Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to proudly congratulate Chief Timothy Raker on his retirement and to recognize his more than forty years of dedicated service in law enforcement. This stands as a testament to his dedication to the communities he served across multiple states and jurisdictions.

Chief Raker began his law enforcement career in 1981 with the City of Houston Police Department, where he served as a patrol officer and accident reconstructionist. In 1988, he returned home to Michigan and joined the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office as a special deputy and warrant officer.

Beyond his local responsibilities, Chief Raker also served with FEMA's Disaster Mortuary Response Team from 2000 to 2017. During that time, he assisted in the recovery and identification efforts following several major national and international disasters, including Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, and the Joplin, Missouri tornado. His work helped return loved ones to their families and provided a measure of closure during times of tragedy.

In 2017, Chief Raker joined the City of St. Clair Police Department, first as a patrol officer and later as Chief of Police. Over the past eight years, he has established the Citizens Police Academy, strengthened community engagement, and helped build the St. Clair Police Foundation initiatives.

Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere appreciation that we honor Chief Timothy Raker for his decades of service. Chief Raker's retirement marks the close of a forty-four-year career dedicated to public service. I thank him for his many contributions to public safety and wish him well in this next chapter.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Monique Kolterman, an exemplary educator whose unwavering devotion to Catholic education in the Diocese of Arlington has left a profound and lasting impact on countless students, families, and colleagues.

Monique began her service to the diocese in 2009 at Nativity Catholic School in Burke, Virginia, where she worked as an Instructional Aide. From her first days in the classroom, it was clear that she possessed a rare gift: the ability to nurture both the intellect and spirit. Her efforts helped foster a culture of academic excellence and Christ- centered formation, and she served the Nativity community with distinction until 2012.

In August 2015, Monique brought her passion and talents to St. Veronica Catholic School, joining the faculty as an Instructional Assistant for second grade. Her exceptional work, leadership, and rapport with students quickly earned her additional responsibility, and in 2019, she rose to become one of the school's lead fifth-grade teachers. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, most notably in the spring of 2023, when she enriched the school community by leading the after-school Chess Club, offering students a new outlet for strategic thinking and personal growth.

Monique's qualifications reflect not only her expertise but also her deep commitment to the vocation of teaching. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and is certified by the Virginia Catholic Education Association through the Diocese of Arlington-credentials that underscore her professional excellence and dedication to lifelong learning.

Her career in Catholic education, however, reaches even further back. Before joining the Diocese of Arlington, Monique served in a variety of instructional roles across Ohio, including as a Social Studies Teacher, Middle School English Teacher, CD Teacher and Eucharistic Minister, French Long-Term Substitute Teacher, and Learning Resource Assistant. In each role, she exemplified the same hallmarks that define her today: unwavering integrity, intellectual rigor, and a heartfelt commitment to forming young people in knowledge, character, and faith.

Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate Monique Kolterman not only for her years of devoted service but for the extraordinary example she sets. She is a teacher who inspires, a mentor who uplifts, and a servant- leader whose quiet strength has shaped the lives of all who have been blessed to know her. Her contributions to Catholic education will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, we extend our deepest gratitude to Monique--for the inspiration she provides, the steadfast leadership she has shown through trying times, and the enduring mark she leaves on the hearts and minds of so many.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to proudly recognize the Northern Macomb Regional Chamber as it marks a significant milestone, its fiftieth anniversary. This stands as a testament to five decades of dedicated service, principled leadership, and an enduring devotion to the residents, businesses, and communities of Northern Macomb County.

Originally established as the Greater Romeo-Washington Chamber of Commerce in 1975, the organization later expanded and rebranded as the Northern Macomb Regional Chamber of Commerce to better reflect its broader service area. Over the decades, it has adapted to changing economic and community needs while helping to connect businesses and stakeholders across Northern Macomb County.

For fifty years, the Northern Macomb Regional Chamber of Commerce has supported local engagement through practical business programs and community events, including ribbon cuttings, business networking opportunities, and its annual EMMA Awards. These activities reflect the Chamber's ongoing role in convening businesses and community leaders across Northern Macomb County.

