mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
AMERICANS MURDERED BY IRANIAN PUPPETS
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2024-1-29

. Madam , Americans are saddened by the deaths and injuries of U.S. servicemembers yesterday in the Middle East. My thoughts and prayers are with the families. Americans are sitting ducks for primary attacks that are occurring abroad and at home because of policies of appeasement. prgtoken A key priority is to provide the necessary tools and support for our military who so bravely protect American families. The appeasement toward Iran and its terrorist puppets has resulted in inexcusable failure. prgtoken A circumstance that I particularly appreciate, I am the father of four sons who have served in Iraq, Egypt, and Afghanistan, and my recognition of this tragedy is enhanced. prgtoken and should resign to reverse the policies of appeasement which have exposed all American military worldwide to attacks. prgtoken In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America with open borders for terrorists. It is sadly clear that there will be more 9/11 attacks across America imminent in our country as warned by the FBI.
RECOGNIZING HARVEY "JACK" MURPHY
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to recognize Dr. Jack Murphy who passed away at the age of 74. prgtoken While attending Mercer University, Jack was introduced to Mrs. Peggy Jewel Womack, and they married in 1959. The couple remained in the area to allow Jack to begin his surgical residency at Macon Hospital. prgtoken After starting a family of three children, Dr. Murphy worked as a surgeon at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah. He also worked as the first team physician for local K-12 schools in Savannah, hoping to encourage kids to remain in sports and away from drugs and violence. prgtoken Dr. Murphy also served as the chairman of the St. Joseph's/Candler Central Credentials Committee and the Health System's Board of Directors. Nurses who noted Dr. Murphy's energetic and personable character gave him the nickname ``Happy Jack.'' In 2006, the Georgia Medical Society honored Dr. Murphy's contributions with a ``Healthcare Heroes'' award. prgtoken Dr. Murphy will be remembered for his commitment to his family, his friends, and his community. His legacy of serving others will live on forever.
HONORING KENTUCKY EAGLE, INC.
Andy Barr (Republican, KY) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to honor Kentucky Eagle, Inc which is located in Lexington, Kentucky. The company celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023. prgtoken Kentucky Eagle, an alcoholic beverage wholesaler, was founded in 1948 by O.A. Bakhaus. Mr. Bakhaus moved from Oklahoma to Kentucky during the Great Depression in 1937 to support his mother and sister. After serving his country as a Major in World War II, he continued his business career back home in Lexington with numerous different businesses, one being what is today Kentucky Eagle. prgtoken In 1997, Mr. Bakhaus' daughter, Ann Bakhaus, became the company's second CEO. She ran the company as a family business and diversified its products. Under her leadership, the company experienced growth and success. prgtoken Seventy-five years after its founding, Kentucky Eagle has grown into a leading beverage distributor in the state, delivering beer, soda (Kentucky's own Ale-8-One among others) and water to 23 counties in central Kentucky as well as fine Kentucky Bourbons and other wines and spirits to all counties statewide where alcohol sales are legal. prgtoken Today, Kentucky Eagle employs over 250 hard-working Kentuckians and is very close to completing an 80,000-square-foot warehouse expansion. The team is led by Mr. Bakhaus' grandchildren, who proudly represent the company as 3rd generation owners and plan on at least 75 more years of business in the Commonwealth. Tate Russell serves as President and Michael Russell is a Vice President of Kentucky Eagle. prgtoken Kentucky Eagle is a highly respected Kentucky business. As the company celebrates its 75th anniversary, I congratulate the owners and all the employees and wish them a bright future. I am honored to recognize this company before the United States Congress.
HONORING TENNESSEE STATE SENATOR ART SWANN
Tim Burchett (Republican, TN) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to honor my dear friend, State Senator Art Swann, who served in the Tennessee State Senate since 2017. prgtoken Senator Swann is a seventh-generation Tennessean who was born and raised in Blount County, where he now represents. He graduated from Maryville High School, pronounced Maryville if you are from there, and got his bachelor's degree at the University of Tennessee at Martin in 1975. prgtoken Senator Swann was serving the Tennessee General Assembly on the house side when State Senator Doug Overbey, another good friend of mine, was appointed by President to be the U.S. attorney for east Tennessee. The Blount County Commission appointed Art to fill the vacancy, appropriately, and he has been in the role ever since. He recently announced, though, that he won't run for reelection. prgtoken Senator Swann is an outstanding public servant who has served the folks in Blount and Sevier Counties very well. He has proudly stood for the conservative principles that make east Tennessee so wonderful and that make our country the best in the world. prgtoken It is not in my notes, but I would be remiss without saying that the State of Tennessee has zero debt, --zero debt. prgtoken I wish him and his wife, Janet, the very best in his retirement.
PRESIDENT BIDEN'S LNG DECISION
Virginia Foxx (Republican, NC) \u2014 2024-1-29

