Gary Peters

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Monday September 15, 2014 I was not present for 1 vote. I wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been present to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 497, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Michigan/Ontario Council of Bishops of the Church of God in Christ, Inc. (COGIC), as they celebrate 100 years of fellowship. Founded in 1897 by then-Elder Charles Harrison Mason, the COGIC arose from humble beginnings--holding its first meetings in the living room of one of its members. Driven by a desire to better fulfill the tenants of their believes in the Gospel, Bishop Mason and his followers embarked upon a spiritual journey to grow closer in fellowship through the teachings of Jesus Christ. Over the decades of the new century that soon followed, COGIC grew and prospered, with new congregations being formed across the United States. Among the many jurisdictions formed, was the jurisdiction for the State of Michigan. Established in 1914, the COGIC jurisdiction for the State of Michigan was formed under the leadership of Elder W.G. Johnson. Under his leadership and the leadership of successors, the COGIC quickly expanded in Michigan, with several jurisdictions being formed within the first decades of its founding. Over its 100-year history, the Canadian/ Michigan Jurisdiction of the COGIC has grown to include 8 sub- jurisdictions within Michigan and Ontario comprised of nearly 90 congregations across the region--including many in Michigan's 14th Congressional District. In the Greater Detroit region, COGIC congregations not only serve as houses of worship where members of the community can create a deeper connection with their faith, they bring together devoted community members in the tenants of service to our community. From food pantries to youth development and education, COGIC congregations are engaging communities in Greater Detroit, the State of Michigan and across North America to answer the calls of our friends and neighbors in their time of need. So many of these programs support families in times of crisis and afford them the opportunity to confront those crises and move forward to overcome those obstacles. Mr. Speaker, over the past 100 years, the members of COGIC in Michigan have not only grown deeper in their covenant to their faith, but have channeled their faith into strengthening lives, families and communities across the State--much as their counterparts have done in others states across our nation. I congratulate the Michigan/Ontario Council of Bishops and the members of COGIC congregations across the Canada/Michigan Jurisdiction for achieving this great milestone in their fellowship and look forward to their continued efforts to strengthen the communities which they call home.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Job Corps program, which was founded in 1965 as a key part of President Lyndon Johnson's War on Poverty. Founded with the mission of empowering youth, ages 16 through 24, from disadvantaged backgrounds to improve their own quality of life, the Detroit Job Corps Center has been a vital part of the Southeast Michigan region by providing vocational and academic training. Created under the administration of the U.S. Department of Labor under the Economic Opportunity Act, the dedicated staff of the Job Corps program have been working for half of a century to address the many different barriers that youth encounter in their efforts to obtain employment and attain independence. By providing youth with a combination of academic, vocational, and work-based learning experiences, alongside assistance with resume writing and interview preparation, the Job Corps program helps its students develop the tools they need to find stable, long-term, and well-paying jobs. Today, 125 Job Corps centers across the United States serve more than 60,000 youth annually, ensuring that employment is a goal that can be obtained regardless of one's personal circumstances. To carry out the mission of the Job Corps program locally, the Detroit Job Corps Center has engaged with an extensive network of community stakeholders in Southeast Michigan; which allows it to offer its students a wide array of experiences as they seek to build their skills and determine their future career path. Among its partners are Quicken Loans, the United Auto Workers, the NAACP, many local elected officials, Southwest Solutions and the Wayne County Department of Homeland Security. With these connections, the Detroit Job Corps Center has been able to offer its students internships and community service activities with organizations that are making a difference in the Southeast Michigan region, organizations like: the Greening of Detroit, the United Way of Southeast Michigan, Forgotten Harvest and the U.S. Veterans Administration. The record of Detroit Job Corps Center is embodied in the success of its graduates, 95 percent of whom end up obtaining a college degree, pursuing advanced training, finding fulltime employment or serving our nation in the Armed Forces. Of the 125 Job Corps centers across the nation, the Detroit center ranks second in graduate ranking and sixth in overall program ranking for the 2013-2014 period. In recognition of its success, the Detroit Job Corps Center has received a National Job Corps Gold Star Award for outstanding achievement each year since 2010. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the remarkable impact the Job Corps program has made over the last 50 years and it is my pleasure to specifically recognize the Detroit Job Corps Center for the work it has done to empower youth in the Southeast Michigan community to build a better future for themselves. As our economy becomes increasingly knowledge-based, the value and power of an education takes on an ever-growing importance. The work of the Job Corps program and the Detroit Job Corps Center is vital to ensuring that a quality education is available to all youth in our communities, regardless of their background or circumstances. I congratulate the Detroit Job Corps Center on its many achievements and wish its staff continued success in fulfilling the mission of the Job Corps program and realizing President Lyndon Johnson's dream of an America free of poverty.