E640 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 16, 2017 and more to pray after the 35W bridge col- Maina, Esther Galvez, Nguyet Phan, Milton After his tenure at CPLC ended, Pete went lapse in Minneapolis. Alexi Guerrero, Lowel Alabastro Recososa, on to be a successful philanthropist in his ‘‘re- Reverend Chemberlin also had the honor of Carl Recososa, Manuel Miranda, and Manuel tirement.’’ He started a whole new foundation being the 25th President of the National Coun- Pena. focused on educational opportunities for un- cil of Churches from 2009 to 2011. She was Although each individual has sought to be- derserved students, which he named the Vic- the first Minnesotan and the fourth woman to come a citizen of the United States for his or toria Foundation in honor of his own mother. hold that position. The NCC has been a lead- her own reasons, be it for education, occupa- From 2008–2017 Peter raised more than $4 ing force in increasing collaboration among tion, or to offer their loved ones better lives, million to enable students to attend ASU, UA, various Christian groups throughout the United each is inspired by the fact that the United NAU GCU, Maricopa County Community Col- States. States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln de- leges and several out of state schools. The Reverend Chemberlin has also been the re- scribed it, a country ‘‘. . . of the people, by the foundation offered scholarships to 80 commu- cipient of numerous awards, including former people, and for the people.’’ They realize that nity college students, 60 university students, Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson’s Woman of the United States is truly a free nation. By and 4 medical school students. Pete also Excellence award in 1994, the NOVA (Non- seeking American citizenship, they have made raised money through the Victoria Foundation Violent Alternatives) Peace and Justice Award the decision that they want to live in a place to provide 300 bikes for inner city youths, presented by St. Cloud State University, and where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment stockings to the elderly at Christmas, and to Angel of Reconciliation award from Unity Bap- of the Constitution, they can practice religion provide turkey dinners to veterans on Thanks- tist Church. as they choose, speak their minds without fear giving. After 21 years, Rev. Peg Chemberlin has of punishment, and assemble in peaceful pro- Pete leaves behind a legacy of generosity, chosen to retire. Twenty-one years of mobi- test should they choose to do so. advocacy, and hard work. Arizona is grateful lizing faith communities to engage in civic mat- Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask you and my for his contributions to our community, May his ters, strengthening ties within different reli- other distinguished colleagues to join me in memory be a blessing to his friends and fam- gious denominations, and emphasizing the im- congratulating these individuals who became ily. citizens of the United States of America on portance of welcoming refugees to our nation. f Through her accomplishments, she has ex- May 12, 2017. They, too, are American citi- celled in bringing to life MCC’s mission to zens, and they, too, are guaranteed the in- RECOGNIZING AMINAH AL-JABER manifest unity in the church and to build the alienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit common good in the world. of happiness. We, as a free and democratic HON. KEN BUCK I commend Rev. Peg Chemberlin, and all nation, congratulate them and welcome them. OF COLORADO she has done for the state of Minnesota. I f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES want to thank her for her dedication and serv- IN MEMORIAM PETE GARCIA Tuesday, May 16, 2017 ice in creating interfaith connections and a Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- safe atmosphere for people of all faith commu- HON. KYRSTEN SINEMA ognize Aminah Al-Jaber for her hard work and nities. OF ARIZONA dedication to the people of Colorado’s Fourth f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES District as an intern in my Washington, D.C. IN HONOR OF NEW CITIZENS Tuesday, May 16, 2017 office for the Spring of 2017. The work of this young woman has been Ms. SINEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to exemplary, and I know she has a bright future. recognize a community leader, a U.S. Army HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY She served as a tour guide, interacted with OF INDIANA veteran, a native Arizonan and a tireless advo- constituents, and learned a great deal about cate for economic, racial and social justice. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES our nation’s legislative process. I was glad to Pete Garcia is truly an Arizona legend and his Tuesday, May 16, 2017 be able to offer this educational opportunity, contributions to our community will live on for and look forward to seeing her build her ca- Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with generations to come. reer in public service. great pleasure and sincerity that I take this Pete volunteered for the U.S. Army in 1962 Aminah plans to continue pursuing her de- time to congratulate thirty individuals who took and served in Germany. After his honorable gree at the end of this internship. I wish her their oaths of citizenship on Friday, May 12, discharge, he worked for the U.S. Postal Serv- the best as she pursues her career path. Mr. 2017. This memorable occasion, presided ice while putting himself through Phoenix Col- Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Aminah over by Magistrate Judge Andrew P. lege. Rodovich, was held at the United States Pete worked for many non-profit organiza- Al-Jaber for her service the last several Courthouse and Federal Building in Ham- tions in Phoenix including Phoenix Job Corps, months to the people of Colorado’s 4th district. mond, Indiana. Valle del Sol, and perhaps most notably, Chi- f America is a country founded by immi- canos Por La Causa (CPLC). Under his lead- RECOGNIZING PICNIC CAFE´ AND grants. From its