Dale Kildee

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jonathan Quarles, the keynote speaker at the Flint NAACP's Freedom Fund annual dinner to be held on March 3rd in Flint Michigan. Jonathan Quarles is currently serving the mayor of Detroit, the Honorable Kwame Kilpatrick, as the executive assistant. Jonathan began his public service career after graduating from Florida A&M University in 2004 with dual degrees in business administration and political science. He worked for People for the American Way Foundation in partnership with Tavis Smiley to increase civic awareness and engagement in the public process by young people in Florida, Michigan, Illinois, Texas and Ohio. In addition to his current position with the city of Detroit, Jonathan has a lifelong commitment to the NAACP, is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated Beta Nu Chapter. He serves as a precinct delegate for the city of Detroit, as board member of Leadership Transformation, a steering committee member for New Detroit National Leadership Summit on Race, a trainer for the Paul Wellstone Action Network, and an ambassador for Tavis Smiley's Youth 2 Leaders Foundation. Recently Jonathan founded Common Link Consulting Services to better educate the community about public policy and foster links between the public and private sectors. Recognized for his accomplishments, Jonathan was selected by Black Enterprise as one of America's emerging leaders. He was recognized by Jet Magazine as one of Black America's most promising leaders of the 21st century. The Governor of Michigan named him a ``Michiganian of the Year'' in 2000 and Florida A&M University has granted the Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award to Jonathan for two consecutive years. The February 2007 issue of Ebony Magazine listed him as one of the country's top 30 leaders under the age of 30. Madam Speaker I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating a fellow Flint native, Jonathan Quarles, as he is honored by the Flint Chapter of the NAACP for his work to make our community a better place.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 63, to stop the President's escalation of our involvement in what has now become the Iraqi civil war. I voted no in 2002 when the Congress passed the resolution authorizing the President to invade Iraq. It was wrong to start this war then, and it is wrong to escalate it now. In 2002, I had several basic questions addressed to the President, questions that are still valid today. I asked then, what is the nature and urgency of the Iraqi threat to the United States? What is the mission of our troops? How much international support will we have? Will this military operation in Iraq decrease terrorism or increase terrorism? And what is the exit strategy to withdraw our troops from Iraq? Mr. Speaker, we now know that Saddam Hussein did not have weapons of mass destruction. President Bush has since publicly acknowledged that there was no link or connection between Saddam Hussein and the terrorist attacks on 9/11. The mission of our troops seems to change and expand daily, but their current mission appears to be to act as threatened referees in an increasingly bloody civil war between the Sunni and Shiite Iraqis. As for international support, the American taxpayer has borne the vast majority of the costs to the tune of hundreds of billions of dollars. American fighting men and women and their families have borne the vast majority of the deaths and injuries to Coalition troops, over 3,100 Americans killed, 18 from my district, and over 23,000 wounded. Even our staunchest ally, Great Britain, plans to reduce the number of its troops in Iraq to 4,500 by this June. Are we safer today than we were before the invasion of Iraq? Declassified CIA National Intelligence Estimates indicate that the war in Iraq has become a primary recruitment vehicle for Islamic terrorists. Far from being the central front in the war on terror, as the President and his people say, Iraq is the incubator and training ground for new terrorists from around the world. Finally, the President has never clearly stated what is our strategy to win in Iraq nor what is our exit strategy. ``Mission accomplished,'' ``Bring it on,'' ``Stay the course,'' or ``We will stand down as the Iraqis stand up'' are slogans, not strategies. Our generals, our diplomats, the Iraq Study Group even the White House, all agree there is not a military solution to the war in Iraq. Only a political resolution between the warring Iraqi factions could end the current violence. I do not believe that adding more American troops will do anything to help foster that crucial political solution. In fact, it may hinder it. Telling the Iraqi leadership and the Iraqi people that they must solve their own internal problems without limitless American assistance has a far better chance of success than continuing our current blank- check policy. Mr. Speaker, President Bush either did not get or did not understand the message the American people sent last November. Before the end of this year, U.S. troops should be redeployed and their efforts focused on support and training the Iraqi Security Forces. It is their country, it is their fight, and it is their future.