mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING ROSS K. BAKER
Frank Pallone, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2024-4-2

it is my honor to recognize Ross K. Baker on his retirement from Rutgers University. Professor Baker dedicated over 50 years to Rutgers University and his many achievements and contributions should be celebrated. prgtoken A Distinguished Professor of Political Science at Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences, Professor Baker was honored in 2021 with the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching, which recognizes faculty members whose contributions have been significantly impactful. I had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Professor Baker's classes numerous times and it was evident that his students valued and internalized his teachings. prgtoken Specializing in American Government and U.S. Legislative Politics, Professor Baker brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. Throughout his tenure, he also served as a Visiting Professor at Haverford College and the University of Leipzig (Germany), as well as a Fulbright Lecturer at the Swedish Institute of International Relations in Stockholm. In addition to his academic background, Professor Baker worked for the offices of Senator Walter Mondale, Birch Bayh, Franch Church, Chuck Hagel, Patrick Leahy, and Harry Reid. He also served as a consultant to the ic Caucus of the U.S. House of Representatives. Likewise, he has published many books and articles and has contributed to USA Today and several NPR programs. prgtoken Immediately prior to joining Rutgers in 1968, Professor Baker was a research associate at the Brookings Institute. He had also worked at the Special Operations Research Office and was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his B.A M.A. and Ph.D. prgtoken , please join me in congratulating Professor Ross K. Baker on his retirement. It is my privilege to recognize his commitment to education and government and offer my best wishes as he enters this new stage in life.
HONORING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AMY J. MARKOWICH AS SHE RETIRES FROM NAVAIR
Steny H. Hoyer (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2024-4-2

I rise to honor my friend Amy Markowich as she retires as Executive Director for the Digital Analytics Infrastructure and Technology Advancement (DAiTA) and Mission Systems Groups, Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) at the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR)--located at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in my district. For over 30 years, the United States Navy and our community, state, and country have benefitted from her sound leadership. Our Congress owes her a tremendous debt of gratitude for her service. prgtoken As Executive Director, Amy managed thousands of civilian and contractor personnel across multiple installations. She guided them in their work developing and testing state-of-the-art naval aviation systems. Amy also successfully oversaw $1.3 billion in National Asset laboratories, ensuring that these resources were used as effectively as possible to advance new technologies vital to keeping our servicemembers--and our Nation--safe. prgtoken Amy's tenure as Executive Director was just the latest chapter in a career defined by service and success. Appointed to the Senior Executive Service in 2009, Amy also served as the Department of Navy (DON) Naval High Performance Computing (HPC) Principal, Deputy DON Test & Evaluation (T&E) Executive, the DON Modeling & Simulation (M&S) Executive, and a number of other important positions. prgtoken From spearheading development of the Air Combat Environment Test and Evaluation Facility, including the large anechoic chamber, and the Joint Simulation Environment to helping establish test configurations for various key aircraft, she has made numerous technical contributions. These cutting-edge systems continue to help prepare our men and women in uniform to face down challenges in the field. Crucially, no matter the post or project, Amy fostered a spin of innovation and culture of collaboration that will long endure. prgtoken Amy's work has also extended to representing the United States in many capacities at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and other international organizations. Amy's leadership in both domestic and international situations often placed her as a top leader and often as the only woman in key technical roles where she established herself as a respected authority. prgtoken I've been proud to work with Amy to ensure that Congress provides the hardworking team at Naval Air Station Patuxent River with the resources it needs to conduct this essential work. She has been an excellent host during my many visits to the base over the years, and I--like many others--will be sad to see her go. Her leadership in building capabilities for the Department of Defense has always been forward- looking and provided our Nation with the tools necessary to remain at the forefront of development and testing of the most complex weapons systems in the world. prgtoken , I ask that all my colleagues join me in thanking one of the smartest, most
CONGRATULATING SPRINGFIELD NATIVE BRAD BOOKER ON WINNING AN OSCAR
Nikki Budzinski (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2024-4-2

