mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF PAMELA HALL
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the life of Pamela Gayle Cooper Hall, who passed away on August 1 after a courageous eight-year battle with cancer. prgtoken Pamela's life began on December 9, 1951; however, some may say, her cancer diagnosis was truly the start of her journey. A devoted Christian and member of Salem Baptist Church, Pam viewed her diagnosis as an invitation--an invitation to share her journey and lead by example. She spent her years in treatment, encouraging others who were in similar circumstances, making friends throughout the country in the process. Her passion and devotion to Christ made her a confidante and leader to many, as she always saw the goodness in others. prgtoken Pam was also a leader in the professional world, as she had a reputation for diligence and thoroughness, earning her a business management position as well as the position of Director of Finance at JME, Inc. for 25 years. Outside of her professional life, Pam also taught children's Sunday School and treasured her women's Sunday School Class. prgtoken Pam's colleagues became her family, and her diagnosis allowed her to inspire so many others. Her life was one of service, grace, and love for her family and community, and she will be greatly missed by all whom she encountered. prgtoken Left to cherish her memory is her husband Larry Murrah Hall; daughter, Amy Hall Jones; son, Justin Lee Hall; her grandchildren, as well as many other friends and extended family members.
REMEMBERING RONNIE KOLE
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I would like to take the time to remember Ronnie Kole for his contribution to the musical community and his charitable work. I include in the Record the following article ``Ronnie Kole, renowned New Orleans pianist who performed for 6 presidents and a pope, dead at 89'' by Dominic Massa on August 28th from the The New Orleans Advocate: Ronnie Kole, the renowned New Orleans pianist who performed for six presidents, a pope and audiences around the world, died Thursday. He was 89. Kole, a consummate entertainer known for his boundless energy, had been in declining health but stopped performing only recently, according to his son. Kole's wife of 36 years, Gardner, died this past January. Kole's career spanned nearly 70 years and took him to Carnegie Hall, concert venues and music clubs across the United States, Europe and Asia. He recorded dozens of albums and was a frequent performer in New Orleans, where he settled in the 1960s before moving to Slidell some 30 years ago. Kole--who was tall, lanky, goateed and always immaculately dressed--entertained six U.S. presidents during his career. In 1987, he performed ``Amazing Grace'' for Pope John Paul II during the Holy Father's visit to New Orleans. Kole performed at the outdoor Mass celebrated by the pope near the UNO Lakefront Arena. Accompanied by a symphony orchestra and a 350-voice choir, Kole called the performance ``the way I've always envisioned doing `Amazing Grace,' '' mixing the hymn with bits of ``Jesus Christ Superstar'' and the ``Hallelujah Chorus.'' The song was a hallmark of most every Ronnie Kole concert. His set lists showcased a diverse range of musical genres from modern and traditional jazz to show tunes, classical music and everything in between. A typical show might feature ``Rhapsody in Blue,'' ``Somewhere Over the Rainbow,'' ``What a Wonderful World,'' selections from Mozart or Beethoven, ``Ave Maria'' and a souped-up version of ``When the Saints Go Marching ln,'' just to name a few. In between songs at his concerts, he would frequently entertain his audience with jokes, anecdotes, self-deprecating asides and musical history lessons. ``My feeling is, anything your mind can think of, you can put down on a piano,'' he said in a 2004 Times-Picayune profile. ``To me, a piano is an orchestra. It's a very imaginative instrument that you can do most anything on, which I try to do. I try not to have limitations. I have a lot of fun with it. I love to entertain.'' According to Times-Picayune music writer Keith Spera, Kole was renowned for his showstopping, all-request Broadway medley, which concluded with him playing the main melodic theme with his left hand and a succession of requested melodies with
RECOGNIZING JACKSONVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT
Gregory F. Murphy (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise to pay tribute to the Jacksonville, North Carolina Police Department on being awarded the 2020 Law Enforcement Agency of the Year by the North Carolina Police Executives Association. prgtoken These men and women go above and beyond the call of duty to keep our communities safe and our streets clean, while building trust and relationships within the community. The untold sacrifice and unwavering commitment by our law enforcement officials to serve in an increasingly polarized climate, riddled with hate and violence, deserves recognition. prgtoken Madam , please join me in honoring this distinguished department, their families and community. This is simply an outstanding accomplishment.
