mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE OF SHIELA D. CORLEY
Andy Harris (Republican, MD) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today to recognize Shiela D. Corley for receiving a 2023 University of Kentucky Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award. This prestigious award is presented to those who have provided extraordinary leadership, dedication, and have a history of diligently serving the UK alumni and community. prgtoken Shiela grew up on a farm in the small town of Greenville, Kentucky. She followed her dream of attending the University of Kentucky, where she received both her bachelor's and master's degrees. After graduate school, Shiela began her career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a dedicated public servant with the National Agricultural Statistics Service and later the Food and Nutrition Service. I am pleased that she is currently serving on a detail assignment from USDA to the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, of which I chair. prgtoken While living in Washington, D.C Shiela has been an active member of the University of Kentucky's Nation's Capital Alumni Club, serving as vice president from 2004 through 2009. She currently serves on UK's Alumni Leadership Advisory Council and is active in the Washington, D.C. community as a member of the Junior League and other non-profits, including the Kentucky Society of Washington. prgtoken In 2017, Shiela and her family established the Corley Family Endowment in memory of her sister Shannon, who was also a UK alum and avid Wildcat fan alongside Shiela. The endowment provides support to a member of their hometown community to attend the University of Kentucky. To date, they have awarded five scholarships, with the first recipient graduating this past May. Through this endowment, Shiela and her family help others realize their dream of attending the University of Kentucky while also memorializing and celebrating the life and Wildcat spirit of Shannon. prgtoken It is my distinct honor to recognize Shiela D. Corley for her outstanding servant leadership to the University of Kentucky, USDA, and as part of the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee team.
CURRICULUM VITAE FOR RICHARD T. FREISTAK
Scott Perry (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-9-1