I rise today to congratulate Springfield native Brad Booker on the incredible achievement of winning an Oscar for his short film ``War is Over''. This incredible achievement is even more impressive given that Brad was a first time Academy Award nominee. prgtoken Booker started his journey towards this incredible achievement in Springfield where he attended Glenwood High School and later Lincoln Land Community College. Prior to his work on this short film, he worked as an animator at Warner Brothers Studios on films such as Iron Giant, Stuart Little, Spider Man, and Lord of the Rings. prgtoken I am honored to congratulate Brad, who still lives with his family in Chatham, on this incredible achievement. His dedication serves as inspiration to me and all of those who call the Springfield region home. Congratulations to him, his family, and his colleagues on this remarkable achievement. prgtoken I am looking forward to his next project.
INTRODUCTION OF THE PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR COMMEMORATIVE COIN ACT
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2024-4-2

today, I introduce the Paul Laurence Dunbar Commemorative Coin Act, which would direct the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue coins in honor of Paul Laurence Dunbar. This bill would recognize one of the first influential African American poets in American literature and benefit the Dunbar Alumni Federation, the alumni association for the Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School in the District of Columbia, which is historic for being the first public high school for African Americans in the United States. I am a proud graduate of Dunbar, a storied African American high school in our country. prgtoken Paul Laurence Dunbar was born on June 27, 1872, to formerly enslaved parents, and went on to pen such classics as Majors and Minors and Lyrics of Lowly Life. He also composed the lyrics to In Dahomey, the first all-African American musical produced on Broadway. By the late 1890s, Dunbar had become a prominent author, having had his poems published in major national newspapers, including The New York Times. Dunbar died on February 9, 1906, at age 33. prgtoken Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School was established in 1870 as the Preparatory High School for Colored Youth. It was the first college preparatory high school for African American children in the United States. The school was renamed for Dunbar in 1916. prgtoken The Dunbar Alumni Federation was organized in 2002 to provide scholarships and other financial support to students and graduates of Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School. The Federation has alumni from more than 35 graduating classes, and supports the school through its scholarship efforts, community activities and other endeavors. prgtoken This bill would authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to mint 50,000 five-dollar coins, 400,000 one-dollar coins and 750,000 half- dollar coins, with a surcharge on each coin. The surcharges would benefit the scholarships and similar activities of the Dunbar Alumni Federation. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
HONORING THE VALIANT SERVICE OF SERGEANT EARL WESTBROOKS
Mark E. Green (Republican, TN) \u2014 2024-4-2

I rise today to honor and recognize the valiant service of Technical Sergeant Earl Westbrooks to his country and the United States Army. prgtoken Sergeant Westbrooks answered the call of duty at the Perry County Courthouse in 1944 at the young age of seventeen. He completed basic training at Fort McClellan, Alabama, whereupon he served as a non- commissioned officer in World War II and the early days of the Korean War. Prior to leaving Korea in 1948, Sergeant Westbrooks trained members of the South Korean Army in Chan-ju, which later proved instrumental to the defense from the brutal communist invasion in 1950. prgtoken Upon completing his service overseas, Sergeant Westbrooks returned to finish his schooling, which had been cut short by the war, and on the same day his son graduated from Perry County High School, Sergeant Westbrooks earned his GED. Ever the servant leader, he is deeply involved in his community and an active member of Faith Baptist Church in Linden, Tennessee. He is also an excellent guitarist and a former player in Minnie Pearl's Grinder's Switch Skillet Lickers, which performed in Odessa, Texas. prgtoken A proud veteran, Sergeant Westbrooks is an active VFW member, and he regularly represents WWII veterans at events across West and Middle Tennessee. While he traded in his military fatigues for civvies, he never stopped serving his country, and you can still find him in Perry County, Tennessee, wearing his World War II and Korea Veterans hats with pride. prgtoken Sergeant Westbrooks and the love of his life, Mrs. Aline Hinson Westbrooks, celebrated 74 years of marriage earlier this year. Together, they have three children: Deborah Hardin, Kerry Westbrooks, and Lisa Stayrook. prgtoken Technical Sergeant Earl Westbrooks has lived an admirable life marked by service, both to his community and his country. On behalf of the House of Representatives and as a fellow veteran, I commend him for his service to our district, the state of Tennessee, and the United States of America.
HONORING ELLEN LOCKER
Thomas H. Kean, Jr. (Republican, NJ) \u2014 2024-4-2

