Elissa Slotkin

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I honor and celebrate the 100th anniversary of Lansing Church of God in Christ, a cherished institution that has provided spiritual guidance to mid-Michigan and beyond for the past century. Since its founding on August 6, 1924, by Elder Richard Wilson, this church has been a beacon of faith, service, and unity in Lansing, Michigan, making a profound impact on its congregation and the broader community. Lansing Church of God in Christ held its first official Bible study in 1924 in a small edifice on Williams Street. As its membership grew, so did the need for a larger facility. In 1926, the church relocated to Birch Street, where it became known as the ``Birch Street Church of God in Christ.'' There, Elder Wilson, with the help of Elder Perry Robinson, Sister Dunkin, and Missionary Carrie Williams, laid a strong foundation for the church's growth. In the early 1970s, the church moved to its current location on Wise Road, where it has continued to serve the city ever since. Over the years, Lansing Church of God in Christ has remained steadfast in its mission to enlighten and uplift the community. Through its many programs and partnerships with local nonprofit organizations, the church has offered spiritual support while addressing the practical needs of Lansing residents. The church's food pantry, computer learning lab, and youth mentoring programs exemplify its dedication to supporting individuals and families. Additionally, through its service groups, grief ministry, men's and women's ministries, and 412 Youth Ministry, the church helps members find freedom, purpose, and the ability to make a positive impact in Michigan and beyond. Under the leadership of Bishop Samuel Duncan, Jr., who has served as pastor since 1992, the church continues to be a place of hope, healing, and inspiration. Alongside his wife, Evangelist Dorothy Duncan; their son, co-pastor Samuel ``Cisco'' Duncan IV; and daughter-in-law, Evangelist Benita Duncan; the Duncan family's dedication to the church and its members is a testament to their deep roots in Lansing and commitment to serving the needs of their community. Lansing Church of God in Christ is more than a place; it is a fellowship of people devoted to living out their faith and strengthening relationships. The church's vision of empowering and developing individuals has been realized through generations of leaders and worshipers who have passed through its doors. With its strong focus on youth programming, the church has demonstrated its commitment to raising the next generation of compassionate, visionary leaders. As we celebrate the church's 100th anniversary, it is with great appreciation that I recognize Lansing Church of God in Christ's century of service and guidance. May it continue to inspire and uplift for many more years to come.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I honor and celebrate the 100th anniversary of General Motors' Milford Proving Ground, a site that has been a cornerstone of progress in the automotive industry. Located in Oakland County, Michigan, Milford Proving Ground has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation since its opening on September 25, 1924, and stands as the oldest dedicated vehicle testing facility in the world. For the past century, Milford Proving Ground has been at the forefront of technological breakthroughs that have transformed the way we travel and stay safe on the road. The facility has a rich history of safety testing, including conducting the first vehicle rollover tests in 1934 and developing guardrails to reduce accidents and injuries. General Motors engineers pioneered the creation of crash test dummies. The site was also instrumental in introducing key safety features such as airbags, child car seats, and anti-lock brakes--improvements that have saved countless lives and set global standards for vehicle safety. Throughout its 100 years, Milford Proving Ground has led the way in automotive progress and reliability. During World War II, the facility was an integral part of America's Arsenal of Democracy, supporting the war effort by testing tanks and other military vehicles to ensure they could withstand the harsh challenges of combat. In response to evolving standards and environmental concerns, engineers tested the first engine to run on unleaded fuel and made significant strides in increasing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. As we reflect on its remarkable history, we must also look to the Milford Proving Ground's future as a hub of groundbreaking innovation. The site, which now covers over 4,000 acres with over 150 miles of test courses, continues to drive leading-edge advancements. It is here that the next generation of electric vehicles is being put through its paces, along with vehicles designed for space exploration, such as the Lunar Mobility Vehicle for NASA's Artemis mission. It's also important to recognize not only the Milford Proving Ground's technological milestones but also the people who made these accomplishments possible. From past pioneers to the more than 4,200 employees who work there today, each has played a vital role. Test drivers and engineers have pushed vehicles to their limits, while environmental specialists have helped preserve the site's natural beauty and wildlife, making General Motors a world leader in automotive testing and development. It is with deep appreciation that I recognize its century of service and contributions to the automotive industry here in the official record of the United States House of Representatives. May General Motors' Milford Proving Ground continue to exemplify American ingenuity and serve as a beacon of innovation for many more years to come.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today it is my privilege to honor and celebrate the Lansing Association of Women's Clubs. As the association prepares to merge with the Eastside Community Action Center, I want to reflect on its incredible impact and decades-long service to the Lansing community. Since its founding in 1945. this historic organization, originally known as the Lansing Association of Colored Women's Clubs. has served as a pillar of social, cultural, and economic empowerment, particularly for Black women in Lansing. Founded through the efforts of Dr. Rose T. Brunson, Mrs. Gertrude Lee, and Mrs. Ina B. Majors, the Lansing Association of Women's Clubs began with a vision to address the needs of local residents. Their determination led them to secure initial funding, which enabled the group to open their original clubhouse. The organization later moved to its present location in 1969, which has since been recognized as a historic site by the Michigan Historical Commission. The association's legacy is intertwined with the very fabric of Lansing, and its impact can be felt across generations. From its early work establishing a nursery to its many decades of providing a clubhouse where Black organizations could meet and host activities, the Lansing Association of Women's Clubs has been instrumental in advancing opportunities for the Black community. In response to recent fundraising efforts, the organization will merge this year with the Eastside Community Action Center. This merger will allow the association to continue its programming and contribute to broader initiatives that include youth activities, housing programs, and financial literacy education--initiatives that will carry forward the spirit of the Lansing Association of Women's Clubs. This upcoming transition marks the end of an era for the Lansing Association of Women's Clubs, but it is also an opportunity to celebrate the organization for striving to form necessary partnerships in its efforts to continue fulfilling its purpose. The clubhouse, a place of significance for the Black community, will continue to serve as a space where important work will take place. Though the name of the organization may no longer stand alone, the values and commitment of the women who built it will continue to inspire new efforts to improve the lives of others. As we reflect on the association's remarkable history, let us celebrate the generations of women who fostered peace, harmony, and higher standards of living for Lansing residents. It is with deep appreciation that I recognize the Lansing Association of Women's Clubs and its incredible legacy here in the official record of the United States House of Representatives. May its mission continue to guide and uplift the community for years to come.