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, September 8, 2014 I was not present for 3 votes. I wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been present to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 481, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 482, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 483, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday July 29, 2014 I inadvertently voted ``yes'' on final passage of H.R. 4315 (rollcall 463). I wish the Record to reflect my intention to vote ``no'' on H.R. 4315.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to mark the passing of an incredible philanthropic leader of the Greater Detroit community and a dear friend, Mr. David Campbell. As the President and CEO of the McGregor Fund, David devoted many years of his professional life to building a brighter future for the residents of Southeast Michigan. As a lifetime resident of Michigan, David grew up with a deep affection for his state. After graduating from Midland High School and obtaining Bachelor's Degree from our shared alma mater, Alma College, David went on to obtain his Master's Degree from Central Michigan University. David was later bestowed an honorary Doctor of Philosophy Degree from Madonna University for his work as a passionate advocate for higher education. David's incredible journey in Southeast Michigan began when he and his wife, Susan, moved to Detroit in 1980 for him to assume the role of Dean of Students for the College of Creative Studies. While at CCS, David earned a reputation as an empathetic and thoughtful leader that sought to uphold the highest standards of integrity. After six years at CCS, David brought his passion for helping others to the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, where he served as Vice President of Programs for eight years. In 1995, David continued to expand his impact on the Greater Detroit community when he accepted the position of Executive Director for the McGregor Fund, a foundation dedicated to promoting the well-being of mankind. David later went on to serve the McGregor Fund as its CEO, President and Trustee. In his nearly twenty year tenure at the helm of the McGregor Fund, David oversaw the awarding of more than $150 million in grants to Detroit area nonprofits in the areas of human services, education, healthcare, arts and culture, and public benefit. It is hardly surprising, given his reputation and passion, that David felt compelled to broaden the range of his impact on the Southeast Michigan community. In addition to his primary work with the Community Foundation and the McGregor Fund, David was an active leader on boards for many non-profit organizations. His volunteer work included service as a founding member on the boards of: the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, City Year Detroit, City Connect Detroit, Detroit Local Initiatives Support Coalition, Excellent Schools Detroit and Michigan Future Schools. Thanks to David's work at the Conservancy, Detroit is realizing so many gains from its unique position within the Great Lakes. His record of service included work on the boards of New Detroit, the New Economy Initiative of the Community Foundation and the Greater Downtown Partnership. In these roles, David was integral to developing the infrastructure and securing the creation of endowments that are empowering the creative entrepreneurs of today and for succeeding generations to move their ideas from concept to reality. Mr. Speaker, in addition to an incredible record of philanthropic leadership and service to the Greater Detroit region, David was a devoted family man. David's family was an immense source of pride for him, and my thoughts are with Susan, and their daughter, Morgan, his parents: Charles and Margaret, and his siblings: Sandra and Kevin, during this difficult time. My family and I were fortunate to call David a friend and we will greatly miss his ceaseless passion and determination for improving the well-being of the Greater Detroit region. Even as the community mourns his loss, we can all take pride in his accomplishments, his legacy of service and his vision of a prosperous Greater Detroit community--a vision which will continue to inspire current and future generations of leaders to invest deeply into the Southeast Michigan region and create the innovations that are putting the Detroit community at the forefront of the 21st Century economy.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Madam Chair, I rise today to offer an amendment that builds upon the existing language in this bill to strengthen protections for American students. My amendment ensures students have the information that they need to make important financial decisions that could impact their lives long after graduation. As you may be aware, combined student loan debt in our Nation has topped $1 trillion, and the unfortunate reality is that many of those students do not know the enormous harm that defaulting on that debt can cause to them. Nearly 15 percent of the student loan borrowers default within 3 years of graduation, and this can have serious consequences on their ability to rent an apartment, to purchase a car or a house, or to even obtain future employment. Madam Chair, I applaud the spirit of this bipartisan legislation to provide enhanced financial counseling services to our Nation's students, and I look forward to voting in favor of it. My amendment will make a very simple adjustment to ensure the full effectiveness, however, of the bill. My amendment will simply require that all student borrowers receive an explanation of the impact of a delinquency or of a default on loans to their credit scores, including the borrower's future ability to find employment or to purchase a home or a car. It is important for students to