up the ranks of the department, advancing to Lieutenant in 2010 merely three months before becoming Fire Captain later that year. Members of Captain Cresico's crew salute his legacy of selflessness, describing him as someone who always puts the lives of others ahead of his own. Over the course of his extensive career, Captain Cresico served as a powerful force for good in our Ypsilanti Township community. He has saved countless lives, risking his own safety to rescue citizens from burning homes and acting quickly to administer life-saving medical care under immense pressure. Captain Cresico exemplifies the Ypsilanti Township Fire Department's dedication to providing excellence in all aspects of fire safety, and his steadfast commitment to protecting the township and its residents is laudable. Effective and devoted public servants like Captain Cresico are the backbone of this nation, and I am proud to have had such an admirable individual leading our Ypsilanti Township community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Captain Dave Cresico for over 30 years of exemplary service. He has selflessly worked for the benefit of Ypsilanti Township in his role as a Captain of the Fire Department, and his heroic legacy will continue to inspire our community for decades to come. I sincerely thank Captain Cresico for his three decades of dedication, and join with his family, friends, and colleagues in extending my best wishes to him in retirement.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Ypsilanti Firehouse Museum in Ypsilanti, MI on the 25th anniversary of their founding. The historical education they provide while celebrating the accomplishments of our firefighters is worthy of commendation. The Ypsilanti Firehouse Museum was established in 1998 by Norma and Howard Weaver. Norma's father, Henry Clement, was a firefighter for the city of Ann Arbor and died while on-duty in 1961. The Weavers were members of several vintage car clubs, including the Antique Fire Truck Association, also known as SPAAMFAA. In 1998, they created the Michigan Firehouse Museum and Education Center. Needing a permanent home for their museum, the Weavers purchased the Old Firehouse in the historic district of Ypsilanti. The building, still standing from 1898, contains a bunk area and brass pole. A modern, multi-level exhibit area was constructed in 2002. Now encompassing a total area of over 26,000 square feet, the exhibits feature the history of fire fighting in the State of Michigan and the evolution of fire fighting technology. The collections include trucks, hoses, extinguishers, ladders, breathing apparatuses, and more. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Ypsilanti Firehouse Museum. For 25 years they have provided not only an excellent educational experience for people of all ages but have also honored our brave men and women who fight fires and save lives on a daily basis across the state of Michigan. We thank the volunteers who make the Museum possible and wish them all the best for the next 25 years.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County (JFS) on the occasion of their 30th anniversary. The job they have done in providing invaluable social services and resources to a diverse, international population in Washtenaw County is worthy of commendation. JFS traces its roots back to the late 1970s, when several passionate volunteers formed a group to assist the growing number of Soviet refugee families settling in Ann Arbor. Over the course of the next two decades, these individual volunteers built the JFS's initial resettlement program, primarily addressing the needs of these ``new Americans'' for the first 90 days after their arrival, until they became eligible to receive government assistance. These essential services included locating suitable housing, providing basic furnishings, assisting with employment searches, and teaching English and Civics lessons, among others. Upon the JFS's official founding in 1993 by the Jewish Federation of Washtenaw County, its members continued to focus on this resettlement program while analyzing other potential areas of need in the community. Over the last 30 years, JFS has expanded to provide a diverse array of programs and services that widely benefit the residents of Washtenaw County. Today, the organization serves more than 9,000 clients annually, offering services pertaining to Aging & Caregiving, Employment and Economic Empowerment, Community Assistance, Crisis Intervention, and more. Their Resettlement and Immigration Services programs are as strong as ever, helping individuals and families from over 20 different countries and offering assistance in 35 different languages. In recent years, they have focused on helping those escaping conflict in Afghanistan and Ukraine, easing the transition into a new community and helping these refugees achieve self-sufficiency as they begin this new chapter. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County. For the last three decades, JFS has been working tirelessly to provide valuable services to all residents of Washtenaw County, from the old- timers to the newly-settled. We thank them and are excited to see how they continue to serve our diverse Washtenaw County community over the next 30 years.