President 's decision to completely stall LNG exports is a gut punch to the American economy, and it serves as a serious detriment to both energy security and national security. prgtoken Has he forgotten that just last year our country led the entire world in LNG exports? prgtoken Think about the American jobs that have been sacrificed because of this decision as well. While President decides to trudge down this irresponsible path, our Nation's adversaries are salivating. prgtoken This administration is so determined to attack and undercut American energy that it is willing to sacrifice our geopolitical footing to do so. prgtoken Instead of caving to the demands of the far left, President would do well to put American energy first.
ADVOCATING FOR OUR MILITARY MEN AND WOMEN
Jennifer Kiggans (Republican, VA) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to advocate for our military men and women and their families and the work that needs to be done to improve their quality of life. prgtoken As a former Navy helicopter pilot, Navy spouse, and now-Navy mom, taking care of our military members is one of my top priorities. We can do better for our military, and there is much work to do. prgtoken Two weeks ago, I attended the funeral of Navy Commander Doug Morea. A Naval Academy graduate, Doug was an F-18 pilot who led a squadron during a recent 9\1/2\-month deployment on the USS Truman. prgtoken He died by suicide, and his death was one of seven naval aviator suicides since July of last year. As I stood in the parking lot talking to base leadership after his funeral, I asked: Why? Why do we continue to see so many military suicides and the number rise? prgtoken The base commanding officer spoke about the pressure even senior officers feel to care for their people, including the most junior sailor. Our country continues to ask our military, and specifically our Navy, to do missions around the world to keep the peace and defend the freedoms we hold dear. prgtoken In order for our military men and women to complete this mission, we must provide resources they need to do their job. That begins with ensuring they have the quality of life they deserve.
PAMELA JANE ROCK POST OFFICE BUILDING
Aaron Bean (Republican, FL) \u2014 2024-1-29

