mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CELEBRATING BRIGADIER GENERAL MATTHEW HIGER'S CAREER OF SERVICE
Mike Garcia (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today to recognize a lifelong patriot and soldier who has proudly served our great Nation in uniform for more than 30 years. After a storied career marked by professional exceptionalism and taking on new challenges without hesitation, Brigadier General Matthew Higer will be enjoying his well- earned retirement. While the team at Edwards Air Force Base will surely miss his leadership, General Higer will undoubtedly be enjoying the opportunity to spend more time with loved ones. prgtoken Prior to his command of the 412th Test Wing. General Higer began his career attending some of our nation's finest military learning institutions, earning his commission from the Air Force Officer Reserve Training Corps at the University of Southern California and going on to attend the United States Army War College and the United States Naval Postgraduate School. Between his stints at these schools, General Higer served as a test pilot, evaluator pilot, and instructor pilot. No matter which role he was serving in at the time, Higer consistently distinguished himself from his fellow airmen through his hard work ethic and commitment to the pursuit of excellence. Over prgtoken the course of his career, General Higer has piloted 40 different types of aircraft and accrued over 3,000 military flight hours. prgtoken General Higer is concluding his admirable career at Edwards Air Force Base as commander of the 412th Test Wing, but this was not his first time in what is first time in California's ``Aerospace Valley''. He first came here as a student-pilot in 2003, attending the world-famous U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and setting himself apart from the rest of his class with his skill and tenacity. While he went on to fulfill different roles around the country, General Higer couldn't stay away from Edwards AFB for long. He returned in 2017 and served as Commandant for the same test pilot school he graduated from as a young soldier, and later ascended to the position of Commander for the 412th Test Wing. Under his leadership, Edwards Air Force Base has remained the center of the flight testing universe, overseeing the testing of such programs as the F-16, T-38, T-7 A, F-22, F-35, C-12, C-17, KC-135, KC-46. B-1, B-2, B-52, B-21. Because of the work of General Higer and the brave men and women under his command, our nation is better prepared and equipped for the future and positioned to exceed our enemies in next-generation air dominance. prgtoken Once again, I want to recognize and sincerely thank Brigadier General Higer for his lifetime of service to our great Nation. I know myself, our community, and all those at the 412th Test Wing will be wishing him nothing but happiness and prosperity in his retirement.
RECOGNIZING THE 85TH BIRTHDAY OF JOHN TOWNSEND
Mike Rogers (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today to wish John Townsend a happy 85th birthday. prgtoken John is a native of Talladega County, Alabama. He resides in Fayetteville with his wife, Lola M. Townsend. They have been married for 56 years. He has one son, John Townsend, Jr who is married to Brenda Townsend and one daughter, Victoria Cook, who is married to Alfred Cook, Sr. prgtoken Mr. Townsend is blessed with six grandchildren: Jalane, Daria. Alfred, Jr Johntavis, Cameron, and Alexandria. He has 8 great- grandchildren with the youngest 2 of them twin boys. prgtoken Mr. Townsend worked for Avondale Mills for more than 29 years before he retired. He also worked for Parker Fertilizer for many years. prgtoken In his free time, Mr. Townsend enjoys gardening and spending time with his family. To prgtoken celebrate this milestone, Mr. Townsend is celebrating his 85th birthday at Top of the River restaurant with his family and friends. prgtoken , please join me in wishing John Townsend a very happy 85th birthday.
HONORING THE LIFELONG COMMUNITY SERVICE OF FLO BELLAMY
Diana Harshbarger (Republican, TN) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise to honor a truly remarkable individual, Ms. Flo Bellamy, whose dedication, passion, and selfless service to the citizens of Johnson County, Tennesse, have left an indelible mark on our community. prgtoken I have personally witnessed Flo's unwavering commitment to the youth of our community. One of Flo's most outstanding attributes is the genuine love she extends to each child, and it is on display every day at the Community Center. This is a woman who, for three years, worked without a salary, driven by a vision to establish an afterschool and summer program for our youth. Her sacrifices, from collecting essentials for the disadvantaged to ensuring that many children receive their only meal outside of the school system, showcase her unprecedented dedication. prgtoken In addition to her work with the youth, Flo has been a beacon of hope for cancer patients, assisting them in navigating their journey, from finding care to arranging transportation to medical appointments. Her connection to this cause is personal and sincere. Having witnessed the devastating effects of cancer in her own family, Flo took the reins of the American Cancer Society's county-wide walk for cancer. Even as the names and structures of these efforts evolved, Flo's leadership remained constant, her shift from fundraising for research to directly benefiting local cancer patients made a significant difference in the lives of many. prgtoken Furthermore, Flo's teachings have sowed the seeds of understanding, tolerance, and unity. She taught respect for all, regardless of race, religion, or disability. Due to her influence, I firmly believe that the younger generation in our community now embraces differences more openly and warmly than ever before. prgtoken However, the testament to Flo's legacy isn't just in the programs she led or the funds she raised. It's in the heartfelt stories of grown adults, once children under her wing, who approach her in public to express their gratitude and love. It's in the newfound perspectives and attitudes she fostered in a community that has historically faced its own set of challenges. prgtoken As I stand here, my heart swells with gratitude for Flo Bellamy. Her decades-long service, from leading the Johnson County--Mountain City Community Center to being an unwavering advocate for the most vulnerable, has left a mark that will echo across generations. We all owe her an immense debt of gratitude. prgtoken I invite my colleagues and the citizens of Johnson County to join me in saluting our precious Flo. Her work and her spirit embody the very best of our community. We love and cherish her, and I am honored to have this opportunity to recognize her monumental contributions.
