Rashida Tlaib

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the legacy of Reverend Carl Zerweck, a long-time resident of Detroit in Michigan's 13th District Strong. Reverend Zerweck was a beloved and well-known member of the community. As founder and executive director of nonprofit organization Rippling Hope, he led the way in helping residents in need with much- needed home repairs. Under Reverend Zerweck's leadership, Rippling Hope connected hundreds of residents to home repair professionals, coordinated volunteers to help make repairs. and connected with dozens of block clubs and neighborhood associations across the city. He led by example, helping work side by side with volunteers to help make repairs. Reverend Carl Zerweck lived his life in selfless service to others. Beyond his work with Rippling Hope, Reverend Zerweck served as pastor to St. Paul's United Church of Christ-Disciples of Christ in Dearborn Heights. He started three Habitat for Humanity organizations and assisted in building more than 30 homes and 15 churches. He was also an avid. volunteer with the Ferndale Cat Shelter, with whom he collaborated to bring pet food to those in need. Please join me in recognizing Reverend Carl Zelweck's outstanding contributions to the communities of Detroit and Michigan's 13th District Strong as we honor his memory.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today, I want to recognize Bishop Larry Mack of Greater Dreams Church in the City of Wayne in Michigan's 13th District Strong, as he celebrates his 15 years of service in faith. Bishop Mack has ministered to thousands of individuals as a faithful servant to his flock. He has provided a safe haven for downtrodden and weary souls, encouraging them through inspired teaching and support in faith. He has also served as a role model and mentor to youth, adults and senior citizens, leading them in ministry. Over the past 15 years, Bishop Mack has helped grow his family in faith and now hosts 5 television programs on TCT (Total Christian Television Network), reaching 172 nations and more than 73 million people. Bishop Mack's work extends to community service. He has launched the Brown Bag Lunch Program (TEFAP) to assist individuals which provides nourishment and sustenance for those in need. He has established several auxiliary ministry branches to nourish GDC congregants including: GDC Sisterhood, V Youth, GDC Dance Troup, Alter Ministry, GDC Worship, Greater Men, Hospitality and Greeters, GDC Kids and Keepers of the House. Further, he co-founded The Redeemed International Gospel Assembly (TRIGA) comprised of hundreds of churches, ministering the grace of God and the Good News of the Gospel to untold thousands of individuals and families. Please join me in celebrating Bishop Larry Mack for 15 years of service to Greater Dreams Church and the people of Michigan's 13th District Strong.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today I want to acknowledge the legacy and dedication of William ``Bill'' Wild for his more than 20 years of public service to our communities. Mayor Wild is Westland's longest-serving mayor. A Westland native and graduate of John Glenn High School, Mayor Wild took pride in giving back to the community that raised him. He was especially proud of his accomplishments in helping improve infrastructure, including an overhaul of Westland's municipal center, building a vibrant shopping district, and bringing a citywide recycling program to Westland. Mayor Wild's commitment and many years of services has been exceptional and outstanding. The 13th District, Wayne County and the Westland community extend their gratitude to Mayor Bill Wild for his many contributions to the growth and prosperity of Westland. It has been an honor to be one of his many partners serving Westland neighborhoods. Please join me as we recognize Mayor Bill Wild's many contributions to the families of the Westland and 13th Congressional District as we wish him well.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jaylee Lynch, Garden City, Michigan's longest-serving city council member, as she celebrates 23 years of service, including 4 years as Mayor of Garden City. A lifelong resident of Garden City, Jaylee Lynch has embodied the spirit of public service. The people of Garden City hold a special place in her heart and took pride in representing a welcoming community. Jaylee Lynch's dedication to her city was evident in the work she championed to ensure the expansion of the fire department, community center, and downtown redevelopment. During her tenure, Council Member Lynch advocated for the issues most important to the residents of Garden City as a representative on the Conference of Western Wayne. Outside of her official work, Council Member Lynch is an active member of several service-oriented organizations, including the Garden City Kiwanis Club. Please join me in showing appreciation for Garden City Council Member Jaylee Lynch for more than two decades of public service for her 15 years of service to the people of Michigan's 13th District Strong, as we wish her well on her future endeavors.