. Madam , I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 3947, to designate the post office in Melrose, Florida, in memory of my constituent, Pamela Jane Rock. prgtoken I thank my co-lead introducer of the bill, Representative Cammack, as well as the entire Florida delegation for their support in cosponsoring this bill. prgtoken Pamela Jane Rock was born on August 6, 1961, to John and Jane Rock of Plantation, Florida. She was the 14th and youngest child of an amazing family. prgtoken Growing up, she attended St. Gregory Catholic School in Plantation and St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. prgtoken After high school, she attended the University of Florida and graduated in 1984 with a bachelor of science in nutrition and dietetics. prgtoken During her time at UF, she was a proud member of the University of Florida Fighting Gator Marching Band for 4 years. prgtoken She was one of a kind in all that she did. After college, she worked for the State of Florida WIC program in Alachua County. prgtoken Her passion for service continued when she spent 3 years with the Peace Corps in Guatemala, educating women on proper nutrition for families. prgtoken Upon her return to the U.S she ventured out West to Yellowstone and spent time on an Indian reservation, also educating women on infants' nutritional needs. prgtoken Pam then returned to Gainesville, Florida, in January 2022 where she joined the U.S. Postal Service and pursued a career as a letter carrier. prgtoken With a desire to give back, she is remembered for placing an apple along with the mail for the residents along her route. prgtoken This is the smile you saw. If she was delivering mail on your route, you saw this. We will turn this and let everybody see it, as well. This is the smile of Pam, and she literally lit up her route with that smile. prgtoken She was a devoted Gator fan, and like many of her siblings, going to a Gator football game was a big deal, and she did it whenever she could. prgtoken She gardened and loved having relationships with new people, especially in her church group. She loved animals. It comes as no surprise she was a volunteer at St. Francis Pet Care in Gainesville. prgtoken Tragically, Madam , Pam was attacked by dogs during her mail route in Interlachen, Florida, and succumbed to her injuries on August 22, 2022. It is still a sad day. prgtoken Pamela's friends and family described her as sweet, supportive, always there to cheer you up, and someone with a true servant's heart. prgtoken She is survived by 11 of her siblings and countless nieces and nephews whom she adored. Several are in the gallery today for this big occasion as we take a step, hopefully, Madam , to honor her service. prgtoken I thank them for being here today, and I can think of no better way to honor Pam's service to the United States Postal Service than by designating the Melrose, Florida, post office as the Pamela Jane Rock Post Office. prgtoken Madam , I urg
HOMETOWN HERO--NETWORK OF COMMUNITY MINISTRIES
Beth Van Duyne (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-1-29

in 1985, when a group of churches and community organizations saw that children across North Texas were in need, they rose to the occasion, creating the Network of Community Ministries. Today this incredible organization has expanded to serve fourteen zip codes, providing programming such as basic needs assistance, mobile food pantries, stabilization programs, and mental health services. prgtoken During the school year, the mobile food pantry stops at seven Title 1 schools, where almost half of the school's students qualify for free and reduced lunch. Over Christmas break when students aren't in school, many of these students go hungry without provided lunch. So, the Network of Community Ministries stepped up, giving students nonperishable food items to eat over the break. prgtoken The Network of Community Ministries' impact on the greater-Dallas community is far-reaching and hundreds of families have been blessed by their consistent, dedicated work. I want to thank the Network of Community Ministries for their work to provide food for North Texas children and families over the Christmas Break.
RECOGNIZING CAMP COSBY'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY
Mike Rogers (Republican, AL) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of Camp Cosby. YMCA Camp Cosby has offered youth safe and exciting adventures since 1922. prgtoken It began when the YMCA purchased 200 acres of land just north of Trussville in Birmingham, AL, with a house and a 26-acre lake, establishing YMCA Camp Cosby in 1922. Later, another 400 acres were donated by the Hodges Milling Company. prgtoken In 1972, YMCA Camp Cosby was relocated to its current location on Lake Logan Martin in Alpine, AL, with over a mile of waterfront, rolling hills and space for camp activities. prgtoken Camp Cosby was named after W.M. Cosby, the President of the Birmingham YMCA at the time. YMCA Camp Cosby serves over 2,000 campers each summer for sleepaway camp and over 3,000 additional participants during year-round youth, teen, and adult programming. prgtoken , please join me in recognizing the 100th anniversary of Camp Cosby.
HONORING MR. JASON SMILEY FOR HIS ACTIONS TO HELP OTHERS ESCAPE FROM AN OVERTURNED VEHICLE
Ken Buck (Republican, CO) \u2014 2024-1-29