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to answer a question that I was asked actually on the plane ride here yesterday from Michigan. I was sitting next to a woman. She recognized me. She was from a different political affiliation. She said: It just looks like such a mess in Washington. Is anything getting done? I will highlight some of the things that we actually did get done this week, just in the past week, because of bipartisan cooperation. It doesn't make headlines, it is not sexy, but I think it is important to understand that the country wants us to work together, and when we do, we pass things that are important. This week, we passed important bipartisan priorities and legislation. We worked hard to get them across the finish line. Here is an example. We passed the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism Pilot Program Act. It is a lot of words, but it is a bipartisan bill I introduced in December of 2023. It is basically TSA PreCheck for freight coming across our borders. This bill will cut a lot of red tape for companies transporting goods across our borders. In Michigan, we are a northern border State. It will help keep our country safe by creating this pilot program that allows us to move more freight and allow freight and warehouse companies to participate in Customs and Border Protection's CTPAT program. It is a public-private partnership that basically allows you to get preclearance to move freight and store freight that has been precleared. I introduced this bill because Michigan is a border State. Every single day we have 40,000 commuters, tourists, and truck drivers coming across our border. Mr. Speaker, $323 million worth of goods every single day is coming across our borders, one of the busiest land borders in the country. I introduced this bill specifically because of freight companies and businesses like Frontline Logistics, which is a small, 15-person business in Brighton, Michigan. They reached out and they said: Hey, we want to expand this TSA PreCheck program so we can grow our business and other small businesses can grow. The bill will become law because it was bipartisan, and I am grateful to the group of bipartisan Members in the House who sponsored this bill and helped get it passed not just in the House but in the Senate, and it is on its way to be signed at the White House. Here is another example from yesterday. There was not a lot of press on this. We passed the IMPACTT Human Trafficking Act, which is designed to give survivors of human trafficking and law enforcement officers who fight this crime the tools and the resources they need. Michigan is number eight in the country for human trafficking. Again, our border plays a role in this. It is an issue that is close to many people's hearts. We have had young women, in particular, taken from their homes and moved across State lines. Again, this bill will become law because it was bipartisan, and I was proud to introduce it with Representative Joyce as well as Representatives Wagner and Titus. That bipartisan support got it over the finish line in the House and in the Senate. Similarly, just yesterday, the House passed the Senate version of the Building Chips in America Act, a bipartisan bill that Congresswoman Kiggans introduced here in the House and on which I am a proud cosponsor. It will streamline the process so that we can build more microchips in the United States, manufacture more microchips in the United States. We invented those microchips. We make zero percent of the microchips that go in cars. That is a problem. We were able to pass this yesterday because it was bipartisan, and it passed unanimously in the Senate. These bills are evidence that we do not need to be at each other's throats. In fact, being at each other's throats is principally against the mission of what it means to be a Representative. It means you are not getting work done. It means you are doing things for political posturing. It means that you care more about making a statement that makes the news or goes viral on Twitter than you do about actually moving the ball down the field for your constituents. I hope that when Congress returns in November and when a new Congress is sworn in next year, we can learn that basic lesson. We do our best work when we work together, even when it is hard. We could do things that support the Commerce Department. Yesterday, they put in a big countermeasure to make sure that Chinese-connected vehicles aren't moving around in the United States. Congress should pass legislation that strengthens that. We could pass the farm bill, which should be bipartisan, a big piece of legislation every 5 years. The National Defense Authorization Act, funding our military, funding our military salaries, big appropriations bills that go to the essential function of government, all of that is work on our plate after the election. I sincerely hope that we are able to act like adults and do the things that most people want us to do, which is get in a room, hash things out, hammer it out, compromise, and move the ball forward for the American people. I urge my colleagues to remember this. It is much easier to get things done when we work together.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I honor and celebrate the 170th anniversary of the Ingham County Fair, a staple of the community and an annual celebration of the best Michigan has to offer. The Ingham County Agricultural Society held the first Ingham County Fair in 1855 in Mason. It began as a ``free street fair'' held at the Court House Square and since then has had several different homes. In fact, the fair was so popular in its first year that the following year, the Agricultural Society purchased a four-acre plot of land in Vevay Township to host the annual event. The fair stayed there until 1871, when it once again needed to find a larger venue and was moved to a plot of land on the corner of Jefferson Street and Kipp Road. Finally, in 1930, the Ingham County Road Commission purchased the land off Ash Street in Mason, which remains the fairgrounds' home today. Each year, the Ingham County Fair hosts a wide variety of activities that cater to a diverse range of interests. While some people may attend for the carnival rides, others spend all year preparing for the shows and competitions the fair hosts. For example, it partners with the Ingham County Junior Livestock Association to provide kids and young adults the opportunity to showcase their projects in areas of science, health, and agriculture. The fair also hosts animal auctions that give young people experience showing and selling livestock--skills that are becoming harder and harder to foster in an online world. Educational opportunities such as these are essential to our communities and are just one of the many reasons why the Ingham County Fair is so special. In 2009, the Ingham County Fair Foundation was established to support and enhance the fairgrounds to serve agricultural, business, cultural, educational, recreational, urban and youth interests of Ingham County. Most recently, the Fair Foundation has focused on raising funds to build a new grandstand, which hosts widely-attended events including demolition derbies, truck and tractor pulls and mud drag racing. The first grandstand was constructed in 1939, providing covered seating for all events on the fairgrounds. Unfortunately, it was torn down in 2015 due to structural issues and since then, the Fairgrounds has rented portable seating solutions that do not meet the demand. To put it simply: the grandstand is the pulse of events at the fairgrounds, and this is why community members have come together to build a new one. I was happy to assist in that mission by securing $2.5 million in Community Project Funding and I cannot wait to see the many ways it will serve as a place for folks across the state to come together to enjoy all that the Fairgrounds have to offer. It is with great pride that I honor the Ingham County Fair's 170 years of providing enjoyment, education, and community. May the Fair continue to serve as a highlight of the summer for many more years to come.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Uptown Coffeehouse and its remarkable owner, Lorna Brennan. After more than 20 years of serving the best cup of coffee in town, Uptown Coffeehouse closed its doors on June 30, 2024. Since it first opened in Howell, Michigan, in 2002, Lorna and her team of baristas created a cherished meeting spot, warmly welcoming all who entered. Located at the bustling corner of Grand River and Michigan Avenues in a beautiful late 19th-century historic building, Uptown Coffeehouse was truly at the heart of downtown Howell. Through grit and determination, Lorna restored the building to its former splendor, including a historic renovation of the facade in 2019. Lorna's vision transformed this building into a vibrant coffee house, meeting place, and art gallery. For more than two decades, Uptown Coffeehouse was a second home for Lorna and a treasured fixture in the community. Lorna's son, who was a preschooler when the business opened, grew up within its walls, celebrating milestones and accomplishments along the way. In addition to coffee and baked goods, Uptown Coffeehouse offered a sense of belonging and outstanding service to customers. Its expansive front windows provided a picturesque view of the city and changing seasons. With local art displayed for patrons to enjoy, the venue became a vibrant cultural hub as it hosted open mic nights, spoken word events, and other entertainment through the years. The community's love for Uptown Coffeehouse was evident through numerous local awards, including the People's Choice Award for the Best Howell Coffee Shop in 2019. It was a special place, providing customers with memories to last a lifetime. It was often the first place new residents visited downtown and were welcomed to Howell. Uptown is where friendships were formed and regulars found a haven for their morning routines and work sessions. It was a place where first dates happened and marriage proposals were made. Despite challenges, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lorna and the staff at Uptown Coffeehouse always remained optimistic and focused on helping others. Their kindness and generosity knew no bounds as they supported school groups, local charities, and donated coffee gift cards to hospital staff during the pandemic. As we bid farewell to Uptown Coffeehouse, let us recognize Lorna Brennan and her beloved establishment that was a second home not only for her, but for the entire Howell community. It is with profound gratitude that I honor the legacy of Uptown Coffeehouse and Lorna Brennan.