Yvette Clarke: “As the 111th Congress comes to an end, it is with deep sadness that I come to the floor to wish a fond farewell to…”

“As the 111th Congress comes to an end, it is with deep sadness that I come to the floor to wish a fond farewell to several members of the Congressional Black Caucus who will not be moving to the 112th Congress. These members, Congresswoman Carolyn Kilpatrick, Congresswoman Diane Watson, Congressman Kendrick Meek, and Congressman Artur Davis will be sorely missed. Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, AKA ``Auntie,'' as I affectionately called her, has been a friend and mentor throughout my service in Congress. A proud native of Detroit, Congresswoman Kilpatrick has led a long and distinguished career in public service. Before her service in the Michigan State House and later in Congress, she enriched the lives of young people as an educator. Throughout her tenure in the House of Representatives, Congresswoman Kilpatrick has consistently supported the development of minority businesses and brought numerous projects to her home State as an appropriator. Also leaving us will be Congresswoman Diane Watson, who was also a mentor, who I affectionately have referred to as ``Lady Di'' due to her grace and elegance.”