beginning, settlers have come ership at CPLC, the organization’s operating DESSERTERY from countries around the world to the United budget grew from $3 million to over $60 mil- States in search of better lives for their fami- lion. In 2008 it was named the second largest HON. DOUG COLLINS lies. Oath ceremonies are a shining example Hispanic non-profit in the United States by OF GEORGIA of what is so great about the United States of Hispanic Business Magazine. During his ten- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES America—that people from all over the world ure as President and CEO of the organization can come together and unite as members of he received numerous awards and recogni- Tuesday, May 16, 2017 a free, democratic nation. These individuals tion, including being invited to participate in Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I realize that nowhere else in the world offers a the Ditchley Foundation Conference in the rise today to recognize the success of a small better opportunity for success than here in United Kingdom three times. He was selected business in Dahlonega, Georgia in honor of America. as a Johnson Fellow, named an AARP Inspire Small Business Week. The Picnic Cafe´ and On May 12, 2017, the following people, rep- award recipient, received the Cesar E. Chavez Dessertery, owned and operated by Sam and resenting many nations throughout the world, Leadership Institute legacy award, Pioneer in Julia Norton, has been serving Dahlonega took their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, In- Excellence by Local Initiatives Support Cor- residents and tourists coffee, sweets, and diana: Xuezhe Wang, Jyoti Awasthi, Jovan poration (LISC) and ‘‘One of the Valley’s Most lunchtime favorites since 2001. Bujaroski, Karen Jazmin Flores Martinez, Influential People’’ by the Phoenix Business The Picnic Cafe´ and Dessertery, often times Amane Seid Djoubar, Rosa Brisco, Hilda Alva- Journal, among many others. simply called ‘‘Picnic’’ by its regulars, has won rez, Mario Alqraini, Emmanuel Chigozie Pete was a dedicated husband to Sarah multiple awards for its food and desserts. Its Chijioke, Ayodeji Ekundayo, Thiola Makhiwa and a devoted father to Daniel, Hilario, and place on the Dahlonega town square brings a Moyo, Andy Dai Nguyen, Gerson David Plaza, Illana. He was also a grandfather to Brenna, warm and welcome presence to the center of Julio Rolando Plaza Jr., John Michael Morgan, Pete, Leila and Alya. In his spare one of the South’s best small towns, as hailed Prejmak, Bianca Yasmin Rafidia Vargas, time he enjoyed coaching his children’s Little by Southern Living magazine. From college Omar Awad Sobih, Alma Valencia, Jafar Ziad League teams, playing basketball, and playing students to cadets to tourists bound for the Thawabi, Klimentina Suleska, Maria Patricia with his own kids as well as other neighbor- Appalachians, the Picnic Cafe´ offers guests a Quezada, Josselyn Russell, Cece Mumbi hood children. chance to rest and be refreshed.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:27 May 17, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K16MY8.004 E16MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with REMARKS May 16, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E641 Mr. and Mrs. Norton have called Dahlonega area. He was also heavily involved in the Yp- restored with the support of the Kresge Foun- home for years, and their love for the town is silanti community, serving as a member of the dation and Renaissance, and later at evident in the passion with which they run local Kiwanis Club and spearheading several the , which was formally their business. The Picnic Cafe´ has employed of the organization’s outreach efforts and re- opened on April 21, 1996 with a performance dozens of college students and Dahlonega maining involved with its committees. by the great tenor Luciano Pavarotti. residents, providing the Lumpkin County com- As the first African-American Postmaster in Dr. DiChiera’s impact extends beyond his munity with jobs and students with work expe- Ypsilanti, Mr. Eaglin dedicated his life and ca- building of this important institution. He has rience. reer effectively served the public while helping been a vital center of gravity for arts and cul- Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the to break down barriers. In addition to his pio- ture in and around the City of Detroit. He has Nortons’ commitment to their small business, neering career as Ypsilanti’s postmaster, Mr. been committed to nurturing and showcasing and, in the spirit of Small Business Week, Eaglin was well-known as a kind, caring indi- the broad diversity of talent in opera, some- thank them for their dedication to serving the vidual whose service to the Ypsilanti commu- thing which he viewed from the inception of people of Dahlonega. I am looking forward to nity was instrumental to making the city a Opera Theatre as central to its mis- my next visit to the Picnic Cafe´ to see what’s great place to live and work. In addition to his sion. ‘‘Building bridges into the community was new on the menu, and wish the Norton family career as Ypsilanti’s Postmaster, Mr. Eaglin a primary mission,’’ he said in the Theatre’s continued success. volunteered for years with St. John’s Catholic blog, ‘‘making sure that the African American f Church, the Housing Bureau of Seniors and community, the majority of Detroit’s popu- several local hospitals. His legacy of public lation, was represented on the stage.’’ In addi- RECOGNIZING JAMES HICKS service, as well as his upbeat and friendly atti- tion to producing works which reflect the Afri- tude, made him a beloved figure in the com- can American experience such as Porgy and HON. RODNEY DAVIS munity, and he will be missed. Bess and Tremonisha, the Michigan Opera OF ILLINOIS Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Theatre commissioned and produced the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in honoring Simon Eaglin, Ypsilanti’s former world premiere of Margaret Garner, based on Postmaster and community leader. Mr. Eaglin Tuesday, May 16, 2017 the novel Beloved written by Nobel Laureate went above and beyond to serve the city and Toni Morrison. Ms. Morrison wrote the libretto Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speak- its residents during his life. for Margaret Garner, and the production er, I rise today to recognize a man who has f starred famed mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves. dedicated his life to protecting and educating Dr. DiChiera has ensured that Michigan Opera the public. James Hicks will be retiring this PAYING TRIBUTE TO DR. DAVID Theatre has performed works reflecting the May from the Pana Fire Department after 45 DICHIERA rich cultural fabric of Metro Detroit, including years of service. the Armenian opera Anoush, King Roger and During his career with the fire department, HON. SANDER M. LEVIN The Haunted Castle, which celebrate the re- James pioneered an Explorer Post, which he OF MICHIGAN gion’s Polish community, an opera based on led for 34 years. This program allows youth IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the life of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, and and young adults become involved with and Tuesday, May 16, 2017 The Passenger, an opera about the Holo- learn more about firefighting and fire re- caust. sponder careers. Under James’ leadership, Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay In addition to founding, building, and leading many of the explorers were inspired to protect tribute to Dr. David DiChiera, who is retiring , Dr. DiChiera is a their communities and become firefighters. from the Michigan Opera Theatre. While he noted composer as well. In further tribute to Hicks has also worked to keep the area began his distinguished and impassioned ca- him, the Michigan Opera Theatre is featuring schools informed on fire prevention techniques reer in California, he became known in Michi- this month Dr. DiChiera’s full-length opera, Cy- and spent many hours volunteering with the gan and beyond as Mr. Opera. He is retiring rano, based on Edmond Rostand’s timeless Pana Ambulance Service as an Emergency from the Michigan Opera Theatre, which he play, Cyrano de Bergerac. Medical Technician. founded in 1971 and which he served as Gen- Mr. Speaker, like innumerable opera I am honored to recognize Mr. Hicks and eral Director and Artistic Director. After com- aficionados, I know that David DiChiera has wish him all the best in his retirement. pleting his undergraduate studies in musical brought boundless joy to experienced opera f composition at UCLA, David DiChiera contin- lovers while helping to create countless new ued his scholarship in Italy on a Fulbright ones. Along the way, he has nurtured young IN RECOGNITION OF SIMON scholarship, and returned to UCLA to join the artists and has ensured that the Michigan EAGLIN FOR HIS LIFETIME OF faculty and to complete his PhD in musi- Opera Theatre reflects the diversity of the SERVICE TO THE YPSILANTI cology. In 1962, Dr. DiChiera was recruited to community it serves. Dr. DiChiera built an en- COMMUNITY join the faculty at as a pro- during institution in Michigan Opera Theatre, fessor. He later became chairman of music at and in so doing, he has established himself as HON. DEBBIE DINGELL the university. one of Metro Detroit’s true treasures. I encour- OF MICHIGAN While at Oakland University, Dr. DiChiera age my colleagues to join me in congratulating IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES created ‘‘Overture to Opera,’’ a program fea- and thanking much beloved Dr. David turing local opera singers which brought opera Tuesday, May 16, 2017 DiChiera for the immeasurable contribution he to communities throughout Michigan, and has made to the arts in Metro Detroit and far Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to which planted the seeds for the creation of beyond. recognize Simon Eaglin, a prominent commu- Michigan Opera Theatre. As Dr. DiChiera ex- f nity leader who served Ypsilanti throughout his plained in an interview, ‘‘I would cast the won- life. Mr. Eaglin served as Postmaster General derful local singers who otherwise had limited HONORING THE 52ND for the Ypsilanti area for over two decades opportunities . . . we started taking this pro- ANNIVERSARY OF HEAD START and provided impactful leadership to many gram to community centers—every year, I local organizations and causes. took it to The War Memorial and area schools. HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK Born in 1917, Mr. Eaglin moved to Ypsilanti This was all throughout the 1960s. Then, in OF NEW YORK during the Second World War to work at the 1970, I thought it was time to do a full-length IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Willow Run Bomber Plant and aid the United opera, and to create the beginnings of an States’ war effort. After the end of the war, Mr. opera company.’’ Tuesday, May 16, 2017 Eaglin became a radiation control technician It is important to keep in mind the backdrop Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to at the medical center for Dr. DiChiera’s efforts to create an opera honor and recognize the Head Start organiza- while working to complete his college degree company in Detroit. By 1971, when Michigan tion on its 52nd Anniversary. at Eastern Michigan University. He was then Opera Theatre was established, the city itself Since its establishment, Head Start has named as the Ypsilanti Post Office’s Post- was experiencing a major loss of population been working to serve the country’s most vul- master in 1964, a position he served until his and many people were skeptical that this en- nerable families. In addition to working with or- retirement in 1988. Mr. Eaglin was known for deavor could succeed. But Michigan Opera ganizations that provide learning, nutrition and his efficient leadership in ensuring prompt de- Theatre not only succeeded, it thrived—first at general health assistance for children, Head livery of mail and packages in the Ypsilanti the Music Hall in downtown Detroit which was Start has also helped to provide training, job

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