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today I want to recognize Randy Walker, Garden City, Michigan's longest-serving mayor. Randy Walker held the office of mayor from 2008 until 2022. Prior to that he served a term on city council. Mayor Walker is a lifelong resident of Garden City. He has always been passionate about serving the community that raised him. Over the years, Mayor Walker has given his time to many service-oriented organizations, including the Kiwanis Club. His love for the community runs deep and it shined through in the initiatives he undertook and supported as our public official. Please join me in thanking Mayor Randy Walker for his 15 years of service to the people of Garden City in Michigan's 13th District Strong. The 13th Congressional District wishes him well in his retirement and thanks him for his partnership and service to our district.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today I rise in recognition of civil rights trailblazer Mamie King-Chalmers, a longtime resident of Detroit in Michigan's 13th District Strong, as we honor her memory. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Mamie King-Chalmers witnessed and experienced violence at the forefront of the civil rights movement. Unable to bear the injustice of life in the Jim Crow era southern United States, Ms. King-Chalmers was moved to fight racism for a better future for all. The images of snarling dogs and fire hoses aimed at nonviolent protesters are the symbols of the vitriol of that time, and it was an all too real experience for Ms. King-Chalmers. Her image was captured in an iconic photo depicting her as one of three Black people forced to brace themselves against a building while being blasted with water from a firehose in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1963. The photo appeared in Life magazine. Eventually, Mamie King-Chalmers, along with her husband Reverend Raymond Gill, moved and settled with their family in Detroit. She always shared the unvarnished truth of her life during that violent time. As a civil rights advocate, she spoke out about the need for change. She was courageous and unwavering in her commitment. Please join me in recognizing Mamie King-Chalmers' advocacy in the fight for justice as we honor her legacy. May she rest in power.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community who have fought for equal dignity under the law for decades. For far too long our LGBTQ neighbors have been discriminated against simply for being who they are and loving who they love. Today, if that case is overturned, same-sex couples would not be allowed to marry in the State of Michigan. Every single American, no matter their faith, race, gender identity, or sexual orientation has the right to marry the person they love. I am proud to be here today in the people's House as Congress takes this historic vote to send this legislation to President Biden's desk. Today, we take one more step toward equality and justice for all. May we continue to build upon this progress by ensuring that all LGBTQ+ neighbors have what they need to thrive and be protected under law.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today I want to celebrate the life of Joan Robinson Cheeks, a long-time resident of Detroit, as we mourn her loss. Joan had a long career serving the public in the City of Detroit's Housing Department. Joan proudly stood up for the values she felt strongly about. It was no surprise that upon retirement, Joan threw herself whole-heartedly into work with local organizations, including the Michigan Democratic Party, whose work focused on issues like voter protection. Joan served as a precinct delegate for many years. Joan also strongly believed in community service. She spearheaded the Wayne County Annual Senior Citizens Picnic at Hines Park. She was a steadfast volunteer at the Butzel Family Center, assisting for many years with their annual Thanksgiving turkey distribution. Joan was truly in her element when she was engaging with people. She was always willing to volunteer her time and always with a smile on her face. Her presence will truly be missed Please join me in recognizing the many outstanding contributions of Joan Robinson Cheeks to the communities of Michigan's 13th District Strong as we honor her memory.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today I rise in memory of Debra Walker, Detroit resident and community activist, whose bright light will live on in our hearts. Debra was a remarkable and devoted resident of Detroit's Corktown neighborhood. She got her start in community organizing while she served as an Americorps volunteer following her retirement from a career in the automotive industry. Debra's service had no bounds, and she was a friend to many and a dedicated volunteer to countless organizations. Her commitments were deeply rooted in our community with Friends of Historic Hamtramck Stadium, Corktown Business Association, Corktown Experience, Alternatives for Girls, and People's Community Services, to name a few. She was especially proud of the organizations she founded, Black CAT, whose work focused on social justice issues and Women Achieving Victory and Esteem (WAVE), a support group for African American breast cancer patients and their families. In addition to her work in the community, Debra was also an entrepreneur, artist, crafter, poet, and spoken word performer. She was passionate about the arts, which led her to found Power in Poetry Experience of Detroit, which created a platform for performing artists across Detroit. The community will always fondly remember Ladel's, the children's bookstore that Debra owned and ran. The store's selections, stories that exposed children to diverse cultures and representation of communities like their own, were truly reflective of the community Debra wanted to create. She truly embodied the generosity and warm- heartedness of Detroit. Please join me in honoring the memory of Debra Walker as our community mourns her loss.