Joe Knollenberg

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.Res. 259, honoring and recognizing the work of the Meals on Wheels Association. Established in the 1950s, Meals on Wheels is the oldest private, non- profit, volunteer-based service that delivers nutritious meals to homebound persons, enabling them to maintain their independence and continue to live in their own homes. The program also provides daily contact with a trained volunteer who provides important social interaction and a link to the community and gives important referral information for other appropriate community resources as needed. Today's elderly depend on this program throughout the country for their meals and other nutrition services. It is crucial that Congress continue to support this important program in order for the most vulnerable people to receive quality meals in the most efficient and effective manner. Last year, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit Meals on Wheels in my district and prepare meals and deliver them to seniors. It was such a rewarding experience, and I comment the volunteers of this program for making such a difference in people's lives. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the achievements and service of the Meals on Wheels Association of America. Their contributions throughout the United States touch the hearts of millions of people, and I wish them many years of continued success.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Jewish Fund, a charitable organization in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Sinai Hospital began as a clinic opened by Dr. Harry Saltzstein in 1922. In January, 1953, Sinai Hospital opened their doors to give Jewish health care professionals a place to practice and as a central institution for the Jewish community. It was the realization of a dream for Detroit's Jewish community. From there the hospital grew into one of Detroit's top health care institutions. In 1997, when the Detroit Medical Center purchased Sinai Hospital, it was not the end of that dream, but rather a transformation into another institution of excellence. Established with the proceeds from the sale, the Jewish Fund is an organization designed to perpetuate the Sinai dream through stewardship and innovation. The Fund continues the tradition of assuring excellent and compassionate care for those in need. The Fund, recognizing the diverse population in Detroit, serves as a resource for the entire community, whether supporting the public health needs or fostering stronger relations with the city. Their role today is vital to many health care initiatives. They have provided over $35 million in grants for health care over the last 10 years, including $600,000 in grants for the Jewish Hospice and Chaplaincy Network this year alone. Madam Speaker, I am proud to recognize the achievements and service of the Jewish Fund. Their contributions to Detroit and the metropolitan area are too great to enumerate, and I wish them many years of continued success.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a living legend in Detroit ice hockey, Mr. Gordon ``Gordie'' Howe, as he celebrates his 80th birthday today. Mr. Hockey, as Howe is universally recognized for his greatness on the ice, sprang from humble beginnings. Born in Floral, Saskatchewan, Canada, in the midst of the Great Depression, Howe, who was the fifth of nine children, grew up in poverty and was often sick due to poor nutrition. A significant milestone in Howe's life came at the tender age of 5, when his mother purchased some used belongings from a neighbor, which included his first pair of skates. Howe immersed himself in hockey, day in and day out, using anything he could find, be it a puck, a tennis ball, or even clumps of dirt. While he didn't make the local youth hockey team, Howe didn't let this discourage him, and worked hard to develop into an excellent skater. During summers, Howe would work with his father at construction sites where the work helped him develop the exceptional strength that would give him one of the hardest shots in hockey. By the time he was 15, Howe was already an imposing 6 feet tall and 200 pounds. In 1943, Howe was invited by the New York Rangers for a tryout. Howe failed to make the team, but despite this rejection, he was invited to try out for the Detroit Red Wings, where he impressed the coach and general manager Jack Adams. In 1946, at the age of 18, Howe made his National Hockey League debut playing right wing for the Detroit Red Wings. He quickly established himself as a great goal scorer, a gifted playmaker, and a dominating physical presence on the ice. Using his strength and talent, Howe was able to dominate the opposition throughout a career that spanned 5 decades, a feat unmatched by any athlete in any sport. By the time Howe retired from the Red Wings in 1971, he had led them to four Stanley Cup championships, seven first place finishes, and established the team as a perennial powerhouse. In addition, Howe was a six-time NHL Most Valuable Player and winner of the scoring title, and was the career leader in games played, goals, assists, and