Dale Kildee

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Historical Society of Saginaw County for being selected by the American Association of Museums for participation in the Museum Assessment Program. The Historical Society of Saginaw County operates Castle Museum in downtown Saginaw. The Society is holding its annual Membership Lumberjack Brunch and Open House on October 18th at the Museum. The American Association of Museums conducts the Museum Assessment Program to help museums identify challenges and develop strategies to address them. The program also helps museums to ensure high standards in collections care, governance, institutional planning and effective community engagement. Over 3500 museums have benefited from this program. The Historical Society of Saginaw County was founded in 1938 and incorporated in 1964. The Society has operated Castle Museum since 1992 and is committed to telling the continuing story of the people of the Saginaw region. The Castle Building was constructed in 1898 in the French chateau style. At that time the Federal government decided all Federal buildings were to be built to reflect the historic legacy of the community and Architect William Aitken decided to design the building to reflect the early French traders that settled in the region. Originally utilized as a Post Office, the Castle Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the cornerstone of the Historical Society's dedication to preserve Saginaw's heritage for future generations. Today, the Castle Building serves as the Castle Museum and houses over 100,000 archeological and historical artifacts from the region. Traveling and long-term exhibits are displayed in the facility. The Historical Society of Saginaw County has utilized the building to showcase their educational programs, film presentations, and community tours. They also offer research services, an oral history recording program and a living history program at the Museum. Currently, the Historical Society is retrofitting a van to take the museum's programs to elementary schools and they are planning to launch this project in early 2010. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Board President, Margaret E. Clark, the Board members, staff, volunteers, and Society members as they are honored by the American Association of Museums and wish them continued success in preserving our history for many, many years to come.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Illustrious Potentate of the Oman Temple No. 72, Chester Hughes, Jr. Chester will be feted at the 53rd Annual Potentate Ball to be held in my hometown of Flint, Michigan, on Saturday, October 3rd. Chester Hughes received his B.S. degree from Jackson State University and his M.S. degree from Eastern Michigan University. He has taught at schools in Mississippi and Michigan, retiring from Beecher Community Schools in 2003 with 37 years of service. He served as the Regional Director of Amicus II during 2006-2007 and works part time at Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home. He is also the CEO of the Hughes Educational Leadership Institute and a PrePaid Legal Insurance Associate/ Distributor. Chester is affiliated with many community organizations and has received numerous awards from the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, the Central Optimist Club, the Flint Inner City Lions Club, the Flint Pan- Hellenic Club, the Urban League of Flint, and the Beecher School System. He has held several positions with the Oman Temple No. 72 and the Masonic Order. The 33 degree was conferred on him on May 26, 2008. Chester and his wife Myra have 2 children, DeWana Denise Hughes-McCarty and Chelonde Nichelle Hughes. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to applaud the life and work of Chester Hughes, Jr. I congratulate him on his elevation to Illustrious Potentate and may he continue to serve the community for many, many years to come.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, today I would like to recognize the City of Frankenmuth, Michigan as it celebrates its 50th anniversary on October 1st. A ceremony commemorating the anniversary will be held on that date. During the 1840s a German missionary named Frederick Wyneken working in the Ohio Valley and Michigan, appealed to Lutherans in Germany for help, citing the need for pastors, churches and schools. Fifteen farmers from Mittelfranken, Bavaria responded to his appeal and traveled to the Saginaw Valley in Michigan. They settled on the banks of the Cass River in 1845 and called their community Frankenmuth. The name means ``courage of the Franconians.'' The following year 90 more settlers arrived from Bavaria and the community grew. A business district started to grow about a mile east of St. Lorenz Church and a dam and mill were built on the river. In 1854 Frankenmuth Township was organized and in 1904 the Village of Frankenmuth was incorporated. On March 9, 1959 the voters elected a City Charter Commission. The Commission voted unanimously to submit a Charter to the State of Michigan and on July 9, 1959, Governor G. Mennen Williams approved the Charter. After the village residents voted to adopt the Charter, the City was officially incorporated on October 1, 1959. James Wickson served as the first mayor and held office until 1965. At the time of incorporation the City's population was 1,725. Today the population is 4,838. Gary Rupprecht is the current mayor and has held office since 1986. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to rise with me and applaud the City of Frankenmuth as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. The community has embraced its German heritage and strives to build on the dreams and hard work of the original settlers. I congratulate the community for their achievements and pray that ``Little Bavaria'' continues to thrive for many, many years to come.