Mr. Speaker, today's recognition marks an important anniversary for an organization that

has served the Northern Macomb area for five decades. On behalf of Michigan's 9th Congressional District, I congratulate the Northern Macomb Regional Chamber of Commerce on this milestone and wish it continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Harbor Beach High School football team for winning the Michigan Division 8 State championship last week.

The Harbor Beach Pirates took home their second State championship in football. Never trailing in the game, they won 31-20 at Ford Field in Detroit, and, I might add, they had a perfect 14-0 season.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Schelke and his talented young group of men on their incredible accomplishment at Ford Field. They have made Michigan's Ninth District proud. I really hope they cherish this memory and all of the hard work that they dedicated this season. I again congratulate the Harbor Beach Pirates.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Monique Kolterman for her dedicated service and steadfast commitment to Catholic education in the Diocese of Arlington.

Monique started her work in the diocese in 2009, serving as an Instructional Aide at Nativity Catholic School in Burke. For several years, she worked hard to support students' academic growth and spiritual development, serving the Nativity community until 2012.

In August 2015, Monique brought her gifts to St. Veronica Catholic School, where she was hired as an Instructional Assistant for second grade. Her dedication and excellence in the classroom quickly led to additional responsibilities, and in August 2019, she accepted a position as one of the lead teachers for fifth grade. Beyond her classroom duties, Monique further enriched student life by serving as the Chess Club Teacher for the afterschool program during the spring of 2023.

Monique holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and is certified by the Virginia Catholic Education Association through the Diocese of Arlington--credentials that demonstrate her professional training and ongoing dedication to excellence.

Her contributions to Catholic education go back even further. Prior to joining the Diocese of Arlington, Monique held various teaching roles across Ohio, including Social Studies Teacher, Middle School English Teacher, CCD Teacher and Eucharistic Minister, French Long-Term Substitute Teacher, and Learning Resource Assistant. Each role highlights her commitment to shaping young minds and hearts with knowledge, integrity, and faith.

Mr. Speaker, today we recognize Monique Kolterman not only for her many years of dedicated service but also for the example she sets for students, colleagues, and the wider community. Her unwavering commitment to education demonstrates her role as a teacher and mentor.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Denice Gerstenberg on the occasion of her retirement after more than three decades of exceptional service in municipal government. Throughout her distinguished career, Denice Gerstenberg has embodied the values of professionalism, compassion, and community commitment that define true public service.

Before joining the City of Algonac, Denice Gerstenberg devoted over twenty-six years to the City of Sterling Heights, Michigan, where she developed a deep understanding of city operations, policy development, and community engagement. Her dedication, integrity, and strong work ethic earned her the respect of colleagues, elected officials, and residents alike.

In 2017, Denice Gerstenberg accepted the position of City Manager for the City of Algonac. Bringing with her a wealth of experience and steady leadership, she guided the city through a period of continued growth and renewal.

Under her leadership, Algonac has continued to thrive as a welcoming waterfront community, a place where residents, visitors, and businesses alike can live, work, and play. Her prudent management of city finances, steadfast support for public works, and calm guidance during times of transition, both infrastructural and public health related, have left a lasting mark on the city's stability and success.

A proud graduate of the University of Michigan, Denice Gerstenberg earned both her Bachelor's Degree in Arts & Sciences and her Master's Degree in Public Health. She also holds a certification as a Professional Emergency Manager. Her academic achievement, coupled with her extensive professional experience, made her uniquely effective in connecting policy, people, and public well-being.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Denice Gerstenberg will be remembered for her integrity, compassion, and mentorship. She cultivated collaboration within City Hall, encouraged professional growth among city staff, and strengthened partnerships with community organizations and residents. Her belief in teamwork and civic engagement has left an enduring legacy in Algonac and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Denice Gerstenberg for her remarkable career and in wishing her every happiness in retirement. Her leadership, integrity, and service to the people of Michigan exemplify the best of local government and public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Joyce Skonieczny, who faithfully served her community for more than four decades as St. Clair Township Clerk. In recognition of her remarkable dedication, the Township has fittingly named the Township Hall in her honor.