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the MotorCities National Heritage Area (MCNHA) on the 25th anniversary of their founding. Their preservation and promotion of our area's unique automotive and labor history is worthy of commendation. The MCNHA was inspired by the 100th anniversary of the automobile, an invention that shaped not only our state but the entire 20th century. In 1896, Henry Ford test drove his first automobile, the Quadricycle, through the streets of Detroit. Legislation co-sponsored by two Michigan Congressmen, John D. Dingell and Joe Knollenburg, was signed into law in 1998 by President Clinton. This law designated over 10,000 square miles, 260 municipalities and townships. and 1,200 auto and labor related sites as the MotorCities National Heritage Area. The automotive and labor history of the region begins with Henry Ford and the Ford Motor Company, founded in 1903 in Dearborn, MI. Key investors in that company were brothers Horace and John Dodge, who would go on to found their own brand of vehicles in 1914. The moving assembly line that Ford introduced in 1913 at their Highland Park Plant would revolutionize not only industry, but labor as well. Daily wages were more than doubled to $5, shifts were reduced from 9 to 8 hours long, and the mass production of vehicles allowed automobiles to become much more accessible to the average American. Major international automotive brands, like GM (1908), Chevrolet (1911), and Chrysler (1925), were also founded in the Detroit region at that time. Decades later, car factories were converted to produce bombers in order to help in the Second World War. The factories of this area, like Willow Run in Ypsilanti, were so crucial to the effort that this region came to be known as the ``Arsenal of Democracy''. Over the last 25 years, the MCNHA has built an appreciation in both residents and visitors for how the automobile changed Michigan, the nation, and the world. With the vast number of heritage sites across the region, the MCNHA started a grant program to focus on partnerships, connecting organizations and providing resources critical for preservation and promotion. It has directly provided over $1 million in grants to over 100 organizations to make these preservation, tourism, and educational projects a reality. The MCNHA has also been a boon for the State of Michigan, generating over $400 million in economic impact annually while supporting over 4,500 quality jobs. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the MCNHA. Our auto and labor industry helped establish and expand the United States as an industrial power and was a driving force for the creation of the middle class, and we thank the MCNHA for their great work in promoting and preserving our unique legacy. Just last year they were reauthorized for another 15 years, and we are excited to see how they will continue to tell our incredible story. Thank you to MCNHA.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this resolution. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib is an important member of our Democratic Caucus and our Michigan delegation. Her voice matters. She is the only Palestinian American in Congress, and this is a representative body. Her perspective reflects many that she represents, especially when it is not twisted. Congresswoman Tlaib is entitled to the same constitutionally protected freedom of speech and expression that every other American and every other Member of this body has. This resolution is an attack on that fundamental right. I spent all weekend in Michigan this last weekend talking to all the communities about the meaning of this phrase. There are very strong feelings on all sides. It is very clear that people interpret words in different ways. Personally, I choose not to use a phrase that is offensive to some and that many perceive as a threat, but I also take seriously living in a country that does not restrict, forbid, or censure free speech.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Chair, I rise with a great deal of respect for my colleague but in opposition to this amendment, which seeks to cut funding from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program. Here is the reality. The world is moving to alternative transportation. It is not all going to be electric vehicles. It could be hydrogen. It will be others. Right now, electric vehicles are the future of transportation in this country and in the world, and we are competing in a global marketplace. As we continue to invest in this EV transition, it is critical that we get the charging infrastructure right. We must do everything within our power to keep America competitive, to make it easier for consumers to make this transition, and that is what this program does. It plays a vital role in expanding our charging infrastructure, alleviating fears, and creating an interconnected network that everybody has access to, not just those that have access to expensive chargers. The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program provides