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize John R. Ribner as he is honored at the Flint Youth Projects' 15th Annual Roast and Toast on October 1st in Burton Michigan. John Ribner grew up during the 1940s in New York City. He started high school on a baseball scholarship at St. Anne's Academy in New York. After two years he transferred to North Branch High School in Michigan to help care for an ailing relative. He continued his schooling and athletics at North Branch, playing several sports and making the first team in All-State basketball. This led to a basketball scholarship to Central Michigan University. John obtained his teaching degree from that school and in 1964 began teaching with the Flint School District. He taught at Fairview School, Holmes School and Whittier. During this time he was named Teacher of the Year by the school district and by Flint Sales and Marketing Group. He is now retired but still devotes his time and energy to helping children in need. Along with his wife, Dolly, John distributes turkeys at Thanksgiving every year to families and children. He believes that many people over the years have given to him and the turkey drive is a way to give back to the community. He said, ``Of all my life's accomplishments, I am especially proud of the turkey drive for this reason.'' As a trustee of the Westwood Heights Board of Education, John continues his interest and commitment to education. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the achievements and contributions of John R. Ribner.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Bishop Raymond H. Dunlap, Sr. for 21 years broadcasting the ``Hour of Power'' Radio Program. Bishop Dunlap will be honored this weekend by the congregations of Bethlehem Temple Church of the Apostolic Faith and New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church. After attending the West Virginia Institute and Aenon Bible College, he served in the US Armed Services for two years. He was discharged in 1952, married Lillian Thomas in 1953, and accepted his call to preach the Gospel in 1954 under the direction of his father, Bishop Sandy Dunlap. He moved to Flint, Michigan in 1966 and founded The Eliezer Church of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was elevated to District Elder and then Junior Bishop. In August 1983, he was ordained a Bishop and currently presides as Diocesan of the Northern Diocese of Michigan; he is the former Diocesan of Minnesota. Bishop Dunlap also serves as the establishmentarian of Berea Bible College. He has directed the establishment of 13 churches of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Michigan and 3 churches in Minnesota. In addition to being heard daily on the ``Hour of Power,'' Bishop has reared more than 46 ministerial sons and Eliezer Church operates the Hope Academy School. Bishop Dunlap and his wife, Lillian, have been blessed with 6 children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I applaud the work of Bishop Raymond H. Dunlap, Sr. He has devoted his life to bringing the good news of Jesus Christ to the people of Flint, Michigan. His radio broadcasts are a source of comfort and joy to his listeners. I pray that he will continue for many years to inspire and elevate the spiritual life of the community and bring his message of hope to those with the most need. Information for Proclamation or Congratulatory Letter for Bishop Raymond H. Dunlap, Sr., D.D. THA.A B.A. Two (2) day City Wide Celebration Honoring Bishop Raymond H. Dunlap, Sr., for 21 years with the ``Hour of Power'' Radio Program. We will be honoring a great man and appreciating his works at 6:30 pm on; Friday, September 18, 2009 Services at: Bethlehem Temple Church of the Apostolic Faith, 3401 M. L. King, Jr., Avenue, Flint, MI 48505. Saturday, September 19, 2009 Services at New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church, 1035 E. Carpenter Road, Flint, MI 43505. Bishop Dunlap, known as ``a man with a Vision'' was born January 19, 1929 in Pratt City, Alabama. Pastor Dunlap graduated from Buffalo High School in West Virginia. He attended West Virginia Institute in Charleston, West Virginia and later became a student at the world famous Aenon Bible College in Columbus, Ohio. He served two years in the U. S. Armed Services, receiving an honorable discharge in 1952. Celebrated 80 years of life in January. Bishop Dunlap married the love of his life Ms. Lillian Thomas on June 1, 1953 and to this blessed union was born six (6) children. Bishop Dunlap accepted the call of God to preach the Gospel in 1954 under the tutelage of his father Bishop Sandy Dunlap in Columbus, Ohio. By 1960 he was elevated to Assistant Pastor--through the years he served in many other positions in the local church and also held state offices. In 1966 he relocated his family to Flint, Michigan, sought employment and shortly thereafter established The Eliezer Church of our Lord Jesus Christ. In 1977 he was elevated to District Elder, three years later he was elevated to the office of Junior Bishop. His steadfast character and leadership earned him the honor of being ordained as a Bishop in August 1983 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He presently presides as the Diocesan of the Northern Diocese of Michigan and the former Diocesan of Minnesota. He is the establishmentarian of Berea Bible College (formally Christ Bible College, Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ) since 1998. Under his spiritual leadership there has been the establishment of 13 churches of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Michigan and 3 in Minnesota. Bishop Dunlap has reared more than 46 ministerial. In 2001 Eliezer established and operates ``The Hope Academy School.'' Since 1988, Bishop Dunlap is heard daily at 12:30 pm on the ``Hour of Power'' radio broadcast on WFLT 1420 AM. The spiritual effects of Bishop's ministry is known in the city of Flint and the many places he has ministered; giving proof of God's call on his life, and the vision he has been given by God. Bishop Dunlap is a dedicated family man; loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is an avid fisherman, a pianist, song writer, composer of poems. His godly lifestyle, winning smile, gentle manner and love for people has earned him great respect among his peers, community leaders, business associates and citizens through this community.