Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Clague Middle School for being designated a ``School to Watch'' by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform. This honor underscores the school's commitment academic excellence and the dedication of its students, educators and staff.

Originally founded in 1972, Clague Middle School serves over 700 students in the Ann Arbor area as part of the Ann Arbor Schools system. The school provides a culturally unique and diverse learning environment, with its students speaking over 25 different languages and coming from a variety of different backgrounds. In addition, the school hosts many enrichment and academic opportunities for its students, including a student-run newspaper, a nationally-ranked Academic Games team, as well as involvement in community events like an annual Week of Service to maintain the campus and surrounding area. Due to these efforts, Clague Middle School has been able to effectively meet the needs of each individual student in the school while serving the Ann Arbor community at large.

As a result of the school's superior record of achievement, Clague Middle School was named a ``School to Watch'' by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform, one of only 12 schools in Michigan to earn this designation. In order to earn this honor, schools must meet the criteria of academic excellence, individualized attention to students, social equity, and organizational resilience to maintain these high standards. This national recognition highlights the unique learning environment that exists at Clague as a result of the hard work of its educators and staff. The school's students are provided the resources and support they need to excel, and it is my hope that Clague Middle School is able to continue to build on its success in the coming years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the students and staff of Clague Middle School for earning the designation of ``School to Watch'' by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform. Clague provides high-quality education and enrichment opportunities.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Mark Kemmer for his career and accomplishments with General Motors. Mr. Kemmer has been a steadfast public policy advocate for the automotive industry throughout his 36 years with the company.

Mr. Kemmer began his career with GM in Detroit in 1974, where he worked with GM's Energy Management division to serve the energy needs of the automaker's factories and manufacturing facilities. He then moved to GM's Washington, DC office after four years, and served as a Washington Representative and Liaison Engineer for the organization's Industry-Government Relations staff until 2002. In this position, Mr. Kemmer worked with federal, state and local partners on behalf of GM and its customers. He was then named the Director of Federal Affairs for the GM Public Policy Center, where he was responsible for formulating the company's policies addressing a variety of issues, including energy and safety, fuel economy standards for research, and advanced technology. As a result of Mr. Kemmer's leadership, GM has achieved excellence in a variety of emerging technologies and is well- positioned for the future.

Mr. Kemmer's work with General Motors has been critical to the evolution of the company. Under Mr. Kemmer's leadership, GM has made advancements in sustainability, driven improvements in its manufacturing processes through public-private partnerships, and helped it earn a reputation as a world-class organization that both serves its customers and the communities in which it operates. Mr. Kemmer's decades of expertise, relationships with key stakeholders and knowledge of the automotive industry have been important in facilitating these improvements, and he will be missed as he moves on from his current position.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Mark Kemmer for his outstanding career with General Motors. Mr. Kemmer's impactful leadership has helped GM evolve to meet new challenges in a rapidly evolving industry.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Patricia Richards upon the occasion of her retirement from Marathon Petroleum Corporation. Ms. Richards has been a strong advocate for energy policies that benefit working Americans throughout her career.

Ms. Richards began her career with Marathon as a state government affairs representative, serving in the states of Florida, Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. In these roles, Ms. Richards distinguished herself as a knowledgeable representative with deep knowledge of the industry as well as the regulatory environment ofthe states in which she worked. As a result of her success in these roles, Ms. Richards was named director of Marathon Oil Corporation's Federal Government Affairs. In this position, Ms. Richards was responsible for helping formulate the company's policies addressing safety and environmental standards at the federal level. She was then promoted to head of office for Marathon Petroleum Corporation's Federal Government Affairs Office in Washington, D.C., where she utilized her public policy expertise to advocate for policies that help MPC serve its customers and the communities in which it operates.

Ms. Richards' work with Marathon has been critical to the growth and success of the organization. As a result of Ms. Richards' efforts, MPC has achieved distinction as a leading company that has created good- paying jobs throughout the Midwest while maintaining a focus on customer service and satisfaction. Additionally, Ms. Richards has been active in the Washington, D.C. community, working with various nonprofits and charitable organizations and remaining engaged with the community at large. Her advocacy, efforts, and deep knowledge of the industry have made her an effective public policy professional for over 30 years, and her expertise will be missed as she retires after a distinguished career.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Patricia Richards for her career with MPC. Ms. Richards has effectively served the company and the community through her leadership and hard work.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Nancy Krupiarz for her outstanding career working on behalf of the State of Michigan and its residents. As Executive Director for the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance, Ms. Krupiarz has helped promote a healthy and more prosperous Michigan by making it one of the foremost trail states in the country.