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I honor and celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Michigan Municipal League, an organization dedicated to making communities better through innovation, connection, and service. Since its founding in 1899, the League has played a crucial role in enhancing municipal governance and fostering community development across Michigan. Originally known as the League of Michigan Municipalities, the League found a permanent home in Ann Arbor in 1928 and established an additional office in Lansing in 1957. Initially focused on promoting home rule for cities and villages, it has evolved to address a wide range of municipal concerns, from legislative advocacy to comprehensive service offerings. Today, the League represents over 500 full-service cities, villages, and townships. It has worked tirelessly to educate and inspire public servants to build trust and create a sense of belonging among residents and local leaders to build opportunity and address social and economic needs. The League's motto is ``Cooperation solves any problem,'' a principle the organization has demonstrated for over a century by bringing together officials to learn from one another. Through its advocacy efforts and commitment to cooperation and mutual support, the League has highlighted the transformative power of public service in local governments. Throughout its history, the Michigan Municipal League has been instrumental in numerous significant initiatives. The League played a vital role in the construction of the Mackinac Bridge in the 1950s, a landmark project that connected Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Its advocacy was pivotal in the expansion of the Dial-A-Ride Transportation system in 1975, which greatly benefited seniors and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the League championed the Complete Streets Act in Michigan, which was signed in 2010 and promotes mobility and safety for all users, including pedestrians, public transportation users, older individuals, and children. In 2009, the League, alongside the Detroit Regional Chamber and Transportation Riders United, formed a coalition to embrace public transit as a powerful economic development tool and resource for residents. This initiative underscored the League's belief in collaborative efforts and the power of community-focused policies that has been a tenet of its mission since its earliest days. This 125th anniversary is a perfect time to recognize the Michigan Municipal League for its dedication to improving local governance and fostering vibrant, equitable communities. It is with great respect that I honor the League's 125 years of service and its ongoing contributions to Michigan's cities, villages, and townships. May the Michigan Municipal League continue to inspire and lead for many more years to come.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I celebrate the remarkable life and upcoming 100th birthday of George Howard, an African American World War II veteran and an esteemed resident of Lansing, Michigan. Born in Birmingham, Alabama on February 22, 1925, Mr. Howard has led a life of service, resilience, and love for his fellow man. His story is one of transformation, from facing adversity and discrimination to building meaningful and trusting relationships across racial lines. Mr. Howard's service to our nation began when he was drafted into the U.S. Army Air Forces in 1943. During World War II, he served in an all- Black unit and was responsible for handling and organizing munitions, a duty that often placed him under enemy fire. His bravery was demonstrated in key campaigns, including in Naples and the Rome-Arno operations in Italy, and his attachment to the 12th and 15th Air Forces and the Mediterranean Allied Air Force. Mr. Howard's service earned him multiple decorations, including the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with Bronze Star, the Good Conduct Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal. The experiences Mr. Howard had during the war affected his outlook on life. While serving in Italy and Switzerland, he encountered a level of respect and equality from Europeans that was often denied to him in the segregated American South. These experiences fueled his desire to promote equality and understanding among all people, a mission he has carried with him throughout his life. Upon returning to the United States, Mr. Howard once again faced the harsh realities of a segregated society. Though he had served with honor and integrity, he and other African American veterans were excluded from celebrations. Despite the lack of recognition and disrespectful treatment, he remained focused on the values he fought for during the war. He expressed deep gratitude for President Truman's decision to desegregate the U.S. Armed Forces in 1948, a significant step towards equality. After his military service, Mr. Howard moved to Brooklyn, New York, and eventually settled in Michigan, where he built a career as a physical therapy technician at Ingham Medical Center in Lansing. His professional dedication was matched by his passion for jazz music. A proud father of three, he and his saxophone were often exiled by his children to a friend's basement to practice in the early days of developing his talent. Eventually, he was not only performing locally but also traveling across the country to study and listen to other jazz artists. At the age of 92, he realized a lifelong dream by recording his first CD, ``George Howard and My Jazz Brothers,'' thanks to the support of his friends. Mr. Howard's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the strength found in service to one's country. To this day, he strongly believes in the fundamental principle that all men are created equal and has spent his life fostering understanding and respect among different cultures. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that people learn about the significant contributions of Black soldiers who have served our country, from the Revolutionary War to World War II to today. It is with great respect and admiration that I recognize George Howard's extraordinary contributions and wish him a joyous celebration of his 100th birthday in the United States House of Representatives.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, the annual National Defense Authorization Act is the Pentagon's budget. It is perhaps one of the most important tasks we fulfill here in Congress, protecting our national security and taking care of servicemembers, their families, and their housing. It has been one of the few places where we have bipartisan agreement despite what you see on TV. This year, the House Armed Services Committee again did their job and, on a bipartisan basis, passed the National Defense Authorization Act out of committee 57-1. That includes a bunch of investments for the quality of life of our military members and military families. The bill was good to go when it left committee. Unfortunately, once it left committee, it was transformed into a document that my colleagues have turned into a culture war document. Most disappointing is, despite my colleagues saying that they were good with overturning Roe v. Wade but then will leave it to the States to decide what to do beyond that, we are once again watching them try to strip away a basic right to provide reproductive healthcare to women in uniform. It is dividing us at a time when we should be coming together on national security challenges. It says specifically that uniformed women do not have the right to get some time off to leave the State to get an abortion if they need it. If you are forced to be based in Texas and get pregnant and don't want to be pregnant, they are trying to repeal that woman's right to take time off to travel to another State to get an abortion. They