mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF THE WHITE COUNTY FARM BUREAU
John Shimkus (Republican, IL) \u2014 2020-10-13

. Madam , I rise to recognize the Centennial Celebration of the White County Farm Bureau. prgtoken The White County Farm Bureau had its origin in 1920 when farmers organized an association to accomplish together what one farmer could not do alone. Following a mass meeting of area farmers at the White County Courthouse, and after many stirring speeches, the White County Farm Bureau was organized. The most important issue of the time was soil composition, and poultry was the most important industry in the county followed by dairy and livestock. prgtoken As is the case today, the strength of the early Farm Bureau laid with its members. For example, in 1925, a tornado crossed the county causing widespread destruction and death. The Farm Bureau worked closely with relief organizations to help neighbors get their farming work done and back on their feet. prgtoken The purchase of alfalfa seeds was a growing interest to the Bureau in the 1930s. And as the financial condition of White County farmers improved, so too did the value of the organization. Membership increased, especially with women, and in 1940 the White County Home Bureau was organized. prgtoken The Farm Bureau moved into its new building in 1947, paying the final loan installment in 1957. Through the 1960s and 1970s, the organization was involved in legislative, marketing, and membership policy development programs. Steady membership growth ensued, and member participation reached an all-time high. prgtoken In the 1970s, the Illinois and county Farm Bureau's successfully lobbied for legislation to reduce fees for farm truck and trailer license plates. In addition, the Bureau was busy studying taxation policy, concluding early on that property taxes needed reform. prgtoken Madam , the spirit of cooperation and hard work lives on in today's White County Farm Bureau, continuing a proud legacy filled with accomplishments and overcoming challenges. To celebrate this legacy, the Bureau plans to share historical photos and documents on social media, interview past leaders, compile a video presentation, produce a Centennial Booklet for members, and hold the 100th Annual Meeting in January 2021. prgtoken It is an honor to stand today to acknowledge the centennial anniversary of the White County Farm Bureau, and I wish the Bureau many more years of success.
CONGRATULATING BLAKE HURST UPON HIS RETIREMENT
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2020-10-13

. Madam I rise today to recognize my friend and fellow Missourian, Blake Hurst who will be retiring as president of the Missouri Farm Bureau later this year. prgtoken Blake raises corn, soybeans and flowers with his family and as a farmer himself, knows firsthand the challenges Missouri farmers face, like devastating floods and changing trade tides. Because of this personal knowledge, Blake has been able to dutifully serve Missouri farmers and ranchers in this post for a decade, and in several other positions at the Missouri Farm Bureau since the 1980's. prgtoken With two-thirds of Missouri covered in farmland, we are home to a longstanding agricultural tradition that is alive and well today. I am extremely grateful that he has spent the last ten years as one of the lead advocates, supporters and resources for our state's ag industry, both in Missouri and on a national level. The Missouri Farm Bureau is the oldest in the nation and we have been incredibly fortunate to have Blake at the helm for the last ten years. prgtoken Madam , on behalf of myself and my fellow Missouri farmers, I thank him for his service and wish him all the best on his future endeavors.
CELEBRATING THE RELEASE OF FIRST SERGEANT JOHN E. HATLEY
Ralph Norman (Republican, SC) \u2014 2020-10-13

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the release of First Sergeant John E. Hatley from Fort Leavenworth. prgtoken First Sergeant Hatley is an American hero who, throughout his twenty years of service, risked his life for his country time and time again. His outstanding military career as a soldier and leader in the U.S. Army is recognized by two Bronze Stars and an Army Commendation Medal for Valor--a true testament of his commitment to his country and his fellow soldiers. prgtoken First Sergeant Hatley was sentenced for the premeditated murder of four Shi'ite fighters in Iraq despite the complete absence of evidence. Not a single scrap of physical or forensic evidence was found in a thorough investigation conducted by the Army Criminal Investigation Division. Notwithstanding this paucity of evidence, First Sergeant Hatley has been imprisoned for nearly a decade. prgtoken Throughout his time at Fort Leavenworth, First Sergeant Hatley has availed himself of programs available within the barracks for self- improvement, and he has nearly completed a Master of Business Administration degree. He also consistently maintained a positive attitude, led other inmates by example, and even saved a fellow inmate's life. prgtoken First Sergeant Hatley is a man with strong family support, a stellar military record, a phenomenal moral compass, and an essentially perfect record while incarcerated. His career was characterized by honor, sacrifice, and valor. Now that he will return to his rightful place in life as a contributing member of society, First Sergeant Hatley is planning to build a home for his disabled mother and father. He also plans to marry his girlfriend, Pamela Miller. prgtoken John, I hope that you may continue to serve as an example to other soldiers and the American people. Thank you for your outstanding service to this country. I wish you the best of luck as you return to your proper place in society, and I wish you a lifetime of happiness in your future marriage and life.
HONORING DETECTIVE JONATHAN R. MILLER AS A RECIPIENT OF THE VALOR AWARD
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-10-13

