Dale Kildee

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the outgoing director of Saginaw Habitat for Humanity, John Perna. Mr. Perna is leaving his position as director of the organization after six years in that post. He will be honored at a dinner on March 8th in Saginaw, Michigan. John Perna's background as a student of theology at the University of Notre Dame and his work in church music ministry helped him to expand the Saginaw Habitat for Humanity. He started working for Saginaw Habitat for Humanity in 1996. At that time he was the only paid staff person. Four houses were built that year by the organization. Today, the staff includes seven full time employees, one part time employee and three Americorps members. The group anticipates completing sixteen houses in the Saginaw community this year including the Blitz 2003 when eight houses will be built in two weeks. Saginaw Habitat for Humanity holds the principles of being an ecumenical, Christian housing ministry foremost in all its endeavors. Committed to eliminating substandard shelter and homelessness from the area, Saginaw Habitat for Humanity has partnered with several area churches and organizations to make affordable, respectable housing available to all. Reflecting on the teachings of Jesus Christ, the members, volunteers and staff of Saginaw Habitat for Humanity have put their faith into action. A cornerstone of this action is the ``economics of Jesus,'' or volunteers responding to those in need. Together the homeowners, the construction volunteers, partner organizations like the Home Builders Association, the Michigan Prison Build Program, the Michigan National Guard and area High School building trades students contributed the sweat equity that made the dream of a new home a reality for several families. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating John Perna and Saginaw Habitat for Humanity for the work they have accomplished thus far. I wish Mr. Perna the best as he starts a new phase of his life, and I wish the best for the incoming director, Paul Warriner, along with the entire Saginaw Habitat for Humanity organization. May they continue in their work until every person has a decent place to live.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing an outstanding humanitarian, Vera Rison. Vera is being honored Thursday night at a Community Tribute and Retirement Dinner in my home town of Flint Michigan. Vera Rison is one of my dearest friends. I treasure her wisdom, her common sense, and her ability to go to the heart of a dilemma and seek a solution. The many years she spent working at Genesee Memorial Hospital gave Vera insight into the problems faced by average families. She has never stopped working to ease the burdens faced by so many. Through the positions she held as chair of the Service Employees International Union Local 79, director of human resources at Amy Jo Manor Housing Complex, the Genesee County Community Mental Health Board, the Substance Abuse Services Board and the Jobs Central Workforce Development Board, Vera has always maintained her vision and commitment to a better future for everyone. Through her work as a Genesee County Commissioner and a State Representative, Vera was able to see some of her ideas become concrete, working plans. She sponsored a bill to reduce the number of abandoned houses. She also was the driving force behind the renovation of the Amy Jo Manor Housing Complex. In addition, Vera worked tirelessly for individuals in trouble. She frequently advocated on behalf of persons sentenced to prison. She arranged for basic services to be provided for the handicapped and devoted many hours to ensuring the uninsured received health care. The Genesee District Library paid Vera an awesome compliment when they named the Beecher branch of their library the ``Vera B. Rison Library.'' It is a tremendous tribute that the library, where all persons of every age can come and improve their minds and lives through knowledge, is named for the woman who spent a lifetime witnessing the potential in all persons and pushed them to achieve their personal best. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring a dear friend, Vera Rison. She is an inspiration to me and I wish her the best as she starts the next phase of her life.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. I thank the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey) for yielding me this time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the Republican welfare bill and in support of the Cardin-Woolsey-Kind Democratic substitute. Mr. Chairman, much has changed from the last Congress when we last debated this legislation. Our States are facing deep financial deficits. States are cutting health care programs, funding for the schools and universities, and struggling to ensure their citizens have employment. The bill we are debating today does not recognize these dire times for our States. The Republican bill would increase work requirements when 8.3 million Americans are out work. The Republican bill fails to provide adequate child care funding, relegating many of the children to substandard or unsafe child care arrangements. The Republican welfare bill actually reduces education and training opportunities for TANF recipients. Fortunately, the Democratic substitute offered by the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cardin), the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey), and the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Kind) provides us with a viable alternative to improve this country's welfare system. The Cardin substitute would allow 24 months of education and training to permit a TANF recipient to get the skills they need to acquire a good-paying job. The Cardin substitute would increase child care funding by $11 billion over the next 5 years. The Cardin amendment also ensures that TANF recipients do work by requiring that 70 percent of welfare recipients are engaged in work activities. Today's debate should not be a debate over whose bill forces more welfare recipients to work longer hours. Instead, we should be focused on how the system can help individuals to acquire long-term, high- paying jobs. Mr. Chairman, I urge Members to defeat the Republican bill and to support the Cardin-Woolsey-Kind substitute.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Isakson) has been very supportive of Title IX, and he and I shared our great admiration of Mrs. Mink. I appreciate his comments. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey).