I rise today to congratulate Ellen Locker on her retirement and honor her 26 years of service as a member of the Hunterdon Health System Board of Trustees. prgtoken Under the exemplary leadership of Ms. Locker, the Hunterdon Health System has undergone tremendous growth. Including the opening of the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, the opening of the Norman and Denise Guilloud Cardiovascular Center, and the expansion of primary care and health and wellness care systems across New Jersey. During this time, Hunterdon Health not only expanded its physical network, but also increased its capacity to care by adopting and providing new and innovative procedures to treat a wider range of issues. Furthermore, Hunterdon Health achieved impressive recognitions during the tenure of Ms. Locker, including eight consecutive `Leapfrog A' Hospital prgtoken Safety Grades, four-time Magnet hospital designation, and its first 5- Star award from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. prgtoken In 2020, Ms. Locker championed the greatest governance reorganization in the organization's history while simultaneously guiding the health system through the unprecedented disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The revised governance model reshaped the 41-member representative body into a streamlined Board of 15 Trustees and resulted in the elimination of redundancies, an increase in efficiency, and a greater alignment with Hunterdon Health's mission and strategic direction. prgtoken I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Locker for her many contributions to residents in the 7th District and across the state of New Jersey. Ms. Locker is an example of one of the many innovative leaders which makes the 7th District strong, and I congratulate her on a well-deserved retirement.
CELEBRATING GINNY WHALEN'S 100TH BIRTHDAY
Michael R. Turner (Republican, OH) \u2014 2024-4-2

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mrs. Mary Jane Berghoff Whalen, a resident of my Congressional District in Kettering, Ohio, who will celebrate her 100th birthday on June 1, 2024. prgtoken Ginny was an only child, born and raised on a farm in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was homeschooled through eighth grade, before graduating from Central Catholic High School in Fort Wayne, and attended Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. prgtoken Ginny met a native Daytonian, Herbert E. Whalen, Jr and they were married on June 29, 1946. They established a home in Kettering, and raised four children. She is currently the proud grandmother of nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. During their sixty years of marriage, Ginny and Herb served as role models and civic leaders in their community. prgtoken As dedicated parishioners of St. Albert the Great Catholic Church in Kettering, Ginny and Herb worked together to renovate and expand their spiritual home. They served on the committee that enlarged the church from a one-room building in the 1940s, to the thriving community that currently serves over two thousand families. Ginny has remained a faithful member of the church for over 70 years. prgtoken In the 1970s and 80s, Ginny and her husband worked diligently to save the Oregon District, one of Dayton's oldest historic neighborhoods, from demolition. She worked with the city to facilitate the renovation of two houses and four apartments, and continues to support the historic preservation efforts of the Oregon Historic District Society. prgtoken From an early age, Ginny adopted the motto: ``To give back to others.'' The generous amounts of time and energy she has contributed to a variety of volunteer and civic organizations serve as an example for all of us. prgtoken Ginny remained active and involved in her community throughout her nineties, and has indulged in a variety of hobbies and personal interests that include: reading, playing the drums (which she still loves to do), harmonica, tennis, horseback riding, and participating in her local theater group ``Hamlets.'' prgtoken I am proud to join Ginny's family and friends in celebrating her long and extraordinary life. I wish her a very happy birthday, and in the years to come may God bless her with continued good health and happiness.
CELEBRATING THE 100TH BIRTHDAY OF ALLEN Q. JONES
Guy Reschenthaler (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-4-2

