mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
PASSING IMMIGRATION REFORM
Donald G. Davis (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2023-5-22

I traveled to the southern border to witness the challenges firsthand. prgtoken First and foremost, I thank the Brownsville port of entry field operation officers and Border Patrol agents at the central processing center in McAllen for working around the clock to ensure our Nation is secure. prgtoken While in Texas, I witnessed a drug bust, asylum seekers, and an unaccompanied minor in detention. I heard about the strain on the men and women fighting to keep our citizens safe. prgtoken , one officer told me you could double the workforce tomorrow, and there would still be plenty of work. prgtoken These workers are doing more with less, so we must ensure they have the technology, infrastructure, and recruitment tools to help secure our border most effectively. prgtoken Immigration reform must be safe, orderly, and humane.
RECOGNIZING LEAH PEER
Jason Crow (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2023-5-22

I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Leah Peer, Founder and Music Director of Kol Nashim, the Women's Choir of the Colorado Hebrew Chorale. prgtoken Leah founded Kol Nashim in the fall of 2013 with the mission to preserve, promote, and celebrate the Jewish experience through song by performing with and for diverse audiences. In 2014, Kol Nashim performed its first benefit concert to raise awareness for women in need and has since continued to spread its dual message of presenting Jewish music while expressing the life experience of women. prgtoken A notable history with music, Leah is an active performing pianist and has established several chamber ensembles around the U.S. Additionally, she holds a Master of Music in piano performance from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York and a Bachelor of Music in piano performance from the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem, Israel. prgtoken Leah is a teacher, leader, and musician. Her dedication to music is apparent and undoubtedly led to the beautiful cultivation of her art. I want to congratulate Leah on her many accomplishments as we celebrate 10 years of Kol Nashim.
HONORING JAIME CARRANZA
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-5-22

I rise today to honor the work and service of Jaime Carranza, a senior warehouseman for the Anaheim Union High School District who was recently recognized as one of nine California Classified Employee of the Year honorees. prgtoken For the past five years, Jaime has been an integral part of the Anaheim Union High School District. Students and faculty alike know that Jaime goes above and beyond to ensure that all students are supported in their education and in their lives. As senior warehouseman for Food Services, Jaime ensures that all of the Anaheim Union High Schools are able to provide kids with healthy meals, safe campuses and transportation, and a supportive infrastructure during difficulties and unexpected changes. Known for his friendliness, expertise, and willingness to assist others, Jaime is the first person his colleagues call when they need help. prgtoken For his work and dedication to our community, Jaime won the award for top classified employee in the Food and Nutrition Services category. He was selected for this honor from a state-wide pool of 151 nominees. He was distinguished by his exemplary work performance, involvement in his campus and the Anaheim community, and the support of his colleagues. prgtoken I thank Jaime for his service to Anaheim's students.
HONORING UNITED STATES NAVY AIRBORNE EARLY WARNING SQUADRON ONE
Frank J. Mrvan (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2023-5-22

it is with sincere admiration and the utmost respect that I rise to recognize the outstanding group of individuals who comprised the United States Navy Airborne Early Warning Squadron One (designated VW-1). For their courage in the face of danger and their commitment to defending their fellow service members, these brave individuals are to be commended. prgtoken In 1944, recognizing the need for early warning radar and aircraft to protect the United States Naval Fleet from attack by identifying ships and low-flying aircraft, the United States Navy launched its first program aimed at minimizing the impact on our military and its operations. As the program evolved, in June 1952, Airborne Early Warning Squadron One was established and initially located at Naval Air Station Barbers Point, in the then Territory of Hawaii. Soon after, a permanent detachment of VW-1 was established in the Western Pacific, providing heavy airborne early warning coverage and participating in the Korean War. After relocating to Naval Air Station Agana, Guam, Mariana Islands, in 1957, VW-1 took on additional roles, and in 1961, was tasked with weather reconnaissance. This increased focus on identifying hazardous weather conditions included the addition of 6 meteorologists and 18 aerographers, as well as new technological equipment. During 1961 alone, VW-I flew more than 1,000 hours of weather reconnaissance, thus identifying the squadron as the ``Typhoon Trackers.'' prgtoken Through its valiant efforts, VW-1 provided airborne early warning support and protection for the U.S. Seventh Fleet during the Vietnam War, from 1964 through 1971. Their mission was to fly north of the DMZ in the Gulf of Tonkin, providing airborne protection for the Seventh Fleet, which was operating below the DMZ. VW-1 was responsible for alerting the Seventh Fleet against enemy attacks and dangerous storms while also providing radar surveillance for air strikes over North Vietnam. prgtoken From 1964 through 1967, VW-1 was based in the Philippines for an extended airborne mission time of 18 hours. These missions were often extended beyond the aircraft's fuel range, requiring them to refuel at Da Nang Air Base in the Republic of Vietnam before returning to base. In late 1967, a detachment was established at Chu Lai in the Republic of Vietnam but later moved to Da Nang Air Base in order to shorten the mission time. prgtoken From its establishment in June 1952 until July 1971, at which time the unit was absorbed into VQ-1, VW-1 completed its mission with an astonishing record of 19 years of accident-free flights, totaling more than 160,000 flight hours. For its efforts, VW-1 was twice awarded the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation. Individually, aircrew members have also received more than 1,200 Air Medals and 2 Purple Hearts, both of which were awarded for injuries sustained in Southeast Asia. prgtoken , at this time, I ask you and my other distinguished colle
HONORING THE 55TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE USS SCORPION'S DISAPPEARANCE
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-5-22