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to salute Foss Avenue Baptist Church as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Church's founding. The congregation will hold a banquet on March 24th in my hometown of Flint, Michigan to mark the occasion. In late 1956 several ministers in Flint meet with the purpose of organizing a Baptist church on Foss Avenue. It was agreed to organize a church and the first applications for membership were made. The first members were Preston Johnson, Emma J. Simpson, Marvell Arkansas, and Reverend and Mrs. Avery Aldridge. A motion was made to name the church Foss Avenue Baptist Church and on December 2, 1956 the new church was born. The original church was dedicated on January 6, 1957. Under the direction of Pastor Avery Aldridge the second church building was entered on March 30, 1958 with the cornerstone being laid on March 22, 1959. The church was rebuilt in 1964, and the west addition was dedicated on February 9, 1969. The cornerstone was re-laid on December 10, 1978 when the north and south side additions were dedicated. As the congregation grew Pastor Aldridge organized many auxiliaries and services under the auspices of Foss Avenue Baptist Church and the congregation moved into the current sanctuary in 1989. In 2005 the original sanctuary was renovated and dedicated as the Mildred Light Aldridge Christian Education Center. Through the years the members of Foss Avenue Baptist Church have contributed to the church enterprises. Foss Avenue Baptist Church has an active Usher Board, a Music Department, a Foreign Mission Board, Church School Department, Mother's Board, Deaconess Board, a Trustee Board, Mission Department, and Kitchen Entourage. In addition the congregation operated Foss Avenue Christian School and the first Black Dairy Queen in the Flint area. Through the efforts of this congregation, thousands of persons have been helped, inspired and educated. Pastor Aldridge devoted his life to making Foss Avenue Baptist Church a reflection of God's glory and a beacon of light to the people of Flint. Under the current leadership of Pastor Roosevelt Austin, a lifelong friend of Pastor Aldridge, the congregation continues to respond overwhelmingly to God's call and to carry on His work. Madam Speaker, please join me in applauding Foss Avenue Baptist Church as it celebrates 50 years of worship, fellowship, and homage to Our Lord, Jesus Christ. The clergy and members are to be commended for their service to their community and world.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, today is a day of mixed emotion for all of us who work with the Page Program. It is time to say goodbye to 26 young aspiring individuals who have served the U.S. Congress for the last 5 months. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives, I would like to thank you all for your hard work, commitment and dedication to the Page Program. I know you have made your families, friends and communities back home proud, and I am certain that they will be glad to get you back. As difficult as it is to say good-bye, I trust that you will take with you memories, experlences and friends that will last a lifetime. Take with you also our sincere thanks for a job well done. Your hard work and dedication have proven that you are young people with strength, courage and character. We look forward to hearing about all of your many future successes. Best wishes for safe travels home, luck in the rest of your Junior year, and much happiness always. There is no question that you are all destined for bright futures. May God bless you all. Departing Pages for 2006 1. Nicole Alexander--TX 2. Alexandra Beletic--UT 3. Chelsea L. Bryan--FL 4. Rebecca Dawson--AL 5. Christopher Day--FL 6. Austen Edwards--GA 7. Alex Finch--MI 8. Emily Hall--IA 9. Brittany Hatley--CA 10. Virginia Heppner--VA 11. Samuel Hocking--NJ 12. Xavier Jackson--FL 13. Chelsea Kerkstra--MI 14. Erica Kuhlman--PA 15. Chelsea Loehr--KS 16. Patrick McConlogue--CA 17. Jaime Mendal--FL 18. Jamie Morrisey--PA 19. Mariah Mumford--MI 20. Zachary Owens--IL 21. Erik Rison--VA 22. Arriel Rubinstein--NJ 23. Blaise Selby--CO 24. Kayla Smith--IA 25. Alex Vincent--PA 26. Adam Zeldin--AZ

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. I thank the gentlelady for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 475, the House Page Board Revision Act of 2007. Since 1985, I have had the honor of serving on the House page board, either as the chairman or as the Democratic representative. Whenever we met as a board, our efforts were to arrive at decisions by consensus. H.R. 475 strengthens that spirit of cooperation by providing two basic reforms of the House page board. First, we expand the membership of the page board. The current membership includes two Members of the majority party and one Member of the minority party, as well as the Clerk of the House and the House Sergeant at Arms. This bill would expand the page board members by adding three new members to the board. We add a second Member of the minority party to make it an even two Democratic Members and two Republican Members. In a major change, we also add two outside members to the board, one a parent of a current or recent page and the other, a former House page. The Speaker and the minority leader will jointly appoint the page parent and the former page. These additions to the House page board provide for partisan balance and for diversity of views from people who have direct interest in the success of the page program. The second reform in H.R. 475 is the requirement that the House page board meet on a regular basis. The Speaker and minority leader will jointly establish the frequency of such meetings. Mr. Speaker, we look forward to operating the page program in an effective manner. We will work together to review and constantly improve the operations of the House page program. It is our goal to assure that the pages will gain every possible benefit from this program while ensuring the well-being of the young people who serve this House as pages. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 475.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Kind).

