mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING JAKE WOODARD'S BRAVERY AND HEROISM
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-2-17

I rise today to recognize an outstanding constituent from my district, Jake Woodard. Late in the evening on the day after Christmas, with freezing temperatures, Pennsbury High School Junior, Jake Woodard's family was driving home from a holiday party. As they were driving, Jake, a certified lifeguard and member of Pennsbury's JROTC program, noticed a car had pulled over to the side and a man was lying on the ground. A woman was waving for help. Jake immediately demanded that his dad pull the car over so he could help. prgtoken Jake got out of the car, and he immediately came to the aid of the man on the ground. Apparently, the man had been walking on the sidewalk and hit a large patch or ice that was about three inches thick and landed on his back, likely hitting his head on the ground. prgtoken A woman and her son had seen the man and pulled over. However, as they were unsure how to help him, they waved down Jake's car for help. As the adults stood around questioning what to do, Jake took a knee and began speaking to the man by identifying himself and telling him he was there to help. The man told him his name and stated he had been on the ground for about 15 minutes. As the man was groaning in pain and stating that he couldn't move, Jake advised the man not to move. After a few minutes, the man lost consciousness, and as his eyes rolled to the back of his head, his tongue also rolled to the back of his throat. Jake reached into the man's mouth and cleared his airway to ensure he could properly breathe. prgtoken As they waited for the EMTs to show up, Jake continued to take the man's pulse and repeatedly checked that the man was still breathing all while saying ``Dan, you are going to be okay, but you need to stay with us.'' prgtoken When the EMTs showed up, Jake immediately told them what had happened, how long he had been there, and included the rate of his pulse and breathing. As the EMTs stabilized the man's neck, Jake continued to speak to the unconscious man, Dan, telling him help was here, and that he needed to try and wake up. prgtoken When the EMTs struggled to get the man onto the gurney because of the thick ice, they asked Jake to assist. He reached under the man's lower back and legs, and as best he could he kept him stable while assisting the man onto the gurney. The man never regained consciousness, but Jake made sure the man didn't move, was still breathing, and made sure he knew he wasn't alone. prgtoken When it was all said and done, Jake's mom proudly hugged her son, and asked him how he knew what to do. He said lifeguarding taught him what to do and JROTC taught him why to do it, as he stated it was his duty to help. prgtoken We are all incredibly grateful for the bravery and heroism of Jake Woodard and all that he does for our community.
RECOGNIZING MRS. ROSLYN CHATMAN AS THE WALTON COUNTY, FLORIDA EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Matt Gaetz (Republican, FL) \u2014 2023-2-17

I rise to recognize Mrs. Roslyn Chatman as the 2022-2023 Walton County Educational Support Professional of the Year. Since 2008, Mrs. Chatman has served the Walton County School District with exceptional passion and an unwavering commitment to serving others. prgtoken In Northwest Florida, we are fortunate to have some of the best educational support professionals in the Nation. It is recognized that the position of Paraprofessional can be taxing but can also be so rewarding. Mrs. Chatman has performed her many duties without question or hesitation and does so with an encouraging smile towards all those she encounters. prgtoken Mrs. Chatman is revered by her principal and colleagues for her positive attitude and willingness to go above and beyond the scope of her job duties. She selflessly considers the needs of both students and staff because of the immense pride she has for her school. prgtoken Her support and outreach extend far beyond the hearts and minds of her own students through her willingness to help wherever assistance is needed. Mrs. Chatman has displayed dedicated teamwork by assisting with after-school events, including Title I Nights, carnivals, and tutoring. I commend her for her steadfast willingness to serve as an example for those that matter most, the students and youth of our Nation. prgtoken For all of these admirable contributions, I am truly proud to have Mrs. Chatman as a constituent in Florida's First Congressional District. prgtoken , on behalf of the United States Congress, I am privileged to recognize Mrs. Roslyn Chatman for her accomplishments and her commitment to excellence, professionalism, and innovation in the Walton County School District. I thank her for her service and wish her all the best for continued success.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF NORWICH NEW YORK FIREFIGHTER ZACHARY MINER
Marcus J. Molinaro (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-2-17

