mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING NORTHWEST INDIANA INDIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT SISTER JANE MARIE KLEIN
Frank J. Mrvan (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize the Northwest Indiana Indian Medical Association. which will be hosting its 41st Annual Gala on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the Halls of Saint George in Schererville, Indiana. This year, the organization will present the prestigious Community Service Award to Sister Jane Marie Klein. prgtoken The Northwest Indiana Indian Medical Association was founded in 1983 with the goal of bringing together physicians and healthcare providers of Indian descent to foster personal and professional development and relationships. The organization supports numerous charitable endeavors and outreach programs within the surrounding communities. prgtoken For her lifetime of spiritual service and her unwavering commitment to the healthcare industry, Sister Jane Marie Klein is the recipient of the Community Service Award. As Chair of the Franciscan Alliance Board of Trustees, Sister Jane Marie has been an outstanding leader and an extraordinary asset to the spiritual and medical community throughout the region. During her tenure, Sister Jane Marie has held numerous positions and leadership roles within the Franciscan Alliance organization, including Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Michigan City's Saint Anthony Health and CEO of Saint Margaret Mercy Health in Hammond for the past ten years. Those who have worked with Sister Jane Marie can attest to her dedication to the organization's standard of excellence and consider her to be among the most significant people in Northern Indiana's medical communIty. prgtoken In addition to serving as Chair of the Franciscan Alliance Board, Sister Jane Marie gives her time and efforts to additional boards at Franciscan Alliance. including the Central Indiana Division, Western Indiana Division. Northern Indiana Division. South Suburban Chicago Division, and the Franciscan Holding Company. She is also a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration. For her remarkable contributions to the medical and spiritual fields throughout Indiana and the region, Sister Jane Marie is worthy of the highest praise. prgtoken Pro Tempore, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating the Northwest Indiana Indian Medical Association on its 41st anniversary. I would also like to commend Sister Jane Marie Klein. recipient of the Community Service Award, who has selflessly devoted so much of her time and efforts to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and beyond.
CELEBRATING THE ANNUAL SCARECROW FESTIVITIES OF THE CHESTER HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise today in recognition of the Chester Historical Society's annual scarecrow celebration in Chester, New Hampshire. Each year, as the weather cools and the leaves fall, hundreds of new faces appear in the town of Chester as residents decorate scarecrows in support of the Chester Historical Society. These stylized scarecrows represent everything from pop culture icons to historical figures and local heroes, but together they tell the story of a small town celebrating community and a beloved tradition. prgtoken From scarecrows depicting Paul Revere on horseback to a Star Trek- inspired Taylor Swift, each scarecrow is a unique expression of the creativity of Chester residents. For 14 years, this celebration has served as an opportunity for residents to showcase their artistic skills with money raised from the sale of scarecrow kits supporting the efforts by the Historical Society to promote the history of the town and continuous education about local culture. Along Routes 102 and 121, hundreds of scarecrows line the street demonstrating that the Chester Historical Society succeeds in spreading history and happiness across town. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to congratulate the Chester Historical Society for preserving this cherished tradition and to commend them on the work they have done to educate town residents on local culture. I look forward to a continued partnership with the town of Chester, and I cannot wait to see the creativity displayed in this year's crop of scarecrows.
