mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF JOHN WONG
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I rise to honor the long life of a cultural force of eastern Connecticut, John Wong. John passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on January 28th, 2022. A resident of Uncasville, Connecticut, John used his time on this earth as a conduit to extend appreciation for Chinese-culture and heritage among his fellow community members. prgtoken Born in 1929 in Canton, China, John was son to James and Ago Gay Wong. John and his family moved to the United States during the Second World War, in 1944, resettling in Connecticut. John attended Buckley High School in Hartford, where he gained an appreciation--and eventually a scholarship--for the study of Fine Arts. prgtoken Ever the dutiful son, John focused on supporting the family business, Wong's Restaurant, after graduation. The joys he experienced working in the restaurant inspired him to establish a restaurant of his own, China Lake, in 1956. Supported by the love of his life Kally, who he married in 1958, John and his restaurant came to be known as an iconic spot in Uncasville for more than 25 years. After selling China Lake in 1982, John used his entrepreneurial skills to embark on other successful ventures, such as the Connecticut Air Freight Logistic Co. and Sing's Kitchen-located in the Town of East Lyme. John's Sing's Kitchen was such a hit in the area that he had to upgrade it from a takeout destination into a full-fledged restaurant before passing the business onto his son, Nage, and moving into retirement. prgtoken Though there are many eras of John's life for which he was known throughout his community, some of his most impactful years came about after his retirement. He used his time wisely, nurturing and fostering his connections with friends and family to establish an immeasurable reputation across the region. A man with an eye for opportunity, he recognized the potential to help those within the community on a larger scale and formed the Chinese and American Cultural Assistance Association. The positive influence of the CACAA was immediately recognized within the community and membership grew exponentially across New London County. Due to John's efforts, southeastern Connecticut was exposed to a layer of culture it had not seen before; and in 2014, he was recognized by the Rotary Club of Norwich, CT, and given the Diversity Award. prgtoken It is through this advocacy that I first came to know John as an avid contributor to the community, a participant in countless public events, and an instrumental figure in bridging the cultural gap between the Asian community and residents of the district. John and my staff developed a close relationship that spanned over ten years, working on issues focused on immigration, education, and economic development. Many of these efforts will undoubtedly have generational impacts on members of our community and their families. prgtoken Madam , it is an honor to have had the opportunity to represent constituents
HONORING THE SERVICE OF KAREN MITCHOFF
Mark DeSaulnier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I rise today, along with Congressman Swalwell, to recognize the service of Karen Mitchoff as she retires from her role on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. prgtoken Karen has dedicated her career to public service and the people of Contra Costa County. In 1981, she began her career in public service as an executive assistant in the office of former Sherriff Richard Rainey. Karen went on to serve as chief of staff to then-County Supervisor Wright McPeak and served as my chief of staff during my time with the board, as well, Karen then stepped into the role of fiscal and administrative analyst for Contra Costa County's Human Resources Department from 1998-2010. prgtoken Karen also has an extensive history serving as an elected official for the county. In 1988, she was appointed to the Pleasant Hill Resident's Advisory Committee on Redevelopment. Karen went on to join the Pleasant Hill Planning Commission, serving in this position from 1992-1996. In 2003, Karen was appointed to the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Parks District Board of Supervisors, where she served as chair both in 2005 and 2006. In 2008, Karen was elected to the Pleasant Hill Board of Supervisors, and in 2010 was elected as mayor of Pleasant Hill. Finally in 2011, Karen was elected to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors overseeing District IV, where she has worked tirelessly to serve Contra Costans for the past 11 years. prgtoken Throughout her tenure on the Board, Karen has done substantial work to promote strength and resiliency within our community. She has helped protect and conserve the integrity of the Delta as an appointee to the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy Board and prgtoken Delta Protection Commission, and helped protect the air quality throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, as an appointee to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Karen has done incredible work to support our county's transportation infrastructure, playing a key role as a member of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority. She has also helped enhance economic activity and development throughout the county, working to improve regional resiliency plans and housing needs as an executive committee member of the Association of Bay Area Governments. prgtoken Please join me and Congressman Swalwell in congratulating Karen on her well-earned retirement after more than four decades of service to Contra Costa County.
