mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE LIFE OF CRAIG ALLEN KEITH
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2023-8-25

I rise today to honor the life of my friend, Craig Allen Keith, who passed away at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on August 14, 2023. prgtoken Craig was born in Van Wert, Ohio on May 31, 1976. He was a 1994 graduate of Crestview High School in Convoy, Ohio, and earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2003. A consummate professional in domestic and international travel for 20 years, Craig served as Senior Commercial Account Project Manager at SIRVA BGRS Worldwide, Inc. prgtoken Craig attended Abundant Life Church for 30 years and held several leadership positions. He loved his church unconditionally and served the Lord with gladness all his days. prgtoken Craig loved entertaining and spending time with his friends and family. While grilling and smoking meats or baking his (in)famous chocolate chip cookies, he would tell jokes and fill the air with his full, boisterous laughter. Craig was an avid traveler who loved learning the history of the many destinations he visited. He sang loudly, off key, and with all his heart, in church and to the gospel music he loved so much. prgtoken Craig will be immensely missed and forever loved by all. He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents. He is survived by his children, Gentry and Pierson Keith; mother, Sheila (Vince) Stone of Columbia City, IN; father, Leroy (Karen) Keith of St. Marys, OH; brother, Adam (Azeesat) Keith of Boston, MA; a stepsister, Tonya Kessler; a godson, Ethan Brownlee of Noblesville, IN; and a host of other relatives and close friends. prgtoken In the wake of his passing, I wish Craig's family peace, comfort, and joy in knowing he lived a happy and fulfilled life. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the minds and souls of those whom he knew and loved most.
PAUL BENAVIDEZ EAGLE SCOUT
Sam Graves (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-8-25

I proudly pause to recognize Paul Benavidez. Paul is a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 1376, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. prgtoken Paul has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Paul has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Paul has also contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. Paul benefited his local community and the City of Liberty by painting parking lot lines in a newly paved parking lot. He also painted lines on a basketball court at Place Liberte Park, a neighborhood park that the city maintains. prgtoken , I proudly ask you to join me in commending Paul Benavidez for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.
HONORING HOMETOWN HERO CHIEF BENNY NEWMAN
Beth Van Duyne (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-8-25

I rise today to recognize and remember our Texas-24 Hometown Hero, the late Irving Police Department Chief, Benny Newman. Chief Newman passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023 at the age of 91. He served as Irving's police chief from 1978 to 1994. Prior to joining Irving Police Department, Chief Newman served in the National Guard Reserves and spent 23 years serving in the Dallas Police Department (DPD). During his career with DPD, Chief Newman received 16 commendations, was awarded the Certificate of Merit, and rose to the rank of Captain. Chief Newman went above and beyond for our community outside of his time in uniform. He played an instrumental role in creating the Irving Police Athletic League (PAL), which provides classes and camps to hundreds of youths each year in Irving and surrounding communities. As a leader in our community and a dedicated public servant, Chief Newman has left a lasting impact in North Texas, for which we are forever grateful. I am grateful for all Chief Newman has done for our community, and I'm praying for his friends and family.
RECOGNIZING THE SMALL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2023-8-25

I rise today to honor the 70th anniversary of the Small Business Administration. prgtoken For 70 long years, the SBA has helped countless American entrepreneurs achieve their dreams. By fostering the growth and health of small businesses, the SBA has ensured that small businesses remain the backbone of the American economy. Today, we recognize the SBA's dedication and invaluable contributions to supporting innovation, economic opportunity, and ensuring the American economy remains vibrant, inclusive, and resilient for every American. prgtoken The SBA's loan guarantee program has created millions of jobs, stimulated economic growth, and allowed countless Americans to realize their potential and follow their American Dream. Furthermore, the SBA has proven its commitment to helping socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners. Through its 8(a) Business Development Program, the SBA provides support, mentorship, and access to government contracts to those who would otherwise not have the opportunity to succeed. Additionally, the SBA has recognized the contributions of American women to the economy by establishing the Office of Women's Business Ownership, which empowers Women-owned small businesses to thrive. prgtoken In times of crisis, the SBA has played a crucial role in disaster recovery by providing low-interest disaster loans to businesses and homeowners who need them. This was made clear when our country faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, in which the SBA played a crucial role in keeping our economy afloat with its relief programs. prgtoken , I ask that you join me to honor the SBA for its service to small businesses over these past 70 years of dedication to keeping the spirit of entrepreneurship alive in our great Nation.
HONORING THE CAREER OF MAJOR LATERRIOUS "TONY" STARKS
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2023-8-25