HONORING THE CAREER OF LIEUTENANT COMMANDER JUDITH ROBERTSON
Jeff Duncan (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today to honor the remarkable career of Lieutenant Commander Judith Robertson. Lieutenant Commander Robertson, a resident of Easley for nearly three decades, was the first female Physician Assistant in the United States Navy and a trailblazer in her field. prgtoken In 1974, Lieutenant Commander Judith Robertson entered the United States Navy and later graduated from the Sheppard Air Force Base's Physician Assistant Program with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska. Ultimately, earned the title of the first female Physician Assistant, paving the way for countless women to follow in her footsteps. During her time in the U.S. Navy, she used her knowledge and training to provide OB/GYN services to Vietnam refugees at Talega Camp Pendleton, California. Her dedication and commitment to serving her country is evident in her 30-plus years of active service, during which she exemplified the highest standards of professionalism and excellence. For her service, she was awarded three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, two National Defense Service medals, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal. prgtoken Since she retired from active duty in 1998, Lieutenant Commander Robertson's passion for helping others has not waned. Since settling down in Easley, South Carolina, she has continued to contribute to her community as a volunteer at Easley Baptist Hospital, selflessly giving her time and expertise to assist those in need. Her humility and willingness to serve are attributes that make her an invaluable member of her community. prgtoken , Lieutenant Commander Judith Robertson's tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to service, in both the United States Navy and Easley Baptist Hospital, have left a lasting impact on my constituency. It is a privilege to celebrate the service of Lieutenant Commander Robertson and the barriers she has broken through her service in the United States Navy. This has made her an inspiration and role model for countless young women and service members. I am honored to represent the third district of South Carolina and to celebrate the exceptional individuals who make a difference in our community and country.
HONORING THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Michael Guest (Republican, MS) \u2014 2023-8-15

on July 30, 1953, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed into law an act of Congress establishing the Small Business Administration (SBA) with the purpose of promoting and supporting small businesses across the United States of America. Since its founding, the SBA has stood as a pillar of support for America's entrepreneurs. Today, we recognize the SBA's invaluable contributions to empowering entrepreneurs; fostering economic opportunity and innovation; and building a vibrant and resilient economy for all Americans. prgtoken Over the past seven decades, the SBA has implemented groundbreaking programs and innovative lending initiatives that have helped entrepreneurs transform the economic landscape of our nation. By recognizing these achievements, we honor the SBA' s commitment to fostering economic opportunity and supporting the indomitable spirit of our small business owners. prgtoken America is a Nation of progress, and small businesses are vital to spurring the competition and the innovations that drive our economy. The SBA plays a vital role in fostering entrepreneurship. prgtoken The SBA has been instrumental in providing access to capital for entrepreneurs who faced obstacles in securing traditional financing. SBA launched the 8(a) Business Development Program which provides support, mentorship, and access to government contracts for socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners. This program opened the doors of opportunity for minority-owned businesses, creating a more inclusive economic landscape. prgtoken Recognizing the extraordinary contributions that American women make to our economy, the SBA established the Office of Women's Business Ownership, empowering women entrepreneurs and women-owned small businesses to thrive. prgtoken In times of crisis, the SBA plays a crucial role in disaster recovery, providing low-interest disaster loans to businesses and homeowners impacted by natural disasters. prgtoken During the unprecedented challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic, the SBA played a pivotal role in keeping our economy afloat with its administration of critical relief programs. The Paycheck Protection Program, COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant helped small businesses keep the lights on, safeguarded millions of jobs, preserved livelihoods, and ensured the survival of American enterprise. prgtoken Please join me in honoring the Small Business Administration's legacy by continuing to support and uplift our Nation's small businesses.
HONORING SPC CHARLIE SIMPSON, JR.