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the chairman of the committee, the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller).

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Andrews). (Mr. ANDREWS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Holt).

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mr. Tierney).

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the College Student Relief Act. By making college more affordable for 5.5 million students each year, this bill is a big step in the right direction of helping low- and middle-income families achieve the American Dream. Not only is it a step in the right direction, but it is a step in a new direction. For years, the President and previous Congresses have passed billions of dollars of tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans instead of investing in the potential of average Americans. The last Congress put college out of reach for many families by passing a $12 billion raid on student aid, the largest cut in the history of the student aid program. Madam Speaker, H.R. 5 will save the average borrower who starts at a 4-year college at Michigan next year nearly $2,200 over the life of the loan, and will save the same student who starts in 2011 more than $4,200. Madam Speaker, when we debate the Federal budget around here, we talk about budget authority and outlays and offsets, and other complicated accounting procedures. But, in the end, what we really are talking about are not just numbers but real people in every corner of this country, making tough decisions about their lives. One of the toughest questions these days is whether they can afford to attend or stay in college, especially because a college education is more important now than ever. These are real people with names, not numbers, who ask that question. They are people who live in your district. Very simply, the reason I support this bill, and the reason I ask my colleagues to join me, is because this bill will help thousands of students to say yes to that question. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4, The Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act of 2007. This legislation fixes a serious flaw in the Medicare prescription drug program that currently prohibits Medicare from negotiating drug prices with pharmaceutical manufacturers. The Department of Veterans Affairs and state Medicaid-programs are already able to use their buying power to negotiate lower prices on prescription drugs and this has greatly lowered their prescription drug costs. Medicare prices for the top 20 drugs prescribed to seniors are 58 percent higher than those available through the VA. The Government Reform Committee found that Medicare negotiating drug prices just 25 percent lower would save more than $60 billion over the next decade. Seniors need a prescription drug benefit under Medicare that is affordable, comprehensive, guaranteed and does not harm those retirees that are currently covered under private insurance plans. This is an important first step in improving Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2, the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007. The minimum wage has not been increased in nearly 10 years and its purchasing power is the lowest it has been in 50 years. A full-time minimum wage worker earns just $10,700 per year, which is $6,000 below the Federal poverty level for a family of three. The bill we consider today will benefit nearly 7.4 million workers directly, and another 5.6 million workers indirectly. America's poorest working families must get the raise they need and deserve. This bill is especially important given the fact that America's families have seen their real income drop by $1,300 over the past 6 years. At the same time, the costs of health insurance, gasoline, home heating and attending college have increased enormously. Increasing the minimum wage demonstrates our commitment to workers everywhere and exemplifies the value we place on a hard day's work. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 2.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Reverend Robert W. Rawls who is honored by the clergy and congregation of Vernon Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church on Sunday, January 14 in my hometown of Flint, MI. Reverend Rawls began his life of Christian service at Vernon Chapel. His parents, Johnny and Corrie Rawls were two of Vernon Chapel's founding members. They instilled in their son love for Our Lord and a desire to serve him. Reverend Rawls began his life of service as a Sunday School teacher, a member of the choir and a member of the Steward Board. He also served as the Superintendent of the Sunday School. In 1976 he answered God's call to the ministry. Two years later he organized a Mission located at North and Gillespie Streets. He went street by street for 40 blocks talking to people and inviting them to come and worship. The first service was held on June 19, 1978. One person joined his congregation and his wife, Estelle, provided the music. Continuing to spread the good news of Jesus Christ, the Mission grew and the congregation was able to purchase the building. The Presiding Elder, Martin L. Sims, authorized Reverend Reuben Russell to organize the Mission into a Church in 1980 and Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church was admitted into the Annual Conference. Reverend Rawls drew on his faith in God to continue working to bring people to Jesus Christ. Year after year, he held nightly street services from July through September. He worked to improve the Church and in 1996 completed the conversion of the former storefront to a Church edifice. For 22 years he served faithfully as a minister and pastor, retiring in 2002. Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to rise with me and applaud the life and work of Reverend Robert W. Rawls as his family and friends at Vernon Chapel embrace him. He has devoted his life to doing God's work and the Flint community is a better place because of his compassion, commitment, and actions. I wish him the best as he enjoys his retirement.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H. Res. 15, a House Resolution mourning the passing of former President Gerald Ford of Michigan. Throughout his life and his career, Jerry Ford exhibited the highest standards of courage, wisdom, integrity, and civility. I had the honor of serving with President Ford's brother, Thomas, in the Michigan legislature before I was elected to Congress in 1976. Mr. Speaker, I must admit that I was one of those who questioned President Ford's pardon of Richard Nixon at the time he did it. But by the time Ford gave his final State of the Union speech in January 1977, I, and most of the Nation, had come to realize the rightness of his decision to pardon Nixon. I vividly remember the sustained and prolonged applause, from both sides of the aisle, for President Ford during his January 1977 State of the Union Address to the Congress. He took the Office of the Presidency at a very difficult and troubled time for our Nation and for our world. He had previously served his country with honor as a naval officer during World War Two, as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from the State of Michigan, and as the minority leader of the U.S. House. But when his country needed him the most, he served in the highest office in the land, as President of the United States of America. He was the right person, at the right time, in the right office. He guided our Nation through a very difficult time and he helped in the healing process which our Country so deeply needed at that time in our history. Mr. Speaker, Jerry Ford loved this Country, he loved his house, he loved his State of Michigan, and he certainly loved his wife Betty and their children and grandchildren. Our thoughts and our prayers are with them as we honor Jerry Ford today.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in paying tribute to Richard Grovom as he prepares to donate his 307th pint of blood to the American Red Cross. Richard began donating blood in 1945 when he was in the U.S. Army. One of his fellow soldiers needed emergency surgery and Richard stepped forward and donated blood. He continued donating on and off over the next 10 years until 1955. At that time his oldest daughter was born with a peptic ulcer. She was 2 days old, bleeding, and was given donated blood. The kindness of that anonymous person inspired Richard and he decided to make donating blood an ongoing part of his life. His motto is ``It is better to give than receive.'' When Richard had donated his 36th gallon of blood the Red Cross presented him with a case to hold the gallon pins he had earned over the years. He has now earned both his 37th and 38th gallon pins and the blood he donated when stationed at Camp Roberts in California is not included in this amount. A resident of Grand Blanc, Michigan, Richard is a retired tool and die foreman with Chevrolet. He is part of the elite group of Americans that donate blood. The American Red Cross estimates that 5 percent of our population donates blood, but 95 percent of Americans will need blood at least once in their lifetime. Mr. Speaker please join me in congratulating Richard Grovom for his immense achievement and may God bless him for his generosity to his fellow citizens.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Patrick McCarty on his retirement as Executive Director of the Michigan Community Action Program. Patrick will be honored at a dinner on November 30th in Livonia Michigan. Patrick began his career with the UAW in 1973 at Ford Motor Company. After serving as a bargaining committee representative for Local 723, Patrick was appointed by Stephen P. Yokich to be his plant's Quality Liaison Representative. During this time he was responsible for implementing the ``Working Together for Quality Program'' working with both management and employees at the Monroe, Michigan Ford Plant. In February 1992 his efforts were recognized and the Monroe Plant received the first National Recognition of Innovation, Support and Excellence Award for the ``Customer Commitment Quality Team'' created at the plant. As a result of his leadership Stephen Yokich appointed Patrick as the Executive Director of the Michigan Community Action Program in 1995. In this capacity, Patrick was the head of the political and legislative arm in Michigan for the UAW. He has served in this position until his retirement. Active in the Democratic Party, Patrick is an officer of the Michigan Democratic Party, a member of the Democratic State Central Committee, the 11th Congressional District Democratic Party, and a precinct delegate. He is also a lifetime member of the NAACP and the Detroit NAACP. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Patrick McCarty on his retirement from the UAW. I wish him, and his wife Dr. Rhonda Hennessy, the best as they embark on a new chapter in their lives.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church as they celebrate 100 years of worship. The church is holding a banquet on December 9 to kickoff a yearlong celebration of the centennial anniversary. In 1902 several members of Flint, Michigan's African-American community gathered with the Reverend William Lyons at the home of Mrs. Sarah Howard and held worship services. They aspired to organize an official church and in 1907 their dream was realized. A church home was established on Ward Street, now Twelfth Street, and Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church was born. Over the years the church moved twice until it found a permanent home at 424 Kennelworth Street in 1950. Under the guidance of Reverend Robert T. Turpin the church grew. Reverend Turpin led the congregation for 33 years and made many improvements to the property including the construction of Turpin Fellowship Hall. Reverend Roy I. Greer became the pastor in 1972. Reverend Greer has directed the sanctuary renovations, installed a new baptistery, refurbished the offices and classrooms. In 1999 the Family Life Center was constructed. The basketball court, kitchen, and classrooms are the cornerstone of the community outreach spearheaded by Reverend Greer. The recreation center has provided a place for young people to gather in a safe, loving environment. As the first African-American Baptist Church in the Flint area, Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church has fostered many persons that went on to become ordained ministers of the Word of God. It has stood as a beacon of light for every social justice movement over the past 100 years and continues to provide solace and help for the most vulnerable in our community. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church as they celebrate 100 years of consecrated service to Our Lord, Jesus Christ. May they continue to act in the Name of the Lord for another 100 years.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to an outstanding public servant and a close friend, Fred J. Shaltz. Fred recently retired as a Genesee County Michigan Commissioner after serving seven consecutive terms in office. Fred's career in public service started long before he was elected to office. After attending the University of Michigan, Fred passed the State of Michigan examination and was licensed as a land surveyor in 1963. Two years later he founded Delta Land Surveying and Engineering, Inc. and Delta Aerial Photography. At the same time his career in community service began. He has served as either a current or former board member of the following organizations: Flint Jaycees, Hemophilia Foundation of Michigan, Rubicon-Odyssey House, Eastern Michigan Mortgage Banker's Association, Builder's Association of Metropolitan Flint, Fenton City Local Development Finance Authority, Fenton Chamber of Commerce, Mott College Foundation Board, Valley School Trustee, and served as the vice president of the Flint Area Chamber of Commerce. During his tenure as a Genesee County Commissioner, Fred carried out his duties by serving in the following capacities: member of the Genesee County Metropolitan Planning Commission, as chair of the Public Works Committee, member of the Lobdell Lake Board, chair of the Courthouse Square Committee, member of the 911 Consortium, the Valley Area Agency of Aging, the Genesee County Mental Health Board, Genesee County Recycling Coalition, chair of the Finance Committee, a member of the Leadership Committee, member of the Genesee County Mass Transit Authority, Greater Health Coalition, Genesee County Retirement Board, New Paths, County Park and Recreation, Chair of the Community Economic Development Committee, the Genesee County Board of Review, and the Flint City Planning Commission. Fred also served as the vice chair of the board of commissioners from 1995-1996 and 2000-2004. He was the chairman of the board during 1997 and 1998. Recognized by his peers, Fred has received the following awards: Young Democrat-of-the-Year Award, Knight of the Month K of C Council 695 Flint, the 1966 Speak-Up and Spoke Award Flint Jaycees, Michigan's Community Leader, Flint Beautification Commendation, Women's Council of Flint Board of Realtor's Award, Feat Foundation Award, American Congress on Surveying and Mapping Fellow, Michigan American Legion Appreciation Award, Outstanding Service Award Greater Flint Area Chamber of Commerce, Community Mental Service Award, Flint City Council Appreciation, City of Fenton Community Service Award, Life-Member Award from Michigan Association of Realtors, Key to City of Flint, 2000 Dare Program, Burton Health Center Leadership Recognition, 1986 Associate of the Year from Home Builder's Association of Metropolitan Flint, Appreciation Award from Bureau of Business Practice, Patriotic Citizen Award from the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Dedicated Service Award from Genesee County Park and Recreation, Appreciation Award from the County Board of Health, Award from Valley Area Agency of Aging. Between the years 1968 to 1992 Fred was appointed by different mayors to serve on 11 city boards. He was also appointed by three different Michigan Governors to the board of licensing for architects, land surveyors, and