points. In 1973, when his sons Marty and Mark joined the Houston Aeros of the World Hockey Association, they convinced Gordie to fulfill his dream of playing on the professional level with them. After the WHA folded in 1979, Howe joined the Hartford Whalers of the NHL for one final season, helping the team make the playoffs. In 1997, Howe accomplished the last milestone in his storied career when he played professional hockey in a sixth decade. Playing a shift with the Detroit Vipers of the International Hockey League at nearly 70 years old, Howe was greeted by a thundering ovation. Along with his many achievements on the ice, Howe and his wife Colleen are dedicated to the children of their community and around the world. The Howe Foundation, which they founded in 1993, is dedicated to enriching the lives of those in need. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a fine neighbor, a true Michigan fixture, and the man who made Detroit ``Hockeytown,'' the greatest sports city in the world. I wish him a happy and healthy birthday, and wish him many more to come.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Brady, thank you very kindly for yielding. I appreciate that very much. Mr. Chairman, I rise tonight on behalf of the hardworking men and women of Michigan and particularly of my Ninth District. It will come as no surprise to most to hear me say that Michigan has been struggling mightily of late. For the past 6 years, we have suffered from incomparable job losses throughout Michigan. In fact, Michigan was the only State in the Union to have lost jobs in each and every year of that time frame. Our unemployment rate has been the Nation's highest, or close to it, for longer than anyone can remember. Home foreclosures are up. Wages are down. Costs seem to be rising at every turn. To put it lightly, the people of Michigan are facing some tough times. Not too long ago, the Governor of Michigan proposed an income tax increase. The citizens were on the verge of revolt. The State government actually shut down for a bit. As Michigan families struggled, the last thing they thought they deserved from their government was a bigger tax bill. But, sadly, they got one anyway. Now the leadership of this body wants to send the good people of Michigan and the people across the country another tax increase. In fact, they want to send, as has been said before, the biggest tax increase in American history. Well, I'm here to say, and to say strongly, enough is enough. Enough with higher taxes. Enough with wasteful spending. Enough. Analysts have calculated that the average family in my district would see their taxes go up by more than $4,100 if this budget were to be enacted. That's $4,100 that families in Oakland County simply cannot afford. Worse yet, we know that a tax increase this big would do serious harm to the economy, costing even more jobs and putting more people out of work. The other problem is, and some have told me that my district alone would lose some 2,000 jobs in the wake of this scale of tax increase. I do not want to let that happen. Many are concerned that the national economy is showing signs of weakness. I submit to my colleagues the weakness you may be seeing is just a common cold compared to the prolonged pneumonia Michigan has suffered from during its single-State recession. I'm going to fight and fight hard to protect Michigan's families, as every Member here I know would protect the people from their own States, protect them from higher taxes. Taking more of their hard- earned money from their pockets will only lead to more problems, more job losses, and more hardships. So I repeat: Enough with higher taxes. Enough with wasteful spending. Simply, enough. If you're thinking of voting for a tax increase this big, I'd invite you to come to see me in Michigan. There you can see firsthand what higher taxes do to an economy. Higher taxes shutter factory doors. They close small businesses, and they hurt families right to the core. This budget, and the $4,000 increase that comes with it for Oakland County's families, is simply unacceptable. Instead of raising taxes, we should be focused on solutions that will strengthen the economy, create jobs, encourage investment, and foster innovation. Raising taxes would do the exact polar opposite. So I strongly urge my colleagues, Mr. Chairman, to reject this massive tax increase on average Americans. I know firsthand how much harm it would do to Michigan's families, and I have every reason to believe it would do the same to families across America.