IN RECOGNITION OF ATARAH McCOY AND HER SERVICE TO THE HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE
Jerrold Nadler (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I rise along with Henry C. Johnson, Chair of the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet, to thank Atarah McCoy for her service to the Committee on the Judiciary. prgtoken Atarah received her bachelor's degree from Princeton University and began her career in public policy and advocacy at the Ida B. Wells Just Data Lab. Atarah first joined the Judiciary Committee as a Staff Assistant in July 2021, and in January 2022 was named Legislative Aide and Professional Staff Member for the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet. prgtoken As Staff Assistant, Atarah supported the full committee's senior staff and myself directly. A core part of my administrative team, Atarah acted as assistant clerk for over 16 hearings and 6 markups. Atarah also oversaw the committee's internship program. She is remembered for being a dedicated mentor and advocate for interns, ensuring that they professionally developed in an inclusive, welcoming environment--an especially difficult task during the COVID-19 pandemic when the office was primarily remote. prgtoken Recognized for her service, Atarah was promoted to Legislative Aide and Professional Staff Member for the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet. In this role, Atarah served as clerk for all Subcommittee business, and her work was essential to the success of much of the subcommittee's activities. She managed key parts of Subcommittee hearings, including working with witnesses, drafting speeches, remarks, and draft questions, and completing subcommittee hearing reports. Atarah was also instrumental in setting up a series of meetings with patent stakeholders to facilitate a ten-year review of the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. prgtoken Throughout all of her work, Atarah brought her commitment to public service, positive nature, and dedicated work ethic. She proved to be an excellent staffer who worked very hard on many critical but often unseen tasks with conscientiousness, professionalism, and grace. Our committee, Congress, and the American people greatly benefited from her service. prgtoken While we are sad to see Atarah go and she will certainly be missed, we are happy that she will continue to serve the public interest in her new role at a nonprofit legal organization pursuing racial justice. prgtoken We thank Atarah McCoy for her service to the committee and wish her the best of luck with this new chapter.
RECOGNIZING THE HALPERN FAMILY AS RECIPIENTS OF THE 2022 DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN AWARD
Frank J. Mrvan (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to recognize the recipients of the 2022 Distinguished Citizen Award, presented annually by the Boy Scouts of America, Pathway to Adventure Council. To commemorate this special occasion, the organization is hosting a celebratory event on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, Indiana. prgtoken Since 1992, the Boy Scouts of America has bestowed the Distinguished Citizen Award upon individuals whose efforts have made a significant positive impact on the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond. This year, the Boy Scouts of America, Pathway to Adventure Council is honoring the Halpern family. prgtoken Fred, Donna, Joshua, and Ashley Halpern are the owners of Albert's Diamond Jewelers in Schererville, Indiana. Established in East Chicago, Indiana, in 1905, Fred Halpern acquired Albert's in 1960. Throughout the years, Fred and his wife, Donna, handled much of the business operations. In 2010, Joshua, Fred and Donna's son, was named president of the company, becoming the fourth generation in his family to run the business. That same year, Joshua wed Ashley, who had been part of the Albert's team since 2003. Throughout the years, the company has flourished, and Albert's Diamond Jewelers continues to be one of the largest independent and family-owned jewelry stores in the country. prgtoken The Halpern family dedicates much of their time and support to charitable endeavors throughout the region including the Foodbank of Northwest Indiana, NWI Parkinson's, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the Humane Society, South Shore Arts, and TradeWinds, among many others. In addition, the family hosts an annual auction for Multiple Sclerosis, which has raised over $2.6 million. The Halpern family is to be commended for their passionate and lifelong commitment to philanthropic efforts. prgtoken Madam , I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing the Boy Scouts of America, Pathway to Adventure Council and its 2022 Distinguished Citizen Award recipients, Fred, Donna, Joshua, and Ashley Halpern. For their compassionate devotion to numerous charitable organizations, the Halpern family is to be admired, and they are worthy of the highest praise.
HONORING RICH MAROVICH ON HIS 21 YEARS OF PUBLIC SERVICE
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor Rich Marovich for his 21 years of service with the Solano County Water Agency. Through his work as streamkeeper of Putah Creek, Mr. Marovich has shown a ceaseless dedication and passion for protecting and preserving our community's natural resources. prgtoken Mr. Marovich is originally from Palo Alto, California, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Plant Science at the University of California, Davis. After college, he worked at the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, where he administered the department's first Endangered Species Program. prgtoken After years of drought, the Putah Creek Accord restored the natural flow of the creek; with this restoration, the need for a streamkeeper emerged and Mr. Marovich was a natural choice for the role. Putah Creek's 70-mile-long stream extends from the Cobb Mountains to the Yolo Bypass making it a major fishing and wildlife resource. To maintain the creek and protect its resources, Mr. Marovich was ever diligent as streamkeeper in improving water quality and conserving creek resources. Through his position, he also provided educational resources to the community regarding the creek's importance and collaborated with landowners along the creek on cleanup efforts. prgtoken In addition to his work preserving Putah Creek, Mr. Marovich created several environmental projects including the development of plant nurseries, food cultivation efforts, and critical fundraising campaigns for assessment programs related to the creek's condition. prgtoken The annual Winters Salmon Festival and the return of Chinook salmon to Putah Creek is a testament to the tireless efforts and unyielding zeal of Mr. Marovich throughout his career. While his service as Putah Creek's streamkeeper will surely be missed, Mr. Marovich's 21 years of service to the conservation of California's water resources has undoubtedly left a legacy that will last for many years to come. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for Mr. Marovich's dedicated service to the preservation of Putah Creek and wish him and his family my best as he enters retirement.