have this information when they first receive the loans. For many recent graduates, the idea of a credit report or a credit score may seem very abstract. My amendment ensures that the impact of delinquencies or defaults are explained in very concrete terms. Recent graduates are the top in their fields but, all too often, fall behind when it comes to financial literacy, which can have a lasting impact on their lives, and it can also take a toll on our economy. For more than 20 years, I worked as a financial adviser, helping families plan for their futures. It is important that all of our graduates understand how the decisions they make today will affect them and their families down the road when they are finding a job, buying a car, or renting or trying to own a home. We need to promote financial literacy when it can do the most good--before a borrower gets in trouble. As we continue working to make college more affordable for our students, I believe this legislation and my amendment to it are both commonsense steps in the right direction that we can act on immediately. I look forward to a strong bipartisan vote on this bill, and I hope the Senate takes up this important legislation in a timely manner. I urge my colleagues to join me in the support of this amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Madam Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, July 22, 2014 I was not present for 4 votes. I wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been present to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 433, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 434, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 435, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 436, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, with a heavy heart, to mark the passing of Michael J. George, a respected business leader, philanthropist and patriarch of the Chaldean American community in Southeast Michigan. From a young age, Mr. George worked to develop his expertise in business and entrepreneurship. After graduating from Catholic Central High School, he went on to work with his brother, Sharkey, to establish Melody Farm Dairy Company. From a single milk route, Mr. George and Sharkey grew Melody Farms to a business with over $150 million in revenue, and a customer base 10,000 strong. He later went on to found George Enterprises LLC with interests in food products, real estate, technology, healthcare and banking As a man dedicated to his community, Mr. George felt a responsibility to help empower other aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve success. It was undoubtedly this commitment that led to his leading role in the creation of the Bank of Michigan, a community-oriented institution that specializes in small business lending programs. As a result of Mr. George's leadership, many small business owners have been able to realize their dreams--results that have strengthened the backbone of Michigan's economy. Mr. George applied his commitment to serving others to every facet of his life. Therefore, it seemed only natural that when his country asked him to serve, he answered its call and proudly defended democracy in Korea. In taking time away from his business interests and family, Mr. George's sacrifices and service helped millions of Koreans to realize their dreams of a free and democratic society. In Greater Detroit's Chaldean American community, Mr. George was a leader whose actions and vision were instrumental in its development. As the former Chairman of the Chaldean Federation of America and co- founder of the Chaldean Iraqi American Association of Michigan, Mr. George was a driving force behind so many charitable endeavors that assisted newly arrived immigrants and refugees to integrate into their new home country. With his experience and engaging in refugee issues, Mr. George was an important advisor to me and other legislative leaders on the challenges that religious minorities have faced in their ancestral homelands. Specifically, Mr. George's advice was vital to my ongoing efforts to modernize the Refugee Assistance Act. However, regardless of the transformational impact Mr. George has made on communities, families and lives across the Southeast Michigan region, no achievements brought him more pride than those of his family. To his loving wife, Najat, their six sons, and many grandchildren, he displayed unwavering dedication. Whether it was working in business with his sons or his family's Sunday night dinners, his moments with his family were of the greatest importance to Mr. George. Mr. Speaker, Michael George approached every endeavor in his life with passion and expectations that allowed him to see the best qualities of those with whom he worked. His belief in the goodness of others was exemplified by his method of engaging in business deals on a simple handshake. With unending optimism and dedication to helping others achieve the success that came to him so early on in his life, Mr. George has touched the lives of many people in Southeast Michigan and has left the region with a brighter future because of his endeavors. While I will miss his leadership, experience and friendship, I know that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders to be active in the Greater Detroit community.