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 991, which recognizes the continuing service of the 69th Infantry Regiment, New York National Guard, whose citizen soldiers have faithfully answered America's call to arms since the regiment's formation back in 1851. Today, the 69th Infantry Regiment is again deploying to Afghanistan to continue America's fight in the global war on terror. In this most recent of American wars, the 69th has borne already a distinguished part. It was one of the first units to assist, as was mentioned, in the recovery effort at the World Trade Center in New York following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack. It subsequently deployed to Iraq as Task Force Wolfhound where it fought to defend the City of al Taji against al Qaeda terrorists, protected Iraq's free elections, first free elections, and secured the infamous Route Irish, the most dangerous road in Baghdad. During that service in Iraq, 19 members of the Fighting 69th were killed in action and 78 were wounded. In its history, the regiment has served the Nation, and as was mentioned also, in five wars and 20 campaigns and six of its members have been awarded the Medal of Honor. It is fitting that this resolution recognizes not only the historic contributions of the 69th Infantry Regiment, but also the depth America owes the soldiers of the unit for their exceptional service, patriotism and fidelity in fighting in all fronts of the global war on terror since the attack on September 11, 2001. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I have no other speakers that are available, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to an issue very dear to me and very important to our Nation. In this country, we use holidays to remember the heroes of our past. We have among them Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, Columbus Day, Martin Luther King Day, and President's Day. These are fitting tributes for worthy heroes, but what of today's living heroes, our brave men and women on the front lines fighting in defense of our freedom? I believe that they, too, deserve special recognition and praise. Our very ability to assemble here today is a direct result of their actions. Two years ago, a young constituent of mine, Alexandra McGregor, presented me with the idea of a ``National Support the Troops Day.'' Alexandra had seen a news account of a fallen soldier, and she had the idea that we should set aside a day to honor our great American heroes fighting on the front lines. I couldn't agree with her more. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today, as I have before, because of Alexandra and others like her who believe we should and we must show our appreciation for the troops. This resolution calls for Americans to participate in a moment of silence on March 26 to recognize all of our active duty troops. Alexandra chose this date for a very personal reason. It is the birth date of her grandfather, a World War II veteran who helped instill in her such a deep love of country. I might add, Alexandra was just 16 years old. To this day, I'm moved to think that someone so young could have her priorities so straight. She put in a considerable amount of time and personal effort to see her idea become a reality. She went as far as to call a high school in each and every State to convince them of the importance of this issue. Such dedication only serves to underscore the very reason for that resolution. American families strongly support our troops, and while so many of them fight abroad on our behalf, we should do everything we can to show our appreciation and thanks. I hope you will all join with me in support of this resolution and in support of the more than 1.5 million active duty troops who defend our freedoms each and every day. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I want to pay tribute to a hero, LCpl Gentian Marku of Warren, Michigan. Today, I ask that the House of Representatives honor and remember this exceptional young man who died serving his country. Gentian Marko immigrated with his family to the United States in 1997, at the height of civil unrest in Albania. Once arriving in the United States, Gentian left behind his troubled childhood, and became the intelligent, diligent, and responsible young man that we know. After graduating from Warren Woods Tower High School in 2001, Gentian had hoped to become a police officer. At the recommendation of his father, a former first captain in the Albanian military police, Gentian joined the Marine Corps to help his chances at acceptance to the police academy. After enlisting in the Marines in August 2002, Gentian was assigned to the First Battalion, Marine Expeditionary Force. In 2003, Gentian returned to Albania during a 2-week exercise with the Marines and served as a translator during meetings with the Albanian military and civilian leaders. Gentian had said it was one of his proudest moments being able to do something for both of his countries. On November 25, 2004, Lance Corporal Marku was killed in action in Fallujah, Iraq, in the Anbar province. At the time, the Marines had awarded him medals for good conduct, humanitarian service, combat action and other activities. My thoughts, prayers, and deepest gratitude for their sacrifice go to Gentian's family. There are no words that can relieve their pain and I can only offer to convey my deep respect and highest appreciation. Madam Speaker, Lance Corporal Marku gave the ultimate sacrifice not only for the freedom and security of his family and our country, but for the people of Iraq. I wish to remember his bravery, conviction, and selflessness as he is honored today.