CONGRATULATING HOWARD SEPP
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Mr. Howard Sepp of Georgia's First Congressional District who retired on July 1. prgtoken Howard was a long-time vice president and administrator of the Southeast Georgia Health System's Camden campus since 2003. He had overseen the Camden hospital for more than 17 years, during which he oversaw a $30 million renovation and the addition of a wide array of medical services. prgtoken Thanks to Howard's efforts, the hospital grew remarkably, including adding cancer care services in 2012, the Camden Medical Plaza in 2013, and a new, state-of-the-art care center which recently opened. He also helped spearhead the Coastal Community Health affiliation with Baptist Health System, which led to significant cost savings and improved coordination through the Emergency Care Center. prgtoken In addition to being a leader for the hospital, he has also been an active civic leader. He has held positions with the Camden County Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Camden County, and has helped with Leadership Camden. Howard also serves as chairman of the Camden Partnerships and is a board member for the Coastal Georgia council of the Boy Scouts of America. prgtoken Camden County is better because of Howard, and I can't thank him enough for his over 17 years of hard work to ensure people in prgtoken Camden receive the hospital care they need. Congratulations, again.
HONORING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE CHRONICLE
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise today to honor the 40th anniversary of the founding of The Chronicle newspaper. prgtoken The Chronicle was established by Mark Frost in 1980 in Glens Falls, New York. Through hard work and determination, Mark turned an initial investment of $1,700 into a successful and profitable newspaper. He remains the publisher and editor today, alongside staffers who have been with The Chronicle for decades. In that time, they have established a loyal base of readers and advertisers, becoming a cornerstone of the community. prgtoken The Chronicle has long hosted events to provide a forum for discussion and to bring Glens Falls residents together, especially through Autumn Leaves: The Chronicle Book Fair. The fair is an opportunity to highlight and connect local authors and publishers, and discover books of all genres. Annual events like this are important to strengthen and grow the fabric of our communities, and I know many who are looking forward to safely resuming them as soon as possible. prgtoken On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to thank Mark and the entire Chronicle staff for their contributions to the community and congratulate them on reaching this important milestone.
CELEBRATING FREEDOM
Lee M. Zeldin (Republican, NY) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , today, I rise to recognize composer Richard Fuchs of Coram, New York, and his 1983 composition entitled ``Gettysburg.'' His music, set to the awe-inspiring address given by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, has given new, melodious life to those brilliant two hundred and forty words, reminding modern audiences of the sacred and revolutionary ideals our country strives to embody. prgtoken Just as Baltimore shopkeeper Thomas Carr first put Francis Scott- Key's poem, ``The Defense of Fort McHenry'', to music in 1814, creating ``The Star Spangled Banner'', Mr. Fuchs found a similar way to preserve the Gettysburg Address. Ever since he first saw the speech engraved on the side of the Lincoln Memorial at 9 years old, he wanted to honor its eternal message in song. prgtoken After years of tinkering with melody and meter, Mr. Fuchs finally published ``Gettysburg'' in 1983, just in time for the 120th anniversary celebration of the Gettysburg Address. Thirty four years after his first visit to the Lincoln Memorial, Mr. Fuchs performed his creation on the monument's steps during this celebration, playing piano alongside his daughter and their hometown Centereach High School Choir. prgtoken Since that first performance, Mr. Fuchs composition has been sung by choirs across the nation, from Tucson, Arizona to the Smithsonian. Over nearly four decades, through his music, Mr. Fuchs has helped preserve President Lincoln's vision for America for an entirely new generation, trying every day to live up to the principles of freedom, happiness, and equality our country's founders spoke of. prgtoken In 2013, Mr. Fuchs' composition was performed with one hundred and fifty chorus members at the very place President Lincoln first delivered the Gettysburg Address. Each member of the chorus represented each year since the historic event. prgtoken Like President Lincoln's address, Mr. Fuchs' composition is yet another stark reminder of our constant, unfinished work as Americans to ensure liberty and justice for all.
