mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING KAYDENCE TATE ON RECEIVING THE 2024 YOUTH OF THE YEAR AWARD
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to honor Kaydence Tate on receiving the 2024 Youth of the Year award from the Boys and Girls Club of the Sandhills. prgtoken Kaydence is a sophomore at Pinecrest High School and has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club of the Sandhills (BGCS) for over four years. Since she joined back in 2019, Kaydence has been an incredibly active member of this acclaimed organization in more ways than one. Earlier this year, she won the Boys and Girls Club of America's Career Launch Essay Contest. Furthermore, she serves as President of the Keystone Club of BGCS, a platform she uses to help engage with her passion of working with the homeless population, especially providing them with nutrition services. prgtoken However, Kaydence's dedication to service does not stop there. In addition to helping assist the homeless population, both on her own time and with the Keystone Club, Kaydence also spends time working in the dining hall at Gracious Living Retirement Center, helping to serve food to the residents. She views service as a lifelong commitment, with her long-term goal being to obtain a nursing degree and ultimately become an OB/GYN. prgtoken Kaydence is a model student and citizen, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award than her. I know I speak for the whole of our community when I say that Moore County is a better place because of her efforts. prgtoken , please join me today in congratulating Kaydence Tate on receiving this award and in wishing her all the best in her future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO CADEN LEONARD
Beth Van Duyne (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to recognize our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, Caden Leonard. As a sophomore at Southlake Carroll High School, Caden has made waves in the cross-country world. After winning the Class 6A individual state title and leading the Dragons to the 6A team championship, he went on to lift his team to a bronze medal at the Nike Cross Nationals (NXN) final. In qualifying for the NXN, he clocked a personal best, walking away with bronze and First Team All-Region recognition at Nike Cross Regionals South. prgtoken Not only is Caden an exceptional athlete, he's also a servant in the community, volunteering with the Young Men's Service League, the local branch of the Special Olympics, and serving in youth ministry at White's Chapel Methodist Church. Caden's dedication to academics, athletics, and public service led Gatorade to name him as Texas' 2024 Boys Cross Country Player of the Year. prgtoken Congratulations to Caden on his incredible accomplishments and well- deserved recognition. I look forward to following his cross-country career and cheering him on.
RECOGNIZING MR. FRANK BEBEREIA
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to celebrate Mr. Frank Bebereia on his 100th birthday and thank him for his service to our Nation. Mr. Bebereia was born in Laton, California on February 22nd, 1924 to Emily Gonzalez and Manuel Bebereia. He grew up in the Central Valley and attended Lemoore High School. Following his graduation, Mr. Laton spent time as a farmer in Hanford before being drafted to serve in World War II. After completing Army boot camp in 1945, he was deployed to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater. During his service, Mr. Bebereia was a member of the 43rd Engineer Construction Battalion, 27th Division. He served in Okinawa, Japan as a Heavy Equipment Operator and quickly moved up the leadership ranks--even being promoted to Sergeant after only 7 months of deployment. Mr. Bebereia received in many awards and recognitions to honor his service during the war, including the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, and Army Good Conduct Medal. His fellow soldiers often spoke about their time serving with Mr. Bebereia, remembering him as a capable, strong, and fearless leader. Mr. Bebereia was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1946. Following his service in the war, Mr. Bebereia returned to the Central Valley where he's spent most of his life. Today, we honor Mr. Bebereia's service to our country, commitment to his family, and dedication to the Kings County community I ask all my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring the incredible life of Mr. Frank Bebereia and wishing him a happy 100th birthday.
HONORING THE LIFE OF TONY VIGNAROLI
Zachary Nunn (Republican, IA) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to honor the tremendous life of Gunner Anthony Vignaroli who passed away on February 6, 2024. Tony made service to his country and the state of Iowa his life's calling. prgtoken Following his graduation from Saydel High School, Tony embarked on a life of dedicated service. He served our country valiantly in the Vietnam War and then worked at Valley View Village as a Maintenance Supervisor. prgtoken Many knew him for his work as a volunteer for the Department of Public Safety at the Iowa State Fair, where he helped with security efforts. I was honored to work directly with Tony to enhance Iowa State Fair safety for more than a million visitors by acquiring a security tower for the midway. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Tony Vignaroli and the terrific impact he had on his community. I join his family and those closest to him in mourning his loss. May his memory never be forgotten.