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to reunification efforts in Cyprus. July 20th marked the 40th anniversary of the invasion of Cyprus which tore the island in two. It is time to end this forcible division and ensure the rights of all Cypriots. In the summer of 1974, Turkish armed forces invaded Cyprus and captured portions of the northern region of the island. Nearly a quarter of the captured residents were expelled from the island, of which about 80 percent were Greek Cypriots. The invasion concluded with the installation of the UN-monitored buffer zone which still divides Cyprus today. It is crucial that we find a solution that allows Greek and Turkish Cypriots to prosper together. Cyprus is an anchor for U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and has been a reliable partner in combating terrorism and threats to international peace. Cyprus has played a critical role in the removal of chemical weapons from Syria. At a time when the stability of the wider Middle East has become increasingly fragile, it is important to ensure the security of a reliable ally in the region. The Cypriot people deserve a free republic, one without foreign troops patrolling their neighborhoods and one where exiled Cypriots have the right to return to their homes. In early 2013, the President of Cyprus outlined several measures that, if adopted, could significantly contribute to a favorable atmosphere for reunification negotiations. I am reassured by the efforts made by the Cypriot government; however, as a nation who highly values its relationships with our allies, the United States should support initiatives to end the 40 year division of Cyprus. A united Cyprus is the best solution to respect the sovereignty of the Mediterranean nation as well as the rich history of its people.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency's (OLHSA) 50th Anniversary. OLHSA, founded in 1964 as a part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's War on Poverty, provides over 70 collaborative programs to the elderly, disabled, and low-income residents of Oakland and Livingston Counties. Created with the mission of empowering individuals to attain self- sufficiency, OLHSA has developed a long record of success. Just last year, it provided information, advice, and material assistance to over 50,000 people--support that helped them to improve their own lives, as well as the vitality of their communities. OLHSA provided them with crucial resources such as food assistance, tax preparation, financial planning, foreclosure prevention counseling, referral guidance, early childhood development and energy assistance. Recognizing the key role that education plays as a tool that empowers individuals to shape their own future, OLHSA has directed significant resources into education at the youngest ages with its Head Start program. Centered on the principle of involving parents directly in their children's learning process, OLHSA sees its Head Start program as a vital component of its efforts to break the poverty cycle. Through this program, OLHSA continues to demonstrate its commitment to strengthening communities by providing the basic services that enable its clients to attain prosperity. Veterans facing housing insecurity can also turn to OLHSA to access the VA Supportive Services for the Veteran Families program, which was created with the goal of eliminating homelessness amongst veterans and their families. By providing case management, rent payment assistance, and emergency housing, OLHSA energetically works to ensure that veteran families in Oakland and Livingston Counties receive the housing and peace of mind they deserve. Mr. Speaker, as the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency celebrates its 50th Anniversary of service to communities across Southeastern Michigan, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the remarkable impact it has made on its clients. Thanks to OLHSA's leadership and the dedication of its staff, many tens of thousands of residents of Oakland and Livingston counties of Michigan have received support at critical moments in their lives. In the face of the recent economic challenges in Michigan, OLHSA's programs were vital to families' continued well-being. I congratulate OLHSA's staff on all of their organization's accomplishments over the last five decades and I look forward to continuing to work with them to strengthen the Southeast Michigan community by empowering its residents with the necessary tools to build a successful future.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Monday July 14, 2014 I was not present for 2 votes. Had I been present for rollcall No. 405, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 406, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with profound sadness to mark the passing of an incredible leader in the Greater Detroit community and a dear friend to my family, David Page. From early in life, David charted a course of excellence--graduating with a Bachelor's Degree from Dartmouth College and a Juris Doctorate from Harvard Law School. In addition to these degrees, he studied at the London School of Economics as a Fulbright Scholar. At Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP, where David worked for more than 50 years, he brought his considerable talents to bear in the field of law. While there, David developed a reputation of tireless service to his clients and a commitment to providing excellent counsel. While David's legal career came into focus, he became an active leader in the Greater Detroit community, where he was a force in the effort to revitalize the region. Throughout his decades of loyal service to the community, David served on the boards of many community organizations that have improved the quality of life for the residents of Southeast Michigan. The boards he served on included: the Detroit Zoological Society, City Year Detroit and the Detroit Chamber Music Society. David was a founding trustee of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and was directly engaged in the efforts that led to the creation of endowments that will power the work of future generations of community organizations in the Greater Detroit region. As a committed leader of the Jewish community, David served as president of the Jewish Fund, the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, and Temple Beth El. David also served as chair of the board of the Children's Hospital of Michigan Foundation and as chairman of the hospital's board for almost a decade of his more than 40 years of tenure with that organization. While David provided invaluable leadership to many organizations in Southeast Michigan and helped empower them to magnify their impact, one of his most satisfying endeavors was his work with