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, today I would like to extend congratulations to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint as they mark their 65th anniversary. This Saturday, September 12, a celebration will be held in my hometown of Flint, Michigan, in honor of this occasion. The Flint area Big Brothers program developed from an idea of Frank Manley to pair at-risk boys with mentors. He established an informal program during the 1930's and then Father, later Monsignor, Earl Sheridan brought Father Flannigan from Boy's Town to Flint in the 1940's. Through his example and inspiration, the Flint Youth Bureau was formally established in 1944. The Mott Foundation provided the funding and Joe Ryder was the first Executive Director, serving in that capacity for 23 years. In 1955, Frank Manley, William Minardo and Allen Matherne started the Big Sisters program. The two organizations merged in 1985. Since that time Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint has partnered with several organizations to expand mentoring programs in the area. They have also developed innovative programs like school-based mentoring. Working with the Urban League the 100 Men 100 Boys group was started. The Superstar Club serves unmatched children. In addition, 25 congregations signed agreements to support the Mentoring Children of Prisoners Program (AMACHI). Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in applauding the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint as they celebrate 65 years of providing positive role models to children, especially children from single parent homes. Their partnerships with the Flint Community Schools and the Genesee Intermediate School District will help them expand their mission to include even more children. I congratulate them for their commitment to serve the youth of our community and to help them grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements of women in the labor and social movements. The UAW held a ceremony this past Labor Day in Flint Michigan to honor the contributions of women in labor, civil rights, the military, women's rights, and the political arena. From the 300 women that came together in Seneca Falls, New York, in 1848, to promote women's rights and suffrage, women have banded together to improve our country. Jane Addams, ``the mother of social work,'' worked with the labor movement in Chicago to eliminate poverty, and advance the living conditions of workers. From her work at Hull- House in Chicago, Jane Addams became a moving force in the passage in the first Federal child labor law passed in 1916. Women have played a pivotal role in the organization and development of every social movement of the past century, including the labor movement. In my hometown of Flint, the Women's Auxiliary provided support for the families of the sit-down strikers. The Women's Emergency Brigade was on the front lines as the police attempted to stop the union. Since the formation of the UAW, women have toiled side by side with men in the factories and have taken their place at the bargaining table. The labor movement had one of its greatest advocates in Frances Perkins. She was the first female Secretary of Labor and was the first female member of a President's Cabinet. During her younger days she lived at Hull-House and embraced the concept of unionism but it was witnessing firsthand the Triangle Shirtwaist Company fire in 1911 that cemented her commitment to the workers of our country. As the architect of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's New Deal, her vision of a better life for all cannot be underestimated. She was at the center of the 15 major pieces of legislation passed during the first 100 days of Roosevelt's Administration. She conceived the Social Security Act of 1935, the most important piece of social legislation in U.S. history, and the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and shepherded them through Congress until they were enacted into law. Social Security, unemployment compensation, minimum wage, maximum work hours and the right to collective bargaining are just part of her legacy to the American people. Madam Speaker, today the number of women registered to vote exceeds the number of registered men by 8.3 million. Women make up 14 percent of active duty military personnel, and two-thirds of all new union members in the United States are women. Women have organized, financed, marched, volunteered, worked and are still working to fulfill the dreams of those 300 women that came together in 1848 and because of their efforts we all live in a better world.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the Flint Central High School Class of 1959 as they celebrate their 50th Class Reunion. A party was held in my hometown of Flint, Michigan, on September 4 in honor of this milestone. I am proud to say that I was their teacher. Over 1,000 students graduated from Flint Central High School in 1959 and their senior year was highlighted by outstanding academic and athletic programs. The football team won the State Championship, the cross-country team won the State Championship, the basketball team won the Regional Championship, and the track team won the State Championship. The Class of 1959 boasted six Valedictorians. Many students accepted college scholarships and military academy appointments. Over 350 students participated in the 33rd Annual Kaleidoscope and the theatrical production that year was ``A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court.'' The graduates spanned all walks of life and went on to careers in law, research, education, medicine, the fine arts and manufacturing. The surviving 700 classmates live in almost every state in the United States. Members of the Class of 1959 spread out over the globe and currently can be found in Scotland, Japan, and Mexico. