Dale Kildee

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, as co-chairman of the congressional Native American Caucus, I rise today in strong support of S. 1857, a bill to encourage the negotiated settlement of tribal claims. I introduced the House companion bill, H.R. 3851. I want to thank my colleagues, the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall), the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Hansen), the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth), and the gentleman from California (Mr. Gallegly), for agreeing to be original cosponsors. Mr. Speaker, this bill has deep bipartisan support and the support of the administration. I want to commend my colleagues in the Senate for their swift action to address the issue of tolling the statute of limitations on legal claims Indian tribes may assert against the United States relating to the management of tribal trust funds. This issue is certainly not new to Congress. Since 1991, Congress has approved language in the Department of the Interior's appropriations acts to toll the statute of limitations until the tribal account holders have been provided an accounting of such funds. In addition, since 1987, Congress has required the Department of the Interior to reconcile tribal trust fund accounts. By providing an accounting of these funds, Indian tribes will have the opportunity to determine whether there has been a mismanagement of trust funds. These requirements were included in the President's budget request for fiscal year 2003. The problem this bill seeks to address relates directly to the reconciliation reports that the Department of the Interior provided to tribal account holders in 1996. Several Indian tribes believe that the reconciliation reports do not constitute an accounting. Since the statute of limitations for filing legal claims is 6 years, the tribe's concern is that the Department may claim that the 1996 reconciliation reports commence the running of a statute that would expire this year. In an attempt to preserve their legal claims against the United States, many tribes have already filed claims in Federal courts across the country. This bill does not address the legal issues involved in those lawsuits. This bill, however, will facilitate the voluntary dismissal of these legal claims. Also, it provides the tribal account holders an opportunity to postpone the filing of claims from 2002 to 2005 and encourage negotiations for the settlement of tribal accounting or resource management claims. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer congratulations to Mrs. Lavinia M.C. Hartfield upon her retirement from the International Free and Accepted Modern Masons and Order of the Eastern Star. Mrs. Hartfield will be honored at the National Midwest District Convention to be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan on March 9. For the past 51 years Mrs. Hartfield has faithfully served this organization in a wide variety of positions. As one of the original founding members of the International Free and Accepted Modern Masons Mrs. Hartfield has remained a dynamic force in moving the organization forward. She is the first national district Grand Matron for the National Midwest District. The district consists of the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin. She serves on the First Supreme Board of Directors, the Corporate Secretary, the Grand Matron of the Edith Sampson Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star for the State of Michigan for the past four years and Secretary of the Exalted Degree Department of the organization. She was elected Supreme Recording Secretary at the first International Masons and Order of the Eastern Star Supreme Convention in Canton, Ohio and is still serving in that position. Lavinia Hartfield has carried the principles of the International Free and Accepted Modern Masons of charity, benevolence and education into other areas of her life. As a member of the NAACP, The Urban League, and the Greater Flint Council of Churches she has worked to bring charitable service to everyone she meets. Honored by her peers, she was honored in 1975 by the Zeta Phi Beta Fraternal Sorority as the ``Zeta Woman of the Year.'' Rooted in the Bible and Christian doctrine, Mrs. Hartfield has returned her God-given musical talent to the Lord's service at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. Since her early childhood, Lavinia has provided musical inspiration to the congregation. Working tirelessly as the choir director, music coordinator, and gospel soloist she is presently carrying on the Lord's work as the assistant choir director. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring Mrs. Lavinia Hartfield as she retires from active service with the International Free and Accepted Modern Masons and Order of the Eastern Star. Along with her husband of 47 years, Dr. Turner S. Hartfield, Lavinia Hartfield has served God, her community, her church and her family with zeal, compassion, and courage.