Joyce began her service to the Township on January 15, 1979, as Deputy Clerk under then-Township Clerk Dan Ellis, and was appointed Township Clerk on April 2, 1980. Over

her distinguished 44-year career, she worked under ten supervisors-- from Bob Ellery, who hired her, to her son-in-law Mike Boulier, under whom she retired on November 19, 2024.

Joyce also witnessed and supported significant growth and development in the Township, including the construction of residential neighborhoods, such as Blue River Gardens, River Ridge, River Pointe Estates, Diamond Meadows, and Golfside, as well as commercial developments like the Mobil Gas Station, Love's on Wadhams Road, and the Dollar General stores on Gratiot and Range Roads. She also saw the expansion of the Township's water and sewer district from a single corridor along River Road to the many subdivisions that exist today.

Beyond her official duties, Joyce devoted herself to building community spirit. Beginning in the early 1980s and continuing until 2020, she organized and hosted a monthly senior luncheon at the Township Hall, held on the third Tuesday of each month. This cherished tradition brought neighbors together for food, fellowship, and friendship.

After 44 years of service, Joyce retired with the respect and gratitude of her community. She leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, kindness, and steadfast commitment to public service. In retirement, she continues to enjoy reading and cherishing time with family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Joyce Skonieczny for her many years of outstanding service and dedication to her community. Her name, now permanently affixed to the Township Hall, will continue to inspire future generations of public servants.

Mr. Speaker, God, I love the compassion and the passion on the other side of the aisle. Democrats are worried about taking money from families. Well, you know what? You all can do the right thing and vote ``yes.'' If not, you are the ones who are taking money from needy families, not us, because yes means we want to feed the families. We want to have SNAP programs. No means we don't fund those programs. See how simple that is? Keep on with the rhetoric. I mean, it is cute, but the American people don't buy it.

Listen, for the past 40 days, Democrats have inflicted needless pain on hardworking Americans. They stranded millions of travelers. They denied food assistance for hungry families. How did they do that? When you vote ``no'' to continue funding, that means you deny food stamps for hungry families. No means no, you don't want to pay them. Yes, like the Republicans vote, that means, yes, we do want to pay them.

Democrats left our troops wondering when they would get their next paycheck, and for what, Mr. Speaker? Democrats did that to use the American people as leverage. Don't take my word for it. Take theirs. It was leverage for more wasteful Washington spending, spending that no one other than the radical left ever wanted.

To remind the American people, Democrats wanted to waste $1.5 trillion of their hard-earned tax dollars. What did Democrats get in return? Democrats got nothing. Democrats got nothing because Republicans refused to waste the American people's money.

Democrats did not get a dime for radical climate change, not a dollar for taxpayer-funded benefits for illegals, and not one single concession to the radical far-left base.

Millions of Americans whose lives were upended by the Democratic shutdown will remember this.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding additional time.

Mr. Speaker, the American people will remember who held them hostage for petty political reasons and who fought to put America first.

Now that the shameful charade is over, House Republicans will continue our work on behalf of the American people. We will restore regular order to the appropriations process. We will continue to fulfill the mandate of the American people, and we will keep delivering results for American people because that is what we are here to do and not to play politics.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Karry Hepting, the dedicated County Administrator of St. Clair County, Michigan, who will retire at the end of this year after more than 26 years of distinguished public service.

Karry Hepting has played a central role in the effective governance of St. Clair County for over two and a half decades. A Certified Public Accountant by training, she brought not only a deep understanding of finance and operations, but also an unwavering commitment to transparency, efficiency, and service to the people of her community.

Karry Hepting began her career in St. Clair County government in the late 1990s, rising through the ranks with a reputation for diligence and fiscal expertise. She served in various key financial leadership roles before being appointed County Administrator, where she became the first woman to hold the position in the county's history.

Throughout her tenure, she oversaw significant projects such as the modernization of county infrastructure, updates to administrative systems, and the implementation of long-term strategic planning efforts.

Colleagues, elected officials, and staff throughout Michigan have come to respect Karry Hepting's professionalism, integrity, and tireless work ethic. She has set a high bar for public administration in county government and leaves behind a legacy of collaborative leadership.

