mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOSEPH SCOTT
Marc A. Veasey (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to commemorate the life and legacy of Fort Worth native Joseph Garnett Scott, otherwise affectionately known by many as ``Coach Scott'' by many in the community. prgtoken Joe was a pillar of our community and was well-known around Fort Worth as 1 of the most dapper and well-dressed men in the city. Joe was born in 1953 and was a member of New Mt. Carmel Baptist Church for many years. Joe got his education in the Fort Worth Independent School District and graduated from Polytechnic High School, where he was an all-district athlete in football and track. He would go on to earn his bachelor's degree at Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas; there, he continued a successful football career as a 3-year starter. He obtained his master's degree at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. prgtoken Joe spent many years serving our community as a teacher. He started his career in the Fort Worth Independent School District as a Physical Education teacher assistant and track coach at William James Middle School, where his team was successful and won many awards on the track. He then became a Physical Education teacher and head football, track, and soccer coach at Wedgwood Middle School, where his teams were both dominant on the field and track. He would later transition to high school as a ninth-grade English teacher and football and track coach at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School. He was known by many for having a gift for forming positive relationships with his students and athletes. prgtoken Joe's first administrative position as an Assistant Principal at Handley Middle School, where he consistently supported leadership, students, faculty, and staff. Joe then progressed to an Assistant Principal at Dunbar High School. As a high school assistant principal, his days were filled with working with students and faculty, along with attending many games and activities throughout the school year. Joe's first principalship was at Dunbar 6th Grade Center. Joe thought it was most important that the building reflected a safe, welcoming, and attractive learning environment at all times. For the next 10 years, he was fortunate enough to become principal of his alma mater, Polytechnic High School. His years as the instructional leader of the Poly Parrot Community brought years of hard work. determination, and accomplishments. After this, for the next several years, his love for fashion and style led him to work in the retail industry. Soon after, he felt a strong desire to return to the world of education as a substitute teacher and administrator, where he continued to touch many lives throughout the district. prgtoken Joe was also a family man who was a loving husband and father. He was always the life of the party, cracking jokes and enjoying whatever food had been prepared. He was also known for being a ``Master'' Gardener. He spent endless hours planting flowers and consistently maintaining a m
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION + PUBLIC SAFETY
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-8-4

as a senior member of the Congressional Black Caucus, I must shed light on the growing public safety concern regarding gun violence. prgtoken In 2022, firearm injury was the 12th leading cause of death in the United States of America. prgtoken Every day, 120 Americans are killed with guns. prgtoken And each year, hundreds of law enforcement officers lose their lives to gun violence, having been shot to death while protecting their communities. prgtoken Our government's continued lack of proactivity towards preventing gun violence has led to countless, unnecessary deaths. prgtoken Countless lives have been cut far too short, and countless families have had to experience the excruciating pain of knowing their loved one will never make it back home. prgtoken And although gun violence affects us all, I would like to highlight the disproportionate effect of gun violence on Black communities. prgtoken Black Americans are 10 times more likely than white Americans to die by gun homicide. prgtoken Black Americans are three times more likely than white Americans to be fatally shot by police. prgtoken And while Black Americans made up 12.5 percent of the United States population in 2020, they were the victims in 61 percent of all gun homicides. prgtoken According to the American Progress, ``this is due to a combination of weak gun laws; systemic racial inequities, including unequal access to safe housing and adequate educational and employment opportunities; and a history of disinvestment in public infrastructure and services in the communities of color most affected by gun violence.'' prgtoken Discriminatory and unjust policies and practices such as slavery and Jim Crow are the reason that Black communities are still struggling to overcome the inequities in our society today. prgtoken Time and time again our country has forced Black Americans to pay the price for its sins, causing countless lives to be lost in the process. prgtoken Instead of acknowledging this public safety concern, our government continues to choose to remain ignorant, crafting a narrative of a war on the Second Amendment. prgtoken So, allow me to be clear: I support the Second Amendment. prgtoken But I will not sit idly by and hear the abuse of the far right's interpretation of the Second Amendment. prgtoken In June 2022, the Supreme Court took a radical step when it ruled in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. V. Bruen that the right to carry a weapon or self-defense extends to outside the home. prgtoken In this case, plaintiffs challenged the 100-year old New York state handgun licensing law requiring individuals to show proper cause before they can be licensed to carry a concealed weapon in public. prgtoken The Court ultimately ruled New York's concealed carry law unconstitutional, extending the right to own a gun for self-defense in the home to exist outside the home as well. prgtoken This decision altered the well-established test for evaluating gun sa
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
David J. Trone (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2023-8-4

on June 22, 2023, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``NAY'' on rollcall No. 285. prgtoken I strongly oppose H. Res. 529, a resolution to refer H. Res. 503 from the House floor to the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on the Judiciary. That resolution impeaches President for high crimes and misdemeanors relating to actions taken that involve immigration and the southern border. President continues to lead with integrity and has done more than any other President to combat substance use disorder and address the mental health crisis. In the absence of Congressional action, I have been heartened to work with the Administration to make significant and meaningful reforms to address the immigration challenges facing our Nation. Rather than consider legislation that is purely politically driven, it is my hope that we get back to the serious work of legislating on the real issues our country faces. for the People. prgtoken I also would have voted ``NAY'' on rollcall No. 286. I strongly oppose H. Res. 461. condemning the use of elementary and secondary school facilities to provide shelter for aliens who are not admitted to the United States. Migrants deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, and I commend anyone who follows the Golden Rule and finds shelter for those most in need.