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Slaughter).

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Loretta Sanchez).

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Andrews). (Mr. ANDREWS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 41 congratulating the University of Portland's women's soccer team for winning the NCAA Division 1 championship. On December 8, the University of Portland captured its first national championship. In fact, this is the University of Portland's first national championship in any sport. I want to start by extending my congratulations to Head Coach Clive Charles and to all of the athletes on the University's winning squad. Winning a championship brings national acclaim to a school, and the team's players and fans should treasure this exciting moment. While it is important that we focus on this victory, it is also critical to recognize how opportunities for women in sports have grown and the impact of title IX. This win by the University of Portland Women's Soccer Team reminds us of the value and importance of this landmark statute. Unfortunately, Title IX is once again under attack. The administration's Commission on Opportunity in Athletics recently proposed so-called reforms to Title IX that would undermine this important civil rights statute. The commission's reports would recommend that girls and women be provided less athletic opportunity than boys and men by loosening protections and safeguards that have existed for many years. The commission was formed by Secretary Paige to advance the administration's agenda to weaken the opportunity for women and girls on the athletic field. With Title IX successes over the 3-plus decades of its existence why would we want to weaken it now? Women now constitute more than 40 percent of those involved in college athletics, as opposed to 15 percent in 1972. While we may be confronted with proposals to change Title IX, I would advise the administration not to propose initiatives to weaken this critical law. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I want to thank the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer) and the rest of the Oregon delegation for introducing this resolution, and again to extend my congratulations to the University of Portland's Women's Soccer Team. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer).

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume, and I rise in support of this resolution. Mr. Speaker, today's resolution recognizes the contributions of Catholic schools. Mr. Speaker, I attended Catholic schools myself. I received a high-quality education from these schools and have benefited greatly. Also, children all across America have benefited from a Catholic education. Certainly, we can all agree that Catholic schools are a strong and positive force in America's educational system. Fortunately, the great, truly great, aspect of the American education system is its diversity. The goal of the American education system, both public and private, is to provide anyone in any city, in any State, with the opportunity to succeed. The educational recipe for success in our country certainly includes Catholic schools, schools with other religious focuses and nonreligious private schools, along with our public schools. It is this variety, this diversity, that truly makes American education powerful and makes American education successful in its mission. Mr. Speaker, today we are recognizing the educational and societal contributions that Catholic schools make to our Nation. I believe we must recognize the importance and value that all pieces of our educational system have in the lives of our children. Mr. Speaker, in closing I want to thank the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Vitter) for introducing this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, a very loyal and distinguished member of the House staff is retiring after 33 years. I personally owe much to him for helping me preserve my longtime voting record. More than once he has advised the Speaker that I had not yet arrived. I am grateful to him for that. Terry's service has spanned five Democratic Speakers and two Republican Speakers of the House. Many people can spend 33 years here and never have to vote on the awesome question of war or impeachment. He has experienced both of those awesome questions here in his responsibility. Terry and his wife, Barbara, have two sons: Tim, a senior at Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and Christopher, a sophomore at Bishop O'Connell High School in Arlington, Virginia. Terry will be greatly missed. He is a friend of this House. He is a personal friend of mine. I am a better person because of Terry Morris.