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the first annual Civil Rights Pioneer Awards presented by UAW Local 599 on Sunday, March 3rd in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. Local 599 is honoring those members that have dedicated their lives to end discriminatory practices in the workplace. Throughout the Civil Rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s, these courageous people fought against bigotry and racial discrimination in our nation. They have followed in the footsteps of A. Philip Randolph and combined their efforts to end discrimination with the goals of the labor movement to provide dignified, respected employment to all workers. Don Winans served on Local 599's Alternate Committee, the Fair Employment Practices Committee, and chair of the Shop Committee. Russ Easton served as an Alternate Committeeman, Committeeman, Shop Committeeman, and on the Fair Employment Practices Committee. Zeke Holmes served as an Alternate Committeeman, Committeeman, and as a member of the Fair Employment Practice Committee. Bill Williams was an Alternate Committeeman, Committeeman, Shop Committeeman, a member of the Fair Employment Practices Committee, Vice-Chair of the Shop Committee, and International Financial Secretary of the Foundry. Bill Barnum served as an Alternate Committeeman, a Committeeman and a member of the Fair Employment Practices Committee. John Hightower was a Committeeman, Chair of the Fair Employment Practices Committee, President of the Trade Leadership Council, and an Executive Board Member of the Flint NAACP. Fred Tucker was an Alternate Committeeman, Committeeman, Shop Committeeman, Chair of the Shop Committee, and was the 5th Ward Flint City Councilman. Don Sorensen, Sr. was an Alternate Committeeman, Committeeman, Shop Committeeman, Vice-President of Local 599, Education Director, Health and Safety Committeeman, Attendance Counselor for Skilled Trades, Journeyman Millwright, Walter Reuther Awardee and a member of the Fair Employment Practices Committee. Edgar Holt was the President of both the Flint chapter of the NAACP and the Statewide NAACP as well as serving as a member of the Fair Employment Practices Committee. In addition, Carl Thrasher and Harry Eaton are also being honored today for their undaunted moral strength fighting ingrained bias and breaking down barriers in our community. In my Flint District Office. I have assembled photographs of persons important in shaping the community. Included in that group is a picture of Edgar Holt. I chose him to represent the significance labor and civil rights have had in making Flint a better place to live. His picture is a reminder of the voluntary service the civil rights workers gave to this country to shape a brighter future. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in paying homage to these eleven people. The Flint community owes a debt of gratitude for their tenacity to fight on against insurmountable odds. Collectively and individually they never admitted defeat and prevailed in bringing about a better workplace and a better society.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Chairman, this is a historical day for this House and for this country. Today we have the opportunity to limit the scandalous infusion of money into the electoral process. Our Founding Fathers never foresaw this existing system for democratic elections. Today we can move closer to the principles of those Founding Fathers. Vote for the substitute offered today by Mr. Shays and Mr. Meehan. This may be our last best chance.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great man, Reverend J.C. Curry. Reverend Curry passed away last Thursday in Flint, Michigan. I am deeply saddened by this event as Reverend Curry was a dear friend. I will miss his guidance, wisdom and joy. Reverend Doctor Curry was the Pastor of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church for forty years but his influence extended beyond the walls of the church. He saw every person as a mirror of God and he responded with love and kindness to all. He worked tirelessly to improve Flint. Through his efforts Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church is a vital and vibrant force in the community. Reverend Curry opened doors and invited all persons to join him in spirit filled worship of Jesus Christ. From his humble beginnings in DeKalb, Mississippi, Reverend Curry began working at the age of eight to support his mother and 11 brothers and sisters. Adversity only fueled his drive to succeed. For four years he served as a minister during World War II. He moved to Flint, earning his high school diploma and working for General Motors for 10 years. He became a full-time pastor and a cherished inspiration to all that knew him. Reverend Curry epitomized the teachings of Christ contained in Matthew Chapter 6 Verse 3, ``But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.'' Even though recognition did find him, Reverend Curry worked to reflect the glory of God, not for worldly praise. From the small act of giving a dime to strangers so they could call loved ones or the large act of bringing the words of Jesus Christ to the homebound via WFLT-AM, Reverend Curry sought to demonstrate the compassion and jubilation of Christians. He was a kind, considerate man, always thinking of others before himself. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in offering condolences to his son, Josiah, and his daughters, Patricia, Louella, and Ondria, his grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. The Flint community has lost one of its cornerstones with Reverend Curry's death. I will mourn his passing.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Reverend Derrick Aldridge upon his installation as pastor of the Foss Avenue Baptist Church on Sunday, February 10th in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. This is an auspicious occasion as Derrick Aldridge succeeds his father, Reverend Doctor Avery Aldridge as pastor. Avery Aldridge is a dear friend and advisor. I have known him for several decades and value his insight and expertise on the problems facing our nation and world. I have fond memories of the hours spent at Foss Avenue Baptist Church witnessing the Christian spirit manifested by the clergy and congregation. The commitment to promoting the Christian ideal has extended far beyond the physical confines of the church sanctuary. Reverend Aldridge has inspired his faithful to live the tenets of Jesus in their everyday lives. He has preached and exhorted and prayed for the Holy Spirit to move within his congregation and his prayers have been answered. The congregation has grown since its founding in 1956. Now over 50 auxiliaries and committees carry out the work of Jesus in the community. The Church has an elementary and secondary school, a credit union, an activity center, a free clothing center, and a recreation and fitness center. One of the great blessings of being a father is to know that your children turn out well. Reverend Avery Aldridge has that blessing. Derrick Aldridge chose to follow in his father's footsteps and bring the joy of Christian life to others. Derrick Aldridge serves as co- pastor, as the director of the Family Life Center, as the chaplain for the Genesee County Sheriff, as deputy administrator of the Eagle's Nest Child Care, and as the Children's Church Minister. He brings exuberance to his vocation as a baptizer for Christ. Foss Avenue Baptist Church is blessed to have the continuity between an esteemed father and an esteemed son. Mr. Speaker, Foss Avenue Baptist Church will have a jubilant celebration on Sunday as the congregation and Reverend Derrick Aldridge join in a covenant of dedication committing their lives to the service of Jesus. They are accepting new challenges and new joys. I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Reverend Derrick Aldridge and Foss Avenue Baptist Church on this holy and propitious day.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, today's resolution recognizes the contributions of Catholic schools. Mr. Speaker, I attended Catholic schools. I received a high quality education from these schools and have benefited greatly. 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 American education. Fortunately, the truly great aspect of American education is its diversity. We must have an educational structure that can provide anyone in any city in any State with the opportunity to succeed. The House's recent bipartisan support for the education reforms in H.R. 1, signed into law by President Bush, have strengthened these opportunities. The educational recipe for success in our country certainly includes Catholic schools, schools with other religious backgrounds, nonreligious private schools, along with our public schools. It is this variety, this diversity that truly makes American education powerful and helps make American education successful in its mission. Mr. Speaker, today we are recognizing the educational and societal contributions that Catholic schools make to our Nation. We must recognize the importance and value that all pieces of our educational structure have in the lives of our children. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I want to thank the author of this resolution for bringing it to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

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 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Eshoo).

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell).

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis).