HONORING THE LIFE OF JUDY WILSON CAGLE
Dan Bishop (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life of Judy Wilson Cagle, who passed away on July 3rd at the age of 63. prgtoken Mrs. Cagle was the owner and manager of both Rockingham Paint and Glass and Rockingham Fitness. prgtoken Along with owning two businesses, Mrs. Cagle was a tireless animal advocate and served for several terms on the board of the Richmond County Humane Society. There, she spearheaded a partnership with the Richmond County Aging Services that allowed for low-income senior citizens to receive food for their pets. This partnership continues to this day. prgtoken Mrs. Cagle's efforts in the community will last for many years to come. May her dedication to the Rockingham community and animal rights be an example for all of us.
HONORING KEN THOMAS
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise to recognize the outstanding achievements of Ken Thomas, a career Legislative Attorney with the American Law Division of the Congressional Research Service (CRS), who retired from CRS on August 28, 2020, after 36 years of distinguished government service. In his 33 years with CRS, Ken became the leading expert on constitutional law, and he made invaluable contributions to the work of Congress with his substantive knowledge in various legal areas. He advised Congress on statehood and other political status changes for the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, federalism, individual and civil rights, criminal law and procedure, the federal judiciary and education law. prgtoken Over the years, House and Senate committees called on Ken to testify at hearings and share with them his expertise and non-partisan analysis of important issues. Last year, for example, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform invited Ken to testify at a hearing on the Washington, D.C. Admission Act (H.R. 51). During the course of this high-profile and contentious hearing, Ken answered numerous questions from Members about the constitutionality of granting statehood to the District of Columbia, key to passage of H.R. 51 by the House in June. prgtoken My staff and I, in particular, relied on Ken for his analysis of legal issues involving the uniquely complicated relationship between the federal government and the District of Columbia, ranging from constitutional law to the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to appropriations law. Ken always provided prompt, well-reasoned and well- researched legal analysis. prgtoken The following is a recommendation for one of the 28 CRS awards that Ken received: During his tenure in the American Law Division, Ken Thomas demonstrated a level of energy and dedication to the mission of serving Congress that has been extraordinary. He has willingly and without hesitation undertaken challenging and difficult assignments from the Congress. He has been a prolific writer and has provided comprehensive and in-depth legal research and analysis in a number of legal areas . . . . He is always available for and capable of tackling new issues, especially those that pose complex constitutional questions. He regularly demonstrates a high degree of intellectual curiosity, a trait that inspires him to ``go the extra mile'' for his congressional clients. prgtoken During his career with CRS, Ken prepared over 200 written products for Congress, many of which have been cited in the Congressional Record, committee reports and congressional hearings. Academic law reviews and national publications, such as The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal and The National Journal, have also cited his work. Ken has also delivered many keynote Continuing Legal Education lectures sponsored by CRS to positive reviews. prgtoken From 1996 through 2013, Ken w
HONORING RICHARD B. BLACKWELL'S 100TH BIRTHDAY
Ami Bera (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th birthday of Richard B. Blackwell from Sacramento, California. Mr. Blackwell was born on August 28, 1920, in Franklin, Indiana where he lived and worked on a family farm and graduated from the local high school. Mr. Blackwell went on to receive his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Indiana University. prgtoken Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1942 and attended Midshipmen's School. Mr. Blackwell served aboard the USS Colorado in the Pacific Theater during WWII as a Deck Gunnery Officer. He bravely served the United States and received the Purple Heart and seven stars for his time in the Asiatic Pacific Theatre and Philippine Liberation campaign. prgtoken After four years of service, he was honorably discharged in 1946 and moved to California to pursue his career. Mr. Blackwell worked in marketing and insurance and worked his way to become Vice-President of Cal-Farm Insurance. In 1969 he married his late wife, Ana Maria Morales, and lived in Oakland before moving to Sacramento, where he still resides. I ask my colleagues to join me in sending Mr. Blackwell and his family best wishes and great thanks for his service to this country as they celebrate his 100th birthday today.