I rise today to honor the 55th anniversary of the tragic loss of the USS Scorpion and its crew of 99. On this solemn occasion, we remember the valiant submariners who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our great Nation. prgtoken The USS Scorpion, a distinguished vessel within the Skipjack-class of nuclear-powered submarines, disappeared on May 22, 1968, during a deployment in the Atlantic Ocean. It took several months to locate its remains, and despite multiple investigations from the Department of Defense, we may never know what truly resulted in this steep loss to our Nation's fighting force. This somber event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks and sacrifices associated with submarine operations, and the bravery of Americans who step up to serve underseas in the Silent Service. prgtoken The USS Scorpion was a vessel that symbolized American strength, technological prowess, and the courageous spirit of our servicemen. It was manned by a highly skilled and dedicated crew who embarked on perilous missions in defense of our Nation. As we honor the 55th anniversary of the USS Scorpion's disappearance, let us reaffirm our commitment to the safety, readiness, and well-being of our submariners. We must ensure that those who choose to serve are equipped with the resources, training, and support necessary to carry out their vital missions. prgtoken , the USS Scorpion crew's unwavering dedication to duty and defending our Nation overseas deserves our eternal gratitude. We must continue to remember their legacy. To that end, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the 55th anniversary of the loss of the USS Scorpion and etching the sacrifice of its 99 servicemembers into our collective memory.
COMMEMORATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DR. NICHOLAS BALABKINS
Susan Wild (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2023-5-22

I rise today to commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Nicholas Balabkins of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. prgtoken Dr. Balabkins was born in 1926 in Latvia and immigrated to the United States after World War II where he received his master's and doctorate degrees in economics. prgtoken For decades, Dr. Balabkins was a staple of the Lehigh University community, known for his ready smile and colorful bow ties and recognized by awards for his teaching excellence. prgtoken He wrote a dozen books and published over 40 professional economics articles, earning worldwide recognition for his work. prgtoken Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Dr. Balabkins received the highest civilian honor from his home country of Latvia: Order of the Three Stars. prgtoken Dr. Balabkins will be remembered as an extraordinary professor, neighbor, colleague, and friend. We honor his lifelong dedication to shaping the lives of the students who were lucky enough to pass through his classroom.
THE CLOCK IS TICKING
Jennifer L. McClellan (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2023-5-22

the GOP continues to hold the American economy hostage unless their extreme ransom note is met. However, the June 1 deadline is fast approaching, and progress must be made in negotiations. prgtoken The debt ceiling will be reached 10 days from now. If s keep up their brinkmanship and drive us into default, the United States will be unable to pay its bills. prgtoken This will have unimaginable consequences for our seniors and people nearing retirement. It will be particularly damaging for retirees who rely on monthly Social Security payments to survive. prgtoken Our seniors worked hard, paid into the system all their lives, and they should be able to count on the monthly checks that they have earned. prgtoken However, a -forced debt default would jeopardize Social Security payments for 98,000 families in my district. prgtoken Default would also wreak havoc on the stock market, threatening retirement savings of over 100,000 of my constituents and eliminating approximately $20,000 from typical retirement portfolios. prgtoken We have a responsibility to protect the well-being and financial security of our seniors. We must raise the debt ceiling now. The clock is ticking.
CELEBRATING THE 135TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE YWCA OF NORTHEASTERN NEW YORK
Paul Tonko (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-5-22

I rise to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the history of the capital region of New York that I represent, the 135th anniversary of the YWCA of Northeastern New York. prgtoken From humble beginnings in 1888, this organization has grown into a force in our community: transforming countless lives and promoting empowerment, racial equality, and social justice in Schenectady and well beyond. prgtoken For many years, the YWCA has stepped up to provide vital services and resources for women and families in need, from affordable housing and childcare to job training and counseling services. prgtoken Beyond that, the YWCA has long been a platform for the voices of women, nurturing future leaders, and empowering individuals to stand up for their own rights and the rights of others. prgtoken Through its commitment to eliminating racism, it has fostered understanding and built bridges of solidarity across our diverse community. prgtoken As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let us reflect on the tremendous legacy of the YWCA of Northeastern New York. prgtoken Let us honor its accomplishments, and most importantly, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of justice, equity, and empowerment embodied by the YWCA. prgtoken Congratulations on this milestone, and here is to another 135 years of transforming lives, strengthening communities, and building a brighter future for each and every one.
HONORING THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE AND LEGACY OF SELMA MAYOR GEORGE PATRICK EVANS
Terri A. Sewell (Democrat, AL) \u2014 2023-5-22