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I stand here as the ranking Democrat on the House Page Board, having been appointed to that position by Speaker Tip O'Neill 20-some years ago. I have seen many pages come here. There has been no class better than this class. This class has been outstanding pages, and I am very, very proud of them. There is a very good program in the country called Close Up, and I always meet with my Close Up students; but no one, no one has seen this Congress as close up as this group of pages has. They have seen us at our best and at our worst, but this year they probably have seen us at our best. They witnessed history that no other generation will hopefully ever witness again, when this country was attacked by terrorists and thousands of people were killed. I can recall walking with my staff away from the Capitol after the plane hit the Pentagon. I saw a group of pages coming towards the Capitol building. They were supposed to be here they thought, and I said get back to the dorm. Their sense of duty was enormous, although this building could very well have been the target. Mr. Speaker, I thank all of the pages, but particularly Lindsey Beck from Arizona; Matthew Dinusson from Minnesota; Ashley Gallo from Michigan, my home State; Jennifer Hsieh from Texas; Gregory Hyde, New York City; and Zachary Stanton from Michigan. They can be proud of themselves. They will leave here knowing more about government, being able to tell others government is an instrument of good; and hopefully they will always be involved in government, whether they run for office or are a voter. Make government work. They have seen government at work. I thank this group of pages very much, and God bless them.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the ten recipients of the Walter P. Reuther Distinguished Service Award. These ten individuals will be honored at a banquet to be held on Saturday, February 16, 2002 at United Auto Workers Local 599 in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. I am particularly pleased to recognize these persons because UAW Local 599 was my father's local. The ten recipients of this award are persons who have diligently served their union for many years. They have demonstrated a commitment to improved working conditions for their brothers and sisters. Over the years each has served the UAW and the community with dedication. Walter Reuther believed in helping people, and he believed in human dignity and social justice for all. The recipients of the award named in his honor have displayed the same determination to achieving these ideals and principles. Both individually and as a group the recipients of this award are hardworking, perceptive, thoughtful, and responsive. Their insights into the ever changing workplace have helped to develop the strong position Local 599 holds in the Flint community. The ten persons honored at the banquet are Benigo Cortez, Franklin D. Tinnin, Edward DeKruger, Dennis C. Cannon, Herbert S. Kern, Leo James Dolehanty, Gerald (Jerry) Link, Robert E. Boone, Gerald W. Scott, and William C. Lucas II. I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating these individuals for their tireless efforts to make this a better place to live and work.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man that has become an institution in the city of Davison, MI, Mr. Jack Abernathy. Jack recently retired after being the city manager for the past 28 years. He was honored at a community gala on January 19 in the city of Davison. I have known Jack for many years. Jack was a teacher prior to running for public office. He was elected to the Davison City Council in 1969, the same year that Davison earned its nickname as the ``City of Flags.'' After serving as a councilman and as mayor, Jack was appointed the city manager in 1974. In this capacity he was accountable for the police, fire, parks, community development, building and zoning, and public services departments; and the offices of Assessor, City Clerk and City Treasurer. Jack was the liaison between the City Council, city government employees, and residents. It was his responsibility to keep informed about developments in local government, to respond quickly to problems, and seek solutions within and if necessary outside the community. It is a tribute to his personality that he performed his job with grace, forbearance and finesse. During this time Jack was the moving force behind several organizations and services. He helped to start the Davison-Richfield Area Fire Authority, Genesee County Small Cities Association, the Davison Area Ambulance Authority, the Davison Senior Center Authority, Davison Area Recycling, Davison Area Parks and Recreation Commission, Davison Area Economic Development Authority, the Davison Skatepark, and the Genesee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. He was instrumental in initiating the first public transportation system Dial- a-Ride program in a small city, and keeping the Secretary of State's office in Davison. Jack helped build the Senior Centers, and worked with Genesee County on the Waste and Water program, the 911 program and organizing countywide recycling. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring the epitome of a public servant, Jack Abernathy. His service to his community and fellow citizens is an inspiration to everyone aspiring to make this a better world. His selfless commitment to service has benefited persons far beyond the Davison community.