Originally founded in 1986, the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance is a nonprofit organization that promotes the development of non-motorized trails throughout Michigan and provides a statewide voice for users of these trails. The group consists of approximately 1,000 members and provides information for Michiganders about trails throughout the state. Additionally, it advocates for assistance at the state and federal level to safeguard state and federal funding for the preservation of Michigan's natural heritage and the upkeep of its trails. As a result of the efforts of the MTGA, Michigan has built and maintained a comprehensive network of over 3,000 miles of non-motorized trails throughout the state. These include cross-state trails from South Haven to Port Huron, as well as from Ironwood to Belle Isle.

Ms. Krupiarz has served as the organization's executive director since the group's founding and has been a catalyst for the growth and success of MTGA. Her tireless efforts have helped create a cohesive and effective organization that has effectively served the people of Michigan by coordinating efforts to build trails and preserve Michigan's natural areas. Due to her leadership and efforts, Michigan now boasts the most trail miles out of any U.S. state and is widely recognized for its conservation efforts and outdoor recreation offerings. Ms. Krupiarz's career with MTGA has left a lasting legacy, and it is my hope that the new leadership of the organization continues to build on her work in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Nancy Krupiarz for her leadership with the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance. Her career has resulted in a more livable state for Michigan's residents.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize WE Kayak Grosse Ile on the date of the organization's second annual Blessing of the Fleet. WE Kayak provides structured recreational activities accessible to all members of the Downriver community in the Grosse Ile's waterways.

Originally started in 2012, WE Kayak is a Grosse Ile-based organization that organizes weekly paddles available to the general public on the waterways in and around Grosse Ile, Michigan. The organization is active from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and has grown substantially from its initial group of six kayakers. Today, WE Kayak hosts several dozen members of the community each week to participate in exploring the waters while engaging with each other. The organization also hosts an annual Blessing of the Fleet, where WE Kayak, along with other members of the community, honor Kayakers who have passed and bless those who regularly go out on the water. This free community initiative has helped engage Grosse Ile residents while providing opportunities for physical recreation.

Initiatives like WE Kayak help bring the community together while allowing members to explore and appreciate the natural beauty around the Grosse Ile area. As the only organized public paddle on Grosse Ile, WE Kayak has played a key role in promoting physical activity and engagement while introducing new members of the organizations to a community of like-minded kayakers and nature enthusiasts. The group also serves as a forum for individuals to exchange information about other water sports events in the area, and it is my hope that WE Kayak continues to provide access opportunities for recreation for all individuals in the Grosse Ile area in the coming years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring WE Kayak on the date of the organization's second annual Blessing of the Fleet. WE Kayak has helped individuals explore Grosse Ile's waterways and foster a strong community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Ms. June Marie Roberson. Ms. Roberson was accomplished and well-known for her work in the local Baptist community.

Ms. Roberson moved to Ypsilanti at a young age and became known for her work and activism in the community. She began her career as a dietitian with St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, and then moved to University of Michigan Hospital. She then took a new position as an assembler at Ford Motor Company. She was also active with several Baptist churches in the area throughout her life. Ms. June was a member of the Metropolitan Memorial Baptist Church, where she served as the congregation's Baptist Youth Fellowship and was a member of the church choir. She eventually moved to Second Baptist Church when her husband was named as the church's Deacon, where she continued her work with children by teaching Sunday School. She then moved to Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where she championed several initiatives, including serving as Director of the Children's Mission and President of the Mission Department.

Ms. Roberson was a kind and dedicated member of the Ypsilanti community who was committed to helping others and working on behalf of the community's children. She was strongly supportive of the children in the Baptist congregations in which she was a member, and was well- regarded in the community for her involvement with the church. She also attended the National Baptists Congress of Christian Education and National Baptist Convention, and her involvement with these religious forums underscores her commitment to the well-being of others. As a committed mother of three children, Ms. Roberson was active in their lives and supportive of her grandchildren. Her kindness, commitment to the community, and support of those in need will be missed.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. June Marie Roberson. Ms. Roberson was a pillar of the Ypsilanti community whose life had a tremendous impact.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Christopher Thomas for his distinguished service on behalf of the State of Michigan. As the state's Director of Elections for the past 36 years, Mr. Thomas has served Michigan voters well through his rigorous oversight of the state's electoral processes.