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in commending the achievements of the Flint Central High School Class of 1959. As their former teacher, I take deep pride in helping to shape the minds and abilities of these graduates and I congratulate them on their talents, accomplishments, and triumphs.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Reginald R. Palmer. Sadly, Mr. Palmer passed away on August 3rd. His funeral was held in Flint, Michigan on August 15th. Reginald Palmer was a member of Canaan Baptist Church, and served Our Lord, Jesus Christ, through the Unity Choir and Canaan's Male Chorus. He was an attentive, conscientious member of his Church. His faithfulness to his Church community was a hallmark of his life. His enthusiasm, hard work and resolute belief in a better world led him to become active in our political process. Reginald served as the Vice Chairperson for Precinct 20 and he knew and helped many of the residents of that area. He worked tirelessly for many years to elect candidates that would improve the lives of everyday citizens. Many elected officials, including Vera Rison, benefitted from Reginald's wisdom and loyalty. I have counted him among my supporters for many years and I will miss his insight and counsel. He leaves behind his wife, Rosemary; daughters, Talishiya and Regina; and sons, Manus and Marshall; along with many other relatives and friends that bear witness to the good and fruitful life he lived. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to rise with me and pay tribute to the passing of a great human being, a devoted servant of Our Lord, a determined worker for a better tomorrow, an excellent and loyal friend. I will deeply miss Reginald Palmer and it is with great sadness that I mourn his passing.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill H.R. 2004, which would designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 4282 Beach Street in Akron, Michigan, as the ``Akron Veterans Memorial Post Office''. The Akron Post Office was first established at the house of its first postmaster, Samuel B. Covey. At the beginning of the Civil War, the post office was moved to the home of Lucius Waldo, about 7 miles south west of Unionville, Michigan, and relocated to Akron village in 1882. As the only Federal office in the town of Akron, Michigan, this facility should have the honor of recognizing all of the brave men and women who have served our country in uniform. It has long been a goal of mine to honor all veterans. As a father of two sons, both of whom served as captains in the United States Army, I am a firm believer that our Nation owes an immense debt of gratitude to its armed forces veterans. That is why I will continue to advocate for America's most important obligation, caring for its defenders and honoring they for their service. Designating this facility will provide citizens with the opportunity to be mindful of the sacrifices our armed forces' veterans have made, and continue to make today. I would like to thank the entire Michigan delegation for their support on this legislation and urge my colleagues support in passing this legislation.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Bruce G. McAttee as he retires from his position as CAP Coordinator for UAW Region 1C. A retirement party is planned for August 28th in Lansing Michigan. Bruce McAttee began his career working for General Motors in August 1976. In 1982 he completed his Electrician Apprenticeship and ran for Committeeman in November of that year. He was elected and held the position until 1990. He was elected Financial Secretary Treasurer of UAW Local 652 in June 1990. During this time he also was elected Vice Chair of Region 1C Skilled Trades Council and Chairman in 1986. This made him the youngest person to ever serve on the UAW International Skilled Trades Advisory Committee. In 1994 he accepted a position on the UAW International Staff and was assigned to UAW Region 1C as CAP Coordinator one year later. Bruce's interest in politics was sparked at the age of 13 when he worked on his first political campaign. He went to Wolverine Boys State during his high school years and he served as an intern with the Michigan House of Representatives. Since that time he has worked on numerous campaigns including the campaigns for every Democratic Presidential candidate since Jimmy Carter ran for office in 1976. He has served on the Michigan Democratic Party's State Central Committee for the past 14 years. He has served as delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 2000 and 2004. In 2004 he served as a Presidential Elector for the 8th District casting his ballot for John Kerry. The Clinton County Democratic Party honored him with their 2009 Phil Hart Award. In addition to his work with the UAW and the Democratic Party, Bruce is active with Cancer Society, the Martin Luther King Holiday Commission and the Red Cross Great Lakes Regional Board of Directors. The Lansing Area APRI Chapter recognized him earlier this year as a Role Model for his work in Civil Rights and the community. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to rise with me and applaud the work of a dear friend, Bruce G. McAttee. For many years an important member of my own campaigns, I consider Bruce a dear friend and skilled analyst. I value his capable, proficient expertise on a broad variety of subjects. I wish him the best as he enters this next phase of his life.