HONORING THOMAS (TOMMY) CHRISTOPHER CHATMON, JR.
Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to recognize, a dedicated servant leader, seasoned business executive, faithful civil rights activist, great strategic thinker, loving husband, committed father, and friend of longstanding, Thomas (Tommy) Christopher Chatmon, Jr. Sadly, Tommy transitioned this life from labor to reward on July 22, 2023. A homegoing service celebrating his remarkable life will be held on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at The Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. prgtoken Thomas (Tommy) Chistopher Chatmon, Jr was born in Albany, Georgia, on December 19, 1954, the third of 5 children to the late Thomas C. Chatmon, Sr and Alma Chatmon. Raised in a God-fearing family, he became a member of Bethel AME Church, where he was a lifelong member and sang in the choir. His first fruits of education came as a student at the Hazard Laboratory School for Primary Education and St. Teresa's Catholic School in Albany. Tommy was also a product of the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Albany High School in 1972. Tommy made history while at Albany High School, becoming the marching band's first African American drum major. His love of music continued, and he delayed college after graduating with honors to travel with a band called Eden from 1968 to 1974. prgtoken In 1974, Tommy followed in his father's footsteps by attending our Alma Mater, Morehouse College. He graduated from Morehouse in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in political science. One of Tommy's proudest moments at Morehouse was when he was selected to serve as a U.S. Congressional Intern, in the office of United States Congresswoman Cardiss Hortense Collins. prgtoken After graduating from Morehouse, Tommy returned to his hometown roots in Albany to operate a family-owned business, Chatmon's Beauty Supply, Inc. He was a great strategic entrepreneur and as Chief Operating Officer for 17 years, he helped grow the family business to 10 retail locations in 4 different states. prgtoken Tommy's professional career also took him to work as the District Manager for the Georgia Census Bureau in 1980. In 1984, he was the Campaign Manager for Standup Strain's bid for Dougherty County Sheriff. Tommy cemented his bonafides during this time as a deeply respected political figure and social activist, once again following in the footsteps of his father; who had been active in the Albany Civil Rights Movement. prgtoken In 1998, when leaders in Albany decided to revitalize the city's downtown area by forming Albany Tomorrow, Inc Tommy was selected to serve as its Executive Director. Forever a visionary and forward thinker, he was able to bring people and projects together for downtown to include the Hilton Garden Inn, The Flint River Aquarium, The Ray Charles Plaza, Turtle Grove Park, SKATE Park, The Albany Law Enforcement Center and Police Headquarters, Department of Human Resources Administrative Building, The Central Square, The Science Discovery Child
HONORING THE LIFE OF WARREN ZAHNER
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to honor the loss of a quiet force for good in Eastern Connecticut, Dr. Warren Zahner of Ellington. Aged 72, Mr. Zahner passed away sadly but peacefully on June 30, 2023. prgtoken Born April, 1951 to Emanuel and Clara Zahner in Hartford, Connecticut, Warren was raised with a strong work ethic and a caring heart. Upon graduating high school, he chose the healing profession of dentistry as his career path, which is a demanding course that required both hard work and empathy for others. A diligent student at the University of Connecticut, he graduated in 1976 and completed a residency at the prestigious Hartford Hospital the following year. prgtoken Dentistry was not just his life bread and butter, but his passion as a medium to serve the broader community. For 43 years, until 2019, the quality of his work was admired and appreciated by thousands of his patients, and all of his peers in health care in Ellington and northeast Connecticut The Town of Ellington is situated midway between the University of Connecticut and his hometown of Hartford, the perfect spot for Warren to settle in and grow his practice and his family. Over time, he decided to give back to his profession that provided him so much in life by joining the faculty at UConn as a clinical instructor. prgtoken Throughout his years, Warren always prioritized the relationships he met along the way--between his family, his clientele and