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the life of my dear friend Debra Walker, who has recently gained her wings. Debra was one of the most thoughtful, kindest human beings. She was an artist, crafter, poet, and spoken word performer. She founded and led Power in Poetry Experience of Detroit, served as their treasurer and on the boards of many local nonprofits, and traveled the world training people on cost reduction methods. She was a loving mother, grandmother, neighbor, and community member. My sons have always known her as Gabriel's grandmother. Debra would always show up for anyone, and she did it with her full, authentic self. I am sending her daughters, grandbabies, and family prayers of strength. We will miss Debra.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Masjid Muhammad, the Nation's Mosque, as they celebrate their 85th year of establishment. Representing one of the oldest established Muslim communities in the country and the first mosque built in the District of Columbia, Masjid Muhammad has long been a beacon for community service, religious freedom, and human rights. With their motto of ``Our Community, Our Responsibility,'' Masjid Muhammad has been a central force in their service to the people of DC. They frequently distribute hundreds of pounds of food each month to those in need. They work to build affordable housing and develop programs to address violence, substance abuse, recidivism and countless other social justice issues. They also sponsor several programs including senior citizen support, after school youth activities, vocational training, job placement and more. Masjid Muhammad has been a pioneer in breaking down barriers for the Muslim community across this country. They established the nation's first Muslim American Veterans Association (MAVA) over 25 years ago with several chapters growing around the nation. They produced the first Islamic Chaplains in the U.S. Military and Department of Justice, the first Muslim Judge for the State of Maryland, the first Muslim Woman to work on a White House Staff, and the first Muslim Boys and Girls Scouts programs in DC. In addition to their work domestically, Masjid Muhammad has facilitated and participated in numerous conferences and forums on human rights, interfaith peacebuilding, and international religious freedom in over a dozen countries--cementing them as an international voice for peace and justice for all. Please join me in recognition of Masjid Muhammad's 85 years of service and their contributions to this city, this country, and the world.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Islamic Center of America for their outstanding service on behalf of our communities of Wayne County and Southeastern Michigan as they celebrate their 60th anniversary. They were founded in 1962, and there, the Islamic Center of America's roots can be traced back to 1949 when our religious leader, scholar, Imam Chirri, who could not speak or understand English, came to America at the request of a small group of residents. A committed group of community members came together and worked to establish the Islamic Center as Michigan's first mosque and invited Imam Chirri to lead this family in faith. Since its humbling beginnings, the Islamic Center of America has grown to accommodate its growing family in faith and offers numerous community programs, including education and senior services. They are a pillar of cross-cultural understanding in one of our area's most vibrant and diverse communities. Please join me in recognizing the Islamic Center of America as they celebrate 60 years of faith and service. In Memory of Joey Smith

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my sadness about the death of Joey Smith, a 12-year-old resident of Dearborn Heights, whose young life was tragically cut short when he was struck by a car. A seventh-grade student at O.W. Best Middle School, Joey was always surrounded by friends and classmates who will dearly miss him. He will be remembered for his bright smile. I offer my deepest condolences and sympathy to Joey's family and his friends as they mourn his loss. As a mother myself, my heart especially goes out to Joey's mother, Katie. I pray that she finds the strength and peace during this very difficult time of unimaginable grief. Our community is deeply saddened by this tragedy. Please join me in honoring the memory of Joey Smith.