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. I want to start by thanking both the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller) and the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner) for their strong leadership during this very historic conference. Their bipartisan mission was to produce a bill that will truly help the most disadvantaged children. The conference report before the House accomplishes this feat, and I urge Members to support its passage. This legislation has many, many positive aspects; but in the short time I have, I will only touch upon a few of them. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1 rejects attempts to authorize private school vouchers and Straight A block grants. The conference report does, under the Roemer provision enacted in the House, authorize additional flexibility for local school districts while maintaining accountability and targeting of resources. In short, this bill returns ESEA to its original focus by primarily centering on increasing educational opportunity for disadvantaged children. H.R. 1 also does not block grant the 21st Century and Safe and Drug- Free Schools programs. It maintains both of these authorities separately. In addition, the conference report will make much-needed improvements to the 21st Century program to increase community involvement, extend the grant cycle, and require a match of local resources. Most importantly, the 21st Century program will have a renewed focus on quality and academics, reinforcing current administration of the program. This bill will build upon the disaggregation requirements of the 1994 reauthorization of ESEA by ensuring that State accountability systems do not mask the failure of at-risk subgroups of children. No longer will subpar results for minority, low-income, disabled, and limited- English proficiency children be masked by the higher performance of the majority. In addition, H.R. 1 vastly improves the targeting of resources to disadvantaged areas, while not stripping funds from localities which presently receive them. One of the main points of contention during the 1994 reauthorization of ESEA was the difference between the two bodies on title I formula. I believe the compromise that we will ratify here today was reached through hard work and compromise on all sides. When the Congress last reauthorized ESEA in 1994, I was chairman of the subcommittee. We produced a strong, bipartisan bill in 1994 that gained the support of a large majority of the House. But under the leadership of the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner) and the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller), we have produced a much better bill today. I urge all Members to support this conference report. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the chairman and the ranking member for their leadership during this conference.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, as Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2742, a bill that authorizes the Secretary of Interior to award financial assistance grants and technical assistance grants to the Native American cultural and educational authority for the construction of a Native American cultural center and museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The bill authorizes a Federal appropriation of $33 million over a period of four fiscal years beginning in 2003. The Federal appropriation, however, is contingent upon private, city and State sources accounting for 66 percent of the total cost of the project. Mr. Speaker, support for a Native American Cultural Center and Museum in a state that has one of the largest Native American population of any state is long overdue. This bill has the bipartisan support of the Congressional Native American Caucus, the Oklahoma Congressional Delegation and the State's elected officials too. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, as co-chairman of the Congressional Native American Caucus, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2538, a bill that amends the Small Business Act to expand and improve the assistance provided by the Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) for Native American tribal members. Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. I want to thank my good friend from New Mexico, Congressman Tom Udall, for introducing this bill. I am proud to be an original cosponsor. Mr. Speaker, the bill establishes a 3-year pilot project that allows any SBDC in a State, whose Native American tribal members, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian populations are 1 percent of the State's total population, to apply for grants from the Small Business Administration. The grants will help the SBDCs to assist the small business owners with their entrepreneurial needs. The purpose of this bill is to create jobs and to foster economic development on tribal lands. It is my hope that by using the existing structure of the Small Business Administration's SBDC program, small businesses on tribal land will have a better chance for success. Due to limited resources, the SBDC program has had a difficult time providing counseling and technical assistance to small business owners on tribal land. This bill will provide SBDC the adequate resources it needs to reach out to small business owners in Indian country. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support this measure.