mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING MISSISSIPPI NAVY WWII VETERAN, PAUL SONNIER
Steven M. Palazzo (Republican, MS) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise today to recognize Paul Sonnier, a resident in my district and a United States Navy WWII Veteran. prgtoken Paul Sonnier was born on January 13th, 1926, in Delcambre, Louisiana, near Lafayette. As the fifth oldest of ten children, Paul's ability to serve as a role model and leader has been evident throughout his life. Sonnier's father died when he was young, and Paul felt it was his duty to help his mother provide and care for his younger siblings. prgtoken On December 7th, 1941, the bombing of Pearl Harbor sparked a fire inside of Paul, and he knew ``joining up'' would help provide for his family as well as honor his country. Paul enlisted in the U.S. Navy, in January of 1944, and served our country until May of 1946, when he was honorably discharged. prgtoken In the Navy, he served aboard the USS LCI (G) 458 and was found worthy of membership in The Ancient and Sacred Order of the Golden Dragon as well as the Solemn Mysteries of the Ancient Order of the Deep. He received two battle stars as well as a Presidential Unit Citation. prgtoken After his military service Paul worked for Freeport Sulphur Company in Port Sulphur, Louisiana, and later became a tugboat captain, until he retired. prgtoken Paul was married and has six children and fifteen grandchildren. He moved from Louisiana to Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and has lived in the fourth Congressional District ever since. prgtoken World War II veteran, Paul Sonnier, lives his life with honor and bravery, leaving behind a legacy that must be remembered as one of America's Greatest Generation. prgtoken On April 23rd, the Phi Mu Women's Fraternity at the University of Southern Mississippi honored Mr. Sonnier by granting one of his last wishes--dancing with a beautiful woman. That he did, several times over. He said that it was wonderful to see that today's young people remember those who fought in World War II and would be kind enough to shower him with love on that day. prgtoken I am honored to recognize Mr. Paul Sonnier today, and express the gratitude of our district to him for his service and dedication to our country by answering the call and serving honorably and bravely in World War II.
RECOGNITION OF AZERBAIJAN'S CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY
Robert B. Aderholt (Republican, AL) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise to recognize the 100th anniversary of the founding of Azerbaijan, known as Republic Day. prgtoken On May 28, 1918, the National Assembly of Azerbaijan adopted a Declaration of Independence, and formed the Azerbaijan ic Republic, the first secular parliamentary democracy in the Muslim world. prgtoken For over 50 years (1920-1971), Azerbaijan suffered under the weight of the Soviet regime. As they rebuilt from the wreckage of the failed communist empire, Azerbaijan grew into a strong and reliable ally of the United States. prgtoken Today, the Republic of Azerbaijan is not only a valuable partner of the United States, but also plays a critical role in the Caucasus and Central Asia. Azerbaijan was one of the first countries to render unconditional assistance to the United States after the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. It also has a strong friendship and partnership with Israel, one of the closest allies of the United States. prgtoken Azerbaijan continues to play a key role in energy security and diversification for U.S. allies in Europe and Israel, including leadership on the Southern Gas Corridor. prgtoken On this 100th anniversary of the founding of Azerbaijan, the United States remains grateful for the strategic relationship and abiding friendship between our two countries.