I rise today to celebrate the service of Major Laterrious ``Tony'' Starks, who served as a legislative liaison for the U.S. House of Representatives with profound duty, leadership, and commitment from January 2021 to August 2023. Major Starks served as a defense fellow for my office, and, as a legislative liaison, his interpersonal skills built countless relationships throughout Headquarters, Department of the Army, and Capitol Hill. These relationships enabled him to communicate the Army's narrative and facilitate senior leader engagements. In addition to the duties as a legislative prgtoken liaison, Major Starks expertly balanced a collateral duty as the White House Social Aide Senior Program Manager. His professionalism has resulted in strategic success across the Executive Branch. Due to his exceptional efforts, he was selected to lead over 100 White House events, to include two Medal of Honor Ceremonies and three State Visits. prgtoken In addition to his military-based contributions to our great nation, which have included service in many parts of the United States as well as in other countries, to include Germany and Korea, Major Starks is well-versed educationally, having invested himself in various levels of university programs. Major Starks's education includes studying at George Washington University, pursuing a master's degree in Legislative Affairs, from 2020 to 2021; studying at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Strategic Studies Fellow, in 2019; studying at Abilene Christian University, pursuing a doctorate's degree in Education, from 2018 to 2021; and studying at Stephen F. Austin State University, pursuing an undergraduate degree in Political Science and Government, from 2006 to 2010. He is currently a doctoral candidate. prgtoken Major Starks is an outstanding individual who has already served his country in many ways, and it is my honor to esteem him today.
HONORING SERGEANT PAUL R. DAW
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-8-25

I rise today to honor the life and service of Sergeant Paul R. Daw, a Vietnam War veteran and upstanding constituent of New York's 21st District. prgtoken Paul was raised in Long Island, New York. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Army, serving for 2 years in the Vietnam War from July 1969 to May 1971. Sergeant Daw was stationed in Vietnam as an Eleven-Bravo infantryman alongside his fellow men with the 1st Cavalry Division, Ranger Company A. prgtoken For his service, Sergeant Daw was highly decorated. Upon his honorable discharge in 1971, Sergeant Daw earned a Bronze Star with 2 oak leaf clusters, a Purple Heart with an oak leaf cluster, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Army Accommodation Medal for Valor, and the Good Conduct Medal. prgtoken After returning home to Long Island from Vietnam, Sergeant Daw joined the New York Police Department, where he served for 21 and a half years as an officer of the law. Off the force, Sergeant Daw also supported his community as a volunteer firefighter until his retirement from the NYPD in 2003, at which time he moved upstate to the North Country. prgtoken In his retirement, Sergeant Daw has taken time to focus on his family life. He and his wife prgtoken Jean have been happily married for 16 years, in the company of his children Jason and Kelly and stepdaughter Katie. prgtoken Sergeant Paul R. Daw's life of service and bravery is truly admirable. On behalf of New York's 21st District, it is my honor to recognize the remarkable life of Sergeant Paul R. Daw.
RECOGNIZING THE WEST SUBURBAN LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL TEAM
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-8-25

I rise to celebrate the incredible victory of the West Suburban Little League Softball Team on winning their second straight state championship this season. prgtoken Under the leadership of team manager Dave Lynch this incredible team comprised of members from schools such as Westmont, Biship McCort, and Richland have worked together achieve an incredible level of success. prgtoken As our students continue to participate in organized sports they learn valuable skills including teamwork, dedication, and good sportsmanship. prgtoken Even in the face of adversity, the Red Rage players came together and found a way to win time after time. prgtoken Congratulations to the entire West Suburban Softball Team including Addy Dunbar, Kylie Durst, Bella Kist, Sienna Kubic, Alea Ladika, Elleigh Ladika, Cali Lynch, Kelsie Muto, Audra Rudolph, LaMya Stephens, Kristin Stiles and Elizabeth Veranese on their hard work and dedication. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate the West Suburban Little League Softball Team on their victory, and wish them every continued success.
RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF HARVEY DOLEMAN, SR.
Mike Rogers (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-8-29