I rise today to honor the career of Norwich firefighter Zachary Miner, who recently retired from the Norwich Fire Department after 20 years of dedicated service. Throughout his career, Zach has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service by ensuring the safety of his community. prgtoken Zach joined the Norwich Fire Department in December of 2002 and received his EMT certification two years later. Since his certification, he has treated thousands of patients and become a role model and teacher for others in his department. prgtoken In 2014, Zach was honored with the Firefighter of the Year Award and American Red Cross ``Real Hero's Award'' after heroically rescuing an adult trapped in a garage fire. His contributions and service to the Norwich community will not be forgotten. prgtoken , I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in recognizing the career of Norwich Firefighter Zachary Miner, a hardworking and dedicated public servant with an unwavering commitment to keeping Upstate New Yorkers safe.
HONORING GEORGE FRASER
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-2-21

I rise today to honor the life of George Fraser (AHS Class of 1970), who was one of Anaheim High School's greatest sports legends. George passed away suddenly last weekend on February 12, 2023. prgtoken As a sophomore, George famously stepped in as quarterback and proceeded to lead the Mighty Colonists to the 1967 CIF Football Championship. George would go on to star for the Colonist football team during his junior and senior seasons, in which Anaheim reached the 4-A Division semifinals each year. He became the first and only football player to ever be named to the All-CIF-SS 4-A Division team three times. George eventually returned to coach football at Anaheim and was on staff when the Colonists again reached the CIF finals in 1987 and 2006, spending more than 20 years coaching at The Colony up to and including last season. George also coached youth sports in the City of Anaheim for decades. George's legacy will live on in our community and through the halls of Anaheim High School. Let us join in mourning the loss of this great Colonist who was a tremendous asset to the Anaheim Community.
RECOGNIZING RICO MUNN
Jason Crow (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2023-2-21

I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Rico Munn, Superintendent of Aurora Public Schools. At the end of the 2023 school year, Rico will step down as Superintendent to act in a supportive capacity to the district. prgtoken For more than nine years, Rico has served at the helm of the Aurora Public School (APS) district. He stepped into the role after the Aurora theater shooting when the community and many APS students were grieving. Years later, school districts were faced with an unprecedented pandemic, closing their doors to in-person learning for nearly two years. Rico worked with others in the APS system to develop a response to the pandemic that ensured students had the resources they needed to succeed. prgtoken APS is one of the largest and most diverse districts in Colorado, and Rico has always understood the importance of advocating relentlessly for and supporting the people, policies, and practices that lead to student success. Since 2013, when Rico stepped into the role of superintendent, APS has made strides in eliminating the graduation equity gap, increasing graduation rates, and decreasing dropouts. prgtoken In 2019, Rico was named Colorado's ``Superintendent of the Year'' and Aurora's ``Man of the Year''--highlighting Rico's dedication to the students and teachers of APS, as well as the improvements and changes that occurred under his leadership. prgtoken Outside of his work as Superintendent, Rico also has an extensive history fighting for social justice causes. He served on the board of the ACLU-Denver and was principal author of the Denver Police Department's first policy against ``Biased Policing.'' Additionally, Rico is active in many nonprofits across Colorado. prgtoken I commend and thank Rico for his years of service to the students, teachers, and families of the APS system, as well as his continued dedication to our community. As Rico transitions to a supporting role in the APS system, may his experience and commitment to students continue to be an immense asset in the years ahead.
INTRODUCTION OF THE ALBERT PIKE STATUE REMOVAL ACT
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-2-21

today, I rise to introduce the Albert Pike Statue Removal Act, which would require the permanent removal of the statue of Confederate General Albert Pike from federal land near Judiciary Square in the District of Columbia, which was illegally torn down in 2020 and is in storage. The bill also would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to donate the statue to a museum or similar entity. In the 116th Congress, the House Committee on Natural Resources passed this bill by voice vote. This bill is part of a series of statue and memorial removal bills I am introducing during Black History Month. prgtoken This statue, which was dedicated in 1901, was constructed using both federal and private funds. The Freemasons, of which Pike was a member, donated the majority of the money needed to build and install the statue. prgtoken I oppose destroying Confederate statues, because I believe they should be moved to more appropriate settings, like museums, to avoid erasing an important part of history from which Americans must continue to learn. Pike, a Confederate general who served dishonorably and was forced to resign in disgrace, represents the worst of the Confederacy. Soldiers under his command were found to have mutilated the bodies of Union soldiers, and he was ultimately imprisoned after his fellow Confederate officers reported that he had been misappropriating funds. Adding to the dishonor of taking up arms against the United States, Pike dishonored even his Confederate military service. He certainly has absolutely no claim to be memorialized in the Nation's capital. Even those who do not want Confederate statues removed will have to justify affording Pike any honor considering his dishonorable history. prgtoken After meeting with the Freemasons, I believe the best course of action is to remove the statue and find a more appropriate place for it. Given the statue's divisive nature, the Freemasons themselves support the statue's removal. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.
RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF JUNE D. KREGER
Gus M. Bilirakis (Republican, FL) \u2014 2023-2-21