I'm honored to recognize Mr. Richard T. Freistak on the amazing occasion of his 100th Birthday on September 6, 2023. prgtoken Mr. Freistak graduated from Middletown High School in 1942, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1943. While selflessly serving our Nation from 1943 through 1946, he was deployed to the South Pacific theater in World War II. prgtoken After his discharge from the Navy, Mr. Freistak studied architecture at the Pennsylvania State University, graduating in 1951 with an Engineering Curriculum Architecture degree. While at Penn State, Mr. Freistak was a member of the Theta Kappa Phi fraternity, as well as the Nittany Lion Club that focused on providing scholarship and support to Penn State student athletes. Throughout his life, he attended Penn State football games as often as possible. prgtoken Mr. Freistak's family owned and operated the iconic West Shore Theatre and Drive-in Theatre, the venture he also worked at and supported. Most importantly, he stayed close with his Mother, who blessed her family with her presence for 103 years. prgtoken , on behalf of the 10th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, I'm privileged and humbled to honor and commemorate Mr. Richard T. Freistak on the blessed occasion of his 100th Birthday, as well as his tireless service to our Nation and communities. As a true member of ``The Greatest Generation,'' he has set the standard by which we all should be judged. I wish him great health, prosperity, love, and Godspeed in his future adventures.
RECOGNIZING THE KIWANIS CLUB OF BROWNWOOD, TEXAS ON ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY
August Pfluger (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today to recognize the Brownwood, Texas Kiwanis Club's continued service to children in their community for 100 years. prgtoken The Brownwood Charter has helped thousands of children in their community and across the globe, dedicating countless resources to improving children's health, education, and development. Their servant leadership has helped impact children's lives from infancy to early adulthood. prgtoken They have assisted needy children through scholarships, blood drives, leadership opportunities, and more. For 100 years, their selflessness and guidance have been inspiring, and their mission will continue to provide children and the Brownwood community the help and opportunities they deserve to have a shining future. prgtoken I thank the Brownwood Charter for their selfless service and dedication to improving their community for 100 years. Their work is emblematic of the values that make our Nation the greatest country in the world.
RECOGNIZING LEONA YOST
Mike Gallagher (Republican, WI) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today to recognize the 100th birthday of Leona Yost, an incredible mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and Wisconsinite from Oconto. prgtoken Leona Yost was born on July 28, 1923. She was the daughter of Herbert and Mary Whiting, and she grew up on their family farm. Leona graduated from Lena High School in the year 1941 and after her graduation, she worked at the egg factory in Oconto and later the Grant Store in Green Bay. prgtoken In 1943, Leona married George Yost and they proceeded to work together on the George's family farm in Lena. Leona and George welcomed five beautiful children who went on to bless them with seven grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren. Leona is noted for having an amazing memory and a deep interest in coin collecting and coin history--she loves to share these passions with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Potentially of most importance, she is known throughout Oconto for her delicious potato salad. prgtoken Leona has always been an active member of the community. She was an Oconto County 4-H leader for 37 years working for the Meadow Brook 4-H club. She also worked for several years for the town of Stiles as an election poll worker. Leona is a truly selfless woman who has worked hard her entire life to give back to others. She has lived an incredible life and has now reached a very rare milestone. prgtoken I would like to ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing Leona Yost happy 100th birthday.
HONORING THE HEROIC ACTIONS OF RICO BRIGGS
Diana Harshbarger (Republican, TN) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today to commend and recognize the extraordinary bravery and quick thinking of a precious young man, Mr. Rico Briggs of Bluff City, Tennessee. prgtoken On the morning of August 20th, at just 4 years old, Rico found himself in a critical situation that would test the limits of his courage and maturity. At approximately 6:15 a.m a structure fire began at 4988 Bluff City Hwy. When emergency responders arrived at the scene, they found residents of the apartment building outside, clutching their possessions, with smoke rising from the building. prgtoken Upon further investigation, it was discovered that it was Rico Briggs who, upon seeing smoke in his own room, promptly alerted his mother, Ms. Moriah Briggs. Despite the overwhelming fear and chaos such a situation would induce, Rico's swift actions ensured that his mother could notify all the tenants in the building's other apartments, allowing them to safely evacuate. Their escape was particularly crucial given the failure of the building's smoke alarm. prgtoken It is no exaggeration to state that the actions of Rico Briggs were lifesaving. Without his immediate response, the outcome could have been gravely different. Such valor and presence of mind in a child so young are truly exceptional and worthy of the highest commendation. prgtoken Moreover, in acknowledgment of Rico's heroic act, the Town of Bluff City has proclaimed August 26th as ``Rico Briggs Day,'' as a testament to the profound impact of his actions on our community. On this day, every year, we will be reminded not only of the bravery exhibited by this young boy, but also of the importance of looking out for one another and the strength that lies in community bonds. It is sincerely my hope that as we celebrate Rico Briggs Day annually, it will inspire others, young and old alike, to act with the same courage and selflessness in times of crisis. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the courage of Rico Briggs. His actions are a testament to the spirit of our community in Tennessee and the values instilled in our youth. Today, we celebrate Rico, and may we all be inspired by his courage and the profound impact 1 individual can make, regardless of age.
RECOGNIZING REVEREND BOANERGES GOMEZ 100TH BIRTHDAY
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today to recognize an outstanding constituent, from my district, Rev. B. Gomez. We are celebrating 100 years of his life. As a dedicated citizen and voter, of this wonderful country, as he publicly states, Rev. Gomez brings to us an extraordinary plethora of history that he has encountered. Rev. Gomez was born in Puerto Rico on September 3, 1923. prgtoken He attended the University of Puerto Rico and after his graduation made a decision to dedicate his life to ministry and furthered his education at the Seminary of Puerto Rico. Once graduated he moved to New York City and married his wife, Efigenia Gomez in New York City on August 1, 1954. While his wife continued raising two daughters and furthering her education to achieve her Degree in Education, Rev. Gomez became pastor of The First Reformed Parish in New York City, later was transferred to Chicago and finally settled into a parish in Philadelphia. At this parish, Rev. Gomez along with his wife began a Senior Center, Lady Steppers Marching for Parades, an after school program, and with the prgtoken assistance of volunteer dentists, a dental facility for the community was added onto the parish. prgtoken He takes pride in his three grandchildren: Thomas, Ronald & Daniela. prgtoken After retirement and the passing of his wife, he moved to Bucks County in Fairless Hills, PA. Rev. Gomez has truly achieved much in his 100 years of life, and we are appreciative for the dedication he has given throughout his years to the many lives he has touched with his ministry.
RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF RANDY COATES, SR.
Brian Higgins (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-9-1