I recognize and appreciate my constituent, Mr. Jason Smiley, for the actions he took to save strangers from an overturned vehicle on Christmas Eve. His service to this country has been exceptional and I thank him for the sacrifices that he and his family have made time and again. prgtoken On December 24th when a family found themselves in a dangerous and scary situation, he took action to ensure their safety. He should be commended for his action and his willingness to respond quickly, calmly, and without hesitation. In Colorado there are often severe weather conditions which lead to emergencies like this. It is not uncommon for Coloradans to be dependent on their neighbor's vigilance and kindness for assistance on the roads. I hope that Mr. Smiley's unhesitating willingness to intervene after an accident can be emulated by all my constituents. prgtoken What I admire most about Mr. Smiley's story is not only his eagerness to help others, but his willingness to do so after having already given so much for our country. Through injury and decades of military service, Mr. Smiley has been an exemplary member of his community and a good citizen. prgtoken In choosing to help others, he demonstrated the best characteristics of a serviceman: selflessness, attentiveness, and calm in the face of danger. It is an honor to represent Mr. Jason Smiley in Congress and it is my absolute pleasure to thank him not only for his eagerness to help, but for his consistent dedication to the defense of The United States of America.
HONORING SARAH GLAD
Chuck Edwards (Republican, NC) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to honor Mrs. Sarah Glad in recognition of her life and her service and contributions to the State of North Carolina. North Carolina has lost a friend, an inspiration, and an exemplary public servant. prgtoken I had the honor of having Sarah serve as my Legislative Assistant while I served in the North Carolina State Senate. Sarah was among the best that North Carolina has to offer. She was the hardest working Legislative Assistant in the General Assembly, oftentimes spending late nights helping constituents, conducting research, and helping to draft legislation. prgtoken Everybody knew who Sarah was for the way she prioritized the people of North Carolina in everything she did, and for the bright light she brought to every room she walked in. This light was often created by the bright colors she wore, usually pink, but also in her spirit, grace, charm, and mesmerizing smile. prgtoken Prior to coming to my office, Sarah gallantly served the State of North Carolina from the offices of Governor Pat McCrory and State Treasurer Dale Folwell. prgtoken After serving alongside me in the State Senate, Sarah joined the Pope Foundation in Raleigh, North Carolina, as a program officer. She helped launch North Carolina's first and only statewide newspaper, the North State Journal, as communications director for the foundation and served the organization as an expert on public interest law and legal studies, higher education, and human services. prgtoken Sarah lived in Raleigh with her husband, Robbie, her son, Hayes, and their dog, Shep. prgtoken Sarah was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago and succumbed to her illness on January 19, 2024. Sarah fought breast cancer with the same charisma and fortitude as she served the people of North Carolina. Despite her battle with cancer, Sarah's optimism never wavered. She continued to be a positive light in the lives of those around her and an admirable servant to the betterment of her North Carolina neighbors. Sarah Glad was a warrior for the people of North Carolina, and a warrior in her fight against breast cancer. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me today in paying tribute to an outstanding community member, and to lift her family and friends up in prayers as we mourn her loss. prgtoken I thank Sarah for her service to North Carolina, and for embodying the true spirit of public service. prgtoken Her commitment to North Carolina and my time working alongside her will forever be honored and remembered. May she rest in peace.
GREATER DUBOIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS BASH
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-1-29

the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce held its annual Business Bash Saturday evening, where outstanding organizations and individuals were recognized. prgtoken The 2023 Small Business of the Year Award was presented to Penn Central Door, the premier provider of exceptional garage door solutions in the DuBois, Pennsylvania, area and beyond. prgtoken The 2023 Community Cup Award was presented to the DuBois Central Catholic School, DuBois Central Catholic, since DCC has emerged as a leader in academic excellence and character formation. prgtoken The 2023 DuBois Area Jaycees Distinguished Service Award was presented to Libby Gray. Known for more than 50 years of service to the DuBois area, Mrs. Gray has served on the board and as president of many groups, including the DuBois Regional Medical Center, YMCA, United Way, Public Broadcasting, the American Red Cross, the Catholic Social Services, and the Catholic Charities of the diocese of Erie. prgtoken , I am honored to offer my congratulations and thanks to all of those recognized for their impactful contribution to the DuBois area community.
BRING THEM ALL HOME
Michael Guest (Republican, MS) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to share the story of Eitan Levy. Eitan Levy was a cab driver from Bat Yam. On October 7, 2023, Eitan called his son to let him know that he would be dropping off a passenger, and 15 minutes later, he called back again to tell his son about the Hamas attack. prgtoken Eitan's son heard him shouting and was told that a drone had landed on his father's car. His son stayed on the phone with his father until terrorists kidnapped him. Eitan was not heard from again. prgtoken In December, his family was notified that Eitan had been murdered by Hamas. His body is still being held by Hamas in Gaza to this day. prgtoken I stand here today to demand that Hamas release the body of Eitan, that it be released immediately to his family, as well as to release all remaining hostages. We must stand with Israel as it works to destroy Hamas and free its citizens wrongly held by the terrorist group. prgtoken It is time to bring Eitan's body home. It is time to bring them all home.
WILDFIRE RECOVERY
Doug LaMalfa (Republican, CA) \u2014 2024-1-29