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring the memory of a truly great educator, Dr. Edward J. Hansberry. Dr. Hansberry passed away on October 26th. He left behind a legacy of outstanding contributions to the field of education. Edward Hansberry devoted his life to brining knowledge to students. He took the command given in Psalm 78: ``He gave his decrees to Jacob, and established a law for Israel, which he commanded them to teach their children;'' and put those words into action. He was committed to the ideal that all students could achieve their goals with the right encouragement and direction. From his beginning experience as a teacher in 1963 at the Rock Island Elementary School in Broward County Florida, Edward Hansberry worked tirelessly to inspire young minds with a desire to learn. He was zealous throughout his career as a teacher and administrator. I valued his wisdom and was privileged to have had Dr. Hansberry testify before my Early Childhood Subcommittee regarding Title I. He shared with us his expertise and insight. The awards and recognition Dr. Hansberry received during his life were numerous. He authored several articles and publications on the educational system. He was seeking solutions to the problems faced by children in the early grades when he was struck down by illness. As a former educator, I know first hand the challenging and the joy of watching a struggling student understand an idea. It is an achievement unparalleled and Dr. Hansberry was a witness to that joy during his lifetime. Mr. Speaker, our country has lost a valuable, vital voice with his passing. He was a kind, thoughtful man, always considerate of others, charitable to individuals and respectful of their ideas. I admired his determination to provide the best for the students in his care.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay homage to the 2002 honorees of the American-Arab Heritage Council in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. The Council is an organization committed to promoting the American-Arab community. They also seek to preserve their culture for future generations. On October 18th the Council will be hosting the 6th annual Ensure the Legacy Banquet to pay tribute to the following men and women of the Arabic community that have significantly contributed to Genesee County. The Council has chosen John Henry as ``Community Leader of the Year.'' Mr. Henry is the Executive Director of the Flint Institute of Arts and was the driving force behind ``The Arab Influence'' project. He has worked for the last two years on the exhibit that involved fifteen institutions and was designed to safeguard Arabic history and promote understanding. This exhibit has educated thousands about the contributions of the Arab world to art, science, literature, and religion. Through exhibitions like the ``Khalil Gibran: Images of a Poet'' and ``The Arts of Islam: The Word of God, The Works of Man'' many Americans have been exposed to the interweaving of art into the everyday life of the Arabic world. Fay Joseph was chosen as the ``Community Volunteer of the Year.'' Fay has donated her time, energy, and money to the causes she believes in. The list of organizations benefiting from her largesse is extensive. Honored by many groups for her work, Fay exemplifies the commitment that pervades the Arab community in Genesee County. Never content to accept the status quo, Fay is always looking for ways to make her hometown a better place. Going quietly about her work, Fay portrays the positive image of Arab-Americans. Dr. Farouk Obeid is being honored as the ``Physician of the Year.'' He is the Director of Trauma, and Surgical Care at Hurley Medical Center in Flint in addition to being Head of Trauma and Critical Care at Henry Ford Hospital. Originally from Syria, Dr. Obeid came to this country to complete a residency in General Surgery and a fellowship in Vasculary Surgery. He is the president of the American Arab Syrian Culture Society of Greater Detroit and has devoted countless hours to numerous nonprofit groups. He has contributed to several surgical textbooks and works as a professor of Surgery at Michigan State University, associate professor of Surgery at Case Western Reserve University and clinical professor of Surgery at Michigan State University. In their promotion of education, the American Arab Heritage Council offers an annual scholarship to a student achieving high academic standards. This year's recipient is Candi Rishmawi a student of medical technology at the University of Michigan-Flint. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating these four individuals. I would like to commend them and the American Arab Heritage Council for their hard work this past year. Through their efforts Americans can come together in peace and understanding and our society is enhanced.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I stand today in strong support of S. 1210, a bill to reauthorize the Native American Housing Assistance and Self- Determination Act (NAHASDA) of 1996 that also includes various amendments to the Act. The NAHASDA, enacted in 1996, was the first piece of comprehensive housing legislation directed solely to Native American and Alaska Native people. It has become the basic program aiding Native Americans in tribal areas with affordable housing development including homeownership, rehabilitation, infrastructure development and other affordable housing assistance. As an original cosponsor of H.R. 1873, the companion bill to S. 1210, I urge my colleagues to join me in support of the passage of S. 1210 today. There are many reasons that I support the reauthorization of NAHASDA, an Act that has created incredible opportunities for tribes to meet the housing needs of their members. The success of NAHASDA is clear. In the five years since NAHASDA's enactment, over twenty-five thousand housing units have been constructed or are in development. This is nearly three times the rate of production before NAHASDA. With severely overcrowded conditions in more than thirty percent of homes in tribal areas, and more than forty percent of homes with serious physical deficiencies, the need has been demonstrated and is now slowly being