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Charles White a longtime United Automobile Workers activist. Charles will be honored by the UAW Region 1C Retirees Legislative Committee on December 7, 2001 in my hometown of Flint. Born in 1916, Charlie grew up in Missouri. During the 1920s he lived with an uncle who worked at Fisher Body in St. Louis. He moved to Flint and was hired in 1935 by General Motors to work at the Fisher Body 1 Plant. When General Motors attempted to remove the dies from the plant on December 30, 1936 the workers at Fisher Body Plant 1 joined the workers at Fisher Body Plant 2 to begin the historic sit-down strike. Charlie became a Flint Sit-Down Striker at that time. Over the next weeks, Charlie worked tirelessly at the strike headquarters. He made banners, signs and drew editorial cartoons. When John L. Lewis came to Flint to work with the fledgling United Automobile Workers and help negotiate the settlement with General Motors, Charlie served as his bodyguard. Continuing a tradition that had started during the strike, Charlie drew editorial cartoons for the union papers during the next forty years. Joining with his fellow UAW members, Charlie has fought for safety laws and improved conditions in the factories. He served as a union president and eventually retired in 1966 from UAW Local 581. In 1971 he became the Chairperson of the Local 581 Retiree Chapter and has continued in that capacity until the present time. He has been supported in his work by his wife, Barbara, and his three daughters. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Charles White as he is honored by the retiree chapters in UAW Region 1C. His contributions have brought more humane working conditions in the our factories and a better life to workers everywhere.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, Michigan is blessed with many wonderful rivers. The Detroit River is rich in prehistoric, historic and ecological wonders. This wildlife refuge near a large metropolitan area will truly be a blessing for our State and our Nation. This is an opportunity where you can go from a city and see this beauty, this historical wonder and this prehistorical wonder. The Canadian government is also embarking on a similar endeavor on their side of this international river, and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Dingell) has worked very closely with them on that. I want to commend the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Dingell) for his very patient and persistent work on this bill. The bill passed out of the Committee on Resources unanimously. It is a bill that we can all be proud of.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, as co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus, I rise in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 270, a resolution that expresses a sense of Congress that Americans should take time during Native American Heritage Month to recognize the many accomplishments and contributions made by Native American peoples. I thank the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Hayworth), who serves as Republican co-chair and co-founder of the Congressional Native American Caucus, for introducing this important resolution, and I am proud to be a cosponsor with him. Mr. Speaker, honoring the accomplishments and contributions of Native Americans is long overdue. In July, as many of us stood in the Rotunda and saw the President present the Congressional Gold Medal to those who did so much and who suffered so much. I am convinced, Mr. Speaker, that my brother, Kenneth Kildee, would have been killed in the South Pacific were it not for the Navajo code talkers. It is time that we express our gratitude to all Native Americans for contributions that they have made during times of war and conflict. Native Americans serve in the United States armed services in greater numbers, proportionately, than the population of the Nation as a whole. Mr. Speaker, Native Americans play a vital role in this country by making many significant contributions in many fields, including science, medicine, math, law, agriculture, music, language, literary works and art. Mr. Speaker, the United States works with the tribal governments on a government-to-government basis, recognizing their sovereignty. We must increase the quality of health care of Native Americans, improve employment opportunities, boost economic development on Indian reservations, and develop better educational opportunities for Indian students. We must do these things so that the generations to come will have a brighter future. I ask my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the work of Shaykh Muhammad Hisham Kabbani and recognize the grand opening of the As- Siddiq Institute and Mosque. The Institute will be opened to the public at a ceremony to be held on November 18th in Burton, Michigan. Shaykh Kabbani has worked tirelessly to build bridges of understanding between Muslims and persons of other faiths. He has endeavored to provide insight into the beauty and peace of Islam. As a nationally recognized spokesperson, Shaykh Kabbani has been interviewed by various news media and has advised the political leadership of our country. He has brought a warmhearted perspective of Islam to thousands of persons who had had no previous exposure to the religion. Shaykh Kabbani commands the respect of elected officials at every level of government. President Bush invited him to the prayer service at the National Cathedral on September 14th where he joined with our nation's leaders and clergy of many faiths in petitioning Allah (swt) to bless the United States. In keeping with Shaykh Kabbani's commitment to promote