Michigan's Small Business Council. He was the second vice president of the Home Builder's Association in 1985, and repeatedly recognized by the National Engineering Society on Education, Qualifications and Examiners. Fred was a founding member of the Fenton Rotary Club and a founding member of the Fenton Township Service Club. His article on excellent business practices appeared in a 1988 issue of Inc. Magazine and he was a contributor to the magazine's book ``301 Great Management Ideas'' published in 1991. He contributed an article to a University of Michigan textbook on business, management, and leadership. In 2004 he was inducted into the Builder's Association of Metropolitan Flint Wall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be able to congratulate my friend, Fred Shaltz, as he retires undefeated in office after 7 terms with the Genesee County Board of Commissioners and 43 years of public service. I wish him the best as he embarks on this new phase of his life.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Pastor Arthur Lee of the Rock of Asia Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Lee and his pastoral staff will be honored by the congregation at a celebration on December 10th in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. After serving in the United States Army from 1963 to 1975, Pastor Lee was honorably discharged and worked as an offshore oil rigger in Singapore. He moved to Michigan in 1986 and served as a deacon at 1st Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church. He became an assistant pastor acting together with his brother, Pastor Henderson Lee. Arthur Lee was called to the ministry in 1990 and was ordained at 1st Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church in 1993. He became the pastor of Rock of Asia Missionary Baptist Church and has faithfully served the congregation for the past 12 years. In addition to Sunday morning worship services, Pastor Lee also holds Sunday School and a Wednesday Bible Class. In keeping with the church's motto, 2nd Corinthians 5:7 ``We walk by faith, not by sight,'' the congregation goes out once a month and witnesses to the community. They distribute food to the needy at the holidays. During the past 12 years the congregation has grown from 8 members to 80 members. Pastor Lee organized the drive to extend the sanctuary and install new pews to accommodate the growing number of faithful. During this time Pastor Lee also worked at MTA, and was a loving husband and father. He retired from MTA in 2001 to assume fulltime pastoral duties. Taking his ministry beyond the church walls, Pastor Lee is active in several local and national groups. He has served with Concerned Pastors for Social Action since 1993 and is a member of Concerned Pastors of Genesee County. For 20 years he has served as a chaplain at Hurley Medical Center and he took on the role of chaplain at Genesys Hospice 18 months ago. He is the spiritual coach for Hamady High School Athletic Department. As a veteran, Pastor Lee understands the problems of veterans in our community and has worked for the past 7 years tending to the spiritual needs of the disabled veterans at the DVA Post 122. Pastor Lee has attended Mott Community College and continues to find new ways to improve his ministry. He recently completed a series of enrichment classes sponsored by Genesys Health Systems. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Pastor Arthur Lee, his pastoral staff and his congregation for 12 years of consecrated service to Our Lord, Jesus Christ. I wish them the best as they continue to spread the Gospel through the Flint area.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Norma R. Hagenow as she is honored by the Boy Scouts of America Tall Pine Council. The Tall Pine Council has named Norma their Distinguished Citizen of the Year and held a banquet on November 30 to express their appreciation for her support over the years. Norma Hagenow is a graduate of the Trinity Lutheran Hospital School of Nursing, received a bachelor of science in nursing from Milton College, and has a master's degree in business administration from Indiana State University. After serving as the vice president of Care with Carondelet Health System in Tucson, AZ, Norma also was vice president of operations for the Mercy System in Des Moines, IA. She came to Genesys Health System in January 1999 as the executive vice president and chief operating officer and assumed the presidency in May 2001. In addition to her position with Genesys, Norma is also the president and senior partner of CenterPoint, LLC, a healthcare consulting firm in Arizona; serves as adjunct faculty with several universities; and has written course curriculums at these schools. She has had several articles published in national journals, contributes to the National Public Policy dialogue at the Brookings Institute, serves as chair of the Certificate of Need Program for the State of Michigan, was appointed by Governor Jennifer Granholm to the State of Michigan Council for Labor and Economic Growth, and was a health care expert on the United States Secretary of Labor's Committee on Changing Demographics in the Workforce from 2002 to 2004. As a member of the national level Clinical Excellence Team for Ascension Health, Norma has direct input into the operations of the largest non- profit healthcare delivery system in America. Since her arrival in the Flint, MI, area she has been very supportive of the Tall Pine Council, the Boy Scouts of America and the Annual Friends of Scouting Campaign. The Tall Pine Council serves over 16,000 youngsters in Genesee, Lapeer and Shiawassee Counties. Mr. Speaker please join me in congratulating Norma Hagenow upon receiving the Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award from the Tall Pine Council. I commend her for her service to the community and wish her the best in the coming years.