met. While development under NAHASDA is encouraging, it is estimated that there is still an immediate need for 200,000 housing units, a need that continues to grow for one of the fastest-growing population groups in the country. The poverty rate for rural Native Americans remains at nearly forty percent, a rate that is higher than other racial and ethnic groups of the United States, so the need for programs such as NAHASDA continues to be strong. For all its attributes, one of the most important benefits of NAHASDA is that it promotes tribal self-determination. Under the Act, the focus is on the tribal government rather than a separate housing entity. Tribes are given more autonomy in administering their funds and can tailor their plan to their specific needs. The Act also encourages the involvement of private sector entities and promotes innovative financing. Mr. Speaker, the NAHASDA reauthorization bill will build upon the success of the past five years by providing more housing development on our nation's Indian reservations. The amendments included in the bill help to streamline the Act to make it more user-friendly and also further emphasize the self-determination aspect of the Act. Housing is the backbone of economic and community development. It creates jobs and drives tribal economies. It is a basic need that can strengthen progress in other areas like education and health care, too. I would like to thank my colleague, Congressman J. D. Hayworth for his dedication to Native American issues, and for working so diligently toward the passage of this bill. It is my hope that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will support this bill for what it is--a renewed commitment to the well-being of the Native American people of this nation. Thank you.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, on Thursday, October 10, in communities throughout the nation, Lights On Afterschool Events will be taking place. At schools, 4-H Clubs, Police Athletic clubs, YWCAs, in Mayor's offices and in state capitols-activities are planned that highlight the importance of providing safe, enriching environments for young people before and after school hours. These programs are important for working families, help improve academic outcomes for kids and help strengthen the fabric of community life. In my own state of Michigan over 200 events are planned on October 10 to educate families about available programs. America's children are our most precious resource. Their health, their safety, the quality of their education-these are responsibilities we all share. We have an obligation to ensure that every child has a genuine opportunity to succeed. The availability of Afterschool programs moves us toward that goal. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program--by no means the only source of support for Afterschool programs--is a critical resource for all states. The No Child left Behind Act--signed into law last January by President Bush--promises communities that need this help most, the funds necessary to sustain and develop high-quality Afterschool programs. Unfortunately, in many locations across America millions of children are left home alone, unsupervised, during the hours immediately after the school day ends. For too many of our children these hours are full of squandered opportunities for tutoring, mentoring, academic challenges, and physical, social and cultural development. Not surprisingly, this is a time of day when most juvenile crimes are committed and when more youth are vulnerable to drugs and teenage pregnancy. Lights On Afterschool is an opportunity to showcase the programs that do exist and build support for their expansion. Through the generous support of J.C. Penney, the Afterschool Alliance has nurtured the growth of the Lights on Afterschool campaign--this year events are taking place in 422 congressional districts. By next year that number will grow to 100%. We all have a responsibility where the nation's young people are concerned--parents, educators, business leaders, community and faith- based organizations and legislators. Providing for the health and welfare of America's children is too big and too important a job to tackle alone. Afterschool programs offer the chance to improve academic achievement. They provide children with the opportunity to benefit from the mentoring of a role model. They help young students tackle the challenges and learn the value of reading at an early age. They ensure that youth have access to safe and anti-substance abuse activities. And for America's working parents they provide the confidence that their children are well cared for once the school day ends. Beyond funding for the 21st Century Learning Centers Program, the No Child Left Behind Act, makes available federal Title I funds that can be used to provide supplemental educational services through afterschool programs. The Child Care Development Block Grant is another important resource to assist parents in obtaining high quality afterschool childcare. I urge my colleagues to visit afterschool programs in your district, encourage local businesses to help sustain and expand these programs and fight for increased federal investment in the 21st Century Learning Center Program, Title I, and the CCDBG. Congratulations to the Afterschool Alliance, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, and J.C. Penney, the National Sponsor, and their partners: 4-H, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Junior Achievement and the YMCA of the USA on their third successful Lights on Afterschool national awareness campaign.