I rise to celebrate the life and legacy of Allen Q. Jones, who celebrates his 100th birthday on April 11, 2024. prgtoken Allen was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, and attended Uniontown High School during the early years of World War II, receiving a draft notice shortly before graduation. In 1943, Allen departed for training with the U.S. Army's 717th Tank Battalion. The following year brought him through Forts Chaffee, Knox, and Meade before leaving for Europe aboard the S.S. Cristobal on Christmas Eve, 1944. Corporal Allen Jones and the 717th Tank Battalion crossed the River Rhine in the spring of 1945 and remained in Germany until the end of the war. Once he returned to the United States, he attended Waynesburg College and joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 21 in Connellsville, Pennsylvania. prgtoken Allen stayed active in the VFW for over 70 years, winning leadership elections at the local and national levels. He began his tenure as Fayette County Commander but soon rose to the rank of District 23 Commander. Allen's peers elected him Pennsylvania State Commander in 1986, where his work ethic earned national acclaim. He served on the VFW National Home's Board of Trustees for two years before winning the Board President election in 1995. Allen gained further distinction at the 1999 VFW National Convention when the delegates appointed him to the National Council of Administration. His leadership tenure ended in 2016 after a one-year commission as National Chief of Staff. prgtoken Allen's call to service inspired him to become an active member of the Connellsville Area School District community throughout his adult life. He taught science and special education for 30 years and served as president of the Connellsville Area Education Association after retiring from teaching in 1984. Allen also coached multiple sports teams at Connellsville Junior High School. He led the Connellsville Junior High East boys basketball team through an undefeated season in 1970, cumulating in winning the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League Junior Championship. He also won a league championship in 1984 while coaching the Connellsville Junior High girls basketball team. The Connellsville School Falcon Foundation recognized Allen's years of commitment to student-athletes by inducting him into their Hall of Fame in 2016. prgtoken Allen married Nancy Carol Dayton in 1950 and shared 70 happy years of marriage before her passing in 2021. The couple raised two children together: Marcia Knight and Charles ``Chuckie'' Jones. Over the years, their family grew to include two granddaughters and one great- granddaughter. prgtoken Allen's selfless service left a mark on southwestern Pennsylvania and made his community a better place. Few people share his remarkable ability to connect with and mentor young students. His story is the epitome of a life well-lived. prgtoken , on behalf of the people of Pennsylvania'
CELEBRATING THIENSVILLE VILLAGE PRESIDENT VAN MOBLEY
Glenn Grothman (Republican, WI) \u2014 2024-4-5

I rise today to commend the remarkable leadership and service of Van Mobley, President of the Village of Thiensville, whose unwavering dedication has significantly enriched the lives of his constituents and propelled the progress of his community over the last twelve years.. prgtoken Throughout his dedicated career, Van Mobley has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to public service and community development. His journey began in 2006 when he was appointed to the Village Board as a Trustee, filling a vacant seat, and subsequently earning the trust of his constituents through two additional three-year terms. In 2012, he was elected Village President, a position he has since held for four consecutive three-year terms. prgtoken Under President Mobley's stewardship, Thiensville has experienced remarkable growth and advancement. His visionary leadership has spurred significant infrastructure improvements and development projects throughout the village. Notably, he spearheaded the development on South Main Street, overseeing crucial water infrastructure installations and the establishment of key properties, including the Thiensville Health Alliance, Reuter Insurance, and a new Village parking lot. His pivotal role in the Pigeon Creek flood control project has been instrumental in safeguarding Main Street from flooding during major rain events. prgtoken President Mobley's commitment to collaboration and intergovernmental cooperation has been exemplified by his efforts to merge fire and EMS services with the City of Mequon, resulting in the formation of the Southern Ozaukee Fire and EMS Department. This innovative partnership has garnered recognition from the Wisconsin Policy Forum for its effectiveness and efficiency. prgtoken Beyond infrastructure, President Mobley has overseen numerous enhancements in Village Park, including the construction of the Port Washington State Bank River Stage, new Comfort Station, playground upgrades, and boat launch improvements. Van Mobley's dedication to preserving Thiensville's rich history and heritage is evident in his personal investment in the historic Thiensville State Bank building on Green Bay Road, which he purchased and meticulously renovated. prgtoken In recognition of his exceptional service and tireless efforts on behalf of the residents of Thiensville, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Van Mobley. His accomplishments have had a profound and lasting impact on the community, and I wish him continued success in all his future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING THE EVERETT HIGH SCHOOL RIFLE TEAM
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-4-5