staff, in his volunteer capacities and as a leader within his community of faith. He was also known to export his caring skills abroad by regularly volunteering in a Haitian dental clinic. After his retirement, Warren continued serving his community by joining the ranks of the Midwest Food Bank, working as a coordinator for the organization. prgtoken , often it is those who don't seek the limelight who are the most willing to really dedicate their time toward helping others. Doctor Zahner was one of those good people. Speaking personally, it was an honor to know Warren as a neighbor and patient. We mourn his loss but have faith that the large family which both he and his wife Bonnie have raised, including their four children Michael Shawn Jonathan and Elisa and 14 grandchildren, will greatly extend the length of his memory. Now that he has left this world, we can also find solace in that he has been met by one of his greatest longings, to reunion with his young, late son David Aaron Zahner. prgtoken , I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring Warren Zahner.
HONORING SISAY SENBET
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise to congratulate Sisay Senbet on receiving the Tom Miller Advocacy Award for his outstanding work and self-advocacy in Didlake's AbilityOne Program, a federal program that creates employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. prgtoken Sisay immigrated to the District of Columbia from Ethiopia in 2010 and started working for Didlake as a custodian at the Pentagon in 2012. In 2015, he started working the night shift so he could enroll in college. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2019. prgtoken Shortly after obtaining his college degree, Sisay was promoted to Site Safety and Health Officer. In his new role, he conducted work inspections and trained new employees in the proper use of safety equipment. Last September, he was promoted to Lead Worker and is now responsible for coordinating and leading the Pentagon custodial crew's day-to-day-operations. prgtoken In his spare time, Sisay volunteers at his community library, teaching classes and tutoring other individuals with disabilities. In particular, he helps people with visual impairments use screen reading software to access digital information. prgtoken , I ask the House of Representatives to recognize Sisay Senbet, whose life and career are a source of inspiration for both immigrants and individuals with disabilities.
IN RECOGNITION OF THE 2023 LUZERNE COUNTY SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
Matt Cartwright (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2023-8-4

today I recognize the 2023 Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame inductees. This year's class of sports superstars includes multiple All-American athletes, high school and collegiate hall-of-fame inductees, an iconic broadcaster, a dedicated official, and more. prgtoken Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. prgtoken This year's inductees include: prgtoken Richard J. Callahan, sports broadcaster prgtoken Scott Davis, athlete--baseball and wrestling prgtoken Eugene S. Domzalski, athlete and coach--baseball prgtoken William J. Downey, sports official prgtoken Jamie Kauczka Esgro, athlete--basketball prgtoken Marsha Krysiewski Hanson, athlete--swimming, track and field and field hockey prgtoken Joseph J. Hasay, athlete--basketball prgtoken Jim Hill, coach--baseball prgtoken Joanne McComb, athlete and coach--baseball and basketball prgtoken Rebecca Mack McGraw, athlete--track and field prgtoken Joseph M. O'Hara, DVM, athlete--water polo, swimming, and volleyball prgtoken Katlin A. O'Hara, DPM, athlete--swimming, water polo, and track and field prgtoken Michael J. Papi, athlete--baseball prgtoken James J. Stehle, athlete--baseball prgtoken Amy Viti, athlete--track and field and cross country prgtoken Ninaleigh Stratton Wozniak, athlete and coach--swimming, softball and volleyball prgtoken Each person honored has made local sports history through their outstanding feats of athletic achievement, broadcasting, refereeing, or by leading their teams to victory as coaches. They have left an indelible mark on regional athletics, and I am pleased to celebrate their contributions to our sports communities in Northeastern Pennsylvania. prgtoken It is an honor to recognize these 16 talented individuals on their induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May their stories and impressive careers inspire the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.