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, today's consideration of the Education Sciences Reform Act marks an important step in addressing the quality and effectiveness of education research and technical assistance. I believe our work on this legislation over the last 3 years has produced a good bipartisan product that is much improved over the House passed version. I do want to thank Chairmen Castle and Boehner for their willingness to address Democratic concerns on this legislation and for working in a bipartisan manner to pass meaningful reform. This legislation addresses several critical issues in the area of education research. First is adequate resources. This bill authorizes approximately $700 million for the Department's research and technical assistance activities--nearly double existing funding. This level of funding is vital if the research Institute created under this legislation is to become a top-flight education research organization. The legislation also includes provisions sought by Representative Owens, a longtime leader in Congress on education research issues, to increase outreach to and involvement of HBCUs and HSIs, and to permit fellowships to build research knowledge and experience. Secondly, this legislation ensures that research is concluded through a minimum of 8 national research and development centers studying specified topics and that 50 percent of research funding is for long- term research--both critical elements necessary to ensure high quality and effective research. This legislation also seeks to maintain the current governance relationship between the National Assessment of Education Progress, the Department of Education, and the National Assessment Governing Board and in no way undermines any present authority provided to the Board. It is my intent that the changes made by this bill do not modify the manner in which the National Center for Education Statistics administers the National Assessment, with the exception of the bill's express provision granting NAGB authority over the initial release of NAEP reports. Lastly, the bill ensures that we have a strong regional development and technical assistance focus that continues the existing Regional Educational Laboratory program and strengthens the Comprehensive Center program by expanding the number of Centers to 20. Mr. Speaker, a strong research focus at the Department of Education is vital to improving the educational achievement of our children. Coupled with the elements of the recently passed reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, this legislation can play a critical role in providing high quality research, technical assistance and development activities. It is my belief that this legislation improves the state of our education research efforts and I urge Members to support it today.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, no person or nation should doubt our country's commitment to eradicating the threat of terror. That is why I voted last year to support the President's actions in Afghanistan. But before we authorize the President to go to war with Iraq, Congress must have clearer answers to several crucial questions. What is the nature and the urgency of the threat to the United States posed by Saddam Hussein? What is the clearly defined mission of our troops? Is it to eliminate Iraq's potential chemical, biological or nuclear weapons? Is it to remove Saddam Hussein from power and establish a friendly regime in Baghdad? Is it to engage in nation building, to create a democratic Iraqi government and society? What is the extent of the international support? What will be the position and role of the United Nations? Which nations will provide troops, planes and ships for the military operations? Which nations will provide financial support to pay for the military operations in the aftermath? Will the military operations in Iraq make it less or more likely that America will suffer from terrorist attacks? Finally, what is the exit strategy to withdraw our troops from Iraq? When and how will they be withdrawn once they have accomplished their mission? Madam Speaker, we must ask these questions, and we must have answers to these questions. We have made mistakes other places in the world. We certainly did not ask or answer all these questions in Somalia. In Korea, we had our troops there 50 years. These questions must be asked and answered. Madam Speaker, I listened to the President's speech last night, and I look forward to the debate in this House over the next few days. However, at this point I have not heard any clear answers to the questions I have posed here today. For that reason, Madam Speaker, I cannot yet support the resolution authorizing the President to go to war with Iraq.