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, when we passed the Cash for Clunkers legislation last month, I said it would provide a much needed boost to our auto industry and our manufacturing communities. After just 1 week, we see the great success of this program. I've been working closely with the White House, the auto task force and my Congressional colleagues to add additional funds to the program to keep it up and running. This program has been an unprecedented success, and there are no plans to suspend it. This program is a successful example of economic stimulus at work. To continue this positive program, I join my colleagues today to introduce legislation to redirect $2 billion from the economic stimulus bill to the Cash for Clunkers program. We are poised to pass this legislation through the House of Representatives today, and I urge my Senate colleagues to do the same as quickly as possible.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, Gabriel Perez, the Director of the Saginaw Michigan Aleda E. Lutz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, has been appointed as the new Health System Administrator/Medical Center Director of the Veterans Affairs HealthCare System in Phoenix, Arizona. He will start his new position on July 19, 2009. Mr. Perez graduated from Loyola University in 1968, attended the University of California at Los Angeles Law School and obtained his Master's Degree in Public and Health Care Administration from the University of Southern California. Prior to his work with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Mr. Perez spent several years working for the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services and teaching courses at the university level in medical legal law and personnel. Prior to becoming the Director of the Lutz Veterans Affairs Medical Center in 2000, Mr. Perez was the Chief Operating Officer and Acting Director of the Honolulu VA Medical and Regional Office Center. Since assuming his duties in Saginaw, he led the facility to improve its overall performance and move to a top ten spot among Department of Veterans Affairs facilities nationwide, ranking 3rd in the nation for its hospital grouping. From October 2005 to August 2006 he also served as Acting Director of the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System. Patient care and safety has been his primary concern and his practices have earned him the respect of his peers. The delivery efficiencies he developed have been adopted nationwide and have won awards for improving VeteranCare delivery. He is a member of several professional organizations and community groups. His work with veterans, Hispanics, workers and children has been recognized numerous times and he is a regular participant in efforts to promote veterans and Hispanics at the local and national levels. Madam Speaker, Gabriel Perez has brought insight and innovation to the day-to-day operations of the Lutz Veterans Affairs Medical Center over the past 9 years. He has worked to enhance the health and well- being of veterans, improve service to veterans, and expand accessibility for all veterans. I congratulate him on his new position and wish him the best as he enters this new phase of his life.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Sister Dorita Wotiska, O.P. as she retires from her position as Superintendent of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Lansing. A dinner will be held in her honor on June 22 in Lansing, Michigan. Sister Dorita entered the Adrian Dominican Sisters in 1954 and embarked upon her career as an educator. After working at the elementary level first as a teacher then assistant principal and principal, Sister Dorita became the Assistant Superintendent of Schools in the Diocese of Gaylord. She moved to the position of Associate Superintendent with the Diocese of Lansing before assuming the duties of Superintendent for the Diocese in 1986. In 1994 she accepted the additional responsibilities of Chairperson of the Department of Education and Catachesis and became a member of the Bishop's Cabinet. In this capacity she supervised 47 Catholic schools with a combined enrollment of 15,000 students. In addition to her Diocesan duties, Sister Dorita is the President of the Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools and she is a member of the Education Committee of the Michigan Catholic Conference. The list of organizations Sister Dorita has served with over the years is extensive and includes: the United States Department of Education National Review Board for the Blue Ribbon Schools Program, Task Force on Restructuring the Diocese of Lansing Offices, Michigan Association of Middle School Educators, National Conference of Catholic Schools for the 21st Century, School Financial Management Services Inc., United States Department of Education Exemplary Schools Program, Michigan Non- Public School Accrediting Association, Board of Trustees for Adrian Dominican Independent Schools, Michigan State Board of Education Accrediting Association, Greater Lansing Food Bank, Excellence in Education Committee of the Greater Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, Office of Technical Assistance and Evaluation Advisory Council and the Advisory Committee on Budget and Planning with the Michigan State Board of Education, Mayor's Inter-Agency Committee on Youth, Association for Supervision, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of Elementary School Principals, Michigan Association for the Individually Guided Education, Michigan State University Alumni Association and Chief Administrators of Catholic Education with the National Catholic Education Association. Sister Dorita has