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Prasad Kommareddi as he completes his term as President of the Genesee County Medical Society. Dr. Kommareddi was honored at the annual President's Ball held on November 4th in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. After attending Guntur Medical College in India, Dr. Kommareddi completed a residency in Pediatrics at St. John's Episcopal Hospital and a residency in Internal Medicine at Hurley Medical Center. After adopting Flint as his new home, Dr. Kommareddi went on to become board certified in three areas, Internal Medicine, Addiction Medicine, and Quality Assurance and Utilization Review. Dr. Kommareddi has been active in enhancing the relationship between physicians and third party payers. He served as a medical advisor to MCare, Blue Care Network, and served as a member of the Michigan State Medical Society Committees on Licensing and Regulation and Third Party Payer Liaison. Recognized by his peers for his leadership, insight, and focus, Dr. Kommareddi has been elected to several positions by his fellow physicians. He is the past president of the Physicians of India Association, has served on the Genesee County Medical Society Board of Directors, and as a delegate to the Genesee County Medical Society House of Delegates, and president of the Genesee County Medical Society Affiliated Companies. He is currently a Member of the Board of Genesys PHO, Chair of its Finance Committee and serves as its Administrative Medical Director. Prasad Kommareddi's term as the President of the Genesee County Medical Society was underscored by his excellent guidance and concentration on implementing major components of the Medical Society's Strategic and Long Range plan. He worked to increase cooperation and involvement by the members and spotlighted the need for quality and evidence based initiatives. Compassion is an integral part of being a good medical doctor and Dr. Kommareddi has worked over the years to educate patients about maintaining healthy lifestyles. Conducting weekly group meetings to explain the repercussions of diabetes, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease and obesity. He provides these meetings free of charge. The Michigan Surgeon General has acknowledged his motivational efforts. He is the recipient of the Michigan Steps Up Award from the State of Michigan and the Health Plus Award for 25 years of service. In addition to being an outstanding physician, Dr. Kommareddi and his wife, Jay, are the proud parents of two daughters, Malika and Madhuri. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Prasad Kommareddi for sharing his skill with his patients, his co- workers, fellow medical doctors, and the people of Michigan. The Flint area is a better place because of his commitment to improving the health of its citizens. I wish him the best as he continues to serve to community.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Darlene Hunter Davis, the Illustrious Commandress of Oman Court Number 132, Daughters of Isis Auxiliary, to the Imperial Council Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. Darlene was honored at the 46th Annual Commandress Ball on October 28th in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. The Daughters of Isis Auxiliary was formed in 1910 as an auxiliary of the family members of the Prince Hall Shriners. The purpose was to unite the relatives of A.E.A.O.N.M.S. Inc. members together under one bond of friendship, charity, benevolence, honor and integrity as symbolized in the legend of the Egyptian queen, the goddess Isis. Darlene Hunter Davis embodies these qualities. After graduating from Flint Central High School she attended Detroit College of Business and started working for Hurley Medical Center. She went back to school after 20 years and obtained her Associate's Degree in Business Administration/General Management from Detroit College of Business. She is active with Mount Pisgah Church, her family and friends and serves on various committees at Hurley Medical Center. Married to Emery Davis, she is the mother of Gaquilla H. Skinner, the grandmother of three and has several great-grandchildren. Darlene is a member of the Royal Star Chapter 27 O.E.S., P.H.A. Jurisdiction of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commending Darlene Hunter Davis on her service to the Oman Temple and the Flint community and I wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating the organizations and individuals honored by the Child Advocacy Center of Genesee County for their service to the youths of our community that are the victims of child abuse. Genesee County will express its gratitude to these persons at a dinner today in Flint, Michigan. The Child Advocacy Center of Genesee County was founded to react to allegations of chi1d abuse. A multidisciplinary team responds by providing forensic interviews, medical evaluations, therapeutic