mainstream Muslim values and traditional Islamic teachings of religious tolerance, and condemnation of terrorism, he is opening the As-Siddiq Institute and Mosque for the public. The Institute will house an outreach center, research library, adult learning center, community meeting place and center for interfaith cooperation. The center will serve as a resource for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike to learn the tenets of Islam-- moderation, tolerance, peace and justice. I am pleased that Shaykh Kabbani chose to locate this center of education and worship in my Congressional district. Housed in a former Episcopal Church, the building will remain a house of worship with the opening of the Mosque. Many Islamic communities around the world, including those in the republics of the former Soviet Union, have donated artifacts and handwritten Korans to grace the Mosque. The faithful will be able to draw inspiration from these symbols of their faith handed down through the generations. Stressing the common religious heritage of Muslims, Christians and Jews, Shaykh Kabbani will be joined at the opening ceremony by Cardinal Adam Maida, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit, Rabbi James Michaels of Temple Beth Israel, Reverend George L. Cleaves of St. Christopher's Episcopal Church and many other guests of honor. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in asking that God continue to bless Shaykh Muhammad Hisham Kabbani and the As- Siddiq Institute and Mosque as they carry on the work bringing spirituality and dignity to all persons.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the American Lung Association of Michigan-Genesee Valley Region's 2001 Health Advocate of the Year honorees. The awards will be presented to the Corporate Health Advocate and the Individual Health Advocate at a banquet to be held on November 7th. McLaren Health Care Corporation is the recipient of the Corporate Health Advocate Award. In addition to being recognized in the Top 10 integrated health networks in the United States by Modern Healthcare Magazine, McLaren's Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program was the first in Michigan to be accredited by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. The Pulmonary Program is part of a five year National Emphysema Therapy Trial through the University of Michigan, studying the surgical benefits of Lung Volume Reduction surgery for emphysema. Concurrently, the MaLaren Pulmonary Program partners with several lung transplant programs to provide pre and postoperative care to transplant patients. McLaren's community involvement encompasses their participation in a mini-grant program to teach youngsters about the dangers of smoking, participating in the Freedom from Smoking classes sponsored by the American Lung Association, working with the American Lung Association of Michigan Asthma Committee, the SMART Coalition, the Greater Flint Health Coalition, Open Airways for Schools, Kids on the Block, and a having a representative on the American Lung Association of Michigan Regional Board of Directors. Dr. Cory Cookingham is the recipient of the Individual Health Advocate of the Year Award. Dr. Cookingham met the criteria to be honored with this award by his continued involvement and advocacy for health lung issues. After graduating from medical school in 1953, Dr. Cookingham served internships and residencies in Hawaii, Flint and Ann Arbor. In 1958 he completed an allergy residency and went on to found the Allergy Clinic at Mott Children's Health Center. He continued his work at Mott Children's Health Center for several years until he entered private practice in 1961. During this time he was the Allergy Fellow at the University of Michigan Hospital as an instructor in the Department of Pediatrics. In 1963 Dr. Cookingham started the first Smoking Withdrawal Clinic. Since that time, he has been certified by the Pediatric Allergy Board, and the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. He has served as the President of the Genesee Valley Lung Association, the Director of the Michigan Lung Association, the President of the Flint Rotary Club, a Clinical Associate Professor at the Department of Pediatrics and Human Development--Michigan State University and as a Clinical Professor with the same school. Dr. Cookingham has published several articles and professional papers during his medical career. He has expanded his private practice and now serves patients in four locations, Flint, Clarkston, Frankenmuth and Port Huron. He has worked tirelessly to promote better care for patients with compromised pulmonary function. His advocacy on behalf of his patients has sensitized many to the need for preventive care and an improved environment. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me today in honoring both McLaren Health Care Corporation and Dr. Cory Cookingham along with the American Lung Association. We owe them a debt of gratitude for the tremendous work they perform every day improving the quality of life for all Americans.