COMMENDATION OF MISSY RAVER
Dan Newhouse (Republican, WA) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to recognize Missy Raver of Yakima, Washington for her passion and work in the hop and beer industry over the last 20 years. prgtoken Ms. Raver holds the position of Senior Vice President of Grower Relations, Quality and ERM at Yakima Chief Hops. prgtoken Her experiences include working with growers on education to improve hop quality and sustainability, as well as leading Yakima Chief Hops to obtain and maintain several international quality, environmental, and food safety certifications. prgtoken She leads the team that performs all hop quality testing on their hop products, and more recently led the development and implementation of their enterprise risk management system. prgtoken Missy is a well-respected figure in the hop industry, having been active on several committees that support growers, as well as being a former president of the Hop Research Council. prgtoken It is an honor to represent hardworking constituents throughout Central Washington, including those in the hop and beer industry like Missy.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF THE HONORABLE JUDGE HERBERT E. MILLEN AND BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Lloyd Smucker (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to acknowledge the importance of February as Black History Month, a time to remember and celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans in the United States. prgtoken In that spirit, I want to recognize the Honorable Judge Herbert E. Millen of Strasburg, PA. Judge Millen was a man of great integrity, high-esteem, and persistent courage. prgtoken Judge Millen was born in 1888 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Millen name is well-known in Lancaster County for being actively involved in their community and promoting equality following the Civil War. prgtoken In the fall of 1906, Judge Millen enrolled at Lincoln University of Oxford, PA, to study Sociology and Economics. There, he established himself as a powerful orator by participating in competitions. prgtoken In 1917, he was accepted into the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Upon graduating, he began working for George Mitchell, a lawyer who advocated for racial justice. Mitchell's approach espoused faith in our justice system, a conviction shared by a young Judge Millen. prgtoken In his fight for equality, Judge Millen fought against segregation in Philadelphia public schools by offering legal advice to groups filing complaints. prgtoken Judge Millen was continually active in his community, often visiting schools, congregations, and fundraising for Mercy and Frederick Douglas Hospitals. prgtoken Despite his widespread public support, he was continually passed over to serve as a judge in the Pennsylvania Courts due to his race. Yet, he never ceased fighting for a seat to bring representation of African Americans in the Pennsylvania justice system. prgtoken This changed in 1947, when he was appointed to a vacancy in Philadelphia's Municipal Court. prgtoken We are proud of the work of Judge Millen in the 11th District. Strasburg Heritage Society Magazine recently published an article celebrating Judge Millen's legacy. Remarks from his funeral by Reverend E. Luther Cunningham expressed, ``He brought a sincerity of dedication, an integrity of mind, and a grasp of principle which commanded the respect of all associated with him.'' prgtoken , the Honorable Judge Millen embodies the spirit of what we celebrate during Black History Month. Today, we remember and honor his legacy and continue to advocate for a more just world.
CONGRATULATING THE FORMATION OF AMERICA'S CREDIT UNIONS
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to recognize the importance of credit unions in thc financial services marketplace. In Pennsylvania alone, there are 315 active credit unions, representing over 4.9 million members. prgtoken America's two national-level credit union trade associations, the Credit Union National Association and the National Association of Federally Insured Credit Unions, recently merged into a new organization called ``America's Credit Unions.'' prgtoken As a long-time credit union member and supporter, I appreciate the difference between credit unions and banks. Credit unions are not-for- profit financial cooperatives that are democratically controlled. Every member, regardless of how much they have in savings or loans at a credit union, has an equal voice and vote in the governance of their credit union. Credit unions also have no outside shareholders, allowing these institutions to act purely in the interest of members and provide outstanding member services. prgtoken For these reasons, credit unions consistently rank as the most popular form of depository institution in America. I congratulate the formation of America's Credit Unions, now the largest credit union trade association in the United States, and I expect great things to come from this new organization.
CELEBRATING THE 16TH ANNIVERSARY OF KOSOVO'S INDEPENDENCE
Lisa C. McClain (Republican, MI) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today in recognition of Kosovo's Independence Day on February 17th. This date marks 16 years since Kosovo declared independence in 2008 after enduring years of conflict. Kosovo has since emerged as an independent democratic nation and today is one of the most valuable allies of the American people. prgtoken In celebrating this occasion, I also celebrate the many Albanian- Americans who have made Michigan their home. Our community continues to grow and foster immense cultural, economic, and creative growth throughout the State of Michigan. These families embody the values of freedom and democracy that represent the American Dream. prgtoken Historically, Michigan itself has played a substantial--and proud-- role in Kosovo's road to stability and democracy through the deployment of Michigan National Guard units to the region as peacekeeping forces. prgtoken I am delighted to honor the independence of Kosovo alongside the vibrant and ever-growing Albanian-American community that calls Michigan its home. Kosovo's remarkable transition into sovereignty, alongside our state's everlasting bonds with the Albanian-American people, represents the power of democracy both at home and abroad. The shared principles between our two nations truly represent the ideals that have turned our connection into economic prowess, shared defense, and international cooperation. prgtoken , I ask all my colleagues to join me in commemorating this wonderful occasion. Kosovo's Independence Day allows us to reflect not only on the meaning of freedom, but also the Albanian-American contributions throughout Michigan's Ninth District and the entire state.