worked with Gull Lake School District, Lansing Public Schools and Lansing Community College. She currently is Adjunct Professor at Michigan State University's College of Education. Sister Dorita received her Doctor of Philosophy degree from Michigan State University in 1980. In 1990 she was selected as the Distinguished Diocesan Leader by Today's Catholic Teacher and School Financial Management Systems. In 1993 she was elected as Educator of the Year by Phi Delta Kappa. She has published several articles on education. Madam Speaker, Sister Dorita Wotiska has spent her life focused on enhancing the Catholic education system and experience. She has used the talents given to her by God to advance educational and spiritual ideals and through her ministry she has imprinted the message of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, into the hearts of countless students. I have valued her input, her dedication and her vision of a vibrant educational system, and I pray this new phase of her life contains only the best.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. I thank the gentlelady for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2751, the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act. This bill will provide incentives for the purchase of new, more efficient vehicles helping to revitalize our auto industry, preserve jobs, and clean up our environment. The need for this bill could not be greater. As we all know too well, our domestic industry has been suffering a prolonged downturn, and our families are feeling the effects. The recent bankruptcy filings by Chrysler and General Motors further underscore the critical need for action. H.R. 2751 will provide consumers with up to $4,500 in vouchers for trading in their old vehicles and purchasing new, more fuel-efficient models. Not only will this provide a much-needed boost to the auto industry, including manufacturers, dealers, and suppliers, but it will help preserve jobs in our communities. Additionally, we are cleaning up the environment by reducing our demand on foreign oil. I have always said that what America drives drives America. And I am committed to a strong and vibrant automobile industry. This legislation will help us get through this difficult time and get our automakers on the path to being the economic engine that has driven the American economy. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this important legislation.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the House Page Board, I would like to take this opportunity to express my personal gratitude to all the pages, some of whom we have here tonight, for all they have done to serve so diligently in the House of Representatives during the 110th and 111th Congresses. I have attached a list of the fine young men who have served this House as pages, along with the young ladies, who when I first came here were not pages. You have seen the progress of this country also. I have attached a list of the fine young people who have served this House as pages, and their names will be made part of the Congressional Record. We all recognize the important role that congressional pages play in helping the U.S. House of Representatives operate. These groups of young people, who come from all across our Nation, represent what is good about our country. To become a page, Mr. Speaker, these young people have proven themselves to be academically qualified. They have ventured away from the security of their homes and families to spend time in an unfamiliar city. Through this experience, they have witnessed a new culture, made new friends, and learned the details of how our government operates. As we all know, the job of a congressional page is not an easy one. Along with being away from home, the pages must possess the maturity to balance competing demands for their time and their energy. In addition, they must have the dedication to work long hours and the ability to interact with people at a personal level. At the same time, they face a challenging academic schedule of classes in the House Page School. You pages who are here tonight, and those who may be listening, have witnessed the House debate issues of war and peace, hunger and poverty, justice and civil rights. And between the 110th and the 111th Congress, you have seen the occupant of the White House change. You have lived through history. You have seen Congress at moments of greatness and you have seen Congress with its frailties. You have witnessed the workings of an institution that has endured well over 200 years. No one has seen Congress and Members of Congress as close up as have you. I am sure that you will consider your time spent in Washington, D.C., to be one of the most valuable and exciting experiences of your lives, and that with this experience, you will all move ahead to lead successful and productive lives. Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the House Page Board, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this group of distinguished young Americans. They certainly will be missed. As I walk by the desk on both sides, I like to say hello to you. And I'm proud of you, and you have given the Page Board much to be proud of this year. You certainly will be missed. And before yielding, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the members of the House Page Board who provide us such fantastic service to this institution: Congressman Rob Bishop, the vice Chair of the Page Board; Congresswoman Diana DeGette; Congresswoman Virginia Foxx; Clerk of the House, Lorraine Miller; Sergeant at Arms, Bill Livingood; Ms. Lynn Silversmith Klein and Mr. Adam Jones. I want to thank them for their service on the House Page Board. I thank you all, our departing pages. And, Mr. Speaker, at this time, I yield my time to the vice Chair of the Page Board and my friend, Mr. Bishop of Utah.