also are trying to repeal the right for a servicewoman to take time off to help her daughter get an abortion in another State, not even a woman in uniform. I am deeply disappointed in my colleagues' constant attempts to repeal a woman's right to choose. Again, in public they may say that they were good with Roe, that they are thrilled that Roe was overturned but now are leaving it alone. In this Congress alone, in the past year and a half, we have voted 15 times to strip a woman of the right to choose in some form or fashion. Sometimes it is the right to travel. Sometimes it is the right to medication. Sometimes it is the right to understand if a healthcare center is actually able to perform an abortion or not. It is misinformation. It is disinformation. I am deeply disappointed that we are again in this place where my colleagues won't stop attacking a woman's right to choose, now including the rights of a woman in uniform, someone who is putting her life on the line to serve her country. We have seen a ton of other divisive amendments come into the NDAA, something that should never be a place where we do culture wars. I am also very disappointed in the refusal of a very bipartisan amendment to be brought to the floor preserving our National Guard's tactical air capability that underwrites our national defense. We asked, on a bipartisan basis, that the Pentagon show us their plan to recapitalize their aircraft as they bring down the number of planes that they have in the U.S. Air Force. We asked what their plan was. If my colleagues are worried about conflicts with China, worried about issues abroad, for every two planes we are retiring, we are creating and initiating only one new plane to replace them. Places like Selfridge Air National Guard Base, which are home to important fighter aircraft, don't know what the plan is after the A-10s depart. We had a bipartisan agreement that would ask the Pentagon to tell us what their plan is. We would like to know what fighters are coming behind that. Unfortunately, it was ruled out of order, and we weren't able to talk about it. Despite having 30 bipartisan cosponsors and a tremendous show of support from the Air National Guard, this will not receive a vote on the floor. As a CIA officer and Pentagon official and someone who has spent my entire life looking at national security issues not through a political lens but through a national security lens exclusively, it is hard to watch my colleagues across aisle turn the Pentagon budget into a culture war buffet. Particularly on the issue of choice, as we have the Supreme Court in real time making decisions about a woman's right to choose, do not believe my colleagues when they say that they now are done pursuing a woman's right to choose. Look at what they do, not what they say.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Lansing Woman's Club, an organization of incredible women dedicated to personal growth, knowledge, and the betterment of their community. Founded in 1874, the Club has played an instrumental role in promoting lifelong learning and cultural enrichment, thus lifting the skylines of its members, the city of Lansing, and beyond. The Lansing Woman's Club began with 25 pioneering women who shared a deep commitment to intellectual improvement. Their dedication is encapsulated in the Club's founding purpose: the study and improvement of its members in literature, science, and the fine arts. More than a century later, the Club proudly carries on its mission as members meet each week to learn from one another through the sharing of individually written research papers. Throughout its history, the Club has been a beacon of progress and inclusivity, committed to welcoming open-minded and determined women to mirror the diverse community it serves. Members have come from various walks of life and professional backgrounds, including doctors, academics, civil servants, and members of the clergy, and have established and supported cultural organizations, hospitals, and educational institutions. To this day, members not only contribute their time and volunteer efforts, but also foster community engagement, provide aid to refugees and supply food and clothing to those in need. Over the years, the Lansing Woman's Club has hosted many distinguished guests to share their passion and expertise with members, including Frank Lloyd Wright Creativity Award-winning architect Alden B. Bow, three-time Pulitzer Prize winner Carl Sandburg, and acclaimed author Madeleine L'Engle. Even in the face of adversity, including a devastating fire in 1996 that severely damaged the group's clubhouse, the resilience of its members has ensured the Club's enduring presence. Inspired by one of the Club's earliest members, Irma T. Jones, these women continue to demonstrate that our futures are limited only by the boundaries we set for ourselves. As we commemorate this significant milestone, let us recognize the Lansing Woman's Club for its unwavering commitment to education, culture, and service to the community. It is with profound respect and gratitude that I honor the Club's 150th anniversary and recognize its members' contributions. May the Lansing Woman's Club continue to inspire and lead for many more generations to come.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Claudius Britton II and his son, Claudius Britton III, both of whom demonstrated exceptional bravery and patriotism in their service to our nation during its founding years. Claudius II served during the American Revolutionary War, and Claudius III during the War of 1812. This Memorial Day Weekend, the Huron Valley Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Michigan Society of the War of 1812 will commemorate their contributions with a plaque dedication ceremony at Pinckney Cemetery, honoring them as the only Revolutionary War and War of 1812 veterans buried there. Claudius Britton II was born in 1761 in Connecticut and relocated to Weybridge, Vermont, with his family in 1773. In 1777, at just 16 years old, he enlisted as a scout for the Vermont Green Mountain Continental Rangers during the Revolutionary War. His knowledge of the Lake Champlain area made him an invaluable asset, though his service placed him in constant danger. In 1778, both Claudius II and his father were captured by the British and spent nearly five years as prisoners in Quebec, making multiple escape attempts before eventually being released as part of a prisoner exchange in 1783. Despite these hardships, he returned to Vermont, married, and had children, including his son, Claudius Britton III, in 1798. Though the specifics of the younger Claudius Britton's service are lost in time, we do know that he followed admirably in his father's footsteps by volunteering to serve in the Vermont militia during the War of 1812, at the age of 16. Claudius III moved to Michigan with his father and his brother, Roswell, in 1824. He purchased land in what is now Pittsfield Township and built a homestead with his father. After marrying his wife, Sarah, in 1832, Claudius III continued to cultivate his land and started a family. In 1835, Claudius Britton II petitioned to obtain a Revolutionary War pension. Unfortunately, his petition was denied on the grounds that he did not serve a full six months because most of his time was as a prisoner of war, which sadly did not count as service back then. In 1836, Claudius III, his wife, and his father relocated to a large farm in Putnam Township, Livingston County, in what is now Pinckney. Father and son lived in Pinckney for the rest of their lives, passing away one year apart, Claudius II in 1850 and Claudius III 1851. The Britton family's legacy of service, from Claudius II's daring scouting missions during the Revolutionary War to Claudius III's defense of our young nation during the War of 1812, exemplifies the courage and dedication of early American patriots. As we reflect on their sacrifices in the founding and defense of our country, let us commit to preserving the memory of all who have fought for our freedoms and to honoring their enduring impact on our country. With profound gratitude, I ask that we honor the exemplary service of Claudius Britton II and his son, Claudius Britton III in the United States House of Representatives