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my condolences and sympathies to the family of Eric Bennett. On September 11, Eric Bennett was in a business conference on the 102nd floor of tower one in the World Trade Center when American Airlines flight 11 crashed into the 89th floor. Eric Bennett, 29 years old, grew up in Genesee Township and moved to New York City after college to pursue a successful career in computer programming. According to his parents and those fortunate enough to know him, Eric possessed a determination to succeed and a passion for life. Shortly after learning that Eric was missing, Elizabeth and Terry Bennett traveled to New York City to search the hospitals for their son. Unfortunately, Eric's parents were unable to find him and they have now accepted the fact that he did not survive the attack. On behalf of the people in the Ninth District of Michigan, I would like to extend my thoughts and prayers to Eric's family and friends. A memorial service celebrating Eric Bennett's life will be held at the Elks Club in Grand Blanc Township on October 14 from 2-5 p.m.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Lilia Pulido Alvarado. Mrs. Alvarado is being honored by the International Institute of Flint at their annual dinner on October 13th. She will be given their Golden Door award. The International Institute pays tribute each year to an outstanding immigrant who has made a significant impact on the greater Flint community. It is the highest award the Institute presents. The recipient has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving the quality of life for newly arrived immigrants. This year's recipient, Lilia Pulido Alvarado is a stellar example of this commitment. She has fought her entire life for immigrants. She immigrated to the United States from Mexico at the age of twelve with her parents and four siblings. Her father had been the Chief of Police in Zacatecas before an accident cut short his career. Lilia's mother worked as a midwife to support the family before the family moved to Michigan. As a result of her father's accident and the move to a new country the family had a drastic change in their lifestyle. In Mexico the family lived in an 18-room house with servants, and an active social life. In Michigan the family lived in a shanty, sleeping on straw mattresses, cooking over a wood stove and had outdoor toilet facilities. Lilia did not know how to speak English and this created difficulties for her in school. The first day of school Lilia threw a book at the teacher and was expelled. The teacher had wanted her to read in English. Later in life this incident caused Lilia to fight passionately for schools to understand and incorporate the language and culture of the immigrant when teaching the student. Fortunately, Lilia went on to complete her schooling, eventually earning an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree, a master's degree and a substance abuse counselor license. During this time she married, and raised four children. She paid for her education by picking apples. She has worked as the district director of the Michigan State University research project, ``Migrants in Transition;'' as a bilingual counselor for Model Cities, a counselor for battered women at the YWCA of Greater Flint, a teacher with the Flint Community Schools and the International Institute and as an insurance specialist for Blue Cross/ Blue Shield. Her advocacy stretches beyond Flint to include the indigenous people of Mexico. The community has recognized Lilia's contributions over the years. She has received awards from the United States Postal Service, United Way of Genesee County, La Raza Advisory Council to the Michigan State Board of Education, the YWCA, and she was cited in Rodolfo Acuna's book ``Occupied America, A History of Chicanos.`` Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Lilia Pulido Alvarado as she receives the Golden Door award from the International Institute of Flint. Lilia has worked tirelessly to help make a better world for all.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the memory of Dr. Marcus Anthony Hatter. Dr. Hatter will be honored at a tree planting ceremony at his alma mater, Clio High School, on October 4. He was a member of Clio High School Class of 1975. The ceremony will honor both the Class of 1975 and Dr. Hatter's memory. During his attendance at Clio High School, Marcus Hatter was student body president for several years. He served as captain of the varsity basketball team, he was a charter member of the Genesee County Youth Leadership Council, a member of the National Honor Society, and active in the Varsity Club. After graduating from Clio High School with honors, Dr. Hatter obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and graduated from the Michigan State University School of Medicine in 1989. He completed his medical residency at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. He went on to become the primary physician for the Visiting Physicians Association at Medi- Lodge in Howell, Michigan. In 1994 he married Janette Dennis. They had four children and adopted a fifth child. Dr. Hatter suffered from an illness that cut his life short. During this time Marcus Hatter was an undaunted example of courage, compassion and heart. His brother, Henry II, gave Marcus a kidney that extended his life by several years, but Dr. Hatter passed away on January 7, 2001. He is enshrined in the memory of the people closest to him, wife Janette; children Elizabeth, Rachel, Miranda, Marcus Jr. and Aaron; parents Henry and Barbara Hatter; sister Kelly; brother Henry II; and many others who will treasure always the inspiration Dr. Hatter provided to others his entire life. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join the Clio High School Class of 1975 in paying tribute to one of its own. Dr. Marcus Hatter worked to make the world a better place. He brought joy to each person he met and will be greatly missed by his family, friends and our community.