Mr. Speaker, Karry Hepting's decades of leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on St. Clair County. Her steadfast commitment to good governance, fiscal responsibility, and public service has strengthened the community and inspired those around her. As she embarks on this next chapter, we offer our deepest thanks and warmest wishes for a retirement filled with joy, health, and new opportunities.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Corbishley's Men's Clothing Store, a cornerstone of downtown Bad Axe, Michigan, as it celebrates an extraordinary milestone: 150 years of continuous family ownership--a distinction achieved by only a rare few businesses in the United States.

Founded in 1876 by Charles Corbishley I, a former seaman turned mercantile clerk who found his passion in retail, Corbishley's began in Sandusky, Michigan. In 1928, the family expanded to Bad Axe, where the store weathered the Great Depression and continues to operate today--a living symbol of resilience, tradition, and community dedication.

Now led by Charles ``Charlie'' Corbishley IV, the store has remained in the Corbishley family for five generations, making it one of the longest-running, family-owned retail establishments in the nation. Charlie began working in the store at age 10 and has devoted nearly 60 years to the business. His remarkable ability to size customers by sight and his deep knowledge of menswear reflect a lifetime of craftsmanship and care.

But Corbishley's is more than a business--it is a living museum of retail and local history. From its Depression-era artifacts to original fixtures and the ever-present touch of the Corbishley family, the store stands as a cultural landmark as much as a commercial one.

In 2001, the Michigan Retailers Association honored Corbishley's as a Michigan Centennial Retailer, recognizing over 100 years of family operation. Today, it remains a rare and enduring symbol of American small-town entrepreneurship and the power of family legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 150th anniversary of family ownership at Corbishley's, applauding the Corbishley family's devotion across five generations, and honoring the values they represent: hard work, local service, and the enduring strength of family in American business.

May their legacy continue to inspire generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Blue Water Habitat for Humanity, a remarkable organization serving the people of St. Clair and Sanilac Counties with integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening our communities through the power of homeownership.

Founded on the belief that every individual deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to live, Blue Water Habitat for Humanity has never given away homes--it has built opportunities. Through its ``hand-up, not a handout'' model, it has empowered hardworking families to achieve independence by requiring sweat equity, responsible financial preparation, and a sustainable mortgage. This principled approach has helped countless families put down roots and build brighter futures.

Blue Water Habitat is a community institution. It is locally funded, locally operated, and deeply invested in the well-being of the people it serves. While affiliated with Habitat for Humanity International and Habitat Michigan, every dollar donated stays right here, supporting neighbors and revitalizing neighborhoods across Port Huron, St. Clair, and Sanilac County.

Beyond new home construction, Blue Water Habitat provides critical home repair programs, ensuring seniors, veterans, and families facing hardship can maintain safe living conditions. Its ReStore, run largely by volunteers, diverts

usable materials from landfills, offers low-cost household goods, and directly funds housing initiatives, demonstrating innovation, stewardship, and community partnership.

For 35 years, volunteers, churches, businesses, and civic organizations have come together under one mission: to build stability, dignity, and hope. Blue Water Habitat for Humanity stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community serves alongside one another in common purpose.

Mr. Speaker, on this milestone anniversary, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Blue Water Habitat for Humanity--its leadership, volunteers, donors, and partner families, for three and a half decades of faithful service. May their example continue to inspire service, personal responsibility, and the belief that stronger homes build stronger communities.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Caltha Seymour as a 2025 She Leads America Christian Woman of Distinction award recipient.

Caltha Seymour is Director of Mission Critical Power Solutions in Eaton's electrical sector, where she leads global federal sales and strategic growth initiatives for one of the

world's most trusted power management companies. Based in Washington, D.C., she directs a team responsible for government contracting, commercial sales, marketing, customer success, and strategic partnerships, ensuring reliable power solutions in mission-critical environments.

Originally from Canada, Caltha has been with Eaton for nearly a decade, serving in many leadership roles spanning new product development, product marketing, and channel management. She is a graduate of Eaton's Global Leadership Development Program and previously oversaw $262 million in distribution partner sales as the company's first National Channel Manager for Industrial Controls.