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Tyrone Winfrey, a beloved resident of Michigan's 13th Congressional District. He was a tireless advocate for our students, a fighter for higher education opportunities, and so much more. Tyrone Winfrey served as the Executive Director of Community Affairs for Detroit Public Schools Community District and was the former school board president. He worked tirelessly to advocate for our youth, and to ensure that every single student had access and an opportunity to quality education and a pathway for college and higher education opportunities. Tyrone served our communities at Detroit public schools for almost 35 years, and during his time, he inspired, supported, and uplifted so many of our students and families. He lost his 5-year battle with cancer, and I am proud to stand here in honor of his life and his love for our community and our youth. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, the Detroit Public Schools Community District, and all who were impacted by Tyrone Winfrey. Recognizing the Islamic Center of America

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the life of Tyrone Winfrey, a beloved resident of Michigan's 13th District, a tireless advocate for students, and a fighter for higher education opportunities and so much more. Tyrone served as the executive director of community affairs for Detroit Public Schools Community District and was our former school board president. He worked tirelessly to advocate for our youth and to ensure that every student had access to quality education. Tyrone served our community over 35 years at the school district, and during this time, he inspired, supported, and uplifted so many of our students and families. Unfortunately, Mr. Winfrey lost his 5-year battle with cancer this month, but I am proud to stand here in honor of his life and his love for our community. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and our school community, as well as all those impacted by Tyrone Winfrey.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a dear friend, a former colleague, a trailblazer in our community, Michigan State Senator Vincent Gregory of Southfield, who passed away recently at the age of 74. State Senator Vincent Gregory had a passion for public service his entire life and was known for his integrity. He was a Vietnam war veteran, a union president, a county commissioner, as well as, again, a former State representative whom I had the honor to serve with. In 2010, Vincent made history as the first Black resident of Oakland County elected to the Michigan State Senate. He was a strong advocate for voting rights, especially for our overseas servicemembers, and his lasting impact will be remembered for years to come. My thoughts are with his wife of 44 years, Yvonne, and his entire family during this very difficult time. May his life and legacy serve as a testament of all we can accomplish if we lead with compassion, strength, and purpose.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today, I want to recognize Pastor Ronald K. Benson of Greater Haven of Rest Church of God in Christ, in Michigan's 13th District Strong, as he celebrates his fifty years of service in faith. Pastor Ronald K. Benson was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. He is the eldest of ten siblings. Pastor Benson is the fourth generation of his family to be raised in the Church of God in Christ. He was called to the ministry as a young man and member of the Conner Avenue Church of God in Christ. Pastor Benson's mission has been to be a faithful servant of the Lord and the people of his flock. Pastor Benson has served over the years in many capacities; he is the Superintendent of the Progressive District, Northeast Michigan Jurisdiction, Executive Secretary and Liaison to the late Honorable Bishop P.A. Brooks, Northeast Michigan Jurisdiction, Finance Committee member and Trustee Board member and Secretary. Pastor Benson possesses a true passion for community service. He has assisted and coordinated numerous programs and events, including an annual school supplies giveaway, winter coats for children in need program, and a community health screening fair. He also spearheaded the creation of a resource center for adults. The 13th Congressional District is grateful for Pastor Benson's compassion and humble spirit by the many people he has helped on his journey. Please join me in celebrating Pastor Ronald K. Benson for fifty years of service to Greater Haven of Rest Church of God in Christ and the community of Detroit.