I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of a trailblazing public servant and educator, former Selma Mayor George Patrick Evans, who passed away at the age of 78 on May 15, 2023. prgtoken A native of Selma, Mayor Evans was a proud product of the Selma City School System. He began his higher education at St. Mary's College in Dodge City, KS, earning his Bachelor of Arts in speech and physical therapy in 1962. Shortly after graduation he returned to Selma, where his passion for education led him to teach at Tipton High School in Dallas County. He continued his education while teaching, receiving a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Livingston State University and an Educational Specialist Certification in Educational Administration from Troy State University prgtoken Dedicating over 40 years to the Dallas County School System, Mayor Evans held many roles, including Principal, Assistant Principal, Coach, and Right to Read Coordinator. Transitioning from the classroom into upper management, he served as the Dallas County Board of Education Federal Program Coordinator for 9 years and served as Superintendent for 5 years. Mayor Evans' impactful career as an educator led him to break barriers as the first African American Superintendent of Dallas County public schools and Chief Academic Officer of the Alabama State Department of Education. prgtoken Bringing the same passion and tenacity into his career in electoral politics, Mayor Evans blazed trails in the Selma City Council, becoming its first African American City Council President. In his words, ``good things kept happening at that time,'' making history as the second African American Mayor in the City of Selma's 192-year history. As Mayor for two terms, he showed his skill as a public servant leading the Queen City through the recession of 2008, a 12-percent municipal salary cut, and boldly addressing the lingering impact of segregation within Selma's communities. His foresight propelled Selma forward, implementing the City's optic fiber network and ``butterfly park'' to allow tourists an unobstructed view of the Alabama River and the historic Edmund Pettus Bridge. prgtoken As a trusted leader in the Selma community, Mayor Evans served on the board of numerous organizations, including a member of the Executive Committee of the Alabama League of Municipalities, Chairman of the Alabama Department of Archives and History Board of Trustees, Wells- Fargo, then Wachovia Bank Board of Directors and AMFund Board of Directors. A man of faith he worshiped at the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Selma, and served as an Elder and Clerk of Session. His additional civic affiliations include the SeLma Exchange Club, Twelve High Club, Chesterfield Club, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. prgtoken Mayor Evans was known for his love of basketball and received numerous awards for his contribution to expanding the sport in Alabama.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. THOMAS DIXON
Derek Kilmer (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-5-22

I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Thomas Dixon, a civil rights icon and the founding President and CEO of the Tacoma Urban League, whose impactful leadership in our region will be felt for generations to come. prgtoken Mr. Dixon was born in 1931 in Sparta, Georgia, and recalled the incredible influence of his family, including his father, who was a doctor, and his grandfather, who was formerly enslaved, and became one of the largest Black landowners in the county. Encouraged by his family to pursue higher education, Mr. Dixon came to Tacoma, Washington after enlisting in the United States Air Force. He received his bachelor's degree at Sophia University in Tokyo while serving in Japan and earned his master's degree from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. prgtoken Mr. Dixon belonged to a remarkable generation, who bravely carried the weight of responsibility in leading Tacoma through the Civil Rights Era. In 1966, he continued his life of service as the first Director of the Hilltop Multi-service Center, where he dedicated his time and energies to improving the lives of people in Tacoma through housing, job training, and educational opportunities. Just two years later, Mr. Dixon began his tenure as Executive Director of the Tacoma affiliate of the National Urban League. Throughout the 34 years he served in this role, and through his pioneering involvement with the Tacoma Pierce County Black Collective, Mr. Dixon was a tenacious and visionary leader, pushing for racial, social, and economic justice in our region. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to our community, he was honored with the Laureate of the Greater Tacoma Peace Prize in 2015. prgtoken The Tacoma community has joined in mourning Mr. Dixon's passing on April 26, 2023, at the age of 92. Our hearts are with his wife, Sylvia, his family, and the countless individuals who held him dearly, as we express our deepest gratitude for the legacy he built. When reflecting on his career and life lived, Mr. Dixon was quoted as saying, ``Everything I have done, I would try to do it again.'' May we all continue to do our part in keeping his spirit of service alive into the future.
PREVENTING THE FINANCING OF ILLEGAL SYNTHETIC DRUGS ACT
Brittany Pettersen (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2023-5-22