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, two years ago I met a young high school student who had a brilliant and patriotic idea. Alexandra McGregor, from Waterford, Michigan, set out to establish a ``Support the Troops Day'' and, for the third year in a row, I am introducing a resolution inspired by Alexandra. Alexandra's extraordinary effort started as a grassroots campaign to encourage people to take a moment and reflect on the service and sacrifice of those currently in our military. What began as a small effort by a local high school student has turned into a nation-wide event honoring our active duty military men and women. Every year, Americans participate in numerous patriotic celebrations; from past Presidents to our veterans. But never do we honor our active- duty military men and women who are protecting our freedom today. With inspiration from Alexandra, my resolution encourages Americans to participate in a moment of silence on March 26th to reflect on the sacrifice of those who are serving this country both at home and abroad. Madam Speaker, ``Support the Troops Day'' is a yearly celebration in Oakland County, Michigan and I come to the floor today to reintroduce the resolution marking March 26th as ``Support the Troops Day.'' Both the House of Representatives and the Senate passed similar resolutions two years ago and I hope this Congress will actively show its support for our service members by passing this resolution.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I want to pay tribute to a hero from my congressional district, Sergeant Phillip A. Bocks of Troy, Michigan. Today, I ask that the House of Representatives honor and remember this incredible young man who died serving his country. Phillip Bocks was not one to back down from a challenge. From the time he was five years old, Phillip insisted on skiing adult courses, and at age fourteen, joined a hockey league even though he had never worn a pair of ice skates. While in high school, Phillip was a member of the swim team, acted in plays, and developed a flair for cooking. After graduating from high school, Phillip joined the Marines in 2000 and was assigned to the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California. As an instructor, Phillip trained Marines how to survive and fight in rugged terrain. On November 9, 2007, while on a mission to a village near Aranus, Afghanistan to make sure the residents had medical supplies and food, Sgt. Bocks was killed in an ambush. My thoughts, prayers, and deepest gratitude for their sacrifice go to Phillip's family. There are no words that can relieve their pain and I can only offer to convey my deep respect and highest appreciation. Madam Speaker, Sgt. Bocks gave the ultimate sacrifice not only for the freedom and security of his family and our country, but for the people of Afghanistan. I wish to remember his bravery and selflessness as he is honored today.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Family Security and Small Business Stimulus Act of 2008. It is impossible to ignore the economic indicators that suggest our economy is slowing down. In my own home State of Michigan, citizens have been faced with a sluggish economy for some time now. We can and should take steps to give the economy a shot in the arm. This is a problem facing all Americans, and it will take a strong, bipartisan effort to solve it. One important way to address this problem is to reduce the tax burden on families and small businesses. My bill utilizes three ideas to accomplish these goals: a new, permanent 5 percent tax bracket; an instant advance on this tax cut for 2008; and increasing the limit of small business expensing. The Family Security and Small Business Stimulus Act of 2008 will create a new, permanent 5 percent tax bracket, reducing taxes by either $400 for an individual or $800 for a family per year. This is critical as we try to enable families to keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets, allowing them to use it for their ever-increasing expenses. Families would receive this tax cut in the form of an instant advance payment, to be delivered upon 30 days after enactment. Additionally, my bill will increase the Section 179 small business expensing limit from $125,000 to $375,000 per year for 2 years. Increasing the amount a small business could expense encourages capital purchases. When a small business knows it can expense a new purchase, it is more likely to make the investment. Enabling small businesses to invest in new equipment and expand their operations will promote significant economic growth at a time when job creation is crucial. We shouldn't stop here. We need to make the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts permanent, and pass other important pro-growth legislation. But this is something we can come together and accomplish quickly. It is time for us to lift ourselves out of our current economic slowdown and restore our strength in the global economy. That is why I have introduced this legislation. I hope you will help America succeed by joining me on this important legislation.