the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, where he served as vice chair of the board. With a prominent view of the Detroit River from his office, David leveraged his position as vice chair and trustee of the Kresge Foundation to build the public-private partnership that would become the Conservancy, which is transforming the Detroit riverfront. With a focus on a 5.5 mile stretch of riverfront between Belle Isle and the Ambassador Bridge, the Conservancy has realized the revitalization of Gabriel Richard Park, Rivard Plaza, and the Dequindre Cut greenway linking Eastern Market to the riverfront and one of Michigan's crown jewels, William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor--the first urban state park in Michigan. Mr. Speaker, over the years my wife, Colleen, and I have been so fortunate to work with David and share many warm memories with him and his family. All of us who have had the fortune to know him will greatly miss his leadership and indomitable spirit. David's passion for helping others was rivaled only by his passion for his family, and my thoughts are with his loving wife, Andrea, their children: Jason, Mark and Sarah, and their grandchildren during this difficult time. However, even amidst the sadness, there is so much from which David's family may take solace--a legacy of dedicated service toward building a brighter future for the Greater Detroit region, which continues to impact the lives of so many across our community. I am confident his legacy will be a beacon that continues to inspire not only those of us who currently seek to strengthen and revitalize the Southeast Michigan region, but to future generations of leaders and community activists as well.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Monday June 23, 2014 I was not present for 2 votes. I wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been present to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 339, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 340, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday June 17, 2014 I was not present for 2 votes. I wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been present to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 313, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 314, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, June 9, 2014 I was not present for 3 votes. I wish to submit my intentions had I been present to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 272, I would have voted ``yea''; had I been present for rollcall No. 273, I would have voted ``no''; had I been present for rollcall No. 274, I would have voted ``no.''

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a great citizen of the State of Michigan, Mr. Don Davis, a pioneer in music and business. Mr. Davis passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2014, at the age of 75. He is survived by his wife, Kiko, and his three children. A three-time Grammy winner, Don knew that he had a passion for music at an early age and once told the Detroit News, ``The music industry chose me. If there is a gene for music, I had one.'' Don began his music career as a session musician in the early sixties for Detroit based Motown Records. He played guitar on their hits, ``Money (That's What I Want)'' by Barrett Strong, a song that would later be covered by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Doors, and ``Bye Bye Baby'' by Mary Wells, reaching number 45 on the Billboard Charts. As a songwriter, Don experienced his first major hit in 1968 with Johnnie Taylor's ``Who's Making Love,'' which peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Charts. In 1976, he collaborated with Johnnie Taylor again, producing the song ``Disco Lady'', the first single to be certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Twenty years later, Don would expand beyond his outstanding music career to become the CEO and Chairman of the First Independence Bank, the only African-American owned bank in Michigan. First Independence Bank, which operates a number of Detroit branches, has been named by Black Enterprise Magazine as one of the top 15 African-American owned banks in the country. In 2012, coming out of the Great Recession, First Independence Bank was able to record the most profitable year in its history and increase its total assets to $185 million. As CEO, Don took his responsibility to his community seriously. In his 18 years as CEO, Don made it a priority to improve his community by focusing on its housing needs and providing excellent banking services to small business owners and families in Southeast Michigan. Over many years, Don grew First Independence Bank into a trusted financial institution with loyal customers. Don believed that First Independence Bank could provide quality services to communities and customers who were previously overlooked by other banks. He was successful in advancing this mission. Mr. Speaker, I will miss Don greatly and I know he will be missed by many in our community. I ask that you all join me in honoring his lifetime achievements and service. He will remain in our thoughts and his legacy will live on in Michigan and across our Nation.