TRIBUTE TO CENTENNIAL MIDDLE SCHOOL'S MATHCOUNTS TEAM
John R. Curtis (Republican, UT) \u2014 2018-5-25

I stand before you today to honor Centennial Middle School's MATHCOUNTS team, which won the Utah State MATHCOUNTS contest this year and sent multiple students to represent Utah at the 2018 Raytheon MATHCOUNTS National Competition, where they placed in the top ten. prgtoken The MATHCOUNTS Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps middle school students nurture and enhance their abilities in mathematics. The foundation was created in 1983 and has since helped countless middle school students overcome their fear of and develop a love for mathematics. prgtoken The MATHCOUNTS Foundation hosts the annual Raytheon MATHCOUNTS National Competition, which brings in Mathletes from all 50 States to compete. These Mathletes compete head-to-head with other teams to solve difficult math problems in timed exams. Since the competition was first held in 1984, it has grown to become the most prestigious middle school mathematics competition in the nation. prgtoken Centennial Middle School, located in Provo, Utah, has participated in the MATHCOUNTS program for many years. To prepare for the statewide competition in March, participating students spent many afterschool hours training, practicing, and expanding their mathematics skills. The Centennial Middle School MATHCOUNTS team won the Utah statewide competition and had the honor of sending multiple students and their coach to represent Utah at the national contest. The Utah team placed ninth in the nation, making it the first time Utah has placed in the top ten and also took home the award for most improved team. prgtoken These prestigious and hard-earned awards demonstrate the significant efforts of parents, teachers, and the team's coach, Ryan Camacho, in cultivating a love of mathematics among students at Centennial Middle School. prgtoken Centennial Middle School's accomplishments indicate a promising future for mathematics achievement in Utah. As students in Utah and across the country continue to participate in competitions like MATHCOUNTS, they will be better prepared to succeed in emerging careers in mathematics please join me in congratulating this outstanding accomplishment.
AMBASSADOR FAITH WHITTLESEY
Donald Norcross (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise today to honor the legacy of the late Ambassador Faith Whittlesey, a distinguished public servant and a native of New Jersey. I have also been asked to express the condolences of my colleagues Congressmen Don Beyer, Joaquin Castro, Charlie Crist, Bill Huizenga and Alex Mooney as well as Senator Barrasso, whose lives have all been touched by the work of Ambassador Whittlesey. prgtoken Ambassador Whittlesey was the U.S. Ambassador to Switzerland for nearly five years during both 1981-1983 and 1985-1988, and during the Reagan Administration she served as the Director of the Office of Public Liaison. prgtoken Her many roles in public life included time as the Chairwoman and President of the American Swiss Foundation in New York, and her service as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. prgtoken During her influential career, Ambassador Whittlesey was a pivotal figure in building and developing Swiss and American relations, both domestically and abroad. prgtoken Ambassador Whittlesey was a graduate of Wells College and received her Law Degree from the University of Pennsylvania, earned a Ford Foundation Grant to attend the Academy of International Law in The Hague, The Netherlands. prgtoken During her career, she received honors such as the Reagan Revolution Medal of Honor, the Congress of Racial Equality Public Service Award, the Christian Freedom International Freedom Award, the Stratton Prize, and the William Tell Award. A book written by Thomas Carty centered on her career, entitled ``Backwards, in High Heels: Faith Whittlesey, Ronald Reagan's `Madam Ambassador' in Switzerland and the West Wing''. Lastly, the Ambassador had the ``Faith Whittlesey rose'' named in her legacy. prgtoken These awards are a mere testament to Ambassador Whittlesey's commendable dedication and leadership on behalf of our nation and the Swiss-United States relationship. prgtoken , we have lost an extraordinary, devoted person in Ambassador Faith Whittlesey. I invite you to join me in thanking her for many contributions to our country.