I rise today to recognize the life of Mr. Harvey Doleman, Sr. Mr. Harvey Doleman, Sr. is a native of Anniston, AL. He received his grammar school education at Central Girard Elementary School, Phenix City, AL, and graduated from South Girard High School in 1953. He attended Chattahoochee Valley Community College. prgtoken Upon graduating from high school, Mr. Doleman joined the United States Army. Mr. Doleman was assigned to U.S. Army Chemical Corps, Senior Instructor Chemical School, at Ft. McClellan, AL, where he specialized in chemical warfare. He also had overseas assignments during his service including Korea 1956-1957, Germany 1963-1966, Korea 1967-1968 and Vietnam 1970-1971. His final duty assignment and major command was HHC, US Army School/Training Center, TRADOC. prgtoken He received recognition for his service including National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal (Fourth Award), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, 2 Oversea Bars, Bronze Star Medal, 6 Service Awards, Stripes and Sharpshooter (Rifle M-14 & Rifle M-16). prgtoken After serving 20 years, 4 months, and 19 days in the Army, he retired from active duty with an honorable discharge as Sergeant First Class on February 28, 1974. prgtoken He worked a Civil Service job at the weapon pool at Ft. McClellan, AL after retiring from the Army. Later he fully retired to enjoy life, especially with his family. prgtoken His family is his pride and joy. He has 5 children--Gwendolyn Carter, Harvey Doleman, Jr Phyllis Doleman Teague, Sharon Doleman and Frederick Doleman. prgtoken , please join me in thanking Mr. Doleman for his service to our country.
HONORING THE LIFE OF DR. ELTON MAC HUDDLESTON
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2023-8-29

I rise today to celebrate the life of Dr. Elton Mac Huddleston, 79, who passed away on August 27, 2023, in Tupelo, Mississippi, after a life marked by service to his fellow man. He was born September 16, 1943, and was raised in Holmes County, Mississippi, by his beloved grandparents. He graduated from Durant High School. prgtoken He studied accounting and was a member of the ROTC at Mississippi State University. After graduating from MSU, he served in the United States Army, flying helicopters in Vietnam and, later, serving as a flight instructor. He held the rank of Captain and was a recipient of the Bronze Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross, among other honors and awards. After his military service, he obtained his degree of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University and worked as a veterinarian in north Mississippi, including Pontotoc. He worked for several years for his alma mater, Mississippi State, in both the College of Veterinary Medicine, where he was among the first faculty, and the Division of Development before eventually settling back in Pontotoc, where he was known by his friends as ``Dr. Mac'' and worked many years as a large animal veterinarian. He was also the executive secretary of the Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association and Mississippi Board of Veterinary Medicine. prgtoken Later in his career, he served the citizens of Pontotoc County as sheriff's deputy and criminal investigator for the Pontotoc County Sheriff's Department before being elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives, where he served the people of District 15 from 2008 until his death. In the legislature, he served as chairman of the University and Colleges and Ethics committees and was previously vice- chairman of the Appropriations committee. He was a longtime member of West Heights Baptist Church in Pontotoc and led the Praise Sunday school class for many years. prgtoken He is preceded in death by his parents, Elton Mac Huddleston, Sr and Matilda Claudell Ellington Houston, and his grandparents, Luther Pearson McLellan, Amber Ellington McLellan, John Oliver Huddleston, and Fannie McDonough Huddleston. prgtoken He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Dr. Flavia Ruth Hutchinson Huddleston, of Pontotoc; 4 children, Robert McLellan Huddleston and his wife, Kimberly, of Wren, Mississippi; Meghan West Foley and her husband, William, of New Albany, Mississippi; Dr. Edward Mac Huddleston of Birmingham, Alabama; and Amber Claire Brown and her husband, Griffin, of Southaven, Mississippi; 4 grandchildren, Aubrey Kay Huddleston of Wren, Mississippi, and Stella Ruth Foley, William Deacon Foley, and Charlotte James Foley, of New Albany, Mississippi.
HONORING TEXAS-24 HOMETOWN HERO MARTHA DAY
Beth Van Duyne (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-8-29

I rise today to recognize Martha Day, co- founder and president of The Vitamin Bridge in Coppell. prgtoken The Vitamin Bridge is a nonprofit organization that provides expecting mothers of low socioeconomic status with prenatal vitamins and nutritional information. Martha started the Vitamin Bridge following her experiences volunteering at a pregnancy crisis center. She realized there was a need for someone to give access to prenatal vitamins for moms-to-be that could not afford them or were unaware of their importance. If women were given the resources that The Vitamin Bridge offers, then they would be more likely to have a successful pregnancy. prgtoken To date, The Vitamin Bridge has helped nearly 50,000 women receive prenatal vitamins and nutrition education at no cost. I thank Martha for providing expecting mothers in our community with an equal opportunity to have a healthy pregnancy. Her selflessness and dedication do not go unnoticed.
INTRODUCTION OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMITTAL OF LEGISLATION ACT
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-8-29