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today I want to recognize the outstanding work of the Ruth Ellis Center, based in Highland Park, Michigan, as they celebrate the grand opening of its Ruth Ellis Clairmount Center in Detroit. This expansion will allow Ruth Ellis Center to expand housing, access to healthcare, and community space for our most vulnerable LGBTQI+ youth in our district. Founded in 1999, Ruth Ellis Center has established a national reputation for quality and innovation in providing trauma-informed services for lesbian, gay, bi-attractional, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ+) youth, and young adults, with an emphasis on young people of color, experiencing homelessness, involved in the child welfare system, and/or experiencing barriers to health and wellbeing for residents in Detroit. Its mission has remained true and continues to uplift and serve our communities. Ruth Ellis Center has implemented safe and supportive environments around young people to build their vision for a positive future. The Clairmount Center expands on that vision by providing an integrated health clinic at the housing center, while including access to a library, technical center, and much more. The Ruth Ellis Center goes above and beyond in its mission to ensuing access to holistic care and support services to one of the most underserved communities. I am proud to have secured direct investment for this critical work and project and I look forward to the continued partnership in serving our underserved. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Ruth Ellis Center's numerous contributions on behalf of the people of southeast Michigan and the 13th District Strong as we congratulate them on the grand opening of the Clairmount Center.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, today, I want to recognize Reverend Dr. John Duckworth of Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church in Michigan's 13th District Strong, as he celebrates his twentieth pastoral anniversary. Reverend Dr. Duckworth began his career in ministry at Samaritan Missionary Baptist of Detroit, where he faithfully served until 2002 when he accepted the Call from Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church of Westland. Dr. Duckworth has incorporated his holistic view of the ministry into his spiritual leadership of the flock at Gethsemane. He has executed that vision through the implementation of numerous ministries that integrate church and community, including the Body & Soul Health and Well Being and the senior-focused Sage Ministry. Dr. Duckworth's commitment to the community involves annual events. He also serves the community through his leadership to the various boards: Wholistic Living Community Corporation, Henry Ford Health Systems, Interfaith Health & Hope Coalition, and Authority Health. Reverend Dr. Duckworth holds dual Bachelor Degrees in Business Administration and Marketing & Management from Northwood University in Midland, Michigan. He also earned an Associates of Arts Degree in Advertising while attending Northwood University. He has also earned a Master of Divinity Degree at the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. His education includes international study of Biblical Geography and Archeology in Israel and Trans-Cultural Ministry in Ghana, West Africa. He has earned a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Ecumenical Theological Seminar in Detroit. In addition to his duties at Gethsemane, Reverend Dr. Duckworth serves as an instructor at the Heritage Center for Religious Studies and as an adjunct Professor at the Ecumenical Theological Seminary. He currently serves on the Council of Baptist Pastors of Detroit & Vicinity, Inc, as well as the Inkster Ministerial Alliance. Please join me in celebrating Reverend Dr. John Duckworth's 20 years of service to Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church and the community of Westland.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6364) to amend the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Improvement Act to extend the exception to the closure of certain roads within the Recreation Area for local businesses, and for other purposes, as amended.

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include additional material on the measure under consideration.

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 6364 introduced by my colleague, Representative Matt Cartwright. This bill will amend the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Improvement Act to extend the use of Highway 209 within the recreation area until 2026. Mr. Speaker, in 1981, the section of Highway 209 that runs through the recreation area was transferred from the State to the National Park Service. In 1983, Congress enacted a provision of law that closed that section of Highway 209 to commercial traffic, with an important exception for vehicles serving businesses located in or adjacent to the recreation area. Since then, the United States Congress has extended the exemption multiple times, with the latest exemption set to expire on September 30 of this year. Mr. Speaker, without this exemption, commercial vehicles have limited acceptable alternatives. Commercial traffic would have to travel a minimum of 10 extra miles to avoid the recreation area. This permitted access contributes to economic vitality that impacts that community, the public safety, and the quality of life of the park's adjacent communities. I, again, thank my good colleague, Representative Cartwright, for introducing this important legislation and championing this bill on behalf of his constituents. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Cartwright), the main sponsor of the bill.

Ms. TLAIB

Ms. TLAIB. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1638) to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to transfer certain National Forest System land to the State of South Dakota, and for other purposes, as amended.