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize Walsh College of Accountancy and Business Administration in Troy, Michigan as they dedicate the newest addition to their campus, the Jeffery W. Barry Center on December 14, 2007. When Walsh College was founded in 1922, it was a specialized accounting institute that taught 150 students in Detroit. However, it wasn't until 1970, when Walsh's third president, Jeffery W. Barry, took over that the school grew into what we see today. Under Mr. Barry's leadership, Walsh College transformed from a small specialized institute into a business college granting bachelors and masters degrees. When Mr. Barry stepped down in 1991, Walsh had an enrollment of over 3,300 students. However, since his tenure Walsh's enrollment has continued to grow and today has over 4,500 students with campuses in Troy, Novi, and Clinton Township. In addition, Walsh offers over twenty different bachelors and masters degrees, and certifications. The culmination of Mr. Barry's vision will be the new Jeffery W. Barry Center which will open for classes in the winter of 2008. The 36,000 square foot, environmentally sustainable Barry Center features an expanded, modern library, an auditorium, and additional classrooms. It is designed to meet the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design ratings for water and energy efficiency, pollution control, recycling, and indoor environmental quality. Mr. Barry passed away on July 8, 2006, but his spirit lives on. The Barry Center embodies his legacy of educational outreach and excellence, as it doubles the size of Walsh's main campus. In addition, this fall Walsh will be offering its first ever doctoral degree, a Doctor of Management in Executive Leadership. Madam Speaker, today I commend Walsh College for their continued commitment to Jeffery W. Barry's vision. I wish them luck and prosperity as they dedicate this new edition, and hope for many years of success.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize and congratulate Officer Roy David Gilbert, III for being named the 2007 Police Officer of the Year by Parade magazine and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. A resident of Waterford, MI, Officer Gilbert has described the day he was sworn in as an officer of the Detroit Police Department seven years ago as one of the happiest of his life. Last year, however, Officer Gilbert was faced with one of the darkest. On December 30, 2006, while patrolling Detroit's Western District, Officer Gilbert and his partner Officer John McKee spotted a vehicle that had been carjacked earlier that evening. While in pursuit, Officer McKee was shot and wounded in the face and abdomen. Officer Gilbert courageously moved between his partner and the suspect, and even after being knocked down by a bullet, he returned fire and took down the assailant. As a result of Officer Gilbert's actions, Officer McKee's life was saved, and in October of this year he was able to return to the police force. Officer Gilbert was awarded the Medal of Valor, the Detroit Police Department's highest honor for bravery and was recognized by Parade magazine and the International Association of Chiefs of Police as the Officer of the Year. For over 40 years, Parade magazine and the International Association of Chiefs of Police have recognized the law enforcement officer whose deeds embody the intrepid spirit and altruism that Officer Gilbert has displayed. Even today as he is honored by Waterford Township, Officer Gilbert still says he was just ``doing what partners are supposed to do.'' Madam Speaker, Officer Gilbert epitomizes the bravery and selflessness that we see in our law enforcement officers everyday. His heroic actions saved the life of a fellow officer and made our streets safer. I commend him for his achievements and wish him continued success in his service.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, my colleague, Chairman Olver, has already detailed many of the aspects of the fiscal year 2008 conference report. I am pleased to say that I will support the conference report. The conference report has much to commend. I want to thank John Olver; John and Joe I guess is what it amounts to. But we have worked together very hard on this, along with the staffs on both sides, and I commend him for working with us to bring this product forward. We meet the majority of the transportation funding guarantee as mandated by SAFETEA-LU, plus included some wise legislative provisions such as raising the airline pilot mandatory retirement age to 65 and prohibiting towing on Federal roads in Texas. We didn't go overboard on funding Amtrak and kept the reforms we put in place 2 years ago in hopes of bringing the railroad into the modern age. One unfortunate point I would like to make is one of the Transit New Starts Project, a project for the Chicago area's commuter rail, Metra, the UP West Line, was inadvertently not included in the bill. It was funded in the House bill, and in the negotiations all sides supported conference funding, and I am very hopeful we can work a little magic to get that included. In housing, we provided more than $100 million for about 11,000 new incremental vouchers