funding to States to deploy EV charging infrastructure and establishes networks that make them more accessible. Let's work together to expand EV charging accessibility and invest in American-made EV chargers. We must support and advance through development the production and distribution and the infrastructure nationwide. To meet these goals, we have to get serious. We have to roll up our sleeves and get to work. Defunding these programs is not how we should be legislating. To ensure that we have a competitive future and that we are competing in a global marketplace with other countries and their manufacturers, I strongly urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong opposition to this amendment. This amendment seeks to prohibit funding for the implementation of a bill known as the Honoring the Abbas Family Legacy to Terminate (HALT) Drunk Driving Act. I wrote it. I am the sponsor. The HALT Drunk Driving Act honors the Abbas family from Michigan who were tragically killed in a car accident by a drunk driver. It requires NHTSA to do a rulemaking to create rules for impaired driving prevention technology in new vehicles to stop these tragedies from continuing to occur. Thirty-seven alcohol-impaired driving deaths happen every day, equivalent to a death every 39 minutes. Studies show that the HALT Act would save over 10,000 lives annually. Our constituents agree. We need to stop drunk driving by making impairment prevention technology standard in new vehicles. If the technology exists to prevent drunk driving, why wouldn't we consider it? Let me close by saying this amendment and the sponsor mischaracterized what the HALT Act is. It does not mandate kill switches or allow data collection that invades vehicle occupants' privacy. I protect data privacy in vehicles probably more than the sponsor of this does. That is ridiculous. It doesn't monitor how you drive. This amendment is an insult to every American who has been hurt or lost loved ones to drunk driving, including the Abbas family. Let's honor the memory of those affected by drunk driving.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Wendy Pate, City Councilwoman for the City of Trenton, on the occasion of her retirement. The dedication and love that she has shown to her community during her tenure is worthy of commendation. Wendy is a lifelong Downriver resident, and she and her husband, Carl, have lived in Trenton for the last 19 years. Together they have two children, Daphne and Carl III. Her family has been volunteering in community activities for years, including working with the local Boy Scouts and events put on by the Trenton Business Association, the Trenton Educational Foundation, and the local Student Council. Wendy is a retired high school math teacher and MEA-retired member. She served as MEA-RA, class congress sponsor, and staff morale committee chair. Wendy was elected to the Trenton City Council in 2019. She was a member of the City Beautiful Commission and is a member of the Trail Town Advisory Committee. She also co-founded a community action group, the DCC Coal Grant Riverfront Community Group, whose mission is to support the Trenton Coast Resiliency Master Plan and engage residents to support sustainable uses for Trenton's waterfront and revitalize their downtown. Wendy also spearheaded the project to paint murals on West Jefferson Ave in order to beautify a main intersection in Trenton as well as celebrate their 2021 designation as a Pure Michigan Trail Town. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Councilwoman Wendy Pate for all that she has done for the City of Trenton. Both in her position on the city council and in her private life, Wendy has worked tirelessly to make Trenton and the Downriver area healthier and more sustainable for future generations. I thank Wendy.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bob Gatt, Mayor of Novi, Michigan, on the occasion of his retirement. His decades of tireless service to the city of Novi are worthy of commendation. Born and raised in Detroit, it was a childhood dream of Bob's to become a police officer. When looking for a position, Bob was saddened to find that most police departments at that time had a height requirement. Luckily for Bob and for Novi, the Novi Police Department had no such requirement. Bob began his service to the City of Novi as a police officer in 1975. Soon after starting the job, Bob learned about the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program. After attending a two-week course and becoming a DARE Officer, Bob launched the DARE program here in Novi. To this day, Bob teaches DARE to the children of Novi. Bob's leadership within the department led him to be promoted to the role of Detective, later earning the rank of Seargent shortly before his retirement in 2002. After spending some time on Novi's Zoning Board of Appeals, Bob decided to run for City Council, a seat he would hold for the next 8 years. In 2011, Bob took the next step and was elected Mayor of the City of Novi. His 12 years at the helm has led Novi to reduce its debt by 75 percent and cut its crime rate in half. Novi has received national recognition for their support of small businesses, community schools, and technology innovation. In 2022, Fortune Magazine ranked Novi in the Top Ten Best Places to Live for Families in the United States. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Bob Gatt and the 48 years of service he has given to the residents of Novi. While he is retiring from local politics, service runs in his blood, and Bob plans to continue as the Manager of the Oakland County Animal Shelter. We thank Bob for his tremendous service and wish him some much-deserved tranquility in this next chapter of life. I thank Bob.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize Carla Scruggs, the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Saline, on the occasion of her retirement. Her contributions to the health and wellness of the Saline community over the last three decades are worthy of commendation. Born and raised in Ann Arbor, MI, Carla graduated from Pioneer High School before attending Central Michigan University, where she spent four years on the softball team. After earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees, she set out on a career in public service throughout Southeastern Michigan. In 1988, Carla began at the City of Hazel Park as a graduate intern specializing in senior programming and youth and adult sports. She then went to Novi, where she took on the position of Recreation Coordinator for the city's Parks and Recreation Department. In 1991, Carla was brought on as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Saline, where she has been serving ever since. Carla's tenure at the head of the Saline Parks and Recreation Department has seen countless improvements to Saline's green spaces. These include, but are certainly not limited to, the Recreate Our Mill Pond Park play structure, multiple dog parks, and the creation of Salt Springs Park. As well as being the Director, Carla also acts as the Staff Liaison to the Parks Commission and the Youth Council. She has been an active member for the Michigan Recreation and Parks Association for the entirety of her tenure and is currently the Chair of their Awards Committee. In her free time, Carla volunteers every year for the Punt Pass & Kick State Competition, Saline's DARE golf outing, the PPSA golf outing, and the University of Michigan Softball Academy to raise awareness for breast cancer. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 32+ years of public service that Carla Scruggs has been kind enough to dedicate her life to. She has given our children spaces to play, our dogs spaces to run, and altogether has made Saline a warmer and more welcoming place to live. Though we are sad to see her go, the families of Saline will be feeling her positive influence for decades to come. I thank Carla.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize Alyssa Milano, an actress, producer, writer and activist who has used her platform for decades to promote social causes and provide a voice to those who are not heard. Her trailblazing work both nationally and internationally is worthy of commendation. Alyssa's activist career started as a young woman when she made an appearance on the The Phil Donahue Show with Ryan White, a young man who had been diagnosed with AIDS and forced out of his public school in Indiana. A kiss on the cheek to showcase that AIDS could not be contracted from simple skin-to-skin contact was the beginning of almost 40 years of activism coinciding with her incredible career in movies, television, books, and podcasts. In 2017, a post by Alyssa relaunched the #MeToo movement, encouraging survivors of sexual harassment and assault to speak up and bring awareness to the commonality of these sex crimes to the public. To this day, Alyssa remains an active and effective voice in the #MeToo movement. In 2013, Alyssa created the comic book series Hackivist, which explored the modern world of hacking and global activism. In 2019, she released a children's book Hope: Project Middle School Book which is part of her `Hope' book series which she co-authors with Debbie Rigaud. Alyssa also hosts the podcast Alyssa Milano: Sorry Not Sorry which deals with social and political commentary and frequently features fellow actors, activists, and political luminaries. Following the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018, Alyssa co-founded #NoRA, a coalition of artists, activists, and survivors of gun violence in an effort to reduce the influence of the National Rifle Association in American government. In her current role as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for the United States of America, she continues to champion civil rights and charitable causes around the world. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the lifetime of work that Alyssa Milano has been kind enough to share with us. Wildly successful in her long professional career, Alyssa could have rested on her laurels and had an easy life. Instead, she has taken her platform at every stage in her career and used it to fight for good and what is right. I thank Alyssa, and we excited to see what more she can accomplish in the coming decades.