Mr. Thomas began his career in 1974 managing campaign finance regulations at U.S. House of Representatives and later moved to the Federal Election Commission, where he worked with candidates to ensure compliance with federal election laws. As a result of his performance, Mr. Thomas was appointed to be Michigan's Director of Elections in 1981 by Michigan Secretary of State Richard Austin. As Director of Elections, Mr. Thomas has overseen 1,600 clerks in counties, townships and cities across the state to run Michigan elections and work to staff and train workers. Throughout his time as director, Mr. Thomas has earned a reputation as an effective administrator who impartially handled Michigan's elections. He is also well-regarded among his peers, having served as president of the National Association of State Election Directors, a national forum that shares best practices on running accurate and transparent elections in 2013.

Mr. Thomas has been a model Director of Elections who has served the State of Michigan with distinction. Under his leadership, Michigan has successfully leveraged advances in technology to improve the functioning of our state's electoral processes. In addition, Mr. Thomas is well-known for his nonpartisan handling of elections and thorough knowledge of procedure and election law. He also served on President Obama's Presidential Commission on Election Administration, which enabled him to utilize his decades of knowledge to improve the election experience for America's voters. He has been an outstanding leader during his career in election administration, and I wish him well as he retires after an extraordinary career serving Michigan.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Christopher Thomas for his 36 years of public service as Michigan's Director of Elections and his leadership in the nation for ensuring fair elections throughout the country. Mr. Thomas's work has helped ensure the integrity and accessibility of Michigan's elections.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Sierra Club of Michigan on the organization's 50th Anniversary. The Sierra Club has played a pivotal role in helping protect Michigan's environmental heritage.

Originally founded in 1967 as an all-volunteer organization, the Sierra Club of Michigan is today comprised of 10 different branches that further its mission of grassroots activism in defense of the state's environment. Through its advocacy and efforts, the Sierra Club has secured important protections and environmental safeguards that protect some of Michigan's most well-known landmarks and natural spaces, including the Pictured Rocks and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Additionally, the organization has been instrumental in spurring Congress to ban drilling for oil under the Great Lakes and promoting environmentally sound resource management of the state's forests and fisheries. The Sierra Club has also played a key role in passing legislation to mandate the use of renewable energy and establish strong energy efficiency standards for the State of Michigan. These policy solutions have had a positive impact on the public health of Michigan's residents and the environment.

Careful stewardship of the environment is critical to the future of Michigan, and the Sierra Club of Michigan's efforts over the past 50 years have helped institute safeguards that protect health and safety for future generations. As the home of the Great Lakes and a wide variety of wildlife, Michigan's environmental legacy is fundamental to its economy and the well-being of its citizens, and it is critical that we continue to protect this important part of our state's identity. Sierra Club of Michigan's actions have been key to raising awareness and driving action to prevent harm to public health and the state's nature resources, and it is my hope that the organization continues its great work in the coming years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Sierra Club of Michigan on the 50th Anniversary of its founding. The group and its members have helped safeguard Michigan's environment and wildlife for future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. James Jacobs for his work on behalf of Macomb Community College. Mr. Jacobs has been a tireless advocate for the college and higher education during his presidency and career with MCC.

After graduating from Princeton with a degree in politics, Dr. Jacobs began his career with MCC as a professor in economics, where he specialized in occupational education and suburban economic development. After several decades of teaching, Dr. Jacobs moved into MCC's administration in 1994. During his time, he also worked with the Community College Research Center at Columbia University, where he directed efforts on addressing issues facing community colleges throughout the country. In 2008, Dr. Jacobs was named President of MCC and served in this position until this year. During his tenure, Dr. Jacobs spearheaded a number of initiatives to grow and modernize the college, including expanding its training and vocational education programs to provide students in the community with in demand skillsets. These efforts have helped solidify MCC as a leader in workforce development and training.

Dr. Jacobs' decades of service with MCC has helped create a nationally renowned institution that effectively serves the needs of the Southeast Michigan community. Throughout his time as President, Dr. Jacobs has grown and expanded the college's workforce development and entrepreneurship offering, including the Innovation Fund Macomb Community College, which provides assistance to early-stage companies and entrepreneurs. His long-term planning has led to national recognition for MCC, including visits by President Obama and other state leaders. This legacy of excellence has helped drive economic development and provide a quality education to countless students, and Dr. Jacobs' leadership will be missed as he moves on from his current position.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. James Jacobs for his distinguished career with Macomb Community College. Dr. Jacobs' work with MCC has been critical to the development of southeast Michigan and the education of its workforce.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nancy Katz and Margo Dichtelmiller for being recognized by tbe American Civil Liberties Union's LGBT Project for their advocacy and efforts on behalf of LGBT rights. Ms. Katz and Dr. Dichtelmiller have played an important role in supporting the LGBT community through their engagement at the state and local level.