today I am honored to recognize the late Randy Coates, Sr. and his accomplishments as a public servant. A graduate of East High School in the early 1970s, he enjoyed tremendous success with the football and track & field teams. Upon graduation, Randy joined the United States Army in 1975 and was stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. prgtoken Randy discovered his passion for coaching basketball upon returning to Buffalo. He started coaching in the Randy Smith Summer Basketball League, coaching a team in both the men's and women's divisions. He took pride in his teams, and strived to not only teach basketball, but life lessons, as well. He left youth basketball to become the head women's basketball coach at Daemen College, and later an assistant coach at Hilbert College. prgtoken After a successful college coaching career, Randy focused back on developing and mentoring children in the community. In 1990, Randy began his career at the Boys & Girls Clubs Bailey-Doat. At the Boys & Girls Club, Randy formed great relationships with local youth and created a basketball team that won several Randy Smith Summer Basketball League Championships. Following years of success, Mr. Coates went to work at the Masten Boys and Girls Club, where he would eventually become director. There, Randy continued to coach basketball, but also introduced both in house football leagues and video games, which he would often bring from home for the children to play. prgtoken Randy encouraged these young men and women to achieve and sustain success. He would often note that the work they put into their craft is what they are going to get out of it. On this, the official Randy Coates Sr. Day in the City of Buffalo, I am delighted to honor his memory. His legacy is celebrated by his wife, Ronnell, his children, grandchildren, and countless grateful community members who have been inspired by Randy's unwavering dedication to the betterment of Buffalo.
HONORING SCOTT MacLEOD
Jared Huffman (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today in recognition of Scott MacLeod upon his retirement as an English and Journalism teacher from San Marin High School. Scott dedicated more than 2 decades to educating and mentoring students. prgtoken Earning his bachelor's degree in philosophy from Harvard, Scott MacLeod spent 20 years working in marketing and advertising, including as Senior Vice President at J. Walter Thompson and DDB Worldwide. After a cancer diagnosis and recovery, Scott shifted career paths and entered public service, where he discovered his passion for education. He worked with at-risk youth in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco, California before becoming the Director of Development for Breakthrough Collaborative, a National nonprofit prgtoken supporting low-income students on the path to college. Motivated by the transformative work he witnessed through this nonprofit work, Scott enrolled in night school at the University of San Francisco to earn his master's degree and teaching credential. prgtoken Over the past 17 years, Scott has taught Advanced Placement and Honors English courses and built an award-winning journalism program at San Marin High School in Novato, California. Drawing from his background in philosophy, Scott developed a philosophical inquiry approach to writing and critical thinking. He also coached the National High School Ethics Bowl team, created the school's first sophomore speech competition, and received a plethora of accolades, including most recently, the 2023 Teacher of the Year Award. Scott is beloved by his students, who, years after graduation, still recount how impactful his guidance and unwavering faith were to their education journey. prgtoken Outside the classroom, Scott is an active snowboarder and mountain biker, and he plays guitar and bass for his rock band, The Role Models. He is married to Linda Kislingbury, a Drama teacher at San Marin High School. prgtoken Scott MacLeod exemplifies what it means to be a public servant. Mr I respectfully ask that you join me in expressing gratitude to Scott for his enduring commitment to teaching, and extending heartfelt congratulations on his retirement and best wishes for years to come.
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF BATTALION CHIEF TERRYSON JACKSON
Jared Moskowitz (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today to honor the life and service of a local hero, Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Terryson Jackson, who sadly passed away on August 28, 2023, in the line of duty. prgtoken Battalion Chief Jackson proudly served the people of Broward County for 19 years. He began his fire rescue career in March 2004 in Deerfield Beach and joined the Broward Sheriffs Office (BSO) in October 2011. Chief Jackson joined the Air Rescue 85 team as a flight prgtoken medic in July 2013, and on February 24, 2016, he was promoted to Captain. Broward County has acted to posthumously promote Chief Jackson from the rank of Captain to the rank of Battalion Chief. prgtoken As a flight paramedic, he impacted the community daily, providing critical patients with the highest prehospital care. He consistently showed an unmatched passion for the job. He always provided expert care, compassion, and reassurance to those during their most significant time of need. He is survived by his parents, son, daughter, and siblings. prgtoken , please join me in remembering the life and service of Chief Terryson Jackson. May his memory bless his family, friends, and the Broward County community to whom he dedicated his life in service.
HONORING CHIEF JEFFREY M. O'DELL
Darren Soto (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-9-1

Chief Jeffrey M. O'Dell was born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and is a second-generation police officer. He served with the Orlando Police Department for 27 years before retiring in 2013. His father retired in 1989 after 25 years of service with the City of Orlando. Chief O'Dell received his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia College. He also completed the University of Louisville Southern Police Institute Command Officers Development Course. prgtoken Chief O'Dell graduated from the Police Academy in February 1986. He worked in various assignments throughout his 27-year career in Orlando, including Patrol, the Neighborhood Patrol Unit, the Undercover and Uniform Drug Enforcement Units, the Intelligence Unit, the Bike Patrol Unit, the Field Training and Recruiting Unit, Violent Crimes Investigations, and as commander of the Criminal Investigations, Special Operations, Airport, and Crime Prevention divisions. prgtoken On June 1, 2011, Jeffrey M. O'Dell was appointed deputy chief of police by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. He served as the Patrol Services Bureau commander and High-Risk Incident commander until his retirement in January 2013. prgtoken Chief O'Dell also served as the Emergency Response Team commander for 3 years and on the Orlando Police Department SWAT Team for more than 18 years, holding every position from entry team member to team commander. prgtoken Jeff O'Dell was hired by the Kissimmee Police Department on January 2, 2013, and was appointed chief of police on August 10, 2016. prgtoken Chief O'Dell is an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Florida Police Chief Association, the Central Florida Criminal Justice Association, and the Florida SWAT Association. He also serves on the boards for the Osceola Boys and Girls Club, the Osceola Technical College Criminal Justice Academy, the Park Place Behavioral Healthcare, and Help Now of Osceola. prgtoken Chief Jeff O'Dell has been married for 38 years to Kimberly L. O'Dell, president of O'Dell Group Management in Winter Garden, Florida. They have 2 children, Brittney and Tanner.
CELEBRATING REVEREND DOCTOR CHARLES EDWARD MCCOLLUM
Donald G. Davis (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2023-9-1