Mr. KILDEE. If I might add, that among all of your accomplishments here, one thing the pages have done, you and your predecessors have really seen at least one unit of the House that is totally nonpartisan. We work together so closely because of our concern for you that we always arrive by consensus at the decisions we make in the Page Board. Our concern for you is that great. I consider Rob Bishop one of my very special friends. We don't always vote alike on other things, but we always reach agreement when it comes to the pages to help us realize that we should come together on those things that are extremely important, and there are probably some other things we can probably do that on, too. Thank you very much. God bless all of you. Fall 2008 Session Pages

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in paying tribute to Judge Paul V. Gadola. The Greater Flint Branch of the American Civil Liberties Union bestowed the 2009 Thomas A. Baltus Civil Libertarian of the Year Award upon Judge Gadola at a dinner held last Thursday, May 28, in my hometown of Flint Michigan. Paul Gadola graduated from Michigan State University in 1951 and received his Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Michigan Law School in 1953. After serving in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955, he returned to his home in Flint and started a private practice. President Ronald Reagan appointed him to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, the U.S. Senate confirmed his appointment in October 1988, and on January 6, 1989 he took office. He served in this capacity until his retirement in 2008. Judge Gadola is certified as a Diplomat in Civil Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a Lifetime Fellow of the American Trial Lawyers Foundation, served as an arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association, a mediator for the Circuit Courts of Genesee and Shiawassee Counties, and is a Fellow of the Michigan State Bar Foundation. Judge Gadola is a member of the Executive Board of the Federal Bar Association--Eastern District of Michigan Chapter, the Board of Directors of the Historical Society for the U.S. District Court of Eastern Michigan, the Michigan Supreme Court Historical Society, the Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies and the Advisory Committee of its Michigan Chapter. He is a member of the Philadelphia Society, the Economic Club of Detroit, Committee of Sponsors of the Flint College and Cultural Development Fund, the Hannah Society, and he has served as the President of the Incorporated Society of Irish/American Lawyers. As an alumnus of Michigan State University he has served the school's President's Club, the Board of Directors of the MSU Development Fund, and as a member of Directors of the school's Alumni Association. He has also served on the Board of Directors of the Mott Community College Foundation. Over the years he has served the Urban League of Flint as President, the Cystic Fibrosis Research Foundation of Genesee County as President, the March of Dimes of Genesee County as Chairman, Genesee County Legal Aid Society as Vice-President, he has been a Director of the Flint Environmental Action Team and the Flint Area Convention and Tourist Council. Preceding his time on the bench, Judge Gadola was elected to the Board of Trustees of Mott Community College from 1969 to 1989. He served as Chair from 1983 to 1989. Madam Speaker, Judge Paul Gadola was a founding member of the Flint Branch of the American Civil Liberties Union when the organization formed in 1963. The American Civil Liberties Union gave this award to him because of his hard work on behalf of the right to free association, the right to equal protection of the laws, the right to free speech, and the right to effective assistance of counsel. I have known Judge Gadola for many years and have benefited from his legal counsel and sage advice. I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating him as he is honored for his work on behalf of our civil liberties.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I stand before you today on behalf of one of our country's most honored and respected organizations, the American Red Cross. Each year, the Genesee-Lapeer Chapter of the Red Cross acknowledges individuals who have shown tremendous courage, kindness, and selflessness through acts of goodwill and heroism. 14 individuals will be honored at the annual ``Salute to Everyday Heroes'' on Friday, May 29th in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Everyday Heroes are selected for acts of bravery related to fire, rescue, and lifesaving, and are awarded to those who live in Genesee or Lapeer Counties, or if the rescue occurred in one of the two counties. This year Trooper Bradley Ross and Trooper David Stokes will receive the Law Enforcement Award. Robert Elliott and Timothy Knott will be recognized with the Emergency Medical Response Award. Firefighters Jason Abbey, Dustin Lucius, Al Morea, Nick Schulz, Josh Sturgis, and Pat Whalen will be honored for their work. The Youth Good Samaritan Award will be given to Brandon Howe and the Adult Good Samaritan Award will be given to Jack and Jean Seibert. Myla Swanson will be recognized with the Workplace Good Samaritan Award. Judge Robert E. Weiss will be posthumously honored with the Community Good Samaritan Award. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to rise with me and applaud the courageous, altruistic accomplishments of these 14 persons. They have generously acted without thought to their own safety to assist others in danger. They have earned the title of ``hero'' and I am grateful for their service to our community.