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply saddened by the recent loss of my beloved colleague and dear friend, Patsy Mink of Hawaii. While serving together on the Education and Workforce Committee, we developed a long-lasting friendship and mutual admiration for each other. Patsy's impact on this institution and our nation's history should never be overlooked or forgotten. Her legacy will remain an inspiration for all those who struggle to overcome social, racial and economic injustice. Patsy Mink will forever be remembered as a modem day pioneer of gender and racial equality in government. Throughout her distinguished career, Patsy continually overcame insurmountable obstacles to achieve success and acceptance in her professional and political career. In Hawaii, she became the first Asian-American woman to practice law and the first Asian-American woman to be elected to the Territorial House before Hawaii became a state in 1959. While serving in the Territorial House, she became one of the leading advocates for Hawaii's statehood. In 1964, she had the honor of becoming the first Asian-American women of Japanese-American heritage to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. During her tenure, Congresswoman Mink became a leading advocate for racial, gender and social equality. Inspired by her lifelong challenges, Congresswoman Mink fought for women to have equal access to education and athletic opportunities. Thanks to her leadership and steadfast commitment, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 helped dismantle gender discrimination in schools across this country. In order to preserve and protect her beloved state of Hawaii, Congresswoman Mink also helped write tough environmental protection laws safeguarding sacred lands and fragile waters from over development and exploitation. I feel absolutely privileged to have served with this historic and wonderful woman. Despite all the obstacles and challenges, Patsy Mink was still able to achieve her dreams and goals. Her perseverance and determination should continue to be an inspiration for future generations of Americans. I will forever admire my friend and colleague for her lifelong commitment and service to her country. Although it is difficult to say goodbye to my colleague, I know that her profound contributions and legacy will continue to influence our nation's future.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, ``Partners-In Community Education,'' is the theme of the 20th Annual National Community Education Day to be observed in my hometown of Flint and across the nation on October 10, 2002. Sponsored by the National Community Education Association (NCEA), this special day was conceived in 1982 to recognize and support strong relationships between communities and public schools and community colleges that serve them. NCEA believes that it is crucial to highlight the positive impact community education programs play in building community through parents and community involvement, lifelong learning and the establishment of partnerships with other organizations. Community Education Day 2002: ``Partners--In Community Education'' emphasizes the importance of partnerships and collaboration by community education programs to positively impact the lives of children, youth, families and communities. In keeping with the theme of National Community Education Day NCEA has partnered with the After School Alliance, sponsor of Lights On Afterschool! to present both celebrations on October 10th. NCEA hopes that this joint observance will draw attention to the importance of community education programs not only in the lives of adults, families and communities, but as well as the need for more after school programs across the country. Our children need a safe and nurturing place to go after school. Our community members need opportunities to learn, grow and enrich their lives. Adult education, GED, ESL, early childhood education, after school programs and enrichment programs for all ages are partners in community education and are celebrated as integral parts of community education programming. Community education multiplies the richness of after school programs and opens the doors of schools buildings to everyone as it serves all ages in the community. National Community Education Day 2002 is co- sponsored by over 36 organizations, including the Afterschool Alliance, the Children's Defense Fund, the Council of Chief State School Officers, the National PTA, the National Assembly of Health and Human Service Organizations, and the U.S. Department of Education. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in calling attention to National Community Education Day.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today before my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to pay tribute to both an outstanding organization, and an outstanding individual in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. Mott's Children's Health Center has been selected as the 2002 Corporate Health Advocate of the Year and Gloria R. Bourdon has been selected as the 2002 Individual Health Advocate of the Year by the American Lung Association of Michigan-Genesee Valley Region. They will be recognized for their achievements at the 2002 Health Advocate of the Year Awards Dinner on October 30th. Mott Children's Health Center was founded in 1939 by C.S. Mott to ``serve borderline medically indigent children of Genesee County.'' Today they offer a wide array of services including adolescent services, referral programs, child health strategies, pediatric dentistry and school and neighborhood programs for parents, caregivers and their children. Along with direct services, Mott Children's Health Center has also played a vital role in advocating for children's health issues. Mott Children's Health Center sponsors a number of conferences, workshops, and presentations all with the health of children as their number one priority. Gloria Bourdon began her career in 1987 at Pinconning Area Schools and Linden Area Schools, teaching