HONORING THE LIFE OF DALE W. JOHNSON
Derek Kilmer (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I would like to take a moment to commemorate the life of Dale W. Johnson--a leader of the Makah Tribe who recently passed away prgtoken Dale Johnson served as chairman of the Makah Tribal Council and the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. He led efforts to restore the Makah halibut, black cod, and whiting fisheries. Dale was also active within community sporting activities including basketball, football, and the traditional war canoe races. I was grateful for his partnership, and I was always honored to work with him on the critical issues impacting his Tribe. prgtoken I am humbled to speak in recognition of Dale. I join his family and the Makah Tribe in mourning his passing, but also in recognizing that his good work will contribute to the community for generations to come.
IN RECOGNITION OF WARREN COUNTY JUDGE-EXECUTIVE MIKE BUCHANON
Brett Guthrie (Republican, KY) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Warren County Judge-Executive Mike Buchanon, who is leaving office after serving 28 years of public service. Judge Buchanon not only helped Warren County grow to the 5th largest county in Kentucky, but has also worked to make Warren County a great place to live and work. prgtoken Judge Buchanon led the efforts to establish a new industrial park that is now home to over 19 companies that are on track to employ over 5,000 people by 2025, and he also changed workforce regulations to make Warren County more attractive to employers and more favorable for employees. prgtoken Another legacy of Judge Buchanon's tenure is the amazing parks and recreation facilities that he has developed over the past 28 years. The seven major parks and robust programming for sports add to the many reasons that Warren County is a wonderful place to call home. prgtoken Like other strong leaders, Judge Buchanon is leaving the county well- positioned for the future with very capable leadership to succeed him. I offer my deepest congratulations and appreciation to Judge Mike Buchanon; his wife, Ellen; and the members of the Warren Fiscal Court over the past 28 years. It's been my pleasure to call him my friend and serve Warren County with him.
HONORING CURTIS WAYNE SUTHERLAND JR.
H. Morgan Griffith (Republican, VA) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor Curtis Wayne Sutherland Jr. of Wytheville, Virginia, who passed away on October 9, 2022. As a public servant of his hometown for four decades, Wayne Sutherland successfully planned and managed significant projects to grow and improve Wytheville. prgtoken Mr. Sutherland was born on October 31, 1951, to Curtis Sutherland and Margaret Myers of Wytheville. He attended Virginia Tech and graduated in 1975 with a degree in civil engineering. After earning his degree, he taught at Wytheville Community College. As he later recounted to the Wytheville Enterprise, Mr. Sutherland had applied to a job in Virginia Beach but had not heard back; the Postal Service tardily delivered a letter inviting him to interview for the job a few months after starting at the community college. But he preferred to stay in Wytheville anyway. He took a job as Wytheville's assistant town manager in 1980. Four years later, he was elevated to town manager, a job he held until his retirement in 2020. prgtoken Under Mr. Sutherland's leadership, Wytheville enjoyed enhancements to its infrastructure as well as amenities to boost the town's quality of life and appeal to visitors. He put his training as a civil engineer to good use by overseeing water, road, and building construction and improvements. He also established parks, trails, and green spaces. One of his favorite spots was his first park project, Elizabeth Brown Memorial Park prgtoken Residents of Wytheville can appreciate Mr. Sutherland's contributions to the town when they enjoy the quality of its public services or take advantage of its scenic and recreational opportunities. He modestly attributed his success as town manager over several decades to his ability to delegate, but his contributions were enormous. prgtoken Mr. Sutherland was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Will. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Faye Foglesong Sutherland; daughter, Jamie Pauley (Robert Patton); son, Curtis Sutherland (Hillary); sister, Sandra Sowers (David); and brother-in- law, John Scott (Sue). I offer them my condolences on the loss of this public servant who offered so much to his hometown.