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Dr. Steve Bland Jr. on the occasion of his Tenth Anniversary as the Senior Pastor of the congregation of Liberty Temple Baptist Church in Detroit, MI. As the son of the late Reverend Steve Bland Sr., who was pastor to Bethesda Baptist Church, Dr. Bland grew up immersed in the teachings of Christ. It is hardly surprising that, like his father, Dr. Bland would heed the call and desire to serve his community. Dr. Bland entered the ministry full-time after working at a Kansas City accounting firm in the early 1980's. He is also the former Minister of Music, Youth Pastor and Assistant Pastor to the late Rev. Dr. Mac Charles Jones at the St. Stephen Baptist Church of Kansas City, MO. After faithfully serving for over 14 years in Rockford, Illinois as Pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church, Dr. Bland was called to serve the congregation at Liberty Temple Baptist Church. Under his leadership, the congregation at Liberty Temple has flourished with an increase of well over 900 members in a brief time. During his 10 years as Senior Pastor, Dr. Bland has brought a great sense of spiritual revitalization and excitement to Liberty Temple Baptist Church and the city of Detroit. Dr. Bland is a dynamic leader who offers a vibrant worship experience, inspirational teaching, and uplifting preaching, while meeting the holistic needs of the church, his family, and surrounding community. As a Miles Jones Fellow and doctoral graduate of the Samuel Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, Dr. Bland's intellect and achievements have been sought out leading to appointments on several boards and leadership positions in the BM&E State Convention, Central Baptist Theological Seminary, Michigan District Baptist Association, the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit & Vicinity, the Ministers Council of the Michigan Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. of Detroit, Michigan and the Progressive National Baptist Convention. In every way possible, Dr. Bland finds avenues through which he can further God's kingdom and genuinely pursues them. Dr. Bland's grand efforts have been strengthened by his wife, Phyllis, and his three children, Steven, Brandon, and Sydnie. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the profound impact that Reverend Dr. Steve Bland Jr. has made on the congregation of Liberty Temple Baptist Church as its pastor for the last ten years and the larger impact he has made on the communities around him. I wish Dr. Bland, his family, and the congregants of Liberty Temple many more blessed years of spiritual fellowship.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the brave men and women of the Michigan law enforcement community who were recently awarded the 2014 Police Officers of the Year award by the Police Officer Association of Michigan (POAM), which represents over 14,000 frontline officers across the state. As part of the 47th annual POAM convention that was held on May 22, 2014 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, five officers were recognized for recent heroic actions and dedication to their work. I would first like to honor Southfield Police Officer Nicholas Smiscik who, on New Year's Day 2013, bravely pursued an armed carjacker who shot and injured two people in Redford Township. Officer Smiscik subdued the dangerous suspect and placed him under arrest. During his acceptance speech at the POAM convention Officer Smiscik stated that he was simply ``doing his job.'' I want to thank him for his service and for risking his life to keep our communities safe. I am honored to have him as a constituent in my District. I would also like to recognize Crawford County Officers Matthew Swope and Michael Jacobi, who were honored as Police Officers of the Year for putting their lives on the line while apprehending a dangerous individual who was deemed a proven threat to the community. In addition, Grand Blanc Officers Andrea Carlson and Lindsay Witthuhn were honored with the 2014 Police Officers of the Year award for acting with great bravery and discipline when responding to a domestic disturbance and preventing a far more tragic outcome. Mr. Speaker, as a long-time friend, supporter and ally of the Michigan law enforcement community, I am proud to recognize the commitment of Michigan's police officers and the sacrifices they and their families make each and every day. Like Officer Smiscik, they will say they are just doing their job, but their dedication and bravery in the line of duty make our communities safe and enjoyable places to live. It is a great honor to represent these heroic men and women and I invite my colleagues in the House to join me in congratulating all five Michigan officers on receiving this award.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Jeanette M. Campbell for the remarkable impact she has made on the Greater Detroit community, which has earned her recognition from the Lambda Rho Zeta Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Early in her life, Dr. Campbell demonstrated dedication to succeed and make a difference in her community. From the beginning of her journey through the higher education system, Dr. Campbell recognized the value and power that comes with knowledge. After graduation from Tennessee State University with her Bachelor's Degree, Dr. Campbell went on to obtain a Medical Doctorate from Meharry Medical College and a Master's of Business Administration from Madonna University. She later went on to continue her studies at Children's Hospital of Michigan, Vanderbilt University and the Columbia University School of Medicine. In her professional career, Dr. Campbell currently serves as Vice President of Medical Associates, Inc., Associate Medical Staff at both Doctors' Hospital of Michigan and St. Joseph Mercy-Oakland and a member of the teaching faculty at St. Joseph Mercy-Oakland. She has served at St. Joseph Mercy-Oakland for more than thirty-five years and is the recipient of a service award in recognition of her diligent work on her patients' behalf. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Campbell serves on the Pediatric Advisory Committee for St. Joseph, as well as on the Pediatric Executive Committee of the National Medical Association. She also serves as Treasurer for the Pediatric Section of the National Medical Association and has been recognized by her peers with the Grace James Leadership Award in Pediatrics. Beyond her professional work, Dr. Campbell is active in the Greater Pontiac community--engaged in endeavors that are helping others to realize their dreams. As a mentor for the Upward Bound program at Oakland University, Dr. Campbell is helping students realize the value of higher education which is vital to their success. Dr. Campbell is an active lifetime member of the NAACP, a speaker for the Black College Fund and an active member of the St. John United Methodist Church in Pontiac. She has received numerous awards for her leadership in the community including: the Image Award in Medicine and Theophalious Northcross Award from the North Oakland Branch of the NAACP and the Community Service Award from the Negro Business and Professional Women's Club. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize a strong community leader, like Dr. Jeanette Campbell, for her dedication to her profession and to the Pontiac community. Her hard work and selflessness are an inspiration to all of us that seek to serve others I know her husband, Dr. Eugene Rogers, and their children and grandchildren must be so proud of Dr. Campbell for this great distinction and I wish Dr. Campbell well as she continues to make a difference in the Greater Detroit community.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an exemplary member of our community, Major Patricia Overton, for her dedicated service to our country and young people through her administration of the JROTC program. It is these outstanding qualities that have earned her recognition from the Lambda Rho Zeta Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Major Overton, a graduate of the University of Tennessee and Webster University, was on active duty from 1981 to 2001 as a U.S. Army Officer. She is a member of Lomax Temple AME Zion Church, Detroit Federation of Teachers, American Federation of Teachers and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She has received the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and the Distinctive Silver Instructor award. As an outstanding member of her community, Major Overton has benefited the JROTC program by serving as the Deputy Director for 17 high school JROTC programs and approximately 4,000 cadets. Her position includes coordinating formal inspections, developing standards for staff briefings, producing and editing summer camp newsletters, fostering relationships with TACOM/TARDEC for summer jobs for cadets, STEM tutoring for cadets and STEM instruction at JCLC. Major Overton also improves the lives of our youth by assisting cadets with college and scholarship applications. One of her greatest contributions has been to establish sponsored visits to West Point for her exceptional 2nd and 3rd year JROTC cadets who demonstrated interest in a military career, which has led an average of acceptance for two of her cadets to West Point each year. Major Overton has also established a National Forensic League-style forensics program for her LET IV cadets, providing them the opportunity to enhance their research, critical thinking, and public speaking skills, as well as their ability to be informed, engaged citizens of our society. Mr. Speaker, Major Overton has dedicated her life to serving our country through active service and management of the JROTC. From helping ensuring JROTC operates as effectively as possible to making college a reality for many teenagers, she is a role model to the community and the epitome of an excellent leader. She has immensely improved the lives of many people through her service. I am pleased to honor Major Patricia Overton for her continuing accomplishments and service to the community.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Reverend Douglas Jones of Welcome Missionary Baptist Church in Pontiac, Michigan, as the congregation and the broader community celebrate his Twenty-fifth Pastoral Anniversary. Throughout his tenure as the spiritual leader of the congregation at Welcome, Reverend Jones has approached his responsibilities with thoughtfulness and resolve for all of his congregation's members. From the very beginning of his tenure in 1989, Reverend Jones has focused on his congregation's future and in one of his first acts, took steps that allowed the church members to pay off Welcome's mortgage within his first three years. He also been keenly focused on the needs of Welcome's younger members and has established a number of ministries centered on catering to their needs. Furthermore, he has given special attention to members of his congregation facing moments of crisis in their lives--creating ministries that assist members with health and family emergencies. The results of Reverend Jones' dedication are witnessed in the spiritual prosperity of the congregation at Welcome, which has grown both in membership from several hundred to more than four thousand, and in the deepening connection of its members to their faith. In addition to the remarkable impact Reverend Jones has made at Welcome, he has engaged in endeavors that have affected the entire Pontiac community. As the founder of the Greater Pontiac Community Coalition, Reverend Jones brought together stakeholders from across the different sectors of Pontiac to make positive changes in their community. Additionally, Reverend Jones is active in many other community organizations in Pontiac and beyond, including Pontiac Youth Assistance and Pontiac's Committee of 50, a gathering of community decision-makers that drives philanthropic efforts within the city. Reverend Jones' work also includes the establishment of a scholarship fund to help youth realize their dreams of higher education and programs that support youth during their primary education. Because of Reverend Jones' leadership and endeavors at Welcome Missionary Baptist Church and within the Pontiac community, many residents have received support at critical moments in their lives and have seen the bonds within their neighborhoods strengthened. I know the congregation at Welcome must be proud of all Pastor Jones' accomplishments over his twenty-five year tenure as their spiritual leader. I am grateful for Reverend Jones' friendship and his leadership on many issues of importance to the Pontiac community and the Greater Detroit region. I wish Reverend Jones, First Lady JoAnn and their family continued happiness and success as they continue to serve their neighbors in Pontiac and the Greater Detroit community.