HONORING FRANCIS `FRANK' HUMMEL, JR.
Andy Kim (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to honor the selfless service and incredible accomplishments of Francis `Frank' Hummel, Jr a United States Army Veteran, who passed earlier this month. prgtoken Born and raised in Philadelphia, Frank spent his adult life in southern New Jersey. In December 1950, he joined the United States Army where he completed his basic training on Joint Base McGuire-Dix- Lakehurst, right in his own backyard. Frank was then transferred to a small town in Germany where he went through military intelligence training and served in the Army Security Agency. During this time, Frank enjoyed boxing, playing center and linebacker for the Seventh Army Special Troops Ramblers football team, and being a member of the 97th Signal Satans basketball team. Today, we all remember him for his brave service, and love for sports with his fellow soldiers. prgtoken After the Army, Frank opened his own mechanical engineering firm, Hummel Engineering Corporation, which served New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, and Delaware. Frank also served as the Executive Vice President and then President of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Eastern Pennsylvania, and was the Secretary of the National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau of Philadelphia. Beyond that he was a member of the Christian Business Men's Association, where he helped mentor young men to succeed in their faith, business, and life's endeavors. Frank also taught project management at the Pennsylvania State University, Media campus. prgtoken A man of faith, Frank was an active member of his congregations and served on many church boards throughout the years. Formerly a member of Cherry Hill Baptist Church, he most recently was a member of Grace Baptist Church in Mount Laurel. Frank was active in supporting Christian mission work around the world and was an author in the Wiley Mission Community Newspaper. prgtoken Frank was not only a veteran, entrepreneur, and man of faith, he was a family man who loved spending time with his large family. He was known to spend his time visiting historical societies, libraries, and cemeteries across the United States and Europe where he listened to and learned about histories from ancestors and distant family members. He enjoyed recording family genealogy by hand, writing stories about his life experiences, and photography. prgtoken Frank married Lorraine Miller in 1951 and in their over 70 years of marriage, they had three children, eleven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. prgtoken While many community members locally know Frank and his positive impact in our community, today I'm proud to honor his tenure as a veteran of the United States Army, and husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. We are lucky to have his inspiration in our community.
COMMEMORATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND THE ERTEGUN BROTHERS
Steve Cohen (Democrat, TN) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to honor and celebrate Black History Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the contributions of African Americans to the rich tapestry of American history. This month serves as an opportunity to reflect on the achievements, struggles, and enduring resilience of the Black community. prgtoken One noteworthy aspect of Black history that deserves recognition is the profound impact of African Americans on the world of music, particularly in the realm of jazz. Jazz, born from the African American experience, has become a universal language, transcending borders and connecting people from diverse backgrounds. It is a powerful expression of creativity, resilience, and cultural richness. prgtoken In this context, I'd like to emphasize the significant partnership of the Turkish Embassy and the Ertegun brothers. Sons of Turkey's first ambassador to the United States, Ahmet and Nesuhi believed in the power of music to bring people together. Beginning in 1940, musicians such as Duke Ellington, Johnny Hodges, ``Lead Belly,'' Teddy Wilson, Lester Young, and members of the Benny Goodman, Ellington and Count Basie orchestras performed at the Turkish Embassy. Their father insisted that in the embassy, all, regardless of color, be treated with dignity and respect. prgtoken As co-founders of Atlantic Records, the Ertegun brothers were instrumental in bringing together artists from different backgrounds, breaking down racial and cultural barriers in the world of music. Ahmet traveled to New Orleans and Harlem to sign the greatest black musicians of the time, including Stick McGhee, The Harlemaires, and The Drifters. In the 1960s, Atlantic Records, often in partnerships with local labels like Stax Records in Memphis, helped to develop the growth of soul music, with artists such as Ben E. King, Solomon Burke, Otis Redding, Sam and Dave, Percy Sledge, Aretha Franklin, and Wilson Pickett. prgtoken The Turkish Embassy's commitment to hosting these jam sessions exemplifies the importance of cultural diplomacy and the unifying power of music. Through these events, artists of diverse backgrounds, including African American musicians, have had the opportunity to showcase their talents, bridging cultural gaps and promoting understanding. prgtoken As we commemorate Black History Month, let us go beyond celebrating the achievements of the past but also recognize the importance of continued collaboration and dialogue to build a more harmonious future. The blending of Black history and jazz, coupled with the dedicated endeavors of entities such as the Turkish Embassy and the Ertegun brothers, stands as a powerful tribute to the transformative potential of cultural interchange and the unifying power of music. prgtoken I encourage my colleagues to join me in acknowledging the significance of Black History Month, celebrating the contributions of African Americans to the arts and culture, and recognizing the positive impact of ini
RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF DAVID R. CASTELLANO
Mikie Sherrill (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2024-2-23

I rise today to recognize Mr. David Castellano, who retired this month after 42 years of faithful and dedicated service as a civilian employee of the U.S. Army and in the Senior Executive Service. prgtoken After graduating from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Mr. Castellano chose to apply his knowledge and experience to the U.S. military's armaments enterprise, including at Picatinny Arsenal located in NJ-11. The contributions he has made to our national defense, and to our allies' defense, are enormous, and we all owe him a debt of gratitude. prgtoken In 2003, Mr. Castellano was appointed to the Senior Executive Service. He later became the first Executive Director of the Weapons and Software Engineering Center, where he was in charge of over 1,400 employees between Picatinny Arsenal and other installations in New York and Maryland. The Center provides software support for critical combat and weapons systems. prgtoken In 2016, Mr. Castellano tackled a new challenge in innovation and modernization efforts as the Executive Director of the Munitions Engineering and Technology Center at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center. There, he led a top team of engineers and researchers in the development and implementation of over 1,200 munitions and armaments systems for the Army, the Marine Corps, and Special Forces combat teams. Thanks to his efforts, the Armaments Center has continued to develop and sustain combat systems that both our warfighters and our allies depend on and will continue to into the future. prgtoken In gratitude for his outstanding service, Mr. Castellano has been awarded the Presidential Rank Award, the Secretary of Defense Medal, and the NATO Certificate of Recognition. In addition, he also received several prestigious awards from the National Defense Industrial Association including: the Lt. Gen. Thomas R. Ferguson, Jr. Systems Engineering Excellence Award, the Firepower Development Award, and the John A. Ulrich Lifetime Achievement Award. prgtoken I want to thank Mr. Castellano for the critical engineering and systems work that he and his team have done over his career to support our national defense, and I wish him the best for a well-earned and restful retirement.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ROBIE HARRIS
Rosa L. DeLauro (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2024-2-23

it is with the fondest of memories and the heaviest of hearts that I rise today to remember author, educator, and my dear friend, Robie , who we lost earlier this year. Robie was an extraordinary woman--a fierce defender of free speech, a dedicated teacher, an inspiring author, as well as a loyal friend and devoted wife and mother. Hers is a remarkable legacy as an advocate for children that will continue to inspire many. prgtoken Born in Buffalo, New York, Robie discovered her love for the written word very early in life. As she told it, at just six years old she ``published'' her first work, Robie's Stories, an assignment from her kindergarten teacher. It was comprised of pictures and journal memories that each child produced every day that were then compiled into a book at the end of the year. As Robie grew up, so did her love of reading, writing, and learning--so much so that she would go on to dedicate her professional life to them. prgtoken Robie went on to become the editor of both her high school newspaper as well as her college yearbook. Alter earning her undergraduate degree at Wheaton College, Robie moved to New York City where she initially found work at the United Nations. However, she knew that this was not her passion, so she pursued a teaching degree at Bank Street College of Education. Following the completion of her degree from Bank Street, she became an elementary school teacher at the Bank Street School for Children, where she taught writing and later directed after-school programs in the school's new Head Start program. prgtoken It was through her work with children, as well as the experience of watching her own children and nieces and nephews grow up, that Robie found a voice as a children's book author. She was inspired by the many questions and curiosities she heard from them and made it her mission to write and produce books that would help them navigate the many changes they would experience as they moved from one stage of development to the next. Robie's first book, a collaborative effort with fellow author and friend, Elizabeth Levy was Before You Were Three: How You Began to Walk, Talk, Explore, and Have Feelings, and her first solo books included the picture books Don't Forget to Come Back and I Hate Kisses. prgtoken Over the course of her writing career, Robie maintained her commitment to writing nonfiction, age-appropriate books, writing more than thirty titles that covered a multitude of topics including engineering, architecture, nutrition, math, death, and genetics. But it was her groundbreaking work, It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, and Sexual Health, a guided preadolescent children on puberty, their changing bodies, sexuality, and sexual health, that was not only her most successful, but also drove Robie's fierce advocacy for free speech. While praised by medical professionals, child development specialists, and educators for its accuracy, re