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition and its visionary founder and president, Julia Godby-Murray, RN. Since its inception in 2011, the Coalition has emerged as a pillar of compassion, dedicated to honoring the memory of nurses who have passed away and providing solace to grieving families in Michigan and across the country. The organization takes its inspiration from the military honor guards that pay respects at funerals for military members and veterans, police officers or firefighters. In traditional white nursing uniforms with blue and red capes, they attend funerals of their nursing colleagues, pay homage and offer comfort to families in their time of deepest sorrow. Julia, a native of East Lansing, Michigan, who now lives in nearby Dimondale, was inspired by groups in Kansas and the Detroit area that attended the funerals of nurses, and saw the need to bring the idea to the entire country. Under her leadership, the Coalition has flourished, growing to over 250 groups nationwide. With each ceremony, they reaffirm a profession defined by kindness and empathy, and acknowledge those who have devoted their lives to caring for others. These ceremonies also serve as a restorative experience for the members of Nurses Honor Guard themselves. In the face of the immense challenges and demands of their profession, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic when nurses risked then lives to continue caring for their patients, these services remind nurses and their communities of their courage and determination. As we reflect on the profound impact of the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition, let us commit to honoring the memory of fallen nurses, supporting grieving families, and protecting the pride and dignity of the nursing profession. With abiding gratitude, it is my honor to recognize Ms. Godby-Murray's leadership and the exemplary service of the Coalition and its members here in the United States House of Representatives.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to the extraordinary contributions of Dr. Teresa Woodruff--a pioneering scientist and esteemed academic leader. Throughout her career, Dr. Woodruff has earned recognition for groundbreaking research in the fields of ovarian biology and reproductive science. She has also provided compassionate leadership during a tumultuous period at Michigan State University when the campus needed her most. From her days as a graduate student at Northwestern University to her tenure as Provost and interim President at Michigan State University, Dr. Woodruff has dedicated herself to bettering the lives of others through her medical research and leadership. Her trailblazing work in the field of oncofertility, a term she coined in 2006 merging the fields of oncology and fertility, has revolutionized cancer care. She has led efforts to improve reproductive care and to address the complex reproductive health needs and quality- of-life issues of cancer survivors whose fertility may be threatened by their disease or its treatment. Dr. Woodruff has been a passionate advocate for women in STEM, dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and gender equity. Among her many initiatives to address the attrition of women from scientific careers and promote sex inclusion in biomedical research, she created the Women's Health Science Program for High School Girls & Beyond to provide science education programs to high school female students in Chicago Public Schools. Her commitment to mentorship and equity and her many contributions to science have earned her numerous awards and honors. She is an elected fellow of the National Academy of Medicine, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and other prestigious organizations. In 2011, Dr. Woodruff was awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Mentoring by President Barack Obama. More recently in 2021, she was the recipient of the Endocrine Society's Laureate Award for her achievements in endocrinology. In August 2020, Dr. Woodruff joined Michigan State University as Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, and was named interim President of the university in November 2022. During her time leading this global research institution, she demonstrated her steadfast commitment to the students and faculty under her care. She showed exceptional leadership and resilience in the face of adversity, guiding the university through challenging times including a tragic mass shooting incident on campus that took the lives of three students and injured five others on February 13, 2023. In the wake of the shooting that shook the community, Dr. Woodruff stressed the importance of supporting and caring for the families and students affected by the shooting. She provided a steadying presence and a listening ear to students. She partnered with students, faculty, staff, and community members in recognizing the anniversary of the incident and in the planning of a permanent memorial that will serve as a space for reflection, honoring, and remembering. As Dr. Woodruff transitions to her role as MSU Foundation Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, and the Department of Biomedical Engineering to resume her research, I have no doubt that she will continue to support and empower students in the Spartan community and beyond. It is with profound gratitude that I honor Dr. Woodruff's incredible leadership and achievements.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to do what I hope is part of the responsibility of a Member of Congress, which is to flag and alert for future threats that are just around the corner. For me, that threat is the potential for thousands of Chinese electric vehicles and connected vehicles coming into the U.S. marketplace. I am a former CIA officer and a Pentagon official, and I want to flag that the prospect of thousands of Chinese-made connected vehicles coming into the country would give them a huge amount of data, high- fidelity data on things like U.S. military bases, key infrastructure facilities, like bridges and electric grid nodes, secretive locations, individual leaders even, all while China refuses to give reciprocity on that same exact data for American companies operating in China. They know exactly how sensitive the data is that can be collected off of electric and connected vehicles. Here is the story if you think this is fantasy: In 2021, for the first time, a Chinese-connected vehicle was sold in the European Union; not that long ago, post-COVID. Already, they have nearly 25 percent of the market share in the European Union. These vehicles are much nicer than they used to be. They are underselling every single vehicle on the market there because they are subsidized by the Chinese Government. I had the opportunity to raise this issue as a national security threat with the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Army in the past couple of weeks. I wanted to ask them specifically if they think, in their national security capacity, that mapping, radar, cameras, light detection, and Bluetooth-connected software would be a threat on our facilities here and having those kinds of volumes of data. The Secretary of Defense could not have made it more clear that this would give a potential adversary extremely detailed information for targeting, for counteracting some of our infrastructure, for going after even individual leaders. Now, we are an open-market society. What is happening right now is these Chinese companies are getting very interested in opening facilities in Mexico and using the USMCA, or what people commonly refer to as NAFTA, to just easily come over our border. We don't have a process in place right now to vet with a national security lens these imports that are coming in, and I have a real problem with that. I think we need to get better at understanding that the future of threats is not necessarily just tanks and fixed-wing airplanes and all those traditional things. It is data and who controls it. For me, this is an issue that I want to alert not just because I am a Michigander, and, of course, we make American vehicles in Michigan, but as a national security professional.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I celebrate a remarkable milestone-- the 100th anniversary of the Howell Rotary Club--a century of selfless dedication to serving others. Since its founding in 1924, the Howell Rotary Club has been a pillar of the community in Howell, the surrounding communities in Livingston County and across the state of Michigan. Throughout its history, the Howell Rotary Club has truly embodied the Rotary's motto of ``Service Above Self,'' with its members playing a pivotal role in shaping the moral fabric of its community, fostering goodwill, peace, and understanding. This vision is clear in the many Rotary Clubs that Howell Rotary has helped start throughout Livingston County, from Brighton Rotary in 1936 to M-36 Rotary in 2020. Howell Rotary's legacy of community involvement is extensive. In 1946, the Club provided the funding for the Howell High School football field, making it the first lighted football field in the state of Michigan. The Club's commitment to supporting youth through education and forming international friendships is exemplified by the Club's foreign exchange student program. In 1951, Howell Rotary hosted the first foreign exchange student in Livingston County. Since then, Howell Rotary has sponsored these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for both inbound and outbound students to learn about different cultures and build international understanding. Since 1978, Howell Rotary Club has awarded scholarships to Howell High School graduates who demonstrate their passion for learning and community service to continue their educational journeys. In 2001, Rotarians established the Howell High School Interact Club, which helps students develop leadership skills and connect with their peers and community through acts of service. Howell Rotary Club has demonstrated its dedication to improving the lives of others through charitable endeavors like the OLHSA Walk for Warmth, completing Habitat for Humanity home building projects, and raising over $350,000 over a 13-year period for Livingston County United Way. For 100 years, the Howell Rotary Club has lifted up its community through its enduring commitment to service, integrity, and leadership. From its original 17 founding members to its hundreds since, it is my honor to celebrate Howell Rotary Club's 100th anniversary and recognize its members' contributions.