Bruce Westerman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today to honor the service and heroism of U.S. Army Specialist Charlie Simpson, Jr. Mr. Simpson was drafted into the United States Army in 1968 and went to Basic Training in Fort Ord, California. After Basic Training, he successfully completed Advanced Infantry Training and later, Jump Training School. He then received orders to join our brave soldiers in Vietnam. prgtoken Mr. Simpson was injured on November 1, 1969, while serving the United States of America, and he was hospitalized in Japan for 30 days. He returned home to the U.S. in December 1969, and recuperated at the Fitzsimons General Hospital in Denver, Colorado, for 1 year. As a result of his combat service-connected injuries, Mr. Simpson lost both of his legs. He received an honorable discharge in 1970, and he was recognized for his tremendous service with the awarding of a Purple Heart and other prestigious medals. With such serious injuries, some would have given up, but that's not Charlie Simpson's way. After his discharge from the Army, Mr. Simpson returned home to Malvern, Arkansas, where he met his wife, Brenda, and where they made a tremendously full life together. The Simpsons have 5 children: Aaronda McNair and her husband, Tony, Veronica Rose and her husband, Cletis, Charlie Simpson, III and his wife, Nikya, Leticia Franklin and her husband, Kevin, and their dearly beloved, deceased son, Aaron Simpson. They have also been blessed with 11 grandchildren and 2 great- grandchildren to carry-on the legacy of their brave grandfather and great-grandfather. prgtoken , we often mention the sacrifices our men and women in uniform and their families make for our country, and rightly so. But today, along with our thanks, let us also celebrate the good work and contributions these soldiers, airmen, and marines have made in their communities. I would like to thank Specialist Simpson for his tremendous sacrifice for our nation and wish him well as he continues working for the people of Malvern, Arkansas. All Arkansans are eternally grateful for his service.
TRIBUTE TO YOUNG STAFF MEMBERS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS ON BEHALF OF THE PEOPLE OF THE 18TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF TEXAS AND THE UNITED STATES
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-8-15

I am here today to extend my deepest appreciation and profound gratitude to the extraordinary legislative fellows who have graced my office with their unwavering dedication and unyielding commitment. prgtoken Members of Congress know well, perhaps better than most, how blessed our Nation is to have in reserve such exceptional young men prgtoken and women who will go on to become leaders in their local communities, states and the Nation in the areas of business, education, law, government, philanthropy, the arts and culture, and the military. prgtoken We know this because we see them and the benefits from their contributions every day. Many of them work for us in our offices as junior staff members, congressional fellows, or interns and they do amazing work for and on behalf of the constituents we are privileged to represent. prgtoken , I believe there is no higher calling than the call to serve a cause larger than ourselves. prgtoken That is why I ran for public office. I was inspired to serve by so many great public figures that came before me. I was inspired to serve by President Kennedy who said, ``Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,'' and by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who said: ``Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. . . . You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.'' prgtoken By this measure there are several other great young men and women who served as legislative fellows this Spring and Summer in my office. Each day, they exemplified the highest standards of excellence, bringing forth fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and an unrelenting drive to effect positive change within our cherished community. Their tireless efforts to address the diverse needs and pressing concerns of our constituents resonate deeply with the values we hold dear. prgtoken In the pursuit of serving the constituents of the 18th Congressional District of Texas, their contributions have been nothing short of remarkable. prgtoken That is why today I rise to pay tribute to 14 extraordinary young persons for their service to my constituents of the 18th Congressional District of Texas and to the American people. They are: prgtoken Panashe Siachitema, Texas Tech University; Ramanpreet Kaur, Indiana University; Amy Arceo, Texas A&M University; Ainsley Gill, Vanderbilt University; Joel Crawford, Harvard University; Kevin Darmadi, George Washington University; Lindsey O'Neal, Payne International Development Fellowship, Niyonsaba Magnifique, Payne International Development Fellowship; Vanessa Rogers-Wright, Charles B. Rangel Internatinal Affairs Program; Wilson Pemboh, Texas Tech University; Alexandra Wilhelm, Pepperdine University; Parker Milligan, Oglethorpe University; J Hardy, Howard University; Carrington Blair, Jackson State University. prgtoken , the energy, intelligence and idealism that these wonderful young people brought to my office and those
INTRODUCTION OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA BOARD OF ZONING ADJUSTMENT HOME RULE ACT
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-8-15

today, I introduce the District of Columbia Board of Zoning Adjustment Home Rule Act. This bill would give the District of Columbia the authority to appoint the members of the D.C. Board of Zoning Adjustment (Board), except when the Board is performing functions regarding an application by a foreign mission with respect to a chancery. The Board issues special exceptions, or variances, to the regulations issued by the D.C. Zoning Commission (Commission). This bill would not alter the authority of the Board. prgtoken Under current law, in general, the Board consists of a representative each from the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), which is a federal agency, and the Commission, each of whom may be a federal official, and three mayoral appointees, subject to D.C. Council approval. The Board has no authority over federal property. prgtoken Under current law, when the Board is performing functions regarding an application by a foreign mission with respect to the location, expansion or replacement of a chancery, the Board consists of the Executive Director of NCPC, the Director of the National Park Service (or, if the President so designates, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Interior or the Administrator of General Services) and the three mayoral appointees. This bill would not change this composition. prgtoken D.C like every other jurisdiction in the United States, should be free to set its own local land-use policies. This bill is an important step to increase home rule for D.C. I urge my colleagues to support it.