HONORING COACH HAMPTON "HAMP" SMITH
Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize a loving husband, iconic coach, dedicated community servant and dear friend of longstanding, Coach Hampton ``Hamp'' Smith. Sadly, Coach Smith passed away on Monday, October 2, 2023. A homegoing service to celebrate his remarkable life was held on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at the Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. prgtoken The genesis of the life of Coach Hampton Smith began on October 1, 1934, in Greenwood, Mississippi where he was born to the union of the late Richard Smith and Fannie Hampton Smith. A product of the Leflore County, Mississippi school system, he graduated from Threadgill High School and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree from Mississippi Valley Vocational College (Now Mississippi Valley State University) in 1957. From 1957 to 1959, Coach served honorably in the United States Army. prgtoken Coach Smith began his legendary coaching career in 1959 as an assistant coach at Mississippi Valley Vocational College. He then coached at McComb High School and J.E. Johnson High School before serving as assistant football coach at Tennessee Agricultural and Industrial College during 1969 and 1970 while earning his Master's degree. Coach Smith then began the first of two legendary stints at Albany State College in 1971 through 1976, went back to Mississippi Valley for 1977 to 1978, only to return to Albany State as an assistant coach from 1980 to 1981. He then became head coach for the Albany State Golden Rams from 1982 to 1999. Multi-talented and multi-faceted, Coach Smith also prgtoken served as Albany State baseball coach from 1981 to 1983, compiling a record of 46-37-1. prgtoken Overall, during his career in coaching, he compiled an impressive record of 157-90-4; he made 5 NCAA D-II Playoff appearances and led Albany State to 9 SIAC Championships. He was inducted in the Albany State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004 and the SIAC Hall of Fame in 2014. prgtoken Coach Smith's impact was felt well beyond the athletic field. He was more than just a coach. He helped shape the character of generations of young men and women at Albany State and helped shape the character of his community through his active civic engagement in local, state and national politics. He strongly encouraged people to exercise their duty to vote in every election. prgtoken Coach Smith accomplished much in his life but none of it would have been possible without the grace of God and love and support of his late wife, Charlene Johnson Smith. This union lasted for 60 years until Charlene's passing in April of 2022. prgtoken On a personal note, Coach Smith was my friend and supporter for 30 years. For his loyalty, support and wise counsel, I will be forever grateful. prgtoken Coach Hamp Smith was a Hall of Fame Coach and a Hall of Fame human being. To God be the Glory for his extraordinary life and legacy. prgtoken Pro Tempore, I ask my colleagues to join my wife, Viv
HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF MEGAN RAPINOE
Pramila Jayapal (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to honor my constituent, Megan Rapinoe, who is retiring from professional soccer after an inspiring 17-year career. prgtoken Over her distinguished career, Megan's athletic prowess and activism for equity have inspired Washington's 7th Congressional District and the world. Megan helped lead the United States to victory in two FIFA World Cups, received Olympic gold and bronze medals, and was named The Best FIFA Women's Player 2019. In addition to being a superstar on the field, Megan has courageously utilized her platform to advocate for social justice. She is an outspoken champion for equal pay and gender equality, knelt in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, and continuously stands up for LGBTQ+ rights and other critical social justice issues. Through her sacrifice and hard work, the U.S. Soccer Federation now guarantees equal pay to men's and women's soccer teams and the state of women's soccer in the United States is in a much better place than when her career began. prgtoken As she enters retirement, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Megan's accomplishments and service to our country. Her achievements on the field, coupled with her fearless and unapologetic advocacy, have set an incredible example for young athletes everywhere. She changed the way that not only little girls could see themselves in soccer, but she also showed everyone what it looks like to be who you are and to fight for the things you believe in. Her legacy will continue to inspire those in Washington's 7th Congressional District and beyond.
HONORING THE CAREER OF DEBORAH MONAHAN
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to commend and honor Deborah ``Deb'' Monahan, of Norwich, Connecticut, on her retirement as the Executive Director of Thames Valley Community Council for Community Action. At the helm of TVCCA, Deb has led a crusade of over half-century, a personal mission to uplift the lives of those most vulnerable in southeast Connecticut. The impact of her tenure is of titanic proportions. Whether you go neighborhood by neighborhood or town-by-town, it is impossible to traverse New London County without finding some person or organization that has not been touched by Deb's kind and giving spirit. Her stewardship as Executive Director and CEO will be sorely missed and impossible to replace. prgtoken In 1973, Deb graduated with a bachelor's degree in childhood and family relations, setting the stage for her future of community service. Deb's degree was quickly put to use when, upon graduating, she was approached by TVCCA to serve as a case aid for early childhood issues. Little did she know at the time, she would transform and personify TVCCA's mission from the start of her career to finish. Soon thereafter, Deb found herself working in the agency's grants office where she continued a bottom-up journey of understanding the organization's innerworkings, a rare perspective that caused Deb to become such an effective, respected and well-rounded leader. prgtoken By 1976, Deb found herself in a leadership position as TVCCA's Women, Infants, and Children Program Director, where she worked with various external partners to provide effective support for those in need. In 1977, she became the assistant to then-Executive Director Gunderman and was named associate director in 1986. Her competence and dedication to the mission were properly recognized prgtoken when she was subsequently named TVCCA's Executive Director and CEO in 1998, a promotion which has bettered the lives of untold thousands. prgtoken Deb's career, and by direct extension the growth of TVCCA, has been defined by her eye for establishing partnerships, only to form them but to nurture them into long-term relationships. She has worked in conjunction with community institutions like Backus Hospital, United Community & Family Services, and municipalities throughout the southeastern region. Through these active relationships, Deb has crafted a robust social services network to care for residents of all creeds. She has served as a key member of the Southeast Connecticut Council of Governments, the Southeastern Connecticut Housing Alliance, and too many other boards to count. prgtoken Pro Tempore, Deb's legacy of good works is broad and wide, touching people of all ages and walks of life. Although there is no question that Deb's advocacy for her clients is undying, the population she most passionately helped were infants, toddlers and preschool kids. It is a testament to her dedication to our state and nation's future generations that even in