. Madam , I rise today to recognize City of Fayetteville Police Department Detective Jonathan R. Miller as a recipient of the Public Safety Valor Award, presented annually by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. prgtoken The Valor Award is a prestigious honor presented to men and women of the Fayetteville region who perform acts of heroism under extreme risk. An outstanding member of Fayetteville Police Department, Detective Miller went beyond his call of duty on the evening of Tuesday, August 29, 2019. prgtoken While driving over a bridge, Detective Miller witnessed a driver lose consciousness at the wheel and swerve into oncoming traffic. He saw a woman in the other lane attempt to avert the oncoming vehicle and jumped into immediate action. Detective Miller pulled over and successfully stopped the moving vehicle before impact. After securing the scene, he called for medical assistance for the unconscious driver. prgtoken Detective Miller is a hero and that night he prevented not only a head on collision, but also a possible second tragedy from occurring. His quick actions, bravery, and dedication to service is a credit to him, his family, and the entire Fayetteville Police Department. I know I speak for everyone in our community when I say we are truly grateful for his unwavering service and cannot thank him enough. prgtoken Detective Miller is deserving of this honor, and I would like to extend my most sincere appreciation and wish him success as he continues to protect our communities. prgtoken Madam , please join me today in celebrating City of Fayetteville Police Department Detective Jonathan R. Miller for receiving the Public Safety Valor Award.
RECOGNIZING PAUL JOHNSON OF GREAT FALLS
Greg Gianforte (Republican, MT) \u2014 2020-10-13

. Madam , I rise today to honor Dr. Paul Johnson of Great Falls for caring for his community on the front line and for the sacrifices he made during the COVID-19 pandemic. prgtoken Paul Johnson loves his camper. His family bought their first one 10 years ago so they could spend more time together making their own Montana moments. For Paul, his wife, and their four kids, camping is a huge part of their lifestyle, and they cherish their time together. But this year looked a little different for the Johnson camper. It served as a home for Paul as he worked at Benefis West campus to keep his patients and family safe from the coronavirus. prgtoken Back in March, the Benefis Health System instituted a respiratory clinic for the sole purpose of treating COVID-19 patients. Paul was one of three commissioned physicians to oversee the clinic, putting him in direct contact with COVID-19 patients. Formerly a part of the U.S. Army Reserve and currently in the National Guard, it's in Paul's DNA to serve others. prgtoken For nine weeks, Paul camped at the Benefis West campus and the local KOA campground, away from his wife and children. Paul says he had to do what was best for his family. His eldest son was home, about to be deployed to Afghanistan. His daughter also worked at a family ranch that had guests coming and going. Paul simply didn't want to jeopardize his family's health if he was an asymptomatic carrier. prgtoken Paul is good at putting things in perspective, though. He says it certainly wasn't as bad as being deployed out of country. Still, the experience was emotionally and mentally draining, especially since there wasn't a clear light at the end of the tunnel. But to Paul, the easiest thing to do was grab the bull by the horns and take care of his patients. prgtoken His family is very proud of him, and so am I. prgtoken Living out of a camper in March with no heat wasn't easy. When it was below freezing, his water wouldn't run, so he used the hospital for a warm shower. Cooking for himself was a challenge. Paul says there were a lot of busy days and sleepless nights. To pass the time, he tied flies. When it wasn't cold, he was able to take a socially distant dog walk with his wife, but there was no hand-holding or kissing. Paul says that was one of the hardest parts. prgtoken Many may ask, ``Why go to these lengths?'' For Paul, he was committed to treating his patients and serving his community in a time of need. prgtoken Madam , for his outstanding service to country, for his dedication to family, and for his selfless, unwavering patient care, I recognize Paul Johnson of Great Falls for his Spirit of Montana.
HONORING THE LIFE OF DETECTIVE KEVIN COLLINS
Bruce Westerman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2020-10-13

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Pine Bluff police detective Kevin Dwaine Collins. His life tragically cut short in the line of duty on Monday, October 5, we take this time to thank him for his life of service and his family for their ultimate sacrifice. prgtoken A member of the Pine Bluff Police Department since 2015, Detective Collins had proven himself to be a valuable resource and friend to his community. While his family and friends refer to him as a leader and a ``gentle giant,'' it was well-known that Detective Collins held his calling to law enforcement with the greatest zeal. prgtoken Prior to his work with the police department, Collins served in a variety of public service areas like the Arkansas Department of Corrections and the Metropolitan Emergency Communication Association. In 2017, he was named Pine Bluff Police Department's Officer of the Year. prgtoken Detective Collins is named by community leaders of Pine Bluff as ``one of the finest officers you could ever hope to have.'' His work was not just a job, ``but it was his mission.'' It is clear from his years of service and his commitment to love his fellow man that Detective Kevin Collins is a man deserving of the highest honor. I take this time to celebrate his legacy and to thank him for the sacrifice he has made for our community and our home.
HONORING MISSY MELLOTT
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-10-13