IN RECOGNITION OF RABBI LAURENCE MALINGER
Frank Pallone, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise today to congratulate Rabbi Laurence Malinger on his 25 years of rabbinical service. Rabbi Malinger is a respected leader of Temple Shalom in Aberdeen, New Jersey as well as the greater community. His contributions are truly deserving of this body's recognition. prgtoken Rabbi Malinger has served as senior rabbi of Temple Shalom since 1999 and continues to support the Temple's mission of religious education and guidance, social action and community service. He is a trusted confidant to his congregation and an inspiring spiritual leader. prgtoken Prior to his service at Temple Shalom, Rabbi Malinger was Associate Rabbi of Congregation Beth Emeth in Delaware after serving the Congregation for four years as Assistant Rabbi and Director of Education. He has earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Mathematics, a Master of Education with School Psychology, a Master of Arts in Hebrew Letters and most recently was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity for his dedicated years of service. prgtoken A devoted man of faith and community involvement, Rabbi Malinger is engaged with various organizations and issues, including the Central Conference of American Rabbis, the Bayshore Ministerium, the Jewish Federation of Monmouth County's Jewish Addiction Resource and Garden State Equality, among others. prgtoken , I sincerely hope my colleagues will join me in congratulating Rabbi Malinger on his 25 years of rabbinical service and thanking him for his many years of outstanding leadership to Temple Shalom and the community.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JUDGE CLARE JUPITER
Cedric L. Richmond (Democrat, LA) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise to honor the life and legacy of Judge Clare Jupiter of Orleans Parish Civil District Court, who died on May 18, 2018 at the age of 65. prgtoken Born in Chicago, Illinois where her father was attending art school, Judge Jupiter came to New Orleans as a toddler and spent the rest of her childhood in the city. She was the second-oldest of 12 children. She graduated from St. Joseph Academy in New Orleans and earned a B.A. degree from Yale University in 1974 before returning to New Orleans to work as a reporter for the States-Item, the city's afternoon paper, she was known as a gifted writer who took the time to understand the topic at hand. prgtoken Judge Jupiter left journalism to attend law school, graduating in 1978 from Duke University School of Law, and then returned to New Orleans to practice law. She was admitted to the Louisiana State Bar in 1979. She became part of the firm Jefferson Bryan and Gray, which later became Bryan and Jupiter. prgtoken Judge Jupiter worked as outside general counsel for the Orleans Parish School Board and supported causes such as WWOZ Radio, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Covenant House, and New Life Ministry. She was one of the first female attorneys at what had been an all-male firm and became the prgtoken firm's top writer, reviewing and improving others' briefs. prgtoken Judge Jupiter was elected to Civil Court's Division E seat in 2011 and re-elected in 2014. She suffered a health setback in 2015 but returned to the bench. prgtoken Judge Jupiter loved the city and the people of New Orleans. Her legacy will forever be a part of the city and her dedication to community embodies the spirit of New Orleans. We cannot match the sacrifices made by Judge Jupiter, but surely we can try to match her sense of service. We cannot match her courage, but we can strive to match her devotion. prgtoken Judge Jupiter's survivors include her husband, Pat Bryant; brother, New Orleans Traffic Court Judge Steven Jupiter; a son, Kwame Bryant of New Orleans; a daughter, Ms. Nia Bryant of New Orleans; six brothers, Eric, Danny and Jerome Jupiter, all of New Orleans, David Jupiter of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Carl Jupiter of Houston and Omodare Jupiter of St. Croix; four sisters, Gayle Jupiter of Albuquerque, Ann Jupiter- Mitchll of Washington, Jill Jupiter-Jones of Silver Spring, Maryland, and Jane Bell of New Orleans; her mother, Romona Felton Jupiter of New Orleans; and two grandchildren. prgtoken , I celebrate the life and legacy of Judge Clare Jupiter.