as you know, the issue of wildfire in the West has been very devastating for several years now--many, many years--but there have been incredibly large fires in the last 5 and 7 to 10 years or so. So we have needed more and more help from FEMA post- fire. prgtoken So what we are working on is bipartisan legislation that is going to be called H.R. 7070 that will direct FEMA to update its regulations for the fire management assistance grant, public assistance, and mitigation programs. prgtoken This will help to respond to unique challenges of wildfires and improve wildfire mitigation after a fire, like debris removal, emergency protective measures, and impacts to drinking water sources. So it will help improve FEMA's cost-benefit analysis for wildfire projects to help them be more competitive for Federal funding. prgtoken I find this is extremely important in communities that are devastated after a fire, and it is still fairly new territory for FEMA when we are talking about the size and scope of fires we have had in recent years jumping from four- and five-digit size fires to six digits, hundreds of thousands, even 1 million acres like the Dixie fire in my district a couple years ago. prgtoken So this legislation will give FEMA more flexibility and better serve the people.
HONORING THE MEMORY OF REBECCA P. SWANSON
Daniel Meuser (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-1-29

with a heavy heart, I stand before you today to pay tribute to the remarkable life and legacy of Williamsport resident, Rebecca Powell Swanson, who passed away on December 31, 2023. prgtoken Rebecca was a longtime substitute teacher in Warren, Pennsylvania, where she began her teaching career in the Warren County School District. She taught first at Sheffield Area High School, then at Beaty Middle School, and finally at Warren Area High School, where she retired in 1987. prgtoken Rebecca's unwavering commitment extended beyond the classroom. She proudly served as a member of the Warren First Presbyterian Church, where she taught Sunday School, took on the role of a Deacon, engaged in Bible Study circles, and later assumed the position of Secretary for the Presbyterian Women's Coordinating Team. prgtoken Rebecca's involvement reached across various organizations, including the Warren Association of College Women, Retired Women Teachers of the City of Warren, Warren Forest Chapter of the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees, and as a Full Life Member of the PASR. prgtoken Away from her commitments, Rebecca found joy in travel, literature, piano, crossword puzzles, and enjoyed many bridge games with friends. Most importantly, she enjoyed cheering on the Penn State Nittany Lion football team while surrounded by her loving family. prgtoken Today, I encourage my colleagues in Congress to join me in commemorating the life of Rebecca Powell Swanson. May the memory of Rebecca bring solace and blessings to her family, friends, and the community.
CAROLINE CHANG POST OFFICE
Byron Donalds (Republican, FL) \u2014 2024-1-29

. Madam , such time as I may consume. prgtoken Madam , I rise in support of this bill, which would name a Boston, Massachusetts, post office for Caroline Chang. prgtoken Caroline was born and raised in Boston's Chinatown and started her career serving as an interpreter for community members seeking medical care. prgtoken In 1970, Caroline Chang was appointed by the mayor of Boston as the manager of Chinatown's Little City Hall, where she continued her work advocating for the community. prgtoken She went on to achieve a law degree from Suffolk Law School and to work for the United States Department of Health and Human Services for more than 30 years. prgtoken Caroline Chang also helped establish the South Cove Community Health Center, the Chinese Historical Society of New England, and the Asian American Civic Association. prgtoken I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation honoring this dedicated civil servant, and .