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, with a heavy heart I pay tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Alfreda Schmidt--a beloved Lansing icon, community advocate, and dedicated public servant who touched the lives of countless people throughout her 97 years on this earth. Alfreda was loved and respected for her commitment to service, compassion for others, and tireless advocacy. She was known affectionately as ``The Lady with the Hat,'' for her collection of over 100 hats, and was rarely seen without one. Just as she believed that each hat had a purpose, she believed her purpose was to help others. Born in 1926 in Dansville, Michigan, she grew up on her family farm and would go on to attend the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Central Michigan University. In 1951, she married her late husband, Frank Schmidt, at St. Mary Cathedral in Lansing, and together they raised four children, all instilled with Alfreda's beliefs that you never do anything alone, and that helping others is always the right thing to do. These beliefs guided Alfreda through a long life of community and public service. She was elected to the Ingham County Board of Commissioners, serving from 1979 to 1981 and 1998 to 2000. She also represented Lansing's 2nd Ward on the Lansing City Council from 1981 to 1993. Alfreda was one of the first women to join the South Lansing Kiwanis Club in 1989 and was named 2003 Kiwanian of the Year in recognition of her leadership and commitment to her community. Throughout her decades of serving the public and taking on community projects, she stressed the importance of listening as the key to understanding people's problems. Frank would drive Alfreda all over Lansing to meet with people who had called Alfreda in the hopes she could help solve their problem. Alfreda's dedication to Lansing knew no bounds. Among an endless list of city projects and improvements, she was the driving force behind raising hundreds of thousands of dollars and rallying 2,000 volunteers to build the Hawk Island Park playground in just one week. She led fundraising efforts to reopen the swimming pool at the Alfreda Schmidt Community Center, a community center renamed in her honor in 2012. Alfreda's passion for supporting veterans and honoring their sacrifices exemplified her deep sense of gratitude and respect for those who served our country. She advocated for Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit organization that distributes wreaths for placement on veterans' graves in military cemetaries. She helped initiate Veterans Appreciation Day at the Ingham County Fair. Most recently, she served on the Mayor's Veterans Commission and just last month she raised funds for a new sign honoring veterans at the Evergreen Cemetery in Lansing. Alfreda Schmidt passed away on April 14, 2024, just a few months shy of what would have been her 98th birthday. I send my deepest condolences to her dear family, friends, and to all who knew and loved her. As we mourn the loss of a true Lansing legend, let us also celebrate Alfreda Schmidt's extraordinary life. May her memory be a blessing for generations to come. With profound gratitude for her contributions to her community, I ask that we honor her legacy of service, compassion, and unity here in the People's House.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to a trailblazing member of the Michigan State University community: Dr. Gloria Smith. Her lifelong dedication to education, advocacy, and service has left an indelible mark on the university and beyond. After earning her doctorate from the University of Massachusetts in 1971, Dr. Smith's journey brought her to Michigan State University where she joined the faculty of the Department of Education. Throughout her tenure at MSU, Dr. Smith distinguished herself as a trailblazer and champion of equity, especially for women of color. Her footprint at MSU is immeasurable. In 1972, she played a pivotal role as a member of the steering committee for the Black Women Employees Association of MSU, where she passionately advocated for the hiring of more Black women professors. Her achievements, including becoming the first Black woman to attain full professorship at MSU and being recognized on the university's Distinguished Wall of Professors, serve as a testament to her contributions and enduring influence. She lent her leadership and expertise as she served as the Director of African American and African Studies, as a member on the MSU Athletic Board, and on the university's presidential search committee. In 2007, Dr. Smith retired from MSU as professor emeritus in the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Special Education. Dr. Smith's incredible legacy extends beyond the classroom. She was the first Black President of the Michigan Counseling Psychology and Supervision Professional Organization. She has also been a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, the first intercollegiate historically African American sorority, since 1958. She served as the organization's 18th Great Lakes Regional Director and has truly embodied her sisterhood's mission to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards and to be of service to all mankind. Dr. Smith continues to show her commitment to education and serving others as a member of her local chapter of the Links, Incorporated, an organization dedicated to promoting quality education, civic responsibility, and enhancing the quality of life of their communities. She is also a cherished member of her church, The Friendship Baptist Church, where she lives their cote value of serving without restraint. With profound gratitude for her extraordinary contributions to Michigan State University and her lifelong mission to uplift her community, it is my honor to recognize her service here, in the People's House.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to an incredible advocate--Tony Spaniola--whose unwavering commitment and tireless work have made an indelible mark on his community, the state of Michigan, and beyond. In 2016, Tony's world shifted when he learned that his home, and many others near Lake Huron in Oscoda, Michigan, had been exposed to contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, more commonly known as PFAS, a class of chemicals used by industry and, in Oscoda's case, our military. At the time, the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda had been identified as the first site contaminated with PFAS in Michigan, and the first U.S. military PFAS site in the country. This revelation ignited a fire within Tony--one fueled by a determination to confront the threat of these ``forever chemicals.'' Studies have shown PFAS exposure may lead to an increased risk of cancer, decreased fertility in women, developmental delays in children, and other health risks. Tony became a driving force behind efforts to address PFAS contamination on local, state, and federal fronts. His leadership was instrumental in the founding of the Need Our Water (NOW) community action group in Oscoda. Tony's vision also extended beyond Michigan, as he co-founded the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network, and also serves on the leadership team of the National PFAS Contamination Coalition. He played a pivotal role in the creation of the Michigan PFAS Action Response Team, where he currently serves on the Citizens Advisory Workgroup. Furthermore, his efforts contributed to the establishment of the bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force of which I am proud to be a member--a group dedicated to advancing legislative solutions and raising awareness about the urgent need to address PFAS contamination nationwide. Because of his relentless advocacy and uncanny ability to bring stakeholders together, Tony has earned the respect and the ear of senior Pentagon leadership, including Undersecretary of Defense Bill LaPlante, and has played a major role in pushing the Department of Defense to act more urgently on PFAS cleanup. Tony has been an advocate his entire life, which can in part be attributed to the influence of his father, Francis Spaniola, a retired Army officer who served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 1975 to 1990, representing Corunna in Shiawassee County. During his father's tenure in the state legislature, when the toxic flame retardant polybrominated biphenyls, more commonly known as PBB, was mistakenly sent to Michigan farmers as livestock feed and entered the food supply, Tony worked alongside his father at the forefront of tackling the PBB health crisis. Together, they initiated legislation that led to the creation of the Michigan Cancer Registry, regulated PBB, and compensated farmers for poisoned livestock. I have had the privilege of bearing witness to Tony's unwavering passion since I took office in 2019 and remain grateful to have been able to work with him in our fight to clean up contaminated sites across Michigan and this country. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to our state and his steadfast advocacy on behalf of impacted families and communities nationwide, it is my honor to recognize his service.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to a man who served his community, his state, and his Nation with pride, and whose loss leaves a void in the hearts and lives of so many. James Scott Golden was a Petty Officer 3rd Class in the Navy, but if you asked he'd simply smile and tell you he was a ``tin can sailor.'' Jim was refering to his time aboard the Charles P. Cecil DD835, a Gearing Class destroyer where he served toward the end of the Vietnam War. All jokes aside, Jim's service had a profound influence on his life, including the moment he sailed into Sardinia and he met a young Navy medic named Ina who was stationed there. The two would eventually marry, settle in Holly, Michigan, and build a life of service together. In Michigan, Jim went to work for General Motors Skilled Trades, where he would stay until his retirement in 2006. Known around town for his affable demeanor and his generosity, Jim was involved with many local charities and organizations, including Forgotten Harvest, where he and Ina donated food from their own gardens, and the YesterYear Tractor Club, where he repaired and restored old tractors for parades and local festivities. Because they took so much pride in their own service, Jim and Ina were very involved in the Holly Area Veterans Resource Center, including an annual project to collect and pack boxes of treats and toiletries for military personnel. One day, Jim struck up a conversation with a local high school student preparing to enlist in the Air Force as a means to pay for college, and she seemed embarrassed about her financial situation and her plan. Jim decided then and there to find a way to uplift and shine a light on community members like her. Together with Ina, he launched the Hometown Heroes project to recognize those going into service with a yellow ribbon on the oak tree in front of Holly Elementary School. This prominent and highly visible location would serve as a constant reminder to all that a community should have both pride in and gratitude for its men and women who are on active duty in the military. I had the chance to visit this tree with Jim and Ina on a very snowy Veterans Day in 2019--a poignant sight and a tangible symbol of the sacrifices families all across our Nation are making in the moment in defense of our collective freedom. It speaks both to the power of the project and the Goldens themselves that even after they relocated to northern Michigan, and after Jim's passing, their friends at the Holly Area Veterans Resource Center continue to maintain the Hometown Heroes project, tying a ribbon for each departing serviceman or woman, and removing it when that person returns home. Jim passed away on January 10, 2024, but his kind spirit, his endearing humor, and his legacy of service live on. I send my deepest condolences to Ina, their children, grandchildren, and to all who knew and loved him. Jim Golden, the tin can sailor and ultimate hometown hero now rests in perpetual peace at the Great Lakes National Cemetery. With profound gratitude for his dedication to our armed forces and his lifelong mission to uplift the service of others.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to a legendary member of the Michigan State University community: head coach of the men's basketball team, Tom Izzo. Now in his 29th year as head coach and his 41st overall year with the team, Coach Izzo recently added another accomplishment to his already impressive resume with his 700th career win, all of them with the Spartans. It was quite a present for Izzo to reach this milestone on his 69th birthday, however his dedication to the Spartans, to the MSU community, and to his home state of Michigan is the gift he continues to offer to us all. Growing up in Iron Mountain in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, young Tom Izzo dominated his high school football, track, and basketball teams. He didn't know it at the time, but his decision to focus on basketball at Northern Michigan University not only changed his life, but changed the course of the history of the sport. A tireless worker from the very beginning, it's no surprise that Tom Izzo went on to be named an All- American and established the Wildcat record for most minutes played in a season. Northern Michigan University is also where Izzo began his collegiate coaching journey, serving as an assistant until a position opened up at Michigan State University. There, he worked under legendary coach Jud Heathcoate until his retirement, and in 1994 was officially named head coach of the Spartans. His incredible statistics could fill volumes: Izzo led his team to the 2000 NCAA National Championship, 10 regular-season Big Ten Championships, six Big Ten Tournament titles, eight Final Four appearances, eight National Coach of the Year awards and a Big Ten- record 25 straight NCAA Tournament appearances. When the Spartans were selected for the 2023 NCAA Tournament, Izzo became the first men's basketball head coach in history to lead his team to 25 consecutive appearances. He is MSU's all-time winningest coach, with his accomplishments enshrined in both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. And now, he joins an elite group of fewer than 40 Division 1 coaches to achieve 700 career wins. So beloved by students is Tom Izzo that students must camp out to join the highly coveted ``Izzone'' section of the Breslin Center, resulting in a sea of green and white tents and a 24-hour revival-style demonstration of support and love for the section's namesake. And when tragedy struck campus one year ago and a gunman claimed the lives of three students and injured several others, it was Izzo's voice the community turned to in the hours and days after the shooting. At a campus-wide vigil, he encouraged each and every Spartan to confront fear and to stand together. ``We need each other,'' he told us. ``For 40 years I've always believed that at Michigan State, we are at our own strongest when we are together.'' That night, Tom Izzo described himself as ``just a basketball coach.'' But he is so much more. A true leader and teacher, Coach Tom Izzo has brought so much more than hundreds of basketball wins to Michigan State University; he has brought stability, unity, and healing. Tom Izzo personifies the characteristics of the ancient Spartans, who were known for being prepared, methodical, jovial, loyal, and courageous. His heart beats to the tune of ``Victory for MSU'' and his blood runs pure Green and White. With abiding gratitude, it is my honor to recognize his service here, in the United States House of Representatives.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today we mark the first anniversary of the shooting at Michigan State University that took the lives of Arielle Anderson, Brian Fraser, and Alexandria Verner, and physically injured five others. I spent today's anniversary on campus in East Lansing, where I saw firsthand how the pain and trauma of that terrible day continues to reverberate throughout the Spartan community. I was heartened to see so many people turn their emotions into action through the day of service activities offered at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center and International Center. As the first Member of Congress that we can find who has faced two school shootings, both at MSU and Oxford High School, I know too well how these events rip a hole in the lives of the community, one that remains long beyond the headlines. A place that is burned into my brain is the place I spent the night that evening a year ago--the East Lansing Police Department--as the hours-long manhunt went on. It seemed fitting to go back today to thank them, the fire department, and the first responders. We have responded in Michigan. In response to the MSU shooting, the Michigan legislature stepped up and passed the most robust and comprehensive gun safety legislation in our history. In our courts, we just recently convicted the mother of the shooter in the Oxford High School shooting. We are setting an example of how to respond when our kids are crying out for leadership.