Her leadership extends far beyond business into nonprofit, cultural, and faith-based service. As co-founder and chair of Heaven to the Yeah, she empowers women in sports, championing the women's decathlon for the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane while sponsoring athletes internationally. She is a board member of Global Hope, serving vulnerable populations in Iraq and the Middle East by developing sustainable solutions for women and children. She also serves as corporate chair for Influence Women, chairs the Salvation Army Western Territory Advisory Board, contributes to Women Business Collaborative's in the Arena initiative, and advises the Cleveland Orchestra.

Guided by her deep faith in Jesus Christ, Caltha sees her work as a calling to serve with integrity, compassion, and excellence. A member of She Leads America, she is being honored in 2025 as a Christian Woman of Distinction, exemplifying faith in action across every sphere of influence.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating this outstanding woman of distinction.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Leigh-Allyn Baker as a 2025 She Leads America Young Christian Woman of Distinction award recipient.

Leigh-Allyn Baker is a beloved actress, producer, and voice-over artist, best known as ``Amy Duncan'' on Disney Channel's hit series, Good Luck Charlie. While her career spans film, television, and voice work, Leigh-Allyn is most passionate about using her platform to encourage and inspire others through her faith.

In recent years, she has become widely recognized not only for her artistry, but also for her courage to stand boldly for biblical values in today's culture. She openly shares her trust in God and her commitment to freedom and truth, addressing students on college campuses, speaking at Turning Point USA events, and encouraging her millions of followers online. With a special love for the generation that grew up watching Good Luck Charlie, she now calls Gen Z to live with conviction, resilience, and hope.

Her debut children's book, One Small Little Voice, and her new kids' series, Adventures with Iggy and Mr. Kirk, reflect her heart to inspire young people. She also stars in A Week Away: The Series on Angel Studios.

In recognition of her influence and Christ-centered leadership, Leigh-Allyn is being honored and named a Christian Woman of Distinction by She Leads America.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating this outstanding woman of distinction.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sydney Satchell as a 2025 She Leads America Young Christian Woman of Distinction award recipient.

Sydney Satchell is a trailblazer whose life and career are marked by faith, perseverance, and purpose. A proud Howard University alumni, and former Division I Lacrosse player, Sydney's journey through sport and service has been extraordinary. Just months after graduation, she faced the unimaginable when a car accident claimed her lower leg. Through resilience and determination, she went on to become a Paralympic Gold Medalist in 2025 in women's sitting volleyball and was named Best Female Libero at the 2023 ParaVolley Pan American Zonal Championships.

Her achievements have been recognized nationally. Sydney was honored as a 2023 Howard x Jordan Legacy 23 Honoree, received the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Distinguished Alumni Award in 2025, and was inducted into the Ethel Walker School Athletics Hall of Fame in 2025. In tribute to her legacy, Howard University established the Sydney Satchell Award for Perseverance, celebrating her courage and impact.

In March 2024, Sydney was ordained as a Minister, using her voice to push back darkness and bring encouragement to professionals, athletes, campuses, and organizations across the Nation. Her philanthropic work reflects her servant heart, supporting education, health, and Gospel- centered missions. Today, as a She Leads America Christian Woman of Distinction, Sydney inspires others to walk boldly in their God-given purpose with hope and strength.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating this outstanding woman of distinction.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brandi Swindell as a 2025 She Leads America Young Christian Woman of Distinction award recipient.

Brandi Swindell is an internationally recognized speaker, human rights advocate, and the Founder and CEO of Stanton Healthcare International and the Stanton Public Policy Center. For nearly 30 years, she has been a bold voice--empowering women, standing with the marginalized, and protecting human rights in the womb.

Stanton Healthcare operates accredited women's health care clinics across the United States and internationally, providing exceptional pro-life medical care, resources, and hope to women facing unexpected pregnancies. The Stanton Public Policy Center, based on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., is a women's advocacy and educational organization addressing issues of human rights and justice that inspire and equip women nationally and globally.

Brandi's public policy work includes testifying before Congress on women's pro-life health care, receiving a White House invitation to discuss the role of life-affirming clinics, and advancing legislation to protect women and the unborn.

Her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of her life and leadership. It shapes her vision, sustains her courage, and directs her pursuit of justice for the most vulnerable. In recognition of her leadership and devotion, she is being honored as a 2025 She Leads America Christian Woman of Distinction.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating this outstanding woman of distinction.