CITIZEN COSPONSORS OF THE GEORGE FLOYD JUSTICE IN POLICING ACT
Steny H. Hoyer (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , on June 25, the House passed the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to address systemic racism and police misconduct, increase accountability and transparency, and change the culture of law enforcement. Since passage, thousands of Americans have visited the website JusticeInPolicing.us to learn about the bill, weigh in with their support, and sign on as citizen cosponsors in support. I would like to include in the Record the following names of citizen cosponsors: Sue Compton, Malvern, PA; Marc Anthony Nunez, Addison, TX; Nicole, Cynthia, Boise, ID; Sharon Gagnon, Glendale, AZ; Anastasia, Portland, OR; Katherine Johnson, Phoenix, AZ; Teddi, Las Vegas, NV; McKenna Inrig, Yorba Linda, CA; Crystal Holmes, Fairmont, WV; Grace Flynn, Newburgh, NY; Howard Glick, Phoenix, AZ; Roy Wasson Valle, Phoenix, AZ; Lorena Zaragoza, Richmond, CA; Ashens Limon, Fresno, CA; E. Gluckert, Sun City West, AZ; Danyelle Carpenter, Santa Cruz, CA; Carolina Quevedo, Reidsville, NC; Anna, Baytown, TX; Jasmine, Winter Garden, FL; Nasirah, Clifton, NJ; Faith, Hopewell, VA; Lancey, Alpharetta, GA; Stacie, Tinley Park, IL; Raquel, Palm Harbor, FL; Andrew Jones, Dayton, OH; Eduardo Espinoza, Lynwood, CA; Stacey Jaimes, Bastrop, TX; Julian Moore, Fort Worth, TX; Maile, Wailuku, HI; Morgan Mayfield, Fort Worth, TX; Dorothy Honza, Albuquerque, NM; Nia Marsh, Mansfield, TX; Jessi Black, Phoenix, AZ; Kate lncube, Attleboro, MA; Amanda Mauldin, Houston, TX; Jennifer Losito, Middle Village, NY; Hector Serrano, Brooklyn, NY; Elizabeth Lopez, Homestead, FL. Marina Kottler, Cincinnati, OH; Stephanie Olea, Dacula, GA; Nancy Guo, Chicago, IL; Jenn Mulford, Pittsford, NY; Mary Kate Nacke, Phoenix, AZ; Tracy Gutin, Madison Heights, MI; Erica Sturwold, Scottsdale, AZ; Mr. and Mrs. West, Dunkirk, MD; Savannah Minichello, Eden, NC; Nuala Carpenter, Wayne, PA; Christopher Pendry, Lawrence, KS; Monica William, West Bloomfield, MI; Corine Borrero, Succasunna, NJ; Edward Mason, Fort Myers, FL; Sachi, Wailuku, HI; Emma Goldman, Eagle Mountain, UT; Allan Moore, Bingham Canyon, UT; Heather Lewis, Phoenix, AZ; Leo Tolstoy, Bonanza, UT; Howard Zinn, Salt Lake City, UT; Sacco and Vanzetti, Clearfield, UT; Francis M. Fierros, Phoenix, AZ; Gill Padilla, Richmond, KY; Jon Allen, Phoenix, AZ; Yanet, Long Beach, CA; Gale Shafkind, Royal Oak, MI; Danny, Magnolia, TX; Brittany Swearingen, Lawrence, KS; Lindzay Baez, Sahuarita, AZ; Joseph Ortiz-Noriega, Albuquerque, NM; Yajaira, Lakewood, CA; Caitlin Klink, Highland, MD; Lynn Van Perez, Westfield, NJ; Lana Dyson, Eden, NC; Chris Norton, Phoenix, AZ. Caroline Payne, Phoenix, AZ; Kelda Fowler, Huntsville, AL; Celeste, Santa Maria, CA; Bernice Brown, Stamford, CT; Erica Pilar Brown, New York, NY; Curtis E
AMARI PRESIDENT
Joe Cunningham (Democrat, SC) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life of Amari President. prgtoken Amari was only sixteen years young when he passed, but his wisdom was already far beyond his years. Despite being too young to vote, he knew the importance of his civic duty to hold public officials accountable and to be involved in his local community. That involvement brought Amari into my life when he attended one of my very first town halls and left me a question. In my subsequent conversations with Amari, it was clear his leadership and vibrancy were going to take him to big and wonderful places in life. prgtoken Anyone who was lucky enough to know Amari knew his dreams were big, but achievable for someone as bright and determined as him. You just knew Amari would find a way to achieve every single one of them, especially living up to his name and becoming a U.S. President one day. Amari had my vote. Beyond his ambition, his family knew Amari as compassionate, empathetic, and driven to serve others. Amari wanted to spread kindness and joy wherever he went. He went the extra mile to be a beacon of light and knew how to brighten your day by sharing his warmth through a big grin. prgtoken His sixteen years have left an indelible imprint on the Lowcountry and his legacy will be found in every heart Amari touched, including mine. I mourn this tragic loss with his family, classmates, and the massive community that was blessed to know Amari and his greatness.