I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a visionary, dynamic, and God-fearing Pastor who has served Halifax County, North Carolina, for 50 years. prgtoken Since 1973, when he was licensed to preach, Rev. Dr. Charles Edward McCollum has immersed himself in teaching and preaching the powerful word of God to countless individuals. prgtoken For nearly 50 years, Rev. Dr. McCollum has been the Senior Pastor of Oak Grove PromiseLand Ministries in Littleton and Piney Grove Baptist Church in Halifax. During his pastorate, these churches have grown spiritually and numerically. prgtoken Beyond church leadership, Rev. Dr. McCollum's impact on the greater community has been significant. He served as Executive Director of the Halifax County Black Caucus. Under his guidance, the Caucus achieved substantial milestones in education and civic engagement. prgtoken In addition, his dedication to education has been exemplary, evidenced by his unselfish service on the Halifax County Board of Education, 2 earned doctorate degrees, and the establishment in 1991 of Eastern Carolina Christian College in Roanoke Rapids, NC. prgtoken , I applaud Rev. Dr. McCollum's decades of service in adult corrections. He made a lasting difference as an educator in the Virginia Department of Corrections, helping inmates improve their literacy skills and prepare for re-entry into society. While serving as a transition specialist for the Department, he wrote many project plans that are now part of the correctional program, notably the Straight Project. prgtoken In 1984, Rev. Dr. McCollum's advocacy led to changes in employment practices at courthouse offices in Halifax County, where the offices employed a more diverse workforce. That same year, he and 18 other plaintiffs prevailed in a lawsuit that changed the method of electing county commissioners from an at-large voting system to a district system, thus enabling African Americans to elect commissioners of their choice. prgtoken In 2016, Rev. Dr. McCollum led the effort to get the supplemental tax on the ballot in Halifax County, which later passed, and the revenue reinvested into the community. The additional funding from it bridged the gap between state funding and what was needed for the Halifax County Schools to operate efficiently. Some outcomes included hiring teachers and support staff and purchasing new curriculum materials, activity buses, athletic uniforms and supplies, playground equipment, and technology upgrades. His advocacy also led to the recognition of Sarah Keys Evans as a civil rights trailblazer and the creation of the Sarah Keys Evans Plaza in Roanoke Rapids, NC. prgtoken Rev. Dr. McCollum has aired a weekly radio show called Real Talk on WMCY in Roanoke Rapids. The show exposed police brutality, the drug epidemic, environmental justice, and the existence of coal ash in Halifax County. prgtoken Rev. Dr. Charles Edward McCollum's life has been 1 of selflessness, leadership, and p
COMMEMORATING GARDEN CITY'S ROSIE THE RIVETER ROSE GARDEN
Rashida Tlaib (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-9-1

today I want to celebrate the legacy of our nation's Rosie the Riveters in recognition of the dedication of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden in Garden City. prgtoken During World War II countless women from across the nation and right here in Southeast Michigan took over jobs that had been previously performed by men. Three hundred thousand Rosie the Riveters held our country down during extremely trying times and became icons of women's empowerment and strength. This Labor Day, I am proud to recognize these women who blazed the trail for women in the workforce and for their contributions to the labor movement and our history. prgtoken As we gather to ring a bell for Rosie, please join me and the people of Garden City in Michigan's 12th District Strong as we honor their legacy with the dedication of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden.
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION
Robert Menendez (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-9-5

section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. prgtoken In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications which have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.
VOTE EXPLANATION
Robert P. Casey, Jr. (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2023-9-5

on Thursday, July 27, due to the sudden hospitalization of my mother, it was necessary for me to leave Washington before the Senate concluded voting on the National Defense Authorization Act. My Congressional Record statement explaining my absence that afternoon is included below. prgtoken While I was present for the vast majority of votes on the National Defense Authorization Act, I was forced to miss four due to my unexpected and sudden departure. The outcomes of these votes were unaffected by my absence, but I wish for the Record to reflect how I would have voted had I not left to be with my mother in Pennsylvania: yea on Schatz amendment 1078, vote No. 209; yea on Rubio amendment 523, vote No. 210; yea on Reed amendment 1087, vote No. 211; and yea on passage of the bill, the National Defense Authorization Act, vote No. 212. prgtoken My mother, Ellen Harding Casey, died peacefully at Regional Hospital, Scranton on August 11. I was grateful to have the chance to be with her during her final illness. July 27, 2023.