I rise to recognize the tireless contributions of one of my constituents, June D. Kreger, who was born in December of 1935. She began her VA service at the Salem, VA facility as a Medical Technologist in 1973. She and her husband, James P. Kreger Jr moved to Florida when June was transferred to James A. Haley VA hospital in 1978. June worked at the James A. Haley VA Hospital until she accepted a position to help open the New Port Richey Veterans' Outpatient Clinic in 1985 under the leadership of Dr. Duke Miller. June Kreger retired after dedicating 20 years of service to our nation's heroes through her work at the VA. Upon her retirement she remarked that it was always her goal to help make Veterans smile. The great tennis legend, Arthur Ashe, once noted that, ``True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.'' prgtoken Through her daily service at the VA, June undoubtedly made a positive impact on the lives of countless local Veterans. prgtoken June is also the surviving spouse of Veteran James P. Kreger, Jr who served in the United States Army and was stationed in Nuremberg, Germany. Both June and James were very active in their church upon retirement and also volunteered with the Meals on Wheels program for many years. At 87 years young, June Kreger lives in New Port Richey with her daughter, Wendy, and her son-in-law, Mike, who is also a Veteran. June is proud to be able to attend the Grand Opening of the new, expanded VA clinic on March 4th. She is excited to see another beautiful facility in our community dedicated to treating our local heroes and will be welcoming the new employees at the facility who will be entrusted with the task of providing outstanding quality care to all Veterans while also working to help them smile. It is my pleasure to recognize her and her family's service to our Nation on this special occasion.
HONORING LIEUTENANT NUNO TAVARES
Doug LaMalfa (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-2-21

I rise today to recognize the career of my friend, Lieutenant Nuno Tavares with the Placer County District Attorney's Office. Nuno has over 26 years of service in law enforcement and has had an exemplary career. I met Nuno 13 years ago when he was on the Board of Directors of the Placer County Deputy Sheriff's Association. We have had a great friendship over the years based on respect of the law, compassion and justice for victims, and public service. It was great to have Nuno and the DSA come by the California State Capitol when I was there. Later on, it was our pleasure to have Nuno and his family here to our Nation's Capital in Washington DC. I always enjoyed the times Nuno and I had to catch up, and to hear what our investigators and law enforcement deal with. prgtoken Nuno has worked in law enforcement since 1995. He spent 10 years on a Narcotics Task Force and oversaw areas like Cold Cases, Homicides, Special Investigations, and the Special Projects Unit. prgtoken It has been a pleasure knowing Nuno over the years. My congratulations to him in his retirement. I look forward to hearing what his plans are next. My best to Nuno and Jessica, and their children as they start this new chapter in their lives. God Bless Nuno and his family. God Bless the work he has done and the justice for victims he ensured. I thank him for his service to Placer County.
HONORING THE LIFE OF EDWARD DELEON GUERRERO PANGELINAN
Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (Republican, AS) \u2014 2023-2-21

I rise today to honor the life of Edward Deleon Guerrero Pangelinan who passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023, after struggling with cancer. ``Eddie'' as he was known to friends and loved ones, was born on October 24, 1941. prgtoken A graduate of Howard University and the first Chamorro lawyer in the territory, Eddie was a key player in shaping the CNMI's status as a territory of the United States. As Chairman of the Marianas Political Status Commission, he led the political status negotiations resulting in the signing of The Covenant to Establish a Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in Political Union with the United States. He was the first Resident Representative from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to the United States. The office of Resident Representative served as the precursor to the Delegate from the CNMI to the United States House of Representatives and laid the groundwork for the territory's future representation in Congress. He would go on to serve in various roles supporting the CNMI and the territories. prgtoken Eddie will always be remembered fondly as a founding father of the CNMI and as a cornerstone of the Pacific community. We honor his legacy and thank him and his family for their public service that continues to benefit the territories to this day. prgtoken He is survived by his wife, Dulce Gatbonton Pangelinan, 6 children, and 11 grandchildren. His passing is not just a loss for the CNMI, but for the Pacific region at large. He will be missed.
HONORING THE LIFE AND CAREER OF JODY NAZARCHYK
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-2-24