CONGRATULATING PATRICK ROMEO
Tim Ryan (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Mr. Patrick Romeo, of Boardman, Ohio, on completing the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in Panama City, Florida, this August. prgtoken Being one of a hundred motorcyclists traveling 10,000 miles on a country-wide, 13-day journey, Patrick embarked on an excursion intended to raise awareness for veterans with traumatic brain injuries. This endurance challenge was aimed at testing the physical, mental, and emotional limits of all participants. prgtoken Mr. Romeo demonstrated extraordinary leadership along with outstanding integrity and values, qualities that empower and inspire individuals and families to overcome their physical, mental, or financial challenges. prgtoken Resurrecting Lives Foundation, an Ohio-based nonprofit founded by Youngstown native Dr. Chrisanne Gordon, was Patrick's designated charity. So far, Mr. Romeo has been able to help raise $16,000 for the charity, which advocates for veterans with traumatic brain injuries. prgtoken The dedication and enthusiasm Patrick directed towards this once-in- a-lifetime opportunity has left a positive impact upon the community. Patrick, you are truly an inspiration to all of us who serve the public, and for that, I am forever grateful.
RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF WILLIAM JOHN BETTERS
Theodore E. Deutch (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , today I rise to honor the late William John Betters for his distinguished service to our country and his community. prgtoken Born on December 1, 1924, William is a World War II veteran, having served in the U.S. Air Force from 1942-1945. Like many of his fellow Americans at the time, William was proud to enlist at the young age of 17. During his service he was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and the Purple Heart. prgtoken After returning from serving his country, William created a business as self-employed plumber and contractor, building housing in his hometown. He also devoted his life to family, marrying Eleanor Kurkoski in 1946, having 3 children, 3 grandchildren, and two great- grandchildren. One of his granddaughters has followed in his footsteps and is serving our country as a member of the Pennsylvania National Guard. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the life and service of William John Betters.
RECOGNIZING MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH FOR THEIR SANCTUARY'S 10TH ANNIVERSARY
Gerald E. Connolly (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2020-9-1

. Madam , I rise to recognize Mount Zion Baptist Church on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of its sanctuary. prgtoken Mount Zion moved into their new building in March of 2010 and have called this sanctuary their home ever since. The church was originally organized in Stafford, Virginia in 1876 shortly after the end of the Civil War by Reverend Charles Gibson. In 1918 the church moved to Prince William County to better accommodate its growing membership. In 1922, Mount Zion built their first Prince William County sanctuary in Triangle, Virginia, creating a spiritual home for people in and around the county. prgtoken Since being founded in Prince William County, Mount Zion has played a fundamental role in building the community. Under the leadership of their Pastor, Reverend Dr. Alfred Jones, Jr. the Church has embodied its of ``Living By Faith.'' Since his installation, Rev. Dr. Jones has served an instrumental role in the growth of membership to over 2000 members and the development of five fundamental ministries: Evangelism, Inspired Arts, Christian Education, Discipleship Building and Family Life Principles. From these ministries, 37 subordinate ministries were established reaching into the lives of those beyond the church walls to provide financial support, clothing assistance, and food assistance to the global community. Because of this continued growth and expansion of its mission throughout the community, Mount Zion opened a new sanctuary in 2010. The positive impacts on our region have continued to flourish this past decade through this new sanctuary. We in Prince William are lucky to have Mount Zion in our community. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Mount Zion Baptist Church prgtoken for its efforts to better the Northern Virginia region and in congratulating them on the occasion of this anniversary. It is a privilege to work alongside this great congregation in the community, and I wish them continued success through faith, family, and service.