HONORING MASTER CHIEF PETTY OFFICER BRITT SLABINSKI
James P. McGovern (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2018-5-25

it is with great pride and respect that I rise to honor Master Chief Petty Officer Britt Slabinski, a native of Northampton, Massachusetts. prgtoken Yesterday, Mr. Slabinski was awarded the Medal of Honor, our nation's highest award for members of the Armed Forces of the United States. prgtoken Authorized by and awarded in the name of Congress, the Medal of Honor acknowledges those service members who display unparalleled bravery and a willingness to risk their own lives which clearly and conspicuously distinguishes them above their comrades. Mr. Slabinski is only the 12th living servicemember to be awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery displayed in Afghanistan. prgtoken In the early morning hours of March 4th, 2002, during the mountaintop battle of Takur Ghar, Mr. Slabinski led a reconnaissance team in support of a major coalition offensive against Al-Qaida forces in the valley below. According to the United States Navy, after enemy fire brought down one of his team's helicopters, ``without hesitation, then- Senior Chief Slabinski made the selfless and heroic decision to lead the remainder of his element on an immediate and daring rescue back to the mountaintop.'' prgtoken The Navy notes that Mr. Slabinski, ``with bullets piercing his clothing, repeatedly charged into deadly fire to personally engage the enemy bunker'' before the situation became untenable. With daylight approaching, he maneuvered his team to a more defensible prgtoken position, requested reinforcements, and directed the medical care of his severely wounded teammates,'' including ``carrying a teammate through waist-deep snow during an arduous trek across precipitous terrain.'' prgtoken , the Medal of Honor reflects the acclaim and appreciation of our entire nation. It reminds each of us of our sacred obligation to look after those who serve our country and defend our freedom. Britt Slabinski put his life on the line not only for the sake of his fellow soldiers, but for all of us. On behalf of his hometown of Northampton, and the entire United States Congress, I offer him my most sincere and heartful thanks and gratitude for his service to our nation.
RECOGNIZING CAMBRIDGE, ILLINOIS' 175TH ANNIVERSARY
Cheri Bustos (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise today to recognize the town of Cambridge, Illinois on its 175th Anniversary. The community was named by Judge Joseph Tillson in 1843, and has been thriving ever since. prgtoken Cambridge, Illinois has a rich history and is an integral part of Henry County. After its founding in 1843, it was incorporated a decade later when J.S. Hinman served as the first village president. Cambridge is an unusual county seat built around two public squares instead of one, which includes Court Square and College Square Park. The first house in the village was built by blacksmith Lord John Russell near the southeast corner of College Square and the courthouse was the heart of the community. prgtoken It is because of villages like Cambridge, Illinois that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Mr I would like to again formally congratulate the village of Cambridge, Illinois on its 175th Anniversary.
CONGRATULATING THE CITY OF ASTANA
Eliot L. Engel (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise today to congratulate the city of Astana on its 20th anniversary. In this short time, the capital city of Kazakhstan has hosted high-level political and diplomatic events, including several international forums for a nuclear weapons-free world. prgtoken Most recently, Astana hosted the successful EXPO 2017, which focused on the future of energy. Kazakhstan has shown promise not only as an important economic partner of the United States in the energy sector, but also as a strong proponent of clean energy. It joined the Paris Agreement and many other international efforts to curb climate change and improve our environment. prgtoken In its 20-year history, Astana has become one of the most modern cities in Central Asia. It continues to serve as a hub for the region and link between the East and the West. prgtoken I look forward to a long partnership between Washington and Astana. A partnership that will include productive cooperation on shared economic and security priorities, as well as efforts to advance the development of an independent, stable, and politically free Kazakhstan. With these advances, Astana would become a model for other nations and a central partner on so many shared objectives.
SUPPORTING THE PHILADELPHIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA'S HISTORIC EUROPE AND ISRAEL TOUR
Dwight Evans (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2018-5-25

today, I rise with great honor to salute the Philadelphia Orchestra on its upcoming historic tour through Europe and Israel. I have had the privilege of working to support them over the years during my time in the Pennsylvania Legislature, and now here in Congress. I can't think of a better cultural ambassador for our country, the Commonwealth, and our great city, than the finely-tuned Philadelphia Orchestra. prgtoken With support from Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf's Department of Community and Economic Development and State Department diplomats, and more than 150 Pennsylvania musicians, non-profits, and business leaders, this historic journey starts in Brussels, Belgium, and will wind its way through Luxembourg, France, Germany, and Austria. These historic countries are iconic in their musical backgrounds, having given birth to such artists such as Beethoven, Brahms, Poulenc, Wagner, and Mozart. prgtoken I take special pride in the Philadelphia Orchestra's visit to Israel, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. This visit not only confirms and solidifies the distinct. and unique cultural, political, and humanitarian bond amongst the City of Philadelphia, the Jewish community, and the State of Israel. Israel and its people have been continually under siege for ages from the time of Judea to Sumeria, and by recognizing their dignity, honor, and courage, the Orchestra's visit serves to underscore how important Israel to the Middle East writ large, and to America. And let me add that the Philadelphia Orchestra should be noted for the diversity of its musicians and staff orchestra's diversity complements. prgtoken I would like to give special recognition to the Philadelphia Orchestra's director, Yannick Nezet-Seguin, the chairman, Richard Worley, and the woman at the top who has helped forge ties both near and far, Philadelphia Orchestra Interim Co-Presidents Ryan Fleur and Matthew Loden. And I also wish to salute Naomi Adler, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and Director of Government Affairs, Robin Schatz for their leadership, and special role in informing us on the unwavering dignity and humanity of Israel. prgtoken I am proud to represent a city that boasts some of the most iconic music heard around the world. I salute our well-traveled Philadelphia Orchestra and look forward to my next symphony.