In a committed relationship for over 30 years, Ms. Katz and Dr. Dichtelmiller have been consistent champions for LGBT rights and have played a crucial role in achieving victories at the state and local level. Both have been strong supporters of Affirmations, the LGBT community center in Ferndale, Michigan, that offers services and support to individuals throughout southeast Michigan, having served as co-chairs for its capital campaign to raise funds for a new facility. Additionally, Ms. Katz and Dr. Dichtelmiller have worked with nonprofits and advocacy groups to improve protections for same-sex couples and ensure that they receive the benefits and protections that they deserve. They are well-known in the Michigan civil rights community for their commitment to justice and long record of leadership on these issues.

Ms. Katz and Dr. Dichtelmiller have been at the forefront of the battle for LGBT rights throughout their lives, and their work has helped pave the way for progress at the federal, state and local level in providing equal rights for all. The past decade has seen dramatic progress in strengthening LGBT rights and protections, as well as a transformation in attitudes among the wider public, and this progress would not have been possible without Ms. Katz and Dr. Dichtelmiller's tireless activism and support of local organizations committed to this cause. Their visionary efforts have helped break down barriers and improve the lives of LGBT Americans, and the significant accomplishments underscore the impact of their actions.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Nancy Katz and Margo Dichtelmiller for their leadership in promoting LGBT rights. Their actions have set the stage for key victories for LGBT Americans.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Kathleen Stroud for her impactful leadership on social justice issues. Ms. Stroud has served Michigan with distinction in a variety of elected positions at the

state and local level and is the founder of Ann Arbor's Safe House program.

After graduating from Eastern Michigan University, Ms. Stroud began her career working to reduce domestic violence in Washtenaw County. She was then elected to the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners at the age of 28, where she served four consecutive terms from 1972 to 1980. During this time, she served on the Governor's Crime Victims Compensation Board and the Legislative Advisory Committee on Domestic Violence, where her advocacy and efforts resulted in Michigan passing comprehensive domestic violence legislation that included strong protections for women and children. Additionally, Ms. Stroud spearheaded the creation of a network of private homes to provide shelter for victims of domestic violence. This effort culminated in the opening of the Ann Arbor Safe House in 1992, the first publicly funded domestic violence shelter in the United States.

Ms. Stroud has been an outstanding advocate for children and families in need throughout her career. She has been involved with the National Organization for Women, since its founding in 1966, and remains active in the local American Association of University Women, where she has previously served as its president. These actions, along with her involvement in Ann Arbor Safe House, have helped to create a supportive and welcoming environment and provided much-need resources for domestic violence victims. Ms. Stroud has also worked to support these and other public health efforts during her 40-year tenure on the Washtenaw County Board of Health.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kathleen Stroud for her lifetime of service on behalf of Washtenaw County and its residents. Ms. Stroud has been a key figure in fighting for social justice throughout her career.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Maurice El- Amin for his outstanding career with the Social Security Administration. Mr. El-Amin has served the SSA with distinction during his career with the agency.

Mr. El-Amin has compiled an outstanding record of public service during his 33-year career with the SSA. He began his career with the agency as a Claims Representative in Dearborn, Michigan, where he helped residents access the Social Security benefits that they earned. Mr. El-Amin excelled in this position and has served in a variety of key positions in the Midwest, including as Operations Supervisor and District Manager in the SSA's Chicago office. Since 2012, Mr. El-Amin has worked as Area Director for Metro Detroit, where he oversees the operation of 22 offices in Southeast Michigan and in the greater Toledo area. During this time, he has overseen a modernization of many of the SSA's services, including promoting increased use of online filing and eServices to facilitate improved service for Metro Detroit and its residents.

Mr. El-Amin's work has been key to ensuring that the SSA is able to meet the increased demands of the Midwest region. As Area Director, Mr. El-Amin oversaw the work of over 450 employees whose tireless efforts played a crucial role in the evolution of the SSA. He has also been actively involved in the agency's recruitment efforts and mentorship programs, which have been critical to attracting a new generation of talented public officials. Additionally, Mr. El-Amin has served as the Executive Liaison for the SSA Chicago Region's Black Advisory Affairs Council, which advises the Commissioner of Social Security on issues important to the SSA's African American employees. Mr. El-Amin's experience and perspective will be missed as he retires from the SSA after a long and distinguished career.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Maurice El-Amin for his work on behalf of the Social Security Administration. Mr. El-Amin's public service has played a significant role in helping the SSA effectively serve Americans throughout the country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael Simpson, owner and proprietor of Nu Jazz Swingers. Mr. Simpson has contributed to the vibrant jazz culture in Detroit through his work with NJS and in the community.