children the fundamentals of healthy lifestyles. Through the years since then, Gloria has expanded her classroom doctrine of healthy living and today she is the Director of Health, Safety, and Nutrition Services for the Genesee County Intermediate School District. Her job places her in charge of the health of students in 32 public schools, 9 public academies, and 14 private schools. Through her years of hard work and dedication to children, Gloria has received the Genesee County Child Advocacy Award, the Michigan Association of School Boards Health and Safety Award and the Rainmaker Award presented by HealthPlus. Mr. Speaker it is indeed an honor and a privilege for me to urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in paying tribute to the Mott Children's Health Center, and to Gloria R. Bourdon for their years of dedication to the health and education of our most cherished resource on the planet, our children.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an important event in the history of the University of Michigan-Flint. On October 25th, faculty, staff, alumni, and students of the University's Physical Therapy Department will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its founding, which originated on the University of Michigan Ann Arbor campus, and the 20th anniversary of its relocation to the Flint campus. Professional education in physical therapy at the University of Michigan commenced in 1952 within the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, in the Medical School on the Ann Arbor campus. It was the first professional preparation program in physical therapy in the State of Michigan. Graduates received a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Literature, Science and the Arts and a Certificate in Physical Therapy from the Medical School. In 1982-83, in response to multiple professional developments, the educational program was relocated to the Flint campus of the University in order to achieve budgetary, curricular, logistical and administrative enhancements not possible on the Ann Arbor campus, due to changing Medical School priorities and a period of academic retrenchment. In keeping with its tradition of academic leadership, the program became the first program in the state to make the transition to the professional (entry-level) MPT (Master of Physical Therapy), as well as offer a post-professional MPT degree for practicing clinicians. The university will also be the first in the state to offer the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, with the first class graduating in December 2002. This doctoral degree will be the first doctoral degree offered at one of the University of Michigan regional campuses. Mr. Speaker, for 50 years the University of Michigan-Flint's Physical Therapy Department has prepared generalist physical therapy practitioners, many of whom have gone on to practice in specialty areas as well as teach in both academic and clinical settings, or who serve as managers and researchers within definitive areas of professional practice. Over 1700 graduates have served patient/clients not only in the state of Michigan but nationally and internationally. Many have assumed leadership positions in health care delivery systems and academic institutions. The long tradition of preparing practitioners who are outstanding clinicians who practice in a humanistic way has made the graduates of this program highly valued by client/patients and sought by employers. As a lifelong resident of Flint, I am exceptionally pleased with the accomplishments and advancements made at the university. It continues to serve as one of most valuable resources of my district. I ask my colleagues in the 107th Congress to please join me in congratulating the university, and the dedicated men and women that make up the Physical Therapy Department.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating All Saints Church upon celebrating 165 years of worship, fellowship and outreach in Pontiac, Michigan. All Saints Episcopal Church was started in 1837 as a mission. Reverend Algernon Hollister, of nearby St. John's Parish in Troy, first organized the parish to serve the one thousand persons living in the Pontiac area at that time. Initially called Zion Church, its first liturgy was celebrated on September 24 with 16 persons receiving the Eucharist that Sunday morning. The parish moved quickly to build a church. The original wooden structure built on the corner of Williams and Pike Streets was replaced with a stone church in 1854. After struggling for years under several rectors, the parish experienced a transformation under the leadership of Reverend Lawrence Stevens. He assumed the rector's position in 1881. Known for his generosity to persons in need he was also noted for his ability to comfort the sick and mourning. His energy infused the parish and the congregation became a center in the community to assist the poor and suffering. Even after his stewardship of the parish was over, his influence could still be felt. When the parish hall was added in 1927 it was named in his honor. The congregation decided to rename the parish in 1904. Now known as All Saints Episcopal Church, the parish suffered a blow the next year. Fire destroyed part of the church. Undaunted, the parish cleared away the rubble, erected a temporary roof and continued to celebrate the Eucharist until a new building was finished in 1908. The parish continued its growth and in 1922 two hundred families made