for three of our most vulnerable populations: veterans, including those returning from Iraq who might face homelessness without rental assistance; nonelderly disabled individuals, the so-called Frelinghuysen vouchers; and vouchers to keep families together when facing homelessness rather than forcing the children into foster homes. Further, the bill insists that these vouchers retain their use and purpose upon turnover when the current individuals and families no longer need them. The vouchers for veterans are important and will certainly be welcomed throughout Michigan as well as the rest of the country. I want to note the intent here is not just for HUD to administer these vouchers, but for HUD and VA to work together so that the full array of eligible services are coordinated and administered jointly. Along that same line, I strongly support a new demonstration in the homeless program to avoid forcing children through the trauma of homeless shelters by rapidly rehousing these families in secure rental units and providing the care and training in that setting, rather than through the shelter plus care process. We need to be sure, however, that in doing so we do not end up subsidizing drug or other illegal activity. I want to also express my appreciation for the provision in the bill that waives the Medicaid cap on income and allows citizens in Michigan to voluntarily pay more and still receive rental assistance. This has made a tremendous difference in my district, and the new statewide provision will apply to all Michigan residents. Obviously, it is available for consideration in other states, too. As many of my colleagues know, Michigan has been facing a severe credit crunch due to defaults and foreclosures resulting from the subprime lending boom a few years ago. The resets are around the corner and the problem may well get worse for Michigan before it gets better. But no one wants to see foreclosure, not the homeowner, not the banks, and certainly not the Federal Government which has insured many of these loans. As a result and through extensive collaboration with my colleague, Chairman Olver, and our Senate counterparts, we included a provision that I am sure will go a long way towards stemming if not reversing the trend in the home mortgage market. We have included $200 million in new funds for intensive and extensive loan foreclosure mitigation guidance plus counseling and targeted funds to those areas which are facing the largest threat of foreclosure. We have ensured that the funds will be in the hands of the expert counselors and State housing finance agencies before the loan resets dates hit homeowners who will find it difficult to meet the higher payments. We have not placed the funds in HUD, or created a financial handout for mortgage companies or homeowners. Instead, we are using the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation, which is in itself expert and has a network of expert loan counselors throughout the country. As a federally chartered corporation, they will be able to avoid the many delaying regulatory hurdles that would result if funded through HUD, but still must meet all the requirements to ensure the integrity of the funds provided to expert counseling agencies. I firmly believe that Michigan will benefit greatly from the one-time funding being provided in this bill to help at-risk homeowners get through this difficult period. Having said that, there are clearly areas in the bill that could and should be reduced in funding or for which funding should be allocated. All of us have heard about the shortfall that HUD now faces in meeting contracts with longstanding low-income assistance providers under the project-based section 8 program. While better than the Senate bill, let's face it, we did not solve the problem. We only delayed the date at which the crisis will occur. Yet at the same time, the voucher program has $300 million in excess funds based on the new methodology instituted by the majority as part of the 2007 continuing resolution. Apparently the majority does not trust their new methodology that much, yet those funds could have further reduced the shortfall that HUD faces with project owners under the project-based program, or reduced the cost of the bill itself. Furthermore, the Department continues to receive funds for a long list of small boutique and duplicative programs, all of which could be eliminated as the administration requested without harming any of the program. Finally, I want to emphasize that there are no new air-dropped earmarks from the House minority. I want to thank my colleague and chairman, Chairman Olver, for his work on this bill. I have to say he was most fair. This was a very inclusive conference and, because of his cooperation and the highlights of the bill, I will be voting ``yes'' on passage of the conference report. I reserve the balance of my time

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I want to yield as much time as he may wish to consume to the gentleman who is the ranking member of the full committee, Mr. Lewis from California.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Flake).