Originally founded in 1976 as the Flying Diamond, the club was renamed the Nu Jazz Swingers the following year and has established itself as one of the premier jazz clubs in southeast Michigan. NJS became a popular destination for African-American members of the United Auto Workers, who frequented the club after their shifts at nearby auto manufacturers. Michael Simpson, the club's owner and DJ, also played an important role in popularizing jazz music by featuring music played by Louis Armstrong, Michael Franks, Bob James and other prominent jazz performers. This helped the club cultivate a loyal following and a reputation as one of the leading juke joints in southeast Michigan. Additionally, Mr. Simpson and NJS are active in the surrounding community, hosting annual Halloween and Christmas parties for children and families in nearby neighborhoods. Mr. Simpson has also supported Detroit youth athletics through donations and sponsorships of local teams.

Mr. Simpson's work has been critical to creating a long-lasting establishment in NJS that has contributed to the cultural expression of the African-American community in Detroit. Through its popularization of jazz musicians, as well as its Jazzy ballroom nights and other events, NJS has become a well-known destination and has influenced the culture of Detroit and the surrounding areas. Mr. Simpson's charitable acts have also provided important aid to local families in need, and his holiday party raises thousands of dollars each year for individuals in the community. Collectively, Mr. Simpson's actions have had a significant impact on the City of Detroit and its residents and are worthy of commendation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Michael Simpson. Mr. Simpson's work as an owner and DJ with NJS has been a key influence on Detroit's cultural life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mae Jemison, a physician, scientist and astronaut whose pioneering career has furthered our understanding of the world around us. Dr. Jemison has achieved excellence across a number of disciplines as a result of her hard work and perseverance.

After receiving a medical degree from Cornell Medical College and completing her medical training, Dr. Jemison served as a Peace Corps Medical Officer, treating Peace Corps volunteers in Liberia and Sierra Leone. She was then accepted into NASA's astronaut program in 1987, providing launch support and assistance until her space mission aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavor in September 1992. During her mission, Dr. Jemison conducted scientific experiments on bone cell research and the effects of weightlessness on the human body, which contributed to advancements in our understanding of life sciences. She then resigned in 1993 from NASA, and has since founded several companies, including BioSentient Corp. which develops treatments for chronic pain and stress disorders.

Dr. Jemison has had an extraordinary career and has affected countless lives through her work. In addition to breaking down barriers as the first black woman in space, Dr. Jemison has utilized her medical background and business acumen to develop novel medical treatments for a variety of illnesses. She has also excelled in academia, working as a professor at Dartmouth and Cornell, and is the founder of the Dorothy Jemison Foundation for Excellence, a nonprofit that promotes science education initiatives. Collectively, Dr. Jemison has had an indelible impact on a variety of disciplines through her work, and she continues to inspire new generations of scientists.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring Dr. Mae Jemison for her outstanding career. Dr. Jemison's work with NASA, in medicine and in business has impacted and inspired countless individuals.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Inforum for its work on behalf of women. Since its founding 55 years ago, Inforum has provided effective mentorship and education opportunities for women throughout Michigan.

Originally founded in 1962 as the Women's Economic Club, the organization has grown and evolved over the years to meet its mission of empowering women to lead and succeed. Inforum hosts a variety of high-performing women leaders for lunches and roundtables to exchange ideas and foster leadership skills. Additionally, Inforum sponsors the Inforum Center for Leadership, an educational initiative that provides professional development through its training programs for mid-career women leaders. These include its Executive Leadership professional development program, a four-month program that combines individual instruction, group exercises, and personalized feedback to provide women with the skills to assume more senior and influential roles in their careers. Collectively, over 1,100 women have graduated from this program since its launch in 2003.

Inforum has provided countless women with critical skills and training to succeed in the 21st century workforce. Its talent initiatives and programs provide targeted professional development to women of all backgrounds, including veterans and early-career women. As a result of its success, Inforum has expanded throughout Michigan to better serve its members. Today, the organization hosts additional branches in Lansing, Grand Rapids, the Saginaw/Bay City area and southwest Michigan. The growth of the Inforum Center for Leadership, along with its long track record of educating and empowering women, is a testament to the organization's success, and it is my hope that Inforum continues to effectively serve a broad range of women throughout their careers.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Inforum for its record of providing career skills and training that allows women to achieve success. Inforum provides resources and hosts a variety of programs that provide professional development for women.