SUPPORT OF BIPARTISAN RESOLUTION CONDEMNING HAMAS TERRORIST ATTACK
Betty McCollum (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise in support of condemning the outrageous Hamas terrorist attacks that have resulted in the senseless deaths of Israelis, Palestinians, and more than 20 American citizens. Hundreds are missing and many are feared to be held hostage--including women, children, and even infants. prgtoken Savagely attacking and killing innocent civilians is never justified. These crimes must be unequivocally condemned as they are clear violations of international human rights law. prgtoken Hamas has a singular goal: to destroy Israel. Their attacks were not targeting the military or government; they were perpetrated against Israeli communities for the goal of destruction. Hamas uses fear, terror, and intimidation against Israelis and it uses the same tactics against the Palestinian people, putting targets on the backs of innocent people in Gaza. Nearly half of the population of Gaza are children--most having lived their entire lives under a brutal, devastating blockade that deprives them of basic human necessities and no prospect for a better future. prgtoken I have a solemn responsibility as a Member of Congress to shape policy. I have spoken out against governments, extremist groups, those exerting power over marginalized populations--whether they are our enemies, our allies, or within our own nation--and I always speak up for those suffering and in defense of human rights. The October 7 attack by Hamas was a gross violation of human rights. It crossed a red line. prgtoken This was a strategic, coordinated, multi-modal attack by Hamas. It leaves deeply concerning questions about what happened in the lead-up to this massacre and what the future holds. Any response must consider the innocent lives at stake. The United States must not choose to escalate conflict with a knee-jerk reaction of providing more weapons for an offensive that will certainly take the lives of more innocent civilians and children. The reports of casualties in Israel and Palestine are stunning, and I fear these numbers will only grow in the coming days. prgtoken This attack is not a far-away matter; it is hitting close to home. Mothers, fathers, the young, and the elderly--those near and far--are now living in unimaginable fear while mourning those they have lost. I am hearing from many Jewish constituents and community leaders who are in pain and who have loved ones among the injured, killed, or missing. I stand with them, I mourn with them, and I share their fear of what is to come. prgtoken My hope and my dream for the future is for every Israeli child and every Palestinian child to be tucked into bed at night by their parents without fear of bombings and perpetual violence. All people deserve safety and security--and in the wake of this heinous attack, the international community is in agreement that Hamas must be stopped. The only sustainable path forward is one where international human rights and international law are at the fore
COMMEORATING DAVID AND PAT HARTLINE DAY
Mike Rogers (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise today in commemoration of the David and Pat Hartline Day. prgtoken David is a retired LTC, U.S. Army, best-selling author and past State Commander of the American Legion. David has invested over 50 years of his life assisting veterans and their families with the problems they face. He has been nominated for the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his service to this country, its veterans and youth programs. He been named veteran of the year by the Governor of Alabama and was proclaimed a super citizen by TBS television station. prgtoken Pat is a retired registered nurse with over 50 years of service. She is actively involved with the American Legion Auxiliary. Pat served with the American Heart Association for a number of years, where she taught principles of heart disease as well as CPR to professionals, students, and communities. prgtoken David and Pat have raised four children, ten grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. They currently reside on the farm that has been in the family since 1840. prgtoken The towns of Centre, Cedar Bluff, Leesburg, Gaylesville, and Sand Rock declared Saturday, October 7, 2023 as David and Pat Hartline Day. prgtoken Pro Tempore, please join me in commemorating David and Pat Hairline Day. I thank them for their service to our Nation, our communities, and our veterans.
HONORING JEFFERSON COLLEGE'S 60TH ANNIVERSARY
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize Jefferson College located in Jefferson County in Missouri, as the community celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. prgtoken The Community College District of Jefferson County was approved by voters on April 2, 1963. Senator Earl Blackwell of Hillsboro sponsored Senate Bill Number Seven, which made possible the formation and financing of public junior colleges in Missouri. Jefferson became the second junior college district in Missouri to be approved. prgtoken Seventeen months later, the first courses were offered at Hillsboro High School with 14 faculty members and 303 students. Jefferson College moved into its first permanent building on the Hillsboro campus in September of 1965 and held its first commencement in June of 1966, where 31 graduates received associate degrees. prgtoken In 1967, Jefferson College became the first community college in Missouri to be designated as an area vocational school. Today, in addition to the Hillsboro campus, the college has sites in Arnold and Imperial. Over 3,500 full and part-time students span 25 different fields of study, including education, nursing, and the liberal arts. prgtoken Pro Tempore, please join me in wishing the community of Jefferson College a well-deserved congratulations on their 60th anniversary.
RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF SYRACUSE, NEW YORK
Brandon Williams (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to honor the 100th anniversary of Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse. New York. prgtoken Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse originated in 1923 as The Bishop's House of Charity to do ``all the things in the field of charity which should be done but which parishes alone cannot perform.'' Since that time, the agency has expanded to become six Catholic Charities area offices serving the people of Central New York: Catholic Charities of Broome County, Catholic Charities of Chenango County, Catholic Charities of Cortland County, Catholic Charities of Oneida and Madison Counties, Catholic Charities of Onondaga County, and Catholic Charities of Oswego County. The six agencies, collectively known as Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse, now serve as the operating agency of the Diocese's community services and human development programs providing services to people in need, regardless of their faith, ethnic origin, or social standing. prgtoken The six Catholic Charities agencies are dedicated to caring for those in need while promoting human development, collaboration, and the elimination of poverty and injustice by offering service components and delivery strategies tailored to best serve the people living in their service area. These services include emergency services, food pantries, permanent supportive housing, emergency shelter services, refugee resettlement services, parent education and support, Pre-Kindergarten, residential services, elderly services, and case management services. Each of the six Catholic Charities organizations has collaborated and continues to collaborate and coordinate with state and local government and other area nonprofit agencies to maximize available resources and the impact on the individuals they serve. Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse expect to continue their dedication to caring for those in need for the next 100 years. prgtoken I commend Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse on the occasion of their 100th anniversary and recognize their contributions to the well-being of the people of New York's 22nd congressional district and beyond.
CELEBRATING THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY OF DOMTAR'S ROCK HILL CONVERTING PLANT
Ralph Norman (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, I rise to celebrate the thirty- five-year journey of Domtar's Rock Hill Converting Plant, a cornerstone of South Carolina's industrial and community landscape. Established on October 3, 1988, the Rock Hill plant marked Domtar's commitment to the Southeast's expansion. They constructed a paper mill in Bennettsville, South Carolina, and concurrently set up a converting plant at Rock Hill's Tech Park, complete with a rail spur for convenience. prgtoken Recognizing the importance of education and workforce development, Domtar partnered with York Technical College. They generously donated a commercial printing press, in addition to fostering skills among students and offering employment opportunities to graduates. prgtoken Starting with thirty employees and three machines producing 102 tons per day, the plant has grown monumentally since then. Today, it employs fifty-three individuals, operates eight machines, and boasts an annual capacity of 65,000 tons. prgtoken Over the past thirty-five years, the plant has received numerous safety awards, highlighting its dedication to ensuring a secure and healthy workplace for its employees. In 2021, the plant achieved an extraordinary milestone by being awarded twenty-five years without a lost-time injury, a significant accomplishment in the manufacturing industry. prgtoken The Rock Hill Converting Plant is not just about business; it's about community. The plant and its employees regularly contribute to nonprofit organizations, both large and small, demonstrating their commitment to investing in the welfare of the area they call home. The employees have generously donated their time and energy to support education, sustainability, and humanitarian aid initiatives, further cementing the plant's role as a responsible corporate citizen. prgtoken Domtar's Rock Hill Converting Plant stands as a beacon of growth, safety, and community engagement. Over the past thirty-five years, this facility has not only played a vital role in the local economy, but has also become a source of inspiration and pride for the South Carolina community. It is with great honor that I recognize the accomplishments of the Rock Hill Converting Plant and look forward to witnessing their continued success in the years to come.
HONORING COMMUNITY HEALTH OUTREACH
Aaron Bean (Republican, FL) \u2014 2023-10-11

. Pro Tempore, today I rise to honor an organization in Florida's 4th District that exemplifies the spirit of compassion and service--Community Health Outreach. prgtoken For 35 years, they have been the cornerstone of hope for low-income, uninsured families in our northeast Florida community. Their tireless efforts have not only provided critical healthcare but also empowered countless families, including our brave U.S. Military Veterans, to overcome adversity. prgtoken Community Health Outreach is not just a healthcare provider; it's a beacon of sustainable change. They've woven a tapestry of support, offering resources, guidance, and a lifeline to those who need it most as they work to build a healthier society. prgtoken Pro Tempore, I ask that my colleagues in Congress join me in recognizing this milestone and celebrating the unsung heroes within Community Health Outreach and all those they have touched. prgtoken May their legacy inspire us to uplift the vulnerable, to strengthen our communities, and to forge a brighter, healthier future for all Americans.