EMILY OGATA
Ed Perlmutter (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2018-5-25

I rise today to recognize and applaud Emily Ogata for receiving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth award. prgtoken Emily Ogata is a student at Waren Tech North and received this award because her determination and hard work have allowed her to overcome adversities. prgtoken The dedication demonstrated by Emily Ogata is exemplary of the type of achievement that can be attained with hard work and perseverance. It is essential students at all levels strive to make the most of their education and develop a work ethic which will guide them for the rest of their lives. prgtoken I extend my deepest congratulations to Emily Ogata for winning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth award. I have no doubt she will exhibit the same dedication and character in all of her future accomplishments.
RETIREMENT OF JUDGE JULIA JENT
Peter J. Visclosky (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2018-5-25

it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to honor Judge Julia Jent and to wish her well upon her retirement. For her lifetime of service, and truly inspiring career, Judge Jent is worthy of the highest praise. Among her numerous contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana, most impressive is her compassionate and unwavering commitment to our veterans. The Judge will oversee her final Veterans Treatment Court graduation on May 30, 2018, at Woodland Park in Portage, Indiana. prgtoken Judge Julia Jent was born in Germany and came to the United States in 1957 when she was adopted by a military family from Texas. At the age of eighteen, she joined the United States Army. It was during her time in the service that she met her husband, Jack Jent, a fellow servicemember. Following their time in the military, the couple eventually moved to Northwest Indiana where they raised four children. After years of working a few different jobs, Julia decided to continue her education. In 1979, she received a Bachelor's degree from Indiana University Northwest, and in 1982, she earned a law degree from Valparaiso University. Judge Jent worked thirteen years in private practice law, before she was appointed by former Governor Evan Bayh as Judge of the Porter Superior Court to fill the remainder of the term vacated by Judge Mary Harper, in 1997. She was then elected to a six- year term in 1998, and has presided over Porter Superior Court III for the past twenty-one years. In addition to her remarkable career, the Judge gives much of her time and efforts to numerous charitable and civic organizations, and for that she is to be commended. prgtoken Presiding as a Superior Court Judge, values such as respect for others, loyalty, and patriotism, instilled during her military service, as well as her concern for the veterans appearing before her bench, served as the motivation for Judge Jent to establish a Veterans Treatment Court in Porter County. Recognizing many of our veterans struggle with addiction, mental health, and other issues after their time in the service of our nation, Judge Jent knew a more effective solution to address the nonviolent criminal charges veterans faced as defendants was to create a framework based on partnerships to focus on the root problem, rather than incarceration, and the Veterans Treatment Court was established in 2011. This court system allows defendants to participate in programs, including treatment and mentoring, that will meet their individual needs and take one to two years to complete before their record is expunged. The numerous graduates of this program attest to its success, and to it saving their lives, thanks to the dedicated professionals who share Judge Jent's vision and her compassion and who work together to improve the lives of those in their community. prgtoken Personally, I have been blessed by the depth of Marge's kindness. I first met the Judge in