. Madam , I rise to recognize Melissa Mellott for receiving the Encompass Health Rehab Patient Achievement Award, prgtoken After her tumor removal surgery and subsequent complications, Melissa entered rehab at Encompass. At the time, she exhibited weakness in her left side, double vision, pain, and decreased strength and coordination. As a result of these symptoms, she often required assistance to do daily tasks and needed to wear a neck brace. prgtoken Thankfully, Missy worked hard in rehab and experienced incredible progress. As a testament to her perseverance and hard work, Missy was able to walk out of the facility unassisted. Now at home, she has resumed many of the activities she enjoyed prior to the surgery, including gardening and walking. prgtoken Missy's recovery journey is a shining example of hope and hard work. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Missy Mellott on her remarkable work towards recovery, and I wish her every continued success.
IN RECOGNITION OF THE HONORABLE JOHN A. KELLEY
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2020-10-16

. Madam , I rise today in recognition of the Honorable John A. Kelley for his service as a veteran of the U.S. Army, distinguished Federal Service Career of about 31 years, and to the Commonwealth of Virginia. He was a Director of the Northern Neck Soil and Water Conservation District (NNSWCD) representing the County of Northumberland Virginia for 2 terms of 4 years each helping provide oversight through leadership, education, and technical assistance for all resource users. Additionally, he served as the Chair of the Operations Committee for the NNSWCD during these 8 years that brought many improvements to the operation of the District. prgtoken He also served on the Potomac Watershed Roundtable, a Regional government-citizen forum that promotes collaboration and cooperation among local governments and stakeholder interest groups promoting conservation. prgtoken He was Chair of the Potomac Council for several years. It serves as a collaborative body promoting and facilitating water quality management practices necessary to achieve nonpoint source pollutions reductions in the Potomac River Watershed. prgtoken He served almost 7.5 years on the Commonwealth Board for Waste Management Facility Operators, the last 3 as Chair. His outstanding leadership brought significant improvements and efficiencies to the functioning of the Board and operations. prgtoken Mr. Kelley served on the Board of Trustees of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra for many years. He was the Operations Committee head during this time, and helped improve operations of the organization. prgtoken At the Federal level, he served as the Director of Administration for the United States Commission of the Bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution. His efforts helped make the 200th anniversary of our constitution a magnificent success. prgtoken He was also the Executive Director of the U.S. Office of Special Council, improving the management processes and case tracking systems. prgtoken While working for the U.S. Army Assistant Secretary for Installations and Environment, prgtoken he worked on the housing privatization programs to provide soldiers globally with better base housing. He also worked on the reorganization of the Headquarters of the U.S. Army. prgtoken His management capabilities are evident throughout his career. Mr. Kelley is a patriot of the First Congressional District, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the United States. Without the full support of his loving wife, Helene, it would be impossible for him to achieve his accomplishments. For his service to the nation, Madam , today it is my honor to recognize the Honorable John A. Kelley.
HONORING JIMMY DALE WILLIAMS FOR HIS YEARS OF SERVICE WITH GENERAL DYNAMICS
Bruce Westerman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2020-10-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Jimmy Dale Williams' life of work with General Dynamics. Since the beginning of his career, Williams has been a leader for some of the most influential of defense projects. prgtoken For nearly 54 years, Williams has been the lead worker on the Hydra 70 Rocket Motor line, starting his career in 1966 with Baldwin Electronics. He started by hand stenciling the lot numbers on each rocket motor, and by the mid-1970s, he was running the project developing the 267 and 261 warheads. After a transfer to Hitech in 1996, Williams began supervising and training workers for the production of the Hydra 70 rocket motor. prgtoken In addition to his years of service in the defense industry, Williams also serves as a justice of the peace for Calhoun County Quorum Court. A respected member of his community and a dedicated servant, he states that his determination comes from watching his own family. With brothers that served in the Air Force, Army and Marines during the Vietnam era, Williams says their service is what played the greatest part in his decision to dedicate his life to the work of supplying military ammunition. prgtoken It is in Mr. Williams' life that we find the shining example of service and patriotism. I take this time to thank him for his exemplary life and his love of country.
IN HONOR OF DR. RANDALL SPINDLE'S RETIREMENT FROM SOUTHERN NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
Kenny Marchant (Republican, TX) \u2014 2020-10-16