today, I rise to introduce the District of Columbia Electronic Transmittal of Legislation Act, which would permit the Chair of the Council of the District of Columbia to transmit legislation to Congress in the form of the Chair's choosing, including electronic form. This bill would bring the congressional review process for legislation enacted by D.C. into the electronic age. Last Congress, the Committee on Oversight and Reform passed this bill. prgtoken While I do not believe there should be a congressional review process for D.C. legislation--and I have introduced a bill to eliminate the review process--this bill would not change the review process, except that it would give D.C. flexibility in the form it transmits legislation to Congress. This bill's only purpose is to reduce administrative burdens on D.C. and Congress. prgtoken The D.C. Home Rule Act requires the Chair of the D.C. Council to transmit legislation to prgtoken Congress for a review period. The legislation takes effect upon the expiration of the review period, unless a resolution of disapproval is enacted into law during the review period. The Home Rule Act is silent on the form of transmittal, but Congress has always required the legislation to be physically transmitted. prgtoken Electronic records are recognized as valid under Federal and State law, and Federal, State and local governments conduct official business electronically. For example, under the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, which was enacted into law more than 20 years ago, with respect to any interstate transaction in which the parties consent, ``a signature, contract, or other record relating to such transaction may not be denied legal effect, validity, or enforceability solely because it is in electronic form.'' In 2002, the E-Government Act, which facilitated the Federal Government providing information and services to the public electronically, was enacted into law. prgtoken Federal agencies transmit regulations and other documents to the Federal Register electronically. Congress is also capable of conducting official business electronically. For example, the House permits Members, including acting through their staff, to introduce legislation and submit statements into the Congressional Record electronically. prgtoken The requirement that D.C. physically transmit legislation imposes costs on the Council. The Council engages in a 12-step process to physically transmit legislation, including printing two copies of each bill and committee report, arranging a time for delivery of these documents to the offices of the and President of the Senate and having two staffers drive to the Capitol to deliver the documents--two are necessary because of parking restrictions. prgtoken The physical transmittal process also imposes costs on Congress. The following congressional offices and committees are involved in the physical transmittal process: the offices
RECOGNIZING THE 2023 GRADUATES OF THE FAIRFAX COUNTY FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT HIGH SCHOOL FIREFIGHTER PROGRAM
Gerald E. Connolly (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2023-8-29

I rise to recognize the 2023 graduating class of Fairfax County High School Firefighter program. In 2016, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools created its High School Firefighter Program to provide training to students who are considering a career as a firefighter. prgtoken Students who participate in this program attend courses taught by qualified instructors at the Fairfax County Fire Academy. In fact, they receive the same training as new professional and volunteer firefighters. The course is grueling but upon successful completion, the students will earn a Virginia Certification as Firefighter I & II and Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations. Should these students decide to apply to the Fairfax County Fire Academy, this program will make them competitive candidates and will have prepared them for recruit school. prgtoken Fourteen seniors and one junior are graduating as the Class of 2023 of the High prgtoken School Firefighter Program. It is my great honor to include in the Record the names of the following graduates: prgtoken Sydney G. Bates; Braden A. Dasher; Callie J. Desrosier; Alec T. DiLeonardo; Ian S. Dingman; Regan N. Kelley; Peter D. Mangone; Connor J. Marshall; Casey W. Martin; Hunter J. Piotrowski; Eric S. Verrier. prgtoken , the Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department is 1 of the best fire departments in the country and in the world. I commend the department as well as the public school system for partnering in the creation of this program. I also applaud these young people for their desire to learn more about the department and for their interest in protecting our community. Northern Virginia is fortunate to have such dedicated young citizens. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these students on their successful completion of their program and in wishing them great success in their future endeavors.
TRIBUTE TO SETH SCOTT
Greg Stanton (Democrat, AZ) \u2014 2023-8-29

I rise to recognize my departing Chief of Staff, Seth Scott, for his years of service to the people of Arizona's Fourth Congressional District. It's a bittersweet day. Seth has worked with me for more than a decade--half of that here in the House. I often say hiring him was the best career decision I've ever made. prgtoken Few have as broad experience in government, law, media and politics. He cut his teeth in the Arizona Governor's office, Congress, and local government and ran several important political campaigns before returning to Arizona State University for law school. At the City of Phoenix and here in Congress, Seth has led my office with a steady hand. His acumen while serving as my Chief of Staff was always in clear view, and all the accomplishments we achieved would not have been possible without him at the helm. prgtoken His fierce intellect, sharp political instincts and deep policy expertise have made him an invaluable and sought-after adviser. prgtoken But it's his loyalty, integrity and a work ethic second to none that have endeared Seth to all who have worked with and under him. As deftly as he's handled complex legislative matters, he has also cultivated and mentored a generation of young staffers. prgtoken Seth has the talent and determination to succeed anywhere he chooses--but the people of Arizona are fortunate that he has chosen to devote his career to serving his community. prgtoken He has been a great friend and trusted confidant of mine, and he will continue to be well after he departs--though perhaps with a few less late-night and early morning phone calls. I wish him all the best as he takes on this new challenge.