CELEBRATING THE FIRST ANNUAL LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE DAY
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2023-8-8

I rise today to congratulate the town of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire for hosting the first ever Lake Winnipesaukee Day celebration. Lake Winnipesaukee is 1 of the treasures of our state, a recreation and tourism hub, and an economic driver for the entire region. Above all, it is a precious natural resource and habitat that we must continue to protect and preserve for generations to come. With proceeds benefiting advocacy groups fighting to preserve the quality of the lake, Lake Winnipesaukee Day is a shining example of Wolfeboro's commitment to keeping Lake Winnipesaukee clean and healthy for years to come. prgtoken The Lake Winnipesaukee Day celebration brings together 8 different non-profit climate advocacy organizations to educate visitors and highlight the importance of climate action and preservation in the Lake Winnipesaukee region. The celebration's live laser shows, food, drinks, games, and music have worked to create an engaging local space that will serve as both an opportunity and prominent platform for climate groups to advocate and educate. New Hampshire's way of life is rooted in our natural surroundings, and it is the responsibility of each and every 1 of us to ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits and beauty of our natural environment. I sincerely commend Wolfeboro's work to raise awareness and forge an impassioned, strong community of well-informed citizens, and I look forward to many more Lake Winnipesaukee Day celebrations in the future. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to congratulate the Town of Wolfeboro for its dedication to the protection of Lake Winnipesaukee, and the work it has done to educate and advocate for climate change action. I am proud to represent residents of Wolfeboro in Congress, and I can't wait to see the success of this celebration in the years to come.
HONORING MS. JACQULYN SAUNDERS
Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2023-8-8

I rise today to recognize an outstanding musician, dedicated educator, committed community servant, and dear friend of longstanding, Ms. Jacqulyn Saunders. She will be honored at the Chancel Choir's 60th Anniversary Gospel Concert at First Missionary Baptist Church of Thomasville, Georgia, on Sunday, August 6th, 2023. prgtoken Jacqulyn Saunders has used her life's work to help others to reach their full potential through music, theater, and education. It has been said that ``Service is the rent that we pay for the space that we occupy here on this Earth.'' Ms. Saunders has paid her rent, and she has paid it well. Ms. Saunders graduated from Morris Brown College in 1973 with a B.A. degree in English. During her matriculation at Morris Brown, she was initiated into the sisterhood of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority Inc which makes her a Golden Soror. She was also a member of the Morris Brown College Wolverine Marching Band. prgtoken Her love of knowledge and learning took her academic pursuits to the University of Georgia, Valdosta State College, (now University) Walden University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she received her M.S. in Counseling Education in 1988. prgtoken Ms. Saunders has had a long and storied career as an educator that began in 1973. She has served in many roles during her professional career to include, instructor of English and Social Studies, English Language and Literature instructor, instructor of English Communications, Career Advisor Coordinator/Career Advisor, Counselor/ Teacher, Upward Bound Counselor, Student Support Team and 504 Coordinator, 9th and 10th Grade Counselor and PK-5 Counselor. Her professional stops during her educational journey have included Brooks County Junior High School, Thomas County, Turn Around School, The University of Wisconsin, Thomas County Central High School, Thomas University, Thomasville High School, and J.K. Harper Elementary School. Ms. Saunders had a brief respite from her educational career from 1984- 86 where she served in several roles at National Savings and Trust Bank in Washington, D.C. But she quickly returned to her first love of education. prgtoken A wonderful woman of God, Ms. Saunders served as church musician for Ochlocknee and Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Churches from 1959-69. From 1959 through the present, she has served as a church musician for Mercy Seat Christian and First Missionary Baptist Churches. She also has been a member of the acclaimed Georgia Mass Choir since 1981. prgtoken In addition, she has expanded her horizons in the performing arts by appearing in the 1996 movie, ``The Preacher's Wife,'' which starred Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, and she also appeared in the Broadway play ``Why Do Good Girls Like Bad Boys?'' She has also broadened her horizons by traveling and participating in an international tour of France, England, Spain, and Italy. prgtoken Amidst all her other activities, she has a