AWARDING CORPORAL BOB KERR A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION
Pat Fallon (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I am honored and privileged to award Corporal Bob Kerr with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Marine Corps exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Corporal Kerr is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation. prgtoken Corporal Kerr served as a Squad Leader for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. He was a very skilled and qualified Rifle Expert and had obtained the highest score in the Depot. Due to his raw talent and impressive rifle skills, Corporal Kerr was promoted to Lance Corporal in less than a month. With his eventual promotion to Corporal, Corporal Kerr was a great resource for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. prgtoken Corporal Kerr also served overseas in Vietnam. His specific service in Dong Ha, Hue City, Chulai, Phu Bai, and Quangtri exemplifies his passion and dedication to supporting the Nation he loves. As Squad Leader, Corporal Kerr oversaw four squads per platoon and also served as an Ammunition Technician. Corporal Kerr's long list of medals, awards, and honors include one representing the ultimate sacrifice of service. While in Vietnam, Corporal Kerr earned a Purple Heart. prgtoken Today, Corporal Kerr serves the Sulfur Springs Community and those around him. He serves as a Judge Advocate with the Hopkins County Marine Corps League and rides in motorcycle events that honor fellow veterans. As a combat veteran from the Vietnam era, he attends various patriotic assemblies in both Franklin and Hopkins Counties. prgtoken I am beyond honored to have Corporal Kerr in Texas' 4th Congressional district and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.
S. 3969, PROTECTION AND ADVOCACY FOR VOTING ACCESS PROGRAM INCLUSION ACT
Rodney Davis (Republican, IL) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I must say that I am perplexed by the Chairwoman's statements on the COCOA Act. Her interpretation of the COCOA Act is misleading and inaccurate. There have been instances in past election cycles where election officials were not aware of Congress' role and responsibility in having its own observers on site to watch the election administration process and, as a result, were denied access. As I stated earlier, this bill fixes a bi-partisan problem by providing a citation of convenience for existing law that gives the House authority to deploy official observers to watch the conduct of congressional elections in the States and territories. This way, there is no question regarding Congress' authority to have observers present. prgtoken To my surprise, the Chairwoman identifies two late breaking concerns she has with the bill. First, she states that while the bill provides broad authority to Congress, it fails to provide election officials with the ability to protect personally identifiable information. This concern appears to be a novel one, particularly in light of the long history of the Congressional observer program. We certainly would have welcomed the opportunity to discuss it further in our multiple efforts to work with majority staff on this topic. prgtoken Second, the Chairwoman expresses concern over an election official's inability to remove congressional observers that are disruptive to the process. Contrary to the Chairwoman's statement, the bill outlines the role of congressional observers and specifically prohibits these individuals from handling ballots, elections equipment, advocating for a position or candidate, taking any action to reduce ballot secrecy, or otherwise interfering with the elections administration process. The bill also permits state and local authorities to remove any observer who misbehaves. As such, state and local election officials across the country would have appropriate protections in place and should not be distressed by the presence of congressional observers. prgtoken Over the course of the past two years, my staff made a concerted effort to engage majority staff on the COCOA Act as we view this as a bi-partisan measure. We provided draft language to them for review. They did not reference either of the aforementioned concerns or flag any language that they believed to be problematic in the few conversations we had with them. My staff repeatedly offered to confer on any issue that majority staff may have with the bill and received nothing but radio silence. prgtoken It is important to note that we had an initial agreement in principle to move the COCOA Act together with the PAVA Act. However, at the eleventh hour, the majority reneged on our agreement in principle to move the COCOA Act forward. Again, here on the House Floor is the first time we are learning of any issues with the bill prgtoken This bill benefits both sides of the aisle and serves as an add
HONORING THE LIFE OF PHIL McCLURE
Brian Babin (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-11-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life of my dear friend, Phil McClure, of Warren, Texas, who passed away on Monday. October 31, 2022, at the age of 70. prgtoken Phil was born in Beaumont, Texas, on December 27, 1951, to Thomas Lindburg and Tressie Mae Droddy McClure. He graduated from Kirby High School in Woodville, Texas, and was a member of the 1969 District Champion football team. As a young man, Phil was very active in Future Farmers of America and attained Eagle Scout rank, the highest achievement the Boy Scouts of America offer. prgtoken Phil owned and operated McClure Furniture Store in Woodville for many years, working as a licensed real estate broker on the side. My wife, Roxanne, and I purchased our first home from him when we moved to Woodville after I separated from the United States Air Force. prgtoken He loved being involved in his community and devoted countless hours serving in the Woodville Volunteer Fire Department, the Woodville Lion's Club, and the First Baptist Church of Warren. Phil graciously hosted my congressional staff at his beautiful Cypress Creek Ranch, sharing his passion for wildlife management, the great outdoors, and hunting with each of them. prgtoken Madam , it is a special privilege to recognize my friend, Phil McClure. My most sincere prayers remain with his friends and loved ones during this difficult time.