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I rise in support of H.R. 1076, the Preventing the Financing of Illegal Synthetic Drugs Act sponsored by the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. De La Cruz), a bill that I am pleased to cosponsor and co-lead. prgtoken Thanks to collaboration on both sides of the aisle, this bill offers a well-written study focused on the financing and proceeds of the illicit synthetic drug trade that is victimizing communities across the country. By following the money behind the multibillion-dollar drug trade, we are able to understand the traffickers' operations and improve our ability to disrupt their activities. prgtoken The effects of this trafficking have been staggering. Deaths involving synthetic opioids, such as illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine, increased by 22 percent in 2021, resulting in the deaths of more than 100,000 of our family members and neighbors. In 2022, there were also nearly 200,000 nonfatal opioid overdoses in the U.S. In 2021, overdose death rates increased 44 percent for Black people and 39 percent for American Indian and Alaska Natives, showing troubling trends and widening disparities among population groups. prgtoken Combating the opioid epidemic is one of the reasons why I ran for Congress. Like too many Americans, my family has been impacted by the opioid crisis. My mom's addiction began with the overprescription of opioids, which led to heroin and ultimately fentanyl when it started to take over the drug supply chain in 2016. Unfortunately, my mom's story is not unique in Jefferson County, in Colorado, or in this country. prgtoken The opioid epidemic is now more lethal than ever as we continue to see drugs become more and more potent and easier to traffic. It is going to take an all-hands-on-deck approach to stop the flow of fentanyl and other illicit synthetic opioids in this country. Ensuring that we understand the financial networks of drug trafficking organizations is a critical tool that we need to protect American lives. prgtoken This bill will not solve all the issues related to the opioid crisis. We need to do more to increase access to substance use disorder treatment and recovery services, and we need to do more to help support the workforce shortages. We need to crack down on social media companies that are permitting the sale of illegal drugs to young Americans, and we need to ensure that the financial system has the tools to quickly identify bad actors and break up their drug trafficking rings. prgtoken As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I advocate for leveraging every financial tool at our disposal to pursue the traffickers of illicit fentanyl and other drugs. In this role, I also advocate for every individual family and community that has suffered or will suffer from misguided antidrug policies' physical, social, and economic damage to have the support that they need. prgtoken Thus, I urge my fellow Members
RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF CHIEF MARILYNN "LYNN" MALERBA
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-5-23

I rise today to recognize the achievements of United States Treasurer and Mohegan Chief Marilynn ''Lynn;'' Malerba. Lynn has been honored this year with the distinction as the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, for her model behavior for those in Eastern Connecticut as well as the entire country. prgtoken Born 1953. to Loretta and Albert Roberge. Lynn was raised by her parents to value hard work for the benefit of a community. She derives from a resilient line of Mohegan Tribe change makers and has lived a life defined by change and advocacy performed at all levels of government. As a matter of fact. Lynn's mother holds the title of Nonner, a unique honor given for her role in gaining the tribe its federal recognition, preserving its sacred sites. and ensuring the continuance of Mohegan culture. prgtoken Lynn's value for purposeful, hard work carried over into her first career as a registered nurse at Hartford Hospital and Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London. Connecticut. Lynn's dedication to patients from the community ultimately earned her the position prgtoken of director of Cardiology and Pulmonary Services. prgtoken After her time as director, Lynn joined the tribal government of the Mohegan as the Executive Director of Health and Human Services. Lynn's penchant for progress soon saw her elected to the Tribal Council wherein she became chairwoman. During her time as chairwoman, Lynn returned to school in the pursuit of a master's in public administration from the University of Connecticut, feeding her eternal hunger for learning. Her full list of educational accomplishments to date include studying nursing at Hartford Hospital's College of Nursing, a Bachelor of Science from then St. Joseph's College--now University of Saint Joseph, a Master of Public Administration from UConn and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Yale University. prgtoken Lynn's MPA provided her the skills necessary to elevate her administrative abilities, a background which suited her as the then- chairwoman of the Mohegan Tribal Council. Five years after her entry onto the Tribal Council. in 2010, Lynn was appointed as the first female Chief of the Mohegans in modern history. prgtoken It is no wonder why Chief Malerba was considered and chosen to serve as our nation's 45th treasurer in September 2022. In her new position. Chief Malerba has the same opportunity for advocacy and bettering native communities through her supervision of the Office of Tribal and Native Affairs, an office which acts as a hub for Tribal policy. Chief Malerba also has additional responsibilities in relation to setting our nation's fiscal policy, including oversight of the U.S. Mint, Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and Fort Knox, advising the Treasury Secretary on community development and public engagement, and acting as a liaison between the US Federal Reserve. prgtoken . I consider it a tremendous privilege and honor to r