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark a significant milestone in the history of Akiva Hebrew Day School in Southfield, Michigan--the school's 50th Anniversary of providing education to Greater Detroit's Jewish community. Founded in 1964, Akiva was created by a dedicated group of educators who sought to provide the Jewish community in Metropolitan Detroit with a school that provided its students with a comprehensive academic curriculum, while deepening their connection to their faith and heritage. Today, Akiva offers an outstanding academic program for children from nursery school through high school, while providing complementary curricula that foster a love for their Jewish heritage, the State of Israel, and a deep commitment to a way of life that values the lessons of the Torah. To support the ability of its students to achieve their maximum intellectual potential, Akiva provides them with a core academic curriculum that promotes the development of critical thinking and effective studying skills. Among the course offerings for students are an array of Advanced Placement level classes, as well as courses that support preparing them for higher education. As part of this commitment to its students' education, Akiva is constantly revising and fine-tuning its programming at all phases in its students' development. Under the leadership of Rabbi Tzvi Klugerman, Akiva has recently made changes to its kindergarten reading program to promote both bilingualism and improved phonics skills during the earliest stages of development. Additionally, Akiva has implemented the ROAR program in its elementary school, to reinforce positive learning strategies among its students early in their academic careers. In its middle school, Akiva is providing an enhanced math program, and, in its high school, Akiva has added more Advanced Placement courses. As a significant component of its curriculum, Akiva provides its students with a strong coursework of Judaic studies, which promotes the students' connection to their cultural heritage, faith, and the community--both locally and globally. Through a strong connection to their culture, Akiva students continue to take an active role in fostering the unique relationship between the United States and Israel, with many graduated students spending a year in Israel after high school. By practicing the tenants of their faith, Akiva students have supported a number of local non-profit organizations, like the Yad Ezra food pantry, the Friendship Circle and Yachad, which assist those who are experiencing moments of challenge in their lives. Mr. Speaker, again, it is my pleasure to rise and recognize the outstanding leaders, educators and students of Akiva Hebrew Day School as they celebrate the 50th Anniversary of this great educational institution. Akiva programs are providing its students with a broad array of experiences both inside and outside the classroom which are preparing them to be future leaders, as well as supporting the special connection between the United States and Israel. It has been my pleasure to be partner with Akiva and to interact with its students. I look forward to the incredible impact that Akiva will continue to make as its faculty and staff guide future generations in their development.

Mr. PETERS of Michigan

Mr. PETERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an exemplary member of our community, Mrs. Donna Quince-Cobb, for her abundant service to the community and her outstanding achievements as recognized by the Lambda Rho Zeta Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. during its 31st Finer Womanhood Scholarship Luncheon. Mrs. Quince-Cobb has an incredible passion for serving others, which is evident in her daily life. Forty years ago, her career began as a secretary to seven insurance agents, while simultaneously attending college. She diligently pursued her interest in sales and shortly after, acquired her own agency in 1982. Mrs. Quince-Cobb finds special joy in supporting children and the elderly. She is currently involved in a variety of community organizations, which also allows her to positively impact many lives. She is a charter member of the Noon Optimist Club of Auburn Hills and the North Oakland County Women's Council of Realtors. Concurrently, she dedicates her time to the spiritual needs of others through her volunteer service with the Senior Usher Board, the Deaconess Ministry, Pastor's Care, and Travel Ministries of Welcome Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Quince-Cobb also extends her support to many women's shelters and other organizations, which support less fortunate children, such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Children's Village. She has actively served on the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club of Auburn Hills and served as a judge for an oratorical contest for college scholarships. Throughout her life, she has thoughtfully provided opportunities to many high school students through Co-Op and summer jobs. She has also helped shape the careers of many adult women in her agency by encouraging them to pursue a career in the insurance industry and other professional endeavors. She is proud to be the longest serving member of the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce and received an award for her commitment to the Auburn Hills community. Additionally, she was recognized by the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. as Business Woman of the Year in 2007 and by the NANBPW Clubs as the first black female business owner in the Pontiac area. Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Quince-Cobb has devoted her life to helping others in need. From serving others as an aspiring career-woman in her early days to being a distinguished businesswoman and leader in her community today, she is a role model to the community and the epitome of an excellent leader. She has changed and impacted the lives of many people through her service. I am pleased to honor Mrs. Quince-Cobb as the Lambda Rho Zeta Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority recognizes her as one of its 2014 31st Finer Womanhood Scholarship Honorees.