it their spiritual home. That year Reverend Bates Burt became the church's new pastor. He remained in that post for the next 25 years and guided All Saints Church in several important missions. Together with his son, Alfred, and the church organist, Wihla Hutson, Reverend Burt composed several Christmas carols. They are now known as ``Burt Carols'' and sung in churches throughout the Anglican Communion. He was instrumental in the building of Stevens Hall and his vision shaped the use of that structure. He saw the parish hall as not only a meeting place for the congregation but of the community as a whole. His vision of social justice and interaction with all the citizens of Pontiac has guided the parish in the intervening years. Through the Great Depression and World War II, All Saints Parish has been a beacon to those desperate to sustain body and soul. When the congregations of other denominations decided to leave the city of Pontiac during the period of the Fair Housing Covenant and mandatory school integration, All Saints Parish voted to remain in their home in the heart of the city. The parish members believed that God had placed the church in its location and they would be violating His mandate to desert the city in its time of crisis. With the advent of Reverend Catherine Waynick as rector in 1993, the people of All Saints Parish expanded their outreach and started the Bound Together program. Serving the children of Pontiac, it provides tutoring, social activities, arts and crafts and hot food to nourish both their physical and spiritual lives. Three rectors of All Saints Parish have been elevated to the episcopate, the Reverend Herbert Fox, the Reverend Ivol Curtis and the Reverend Catherine Waynick. In 1997 the national Episcopal Church designated All Saints as a Jubilee Center. This honor was accorded to the parish to recognize its vibrant, ongoing partnership with the greater Pontiac community. For 165 years All Saints Parish has been a dynamic force for the public good. At every time of social need or upheaval, the parishioners have resoundingly responded by living the gospel spoken every Sunday in the sanctuary. The inspiration for living by Christian ideals is repeated again and again in the lives of the clergy and congregation of this parish. Mr. Speaker I ask the House of Representatives to rise with me and applaud the continuity of Christian life that has resonated for 16 decades and resonates today through All Saints Parish.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating the Monsignor Patrick R. Dunigan Council 695, Knights of Columbus, upon their 100th Anniversary. The Knights will be celebrating this event with Mass followed by a reception on September 14th in my hometown of Flint. I have been a member of the Dunigan Council for several years and will be joining the other Knights at this auspicious occasion. The Knights of Columbus were founded in 1882 with the principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. In 1902, Council 695 was organized in Flint on September 14th of that year. The oldest Knights of Columbus Council in Genesee County, the Dunigan Council has from its beginning held the principle of charity foremost in its activities. Helping its members cope during the Depression, they provided assistance for the families of the unemployed. It was at this time that Monsignor Patrick R. Dunigan befriended the Council and provided them with a foundation for their charitable work. As pastor of St. Michael Catholic Church he saved the Council from dissolving by providing a meeting place at the parish. In 1955 the Council was named in his honor to commemorate the many years of guidance and support he gave to its members. The Council became a supporter of Boysville in 1947 and in 1953 the Council played a role in rebuilding the Beecher District after the devastating tornado struck that area. Participating in the program to assist the mentally retarded started in 1967, the Dunigan Council has assisted in raising millions of dollars across the state. Support for Catholic school athletic programs was started in the 1940s. The Catholic League high school football program, and grade school basketball were just two of the recipients of the Council's largesse. Since the opening of Powers High School the Council has continued its support of its athletic department. At the grade school level the Council has focused on the development of the girls volleyball and baseball teams. In 1955 the Dunigan Council took on the role of mothering new councils. A total of nine councils have spun off from Council 695. The Davison Council was the first, followed by the Mt. Morris Council. In the early 1990s the Dunigan Council was invited by Father Douglas Osborn to make its home at St. John Vianney. The Choral group that was an offshoot of the Council in 1966 has grown to the Singing Knights. This group now incorporates members from several councils and has performed at functions for many years. In keeping with the principles of the Knights of Columbus, the Dunigan Council has decided to make their anniversary celebration a project to assist Boysville. I ask the House of Representatives to join me in commending the men of the Patrick R. Dunigan Council 695 Knights of Columbus, for their devotion to their faith, their support of the next generation through building athletic programs, and their tireless assistance to the less fortunate. I congratulate them for 100 years of hard work and spiritual growth.