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the employees of Genesys Regional Medical Center for their quick action during a fire at the hospital on March 22, 2009. On that morning a fire started in a patient room at the Medical Center. A nurse sounded the alarm and escorted the patient from the room. The nursing staff mobilized and moved 36 patients from the area of the fire. The patients ranged from the wheelchair-bound to the non- ambulatory and many were on oxygen. Security staff, other employees and physicians moved in with fire extinguishers. The oxygen supply to the area was cut off, the sprinkler system activated and the fire was contained to one room. The Grand Blanc Fire Department noted that not one patient or employee was injured during the entire incident. Due to the quick response by the Genesys staff, patient care was not compromised during the evacuation. Fire Chief James Harmes has complimented the Genesys team for their great work during the crisis. Madam Speaker, the Genesys Regional Medical Center staff put the well-being of their patients first and they worked together to ensure each and every patient was moved to safety, the fire was extinguished expeditiously, and the security of the Medical Center was not compromised. I ask the House of Representatives to join me in commending the employees for their unwavering dedication and quick action.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Clerk be authorized to make technical corrections in the engrossment of H.R. 2187, to include corrections in spelling, punctuation, section numbering and cross-referencing, and the insertion of appropriate headings.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mark Hawkins as he retires from the General Motors Truck Assembly plant after 37 years of service. Mark was the Shop Chairman of UAW Local 598 for the past 20 years and a member of the UAW Local 598 bargaining committee for the past 31 years. A celebration will be held on May 15 to recognize his achievements and life. A graduate of Beecher High School, Mark has worked tirelessly to advocate on behalf of the employees of General Motors. His skill as a negotiator has earned him the respect of GM Management, UAW Local 598 membership and the UAW international leadership. The National Bargaining Committee elected him to chair the National Negotiations in 1993, 1996 and 2003. Mark negotiated a Living Agreement between UAW Local 598 and GM Flint Assembly in 1997. This unprecedented agreement secured new work for the plant and a $500 million investment from the company. He was elected without opposition in his 7th bid for Local 598 chairman. Earlier this year he negotiated a new Local Living Agreement that is serving as the role model for other plants in the United States. Over the years, Mark has gained a reputation for helping those less fortunate. Starting in 1994, UAW Local 598 membership has donated over $1 million to feed and clothe needy children. Mark has organized the building of 8 playgrounds at local elementary schools and parks. Responding to the tragedy of September 11, he spearheaded the drive to build two trucks with donated labor and GM components for the New York Fire Department. Across the Nation the UAW and General Motors followed his example and a total of 60 trucks were given to the Fire Department. The community has recognized his contributions and Mark has received the following awards: 2000 Walter Reuther Award, 2000 Liberty Bell Award, 2001 American Red Cross Hero Award, 2002 Martin Luther King Award, and in 2003 he received the Michigan Parks and Recreation Committee Award. Mark and his wife, Shelley, have been married for 19 years and have 3 children Joseph, Brandi, and Richard and four grandchildren Brooklyn, Olivia, Chace, and Emma. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to rise with me and applaud the life of Mark Hawkins. He has been diligent in fighting for the rights of the UAW membership. Gifted with vision, tenacity, and mediation he has brought a deep comprehension of both sides of a problem to the negotiating table. Deeply engaged in the struggle to bring dignity to the workplace, Mark Hawkins has been a true friend to workers everywhere. I consider him a friend and have valued his insight and wisdom over the future of the U.S. auto industry. I am a better Congressman for having known Mark and I wish him the best as he starts this new phase of his life.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the 21st Century Green High-Performing School Facilities Act. I was very pleased to join Congressman Chandler, the chief sponsor of this bill, my committee chairman, Chairman Miller, and Congressman Loebsack, an effective and creative member of the Education and Labor Committee, to cosponsor this bill. This legislation will bring critically needed resources to schools around the country, to provide students and teachers with safe, healthy, modern energy-efficient and environmentally friendly learning spaces. And it would help our local, State, and national economies by creating jobs for thousands of workers to build these improvements. Mr. Chairman, some years ago in Flint, Michigan, my hometown, a judge ordered a jail to be torn down because it was unfit for human occupation, yet many local educators at that time told me that that jail was in better shape than some of the schools in which they work hard every day. Last Congress, we passed this bill out of the House with strong bipartisan support. I am confident that we will do the same today, and I look forward to working with my colleague to see it become law.

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim the time in opposition, although I am not opposed to the amendment.

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Chairman, I rise to support this amendment. We accept this amendment. It is really saying that if you take money under this program, you have to follow the standards that Congress has already adopted for ESEA. It is a logical amendment. We have debated these things before. We decided that these things were valid under ESEA and, therefore, to accept money under this program, you would have to abide by those same standards under ESEA. Therefore, I would urge my colleagues to accept this amendment. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.