I rise today to mourn the passing and honor the wonderful life of Waterford, Connecticut Selectwoman Jody Nazarchyk. Jody was a tireless public servant and community activist who showed unrivaled dedication to the well-being of her family and her town. The outpouring of praise and love for her from all corners of Waterford after news of her loss was a powerful statement of the impact she made on generations of town residents, young and old. prgtoken Born on January 15, 1952, to Josephine and John DeAngelis, Jody grew up in West Hartford, Connecticut. She attended St. Timothy's grade school and Mount St. Joseph's Academy who imbued in her a deep religious faith and spirituality. I was her classmate at St. Timothy's and she stood out, even at a young age, as a caring, kind person who put others ahead of herself. Beginning with her time supporting the Hartford Catholic Youth Organization alongside her father, the spirit of volunteerism was instilled within Jody throughout her family upbringing. From coaching both boys' baseball and girls' cheerleading, to running the school newspaper and serving as president of her class and captain of the cheer team, her record of volunteer service started early and continued unabated until the end of her life. prgtoken Early in her 20s, Jody moved to Waterford upon the completion of her education. There, she was closer to her extended family and, as fate would have it, her life soulmate, Rich Nazarchyk whom she married and raised four wonderful children. This move was not only a pivotal event for her personally, but also it turned out a decisive boon for the Town of Waterford. prgtoken Jody, who came to be known as both the ``conscience of Waterford'' and ``Waterford's mom,'' always stood up for her community. This first became apparent in 1991 when she helped found the town's youth service bureau. In fact, advocating for the town's children was a central tenant to her work. In 2012, for example, when funding for freshman high school sports were threatened, Jody stood for her community, protected those programs from being cut, and ensured her town's youth had early access to athletic development. As a result, it was Jody who had sown seeds of town pride and indirectly supported Waterford gaining eight state championships since that year. It is no wonder that she is honored in the Waterford Sports Hall of Fame. prgtoken Outside of youth athletics, Jody also recognized the importance of a formational education and made sure to support students in the classroom. For 25 years, she served as a member of the Waterford Board of Education, where she was a tireless advocate for the wellbeing of students, teachers, and parents. Her service culminated in her election to the position of Chair of the Board, where she was able to more effectively bridge the interests of students and parents alike. As a testament to her work, she was recognized as a Champion for Children by the town in
HONORING THE VACAVILLE PEOPLE'S FORUM
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-2-24

I rise today to honor the Vacaville People's Forum in celebration of their 3rd annual Martin Luther King, Jr Peace in the Park Parade. prgtoken Founded with the goal of amplifying the voices of underrepresented populations, the Vacaville People's Forum provides the invaluable service of informing local voters in often overlooked elections. Their work in holding elected officials accountable is a significant part of having an effective local government and an important job in Vacaville. prgtoken Their work includes highlighting outstanding members of our community on social media through campaigns like their ``31 Inspiring Women in Vacaville,'' where they recognized inspiring women in industries ranging from healthcare and education to non-profits. prgtoken The Vacaville People's Forum further enriches their community by organizing events like the Martin Luther King, Jr Peace in the Park Parade, the Pride in the Park, and the Be You 2022 Event for individuals with special needs, all of which were held within the last year. prgtoken These events are an essential part of our community. They bring us closer together and help fight the systemic issues that impact our most vulnerable populations. The hard work, commitment, and dedicated service of the Vacaville People's Forum on the 3rd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr Peace in the Park event showcases the best qualities of our community. prgtoken , the Vacaville People's Forum has been a source of quality debate for public officials and community building events in Vacaville. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that they are honored here today.
HONORING JENNIFER CARPENTER
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-2-24

I rise today to honor the extraordinary career of Jennifer Carpenter, the Chief Operating Officer for D'Amore Healthcare. prgtoken As the COO for D'Amore Healthcare, Jennifer is a Certified Treatment Executive and holds credentials in the behavioral health field, including certifications as a Qualified Mental Health Specialist and Certified Admissions and Marketing Specialist with CCAPP. Before finding her passion in Admissions with D'Amore Healthcare, Jennifer worked for a nonprofit organization as the Financial Administrator. prgtoken Her own personal journey led to her dedication in helping others struggling with mental health and substance abuse and allows her to be the point of contact with individuals and their families looking to start their recovery. prgtoken Throughout her incredible career, Jennifer made sure that her clients are aware of the individual care they will receive while at D'Amore Healthcare, which includes screening and assessment before admissions and following through with the patient's intake from start to finish, in addition to discharge planning. prgtoken It is my privilege to honor this humble and hard-working woman. Mr. and colleagues, please join me in acknowledging the career and accomplishments of Jennifer Carpenter.