I rise today to recognize the Everett High School Rifle Team on winning the 2024 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Rifle Championships held in Meyersdale, Pennsylvania. prgtoken The discipline, focus, and sportsmanship demonstrated by each member of the Everett High School Rifle Team are a testament to prgtoken their character and the exceptional coaching they have received. Through countless hours of practice and unwavering determination, they have honed their skills to perfection. prgtoken Under the leadership of Coach Coltin Rice, the team has gone undefeated since 2017. Their dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence have propelled them to new heights, setting the bar even higher for future teams. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate the Everett High School Rifle Team, and wish them every continued success in the years to come.
COMMEMORATING B&B THEATRES
Sam Graves (Republican, MO) \u2014 2024-4-5

I rise today to commemorate the remarkable journey of B&B Theatres as they mark their centennial milestone. As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of B&B Theatres, we reflect upon a century of enriching experiences, cherished memories, and cultural contributions in my home state of Missouri, as well as communities across the U.S. prgtoken Beyond its cinematic offerings, B&B Theatres has been a beacon of community engagement, fostering connections and bringing people together. Through partnerships with local organizations, schools, and charities, B&B Theatres has demonstrated a profound dedication to giving back to the communities it serves. prgtoken Moreover, B&B Theatres has continuously embraced innovation, adapting to the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry while staying true to its core values. From the introduction of state-of-the-art technology to the enhancement of amenities and services, B&B Theatres has consistently elevated the moviegoing experience, ensuring that patrons receive nothing short of excellence. prgtoken As we honor the legacy of B&B Theatres on this momentous occasion, let us extend our heartfelt congratulations to the founders, employees, and patrons who have contributed to its enduring success. May the next century be filled with continued prosperity, innovation, and memorable experiences for all who walk through the doors of B&B Theatres. prgtoken In recognition of its 100 years of unparalleled entertainment and community service, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the remarkable legacy of B&B Theatres and the profound impact it has had on our Nation's cultural landscape.
HONORING SCOTT NICHOLAS
Nick LaLota (Republican, NY) \u2014 2024-4-5

today I rise to honor the memory of the late Scott Nicholas, a remarkable individual from Smithtown, New York. Scott Nicholas was not only a Captain in the United States Naval Reserve but also a dedicated professor at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY. prgtoken Mr. Nicholas graduated from the State University of New York Maritime College and served in the United States Naval Reserve from 1999 to 2010. His contributions during Operation Iraqi Freedom aboard the USNS Algol earned him well-deserved recognition. Furthermore, he served with distinction on the USNS Mendonca and Pililaau from 2006 to 2008 and as Captain on the USNS Brittin from 2008 to 2010. prgtoken Beyond his service in the Naval Reserve, Mr. Nicholas continued to serve his country as a professor of Nautical Sciences and Simulation at the United States Merchant Marine Academy until his untimely passing on November 19, 2023. His dedication and commitment to his Nation exemplify true heroism. prgtoken My heartfelt condolences and profound appreciation for his service extend to his beloved wife, Heather, and his entire family. May the United States and the State of New York forever cherish patriots like Scott Nicholas. May his legacy endure, and may he find eternal peace.