. Madam , I rise to pay tribute to a dear friend and classmate, Dr. Randall Spindle, in honor of his upcoming retirement from Southern Nazarene University (SNU) in Bethany, Oklahoma. prgtoken Long before he became a professor of history and business, I met Dr. Spindle as a fellow freshman classmate in the fall of 1969 at SNU. Little did I know at that time what a remarkable friend I had just made. His love and dedication for our alma mater has spanned decades and generations of students. He will be greatly missed when he leaves campus for the last time as a member of the faculty, but I imagine he will still be actively involved in SNU in his retirement. prgtoken Dr. Spindle's career touched on so many different facets of life on campus, much more than an ordinary professor. He viewed the school through many different perspectives, with each one allowing him to be a better leader on campus and for the thousands of students he helped educate. prgtoken His association with the school started long before I knew him. As a young teenager he earned his first paycheck digging trenches for the construction of Snowbarger Hall. Years later after his graduation from SNU, he returned to campus in 1976 and served as the Resident Director of Snowbarger Hall for three years, literally serving at a building he helped construct. During his time as Resident Director, he earned his master's degree, the first of prgtoken his advanced degrees. Randall would later complete a doctorate from Oklahoma State in 1981 and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1991. prgtoken I can think of nobody else who has helped build as a teenager, went to as a college student, and then taught for decades all at the same institution. This is the triple crown of loyalty, for which we honor him today. His dedication to the school is unmatched in both service and impact. prgtoken I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Randall Spindle's long career at Southern Nazarene University and wish him all the very best for a well-earned retirement.
HONORING RANDY SCHEIDT
Greg Pence (Republican, IN) \u2014 2020-10-16

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Randy Scheidt for being named the 2020 Indiana Realtor of the Year from the Indiana Commercial Board of Realtors. prgtoken Randy is a chair on the MIBOR Realtor Association Economic Development Council and its foundation. prgtoken Forty years ago, Randy founded Don R. Scheidt & Co. and started the Scheidt Commercial Realty LLC in 2019. prgtoken Randy is from my hometown of Columbus, IN and is a member of the Rotary Club and serves as the Riley Children's South-Central Philanthropy Council senior advisor. He is a true pillar in our community. prgtoken It is an honor to call Randy a friend and I congratulate him and his family for this tremendous accomplishment.
HONORING THE LIFE OF CHRISTEL DEHAAN
Susan W. Brooks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2020-10-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Hoosier philanthropist, businesswoman and education advocate Christel DeHaan. After building the successful Resort Condominium International business, DeHaan spent the remainder of her years dedicated to philanthropy and education of children around the world. The City of Indianapolis, the State of Indiana and the philanthropy world recently lost a brilliant and generous woman on June 6, 2020. prgtoken Christel was born in Nordlingen Germany in 1942 to Anna and Adolf Stark. Her father, a German soldier, was killed during World War II. She left home at age 16 to become a governess in the United Kingdom. Four years later, she immigrated to the United States and eventually settled in Indiana. In 1974, she co-founded Resort Condominium International (RCI), a pioneering timeshare company, which became a leading company in the multi-billion-dollar industry. She co-led the business until 1987 when she bought 100 percent of RCI for $67.5 million. She then expanded the business to over 4,000 employees until it was sold in 1996 for $625 million. prgtoken DeHaan then began devoting her life to philanthropy and education by founding Christel House International in 1998. As founder and board chair, her mission was to better the lives of impoverished children through education, healthcare and other initiatives. Today, Christel House serves nearly 6,000 students and graduates worldwide through schools in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa and the United States. prgtoken Her vision and dedication to improving the lives of children is a testament to the kind heart that she had. The philosophy that drives Christel House International is ``giving kids a hand-up, not a hand- out.'' Throughout her lifetime, she generously donated more than $220 million of her own money to various charities. She was a generous advocate for the fine arts in Central Indiana, leading to the fine arts center at the University of Indianapolis being named ``The Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center.'' prgtoken DeHaan was featured on Forbes' list of America's Self-Made Women for the past five years, most recently with a net worth estimated at $950 million. She was a shining example for girls all over the world of a ``self-made woman.'' For this and many reasons, she was honored with three honorary doctorate degrees from Marian University, the University of Indianapolis and the University of Nottingham in England. prgtoken Christel DeHaan was a leader, a philanthropist and an inspiration for so many, including me. Her generosity, commitment and focus was rare and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. I extend my deepest sympathy to those who survive including her older sister, three children, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Though Christel is gone, I know that her legacy will live on for generations through Christel House International and will continue to change