intervention, and victim support/advocacy. Their goal is to provide these services to children and families in a safe and consistent manner. This year the Child Advocacy Center is honoring the following Stars for Children. Four individuals will be recognized as Multi-Disciplinary Team Members: Detective Matthew Bade of the Burton Police Department, Detective James Santa of the Flint Township Police Department, Lieutenant Timothy P. Johnson of the City of Flint Police Department, Detective Diana Mills with the Mt. Morris Township Police Department. Three persons have been nominated as the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year: Trooper Ryan Pennell with the Michigan State Police, Detective Diana Mills of the Mt. Morris Township Police Department, and Detective Matthew Bade of the Burton Police Department. There are three nominees for the Department of Human Services Worker of the Year: Jana Carroll, Adriane Laugavitz and Marie Putnam. All three are with the Genesee County Department of Human Services High Risk Unit. Three Genesee County Assistant Prosecutors are nominated for the Prosecutor of the Year Award. They are Gerald Snodgrass, Andrea Legendre, and Gladys Christopherson. Receiving the Board of Directors Award is Sheryl Thompson, Director of the Genesee County Department of Human Services. Detective Sean Murphy is the recipient of the CEO Award. Nancy Walsh-Clifford of the McLaren Specialty Clinic is the Social Worker of the Year. Marie Putnam of the Genesee County Department of Human Services High Risk Unit will receive the Outstanding Service to Children Award. The Ruth Mott Foundation is being honored as Foundation of the Year. The Corporation of the Year Award is being given to Genesys Regional Medical Center. The Child Advocacy Center Award will go to McLaren Specialty Clinic, Dr. Edwin Gullekson and Dr. Mischa Pollard. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating these individuals and organizations for their service to the most vulnerable of our society, our children. They are to be commended for their work in providing on a daily basis, a safe, nurturing environment for children victimized by abuse and neglect.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bishop and Mrs. Odis A. Floyd as they celebrate their 37th Pastoral Anniversary. The congregation is planning several events to commemorate this anniversary throughout the month of November starting with a banquet on November 4 and ending with a day of celebration on November 26. Bishop Floyd accepted his call to ministry in April 1964. Working with his grandfather, Reverend L.W. Owens, he helped organize the New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church and in November 1969 was unanimously elected as pastor. In 1991 he changed the church's name to New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church. Over the years New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church has grown under Bishop Floyd's guidance. As a ``Church on the Move for Christ'' the congregation has answered the Bishop's call to expand the ministry beyond the sanctuary doors. The church operates several outreach programs including the New Jerusalem Intervention Ministry Team, Operation Blessing, Nurses and Health Team, Philadelphia Ministry, Youth Ministry, and Singles Ministry. Mrs. Floyd heads the United Women of New Jerusalem. Bishop Floyd's message of salvation is broadcast throughout the week through several media outlets. The New Jerusalem Tape Ministry makes available copies of church services, special programs and Bible Study. The Christian Education Department runs the vibrant Children's Church, Sunday School, Adult Bible Class and the Upward Bound program. As part of the foundation of church life, the Prayer Ministry is at the forefront of the Wednesday Night Intercessory Prayer services and the 24-hour prayer vigil, ``The Jerusalem Watch.'' The church moved into the present worship complex in 1994. Bishop Floyd is the 2nd Presiding Bishop of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship, a board member of Concerned Pastors for Social Action, the Visually Impaired Center, and Gospel Today Magazine. He is the Past President of the Baptist Assembly of Free Spirit Churches, the Past Youth Director of the Great Lakes District Congress of Christian Education, he has received the Good Scout Award, and he was a nominee for the Soul Train Award, the Gospel Music Workshop of America Excellence Award, and a Grammy nominee for Best Soul Gospel Male Performance. Music has played an important part in the church ministry and Bishop Floyd can be heard performing on several albums. His participation in the Flint community goes beyond New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church. Bishop Floyd has served on the boards of several organizations and is involved in improving the quality of life in the Flint area including the Bishop International Airport Authority Board and the Flint Urban Insurance List Steering Committee with the Governor's Office of Community and Faith-Based Initiatives. In addition to their service to Our Lord, Bishop Floyd and his wife Brenda are the devoted parents of Anthony and Nikki. Mr. Speaker I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Bishop Odis and Brenda Floyd as they celebrate their 37th Pastoral Anniversary. May Our Lord bless them and bless New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church.