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize the Birmingham Area Seniors Coordinating Council as they celebrate their 30th Anniversary today. The Birmingham Area Seniors Coordinating Council was formed in 1978 to improve the coordination of senior citizen programs and services, and to provide a central source of information and referral in the Birmingham Public Schools community. Today, the Council has nearly 1,700 members who value independence, lifelong learning, and community involvement. Not only do Council members enjoy the benefits of an active senior center program, but they are also volunteers who deliver services to their aging neighbors. These services are vital to enabling seniors to remain in their own homes, and to live with independence and dignity. Each year, more than 500 senior volunteers provide outreach service to other older adults in the community, evidencing their motto of ``Seniors Serving Seniors.'' The Council offers a variety of educational classes, recreational programs, social activities, and travel opportunities to help older adults stay healthy and happy. In addition, the Council's many outreach services to the elderly are accomplished with a small staff and hundreds of senior volunteers in partnership with many local and state agencies and organizations. The generosity of the Birmingham Public Schools, the City of Birmingham, the Villages of Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, and Franklin, local service clubs, agencies, foundations, churches, businesses and hundreds of caring individuals to fund this unique delivery of services that have been the staple of the Council for the past 30 years. Madam Speaker, today I commend the Birmingham Area Seniors Coordinating Council. I am proud to recognize the achievements and service of the Council over the past 30 years, and wish them even more success over the next 30 years.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize the historic Old Homestead Subdivision at Eleven Mile and Drake Roads in Farmington Hills, Michigan as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary on November 10, 2007. The Old Homestead Subdivision takes its name from the original 240- acre tract taken out in 1824 by Mr. Edward Steele. The deed, which was signed by President John Quincy Adams, was granted to the first ``homesteader,'' who was required to clear the wilderness and establish a home while paying $1.25 an acre. It was on this land that Mr. Steele built a home, a farm, and a mill for his family. It was Edward Steele's grandson, Frank Steele, who would leave the largest mark on this community. After a fire destroyed his grandfather's farmhouse, Frank and his wife, the former Bertha Crosby, the daughter of the first soldier to enlist in the Civil War from Michigan, commissioned a stone house to be built on Eleven Mile Road. They were both active members of the community, where Frank served on the Township Board and as a Justice of the Peace, while Bertha was active in all the local women's organizations. The house stayed within the Steele family until 1989 when it was made part of the Farmington Hills Historic District by Frank's nephew, Robert Bohme. Throughout the years, the farm land originally purchased by Edward Steele has been sold and developed into country homes for folks seeking solace from the busy city life of Detroit. Stores, cider mills, and inns began to dot the pastoral landscape, bringing commerce to the community. Road development allowed more families to settle into suburban life in Farmington Hills, and like many subdivisions that formed after World War II, the homestead was established on November 10, 1957. Even with all of the new construction and development that came over the years, the Old Homestead kept hold of the unique features that made it what it is. The Old Homestead remains home to historic Elliot Sprague House, which was built in 1880, and the Erie Prince Sawmill, which now is a cider mill. These mainstays keep the Old Homestead as the quaint neighborhood it was when formed. Madam Speaker, today I pay tribute to the rich history of the Old Homestead Subdivision. Its contribution to the character of the city of Farmington Hills is beyond measure, and I congratulate the residents on the 50th anniversary of its founding.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I offer a motion to instruct conferees.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, my motion is very straightforward. It simply instructs the managers on the part of the House to insist that two important provisions included in the House bill be included in the conference report. The first provision, House section 416, prohibits funds in the bill from being used to provide housing assistance to illegal or otherwise unauthorized immigrants. This provision was offered as an amendment on the House floor and adopted unanimously. The second provision, House section 417, prohibits any funds in the bill from being used to hire illegal aliens. This, too, was an amendment adopted unanimously when the House considered the bill. The House has clearly spoken on this matter, and I think it is important the conferees uphold the will of the House. I urge the adoption of the motion. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.