INTRODUCTION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE CHICANO/CHICANA HERITAGE MONTH
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today in support of a resolution I proudly introduced earlier this month to recognize Chicano/Chicana Heritage Month. prgtoken Although the term ``Chicano'' was previously used as a derogatory term for Mexican Americans, today the Mexican American community has reclaimed ``Chicano'' and ``Chicana'' to empower and uplift the Mexican American identity. prgtoken Chicanos and Chicanas from all over--my district in Orange County, the State of California, and the United States as a whole--have significantly contributed to the advancement of our society. Chicanos have aided in scientific advancement, such as the co-invention of the X-ray reflection microscope by Albert Vinicio Baez. Chicanos have pushed the limits of space exploration, like Ellen Ochoa did as the first Hispanic female astronaut. And Chicanos, like Emigido Vasquez and Selena Quintanilla Perez, have added color through our lives through art, music, and fashion. prgtoken Chicanos and Chicanas have also served proudly in our Nation's military. These brave patriots fought and sacrificed for our Nation's freedoms. Almost 20 percent of American casualties in the Vietnam War were Chicano and Chicana. prgtoken As of 2021, over 37,000,000 Chicanos and Chicanas reside in the United States and make up about 60 percent of America's Latino population. The Chicano population alone makes up almost 12 percent of this country, making Chicano culture an important part of the fabric of our Nation. prgtoken In my district, Chicanos and Chicanas make up over 70 percent of the city of Santa Ana--the first major city to recognize August as Chicano Heritage Month last year. This year, I am proud that Anaheim will join the celebrations and commemorate Chicano Heritage all month long. prgtoken Mexican Americans in the United States deserve recognition for their achievements and contributions to our country. In that spirit, I was honored to have introduced the Chicano/Chicana Heritage Month Resolution. This resolution would recognize August as Chicano/Chicana Heritage Month and acknowledge the role Chicanos and Chicanas have played in our Nation's biggest triumphs.
RECOGNIZING JAUQUA WILKINS
Emanuel Cleaver (Democrat, MO) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today to congratulate Jauqua Wilkins for her induction into the Black Achievers Society of Greater Kansas City. Jauqua is passionate about empowering the underrepresented, improving access to quality education, and strengthening diversity and inclusion efforts. She understands how systemic inequality disproportionately affects minority families by providing fewer opportunities for economic mobility. Consequently, she has devoted her time and energy to building a more just equitable world. prgtoken As a child, Jauqua and her mother attended events that celebrated Black culture in the United States. These events gave Jauqua a strong sense of belonging and a positive self-image. After earning a bachelor's degree in biology at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and a master's degree in education at American International University, Jauqua began teaching biology and algebra in special education classrooms. She believes that educating her local community is a way to close wealth gaps, and her teaching experience includes work at Southwest Charter, Hickman Mills C-1 school district, the Economic Opportunity Foundation, and the Full Employment Council. While teaching at the Economic Opportunity Foundation, she was awarded the mentor of the year award for 2009-2010. prgtoken In 2013, Jauqua became a career development specialist at MINACT, Inc where she assisted students in developing the skills needed to find meaningful job opportunities. Jauqua later served as the Vice President of Programs and Operations at the Urban League of Greater Kansas City from 2016 to 2021. She crafted policies and programs, set strategic goal-setting initiatives, and conducted evaluations within the Urban League. In 2021, Jauqua became the Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Program Manager II at Cerner Corporation in Kansas City, Missouri. In this position, she helped implement new programs and policies that highlighted disparities of accessibility and outcomes. Jauqua was promoted as the Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at the Oracle Cerner Corporation. In addition to creating cultural and diversity programs, she now develops and implements procedures with an inclusive decision making process. Jauqua's experience as a Diversity and Inclusion officer will serve as a powerful asset not only to the Black Achievers Society of Greater Kansas City, but also to the greater Kansas City community. prgtoken Moreover, Jauqua has been a very active member within her community. Her service experience includes being a part of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc--Mu Omega Chapter. She currently serves on the University of Missouri Extension and Engagement Advisory Committee. In this role, she serves as a catalyst by building connections between people, communicating the value of the committee's work, and receiving feedback from others on how to improve Missourians' lives. She was also a part of the KC Chamber Centuri