Ms. SLOTKIN

Ms. SLOTKIN. Madam Speaker, I pay tribute to a basketball coaching legend who helped lead the Michigan State University Spartans men's basketball team to 19 NCAA tournaments, 10 Big Ten championships, 7 Final Fours, and a national championship. As impressive as those statistics are, former MSU Assistant Coach Mike Garland quite literally came back from the dead and is now using his second chance at life to pay this incredible gift forward. As much as Mike Garland loved coaching basketball, and as many great things as his teams accomplished on the court, he was content with his decision to retire from MSU in June 2022. He was looking forward to spending more time with his wife, his kids, and his grandkids. Not long after, however, he went into cardiac arrest while driving his car. Fortunately, two Good Samaritans were driving by at the time. They saw Garland's car go off the road and into a tree. They called 911 and performed CPR until paramedics and police arrived. In total, 13 people worked on Garland for an agonizing 18 minutes to restart his heart. It turned out the electrical failure in Garland's heart was the result of a birth defect, one that required open heart surgery to fix. Three months later, Garland was back up and running, quite literally, on the treadmill. Not long after that, he honored all of those who helped save his life with an emotional public thank-you at the MSU Breslin Center, home to many of his greatest coaching moments. Today, the Breslin Center is also home court for his new passion: a foundation he launched called Champions of the Heart. Through this nonprofit, Garland works to inform the Spartan community and others on how to save lives during episodes of cardiac arrest. Attendees at these free trainings learn how to perform CPR, how to recognize sudden cardiac arrest, and how to use an automatic external defibrillator. Mike Garland is a man who has lived two lives, both defined by statistics. In the first, his focus was on wins, losses, and free-throw percentages. His second life, however, is summed up in a single stark numerical reality: Only one person in ten survives a cardiac arrest. For all he has done to defy the odds and change the course of history for himself and for others, I ask that his story be recorded in the permanent Record of the people's House. Recognizing Reverend Lillian Archibald

Ms. SLOTKIN. Madam Speaker, today I pay tribute to two of the most beloved residents to ever call the St. Johns, Michigan, community home: Orrin and Luvina Wilson. Settling in Clinton County post-Civil War, the Wilsons were a ``power couple'' before the term existed, but it was never about seeking power for themselves. Rather, the Wilsons lived their lives in quiet but devoted and groundbreaking service to their Nation and to their neighbors, and forever changed the face of St. Johns. Orrin was just 16 years old in 1864 when he enlisted in Michigan's all-Black regiment, the 102nd United States Colored Infantry, Company K, out of Kalamazoo, Michigan. He served until the war's end and returned to Michigan, where he met and married his bride. The two would soon settle in St. Johns, where they lived for the next 60 years. In addition to his military service, Orrin was a trailblazer in so many ways. First, he took up the trade of barbering and owned his shop for nearly 50 years, serving a mostly White clientele out of the old Steel Hotel in downtown St. Johns. He was also a founding member of the local chapter of the Grand Army of the Republic, a national union of Civil War veterans, and served as its post commander for a time. Not only was he the only Black member of the St. Johns Charles Grisson Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, it is believed that he is the only Black man in the State of Michigan to hold such a leadership position outside of the all-Black posts in cities like Detroit. Luvina was a trailblazer in her own right, serving as president of the local chapter of the Women's Relief Corps, an auxiliary organization of the Grand Army of the Republic. The WRC not only supported the mission to aid Union veterans but also assisted former Army nurses and promoted patriotism through education. Just like her husband, Luvina is believed to be the only Black woman in the State to have ever led an all-White post. Orrin and Luvina raised their two sons together, George and Arthur, who continued the family barbering trade. The family was active in St. Johns United Methodist Church, where Orrin served as a trustee and treasurer for three decades. They were married for 58 years, linked by their common goal of creating a better, more just community and Nation. United, they also were in death, leaving this world just 1 day apart in late December 1928. The two were buried together in the veterans section of the Mt. Rest Cemetery, with flags flown at half-mast and a large funeral procession going past the family home on South Clinton Avenue. Madam Speaker, may their life story and memory be a blessing and an inspiration to all of us, forever preserved here in the permanent Record of the people's House. Honoring Mike Garland

Ms. SLOTKIN. Madam Speaker, today I honor a man who was a trailblazer in athletics and education and used his talents to break barriers and change the lives of generations of young people. Dr. Samuel Edward Holloway lived to serve others: his Nation, his community, and his family. It is fitting that as we mark Black History Month, we shine a light on his place in the history of Michigan's Seventh District and the many doors he opened for others to pass through. Before he was Dr. Holloway, he was simply Sam. He was a young man who came to Michigan with his father and left the Deep South as part of the Great Migration north. After spending his childhood in various parts of the Midwest, Sam and his family settled in Michigan in the 1940s, where he would eventually join the Ann Arbor High School class of 1951. Sam's athletic abilities were evident from a very young age. He was crowned State champion in his wrestling class during his high school years. Also clear was his desire to use his life for the greater good as he enlisted in the United States Army upon graduation and was honorably discharged in 1953. It was then that Sam began embarking on what would become his lifelong calling: public education. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Eastern Michigan University, during which time he also began his teaching career. So it was, at the height of the civil rights movement in 1963, when Samuel Edward Holloway became the first Black faculty member in the history of South Lyon Public Schools. During his tenure there, he was credited with becoming the first Black person to serve as head wrestling coach for any high school team in the State of Michigan. Eventually, Sam earned his Ph.D. in education and went on to serve in numerous districts, including Ypsilanti Public Schools and Romulus Public Schools. In the late 1970s, he became a building administrator at Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor, a full-circle moment for a man who had graduated from that very district. He held that post until his retirement in 1990, a retirement that he and his wife, Janet, enjoyed to the fullest. Still an athlete at heart and in practice, Holloway competed each year in the Arizona Senior Olympics and rode his motorcycle across the United States and Europe. Dr. Samuel Edward Holloway passed away in 2022, leaving behind his devoted wife, his four children, a large and loving extended family, and an incredible legacy. Dr. Holloway didn't set out to be a pioneer. He simply wanted to do the things he loved in service to others. Madam Speaker, I ask that the permanent Record of the people's House reflect his groundbreaking contributions and the gratitude of the institutions forever changed by his presence. Honoring Orrin and Luvina Wilson

Ms. SLOTKIN. Madam Speaker, today I honor the groundbreaking service of a Livingston County woman who never even planned to live in the area, much less to make history there. Fortunately, life had its own plans for Elsie McPherson-Brown, and the community is so much better for it. Livingston County sits at the crossroads of several major highways, and when Elsie McPherson-Brown was driving one of them to go visit family and friends, she took a wrong turn and ended up in the northern community of Hartland, Michigan. Elsie liked what she saw on that unexpected outing. After further investigation, including meeting with the superintendent and school principals, she convinced her husband to relocate to Hartland from Detroit with their two elementary school-aged boys. It is worth noting that Livingston County was and is to this day an overwhelmingly White community, but Elsie and her family were undeterred. From the beginning of their time in Hartland, Elsie dove into community service, volunteering in her kids' classrooms, chairing teacher appreciation day events, and serving on the PTO. In 2003, Elsie took her service to a new and historic level when she successfully ran for the Board of Education of Hartland Consolidated Schools, becoming the first African-American woman and only the second African American in modern history to be elected to public office in Livingston County. Her story is not without challenges, particularly when it comes to race relations. She often shares how a grocery store manager insisted her personal check was fraudulent because he refused to believe that a Black woman was living in Livingston County at the address that was stated. There were local police officers who questioned her youngest son and refused to believe he was heading home for the same reason. Elsie chose to rise above and set her focus and her intention on the things that she loved about the community and the commonalities she shared with her friends and neighbors. Supported by the voters, Elsie served 10 years on the school board and fulfilled her goal of having a voice and shaping the education of the next generation. She was known for her calm demeanor, her colorful outfits, and the many hats she wore about town, perhaps representative of the different hats she wore in life: wife, mother, advocate, trailblazer. While she has stepped down from public office, today she continues her life of quiet service to the community in her work in the Livingston County Sheriff's Office. Elsie McPherson-Brown may have stumbled upon Hartland accidentally, but it is no accident that she changed the course of Hartland's history. Madam Speaker, her story deserves to be told, uplifted, and forever preserved here in the permanent Record of the people's House. honoring dr. samuel edward holloway