mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CELEBRATING DETROIT CITY CHESS CLUB
Rashida Tlaib (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-8-1

I want to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the Detroit City Chess Club and congratulate its members as they celebrate 20 years. prgtoken Under the incredible leadership and vision of Mr. Kevin Fite, Detroit City Chess Club's founder, students from across Detroit Public Schools have been recognized regionally and nationally for their skills. Inspired by the popularity and success of the teams he coached at Detroit's Duffield Elementary and Middle Schools; Coach Fite founded the Detroit City Chess Club in 2003. He leveraged a partnership with the Detroit Institute of Arts to provide a permanent home for students to play outside of regular school hours. prgtoken Since then, Detroit City Chess Club has strived to engage young people in the game of chess. The club has grown from only a handful of members at its inception to reaching thousands of students and adults alike. The Detroit City Chess Club has played all over the world, winning 15 National titles, 16 regional championships, 28 state championships, and hosting 4 individual No. 1 players in the U.S. prgtoken The 12th Congressional District is proud to recognize the Detroit City Chess Club, its members, and volunteers for their outstanding contributions to our community as we wish them well on 20 years of gamesmanship, education, and camaraderie.
TRIBUTE TO DEACON BENJAMIN SWINTON
James E. Clyburn (Democrat, SC) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to pay tribute to a faithful servant, trusted counselor, and cherished community leader, Deacon Benjamin ``Ben'' Swinton. Deacon Swinton, a lifelong friend and supporter, transitioned from this life on July 26, 2023, in Sumter, South Carolina. His compassion and kindness will be sorely missed. prgtoken Mr. Benjamin Swinton was born on September 10, 1929, in Sumter, South Carolina. He attended Sumter City Schools and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1954, where he was a gifted athlete. Upon graduating high school, Mr. Swinton pursued higher education at North Carolina A&T University and completed his coursework at Morris College in Sumter, graduating Magnum Cum Laude. Mr. Swinton also dutifully served our nation in the United States Army. prgtoken After graduating from Morris College, Mr. Swinton pursued a career in public service. He served as a counselor and planner at the Wateree Community Actions Agency before joining the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Center, where he served for 21 years before his retirement. In these capacities, Mr. Swinton was uplifting to many members of the Sumter community. prgtoken Deacon Swinton was a man of faith. He was a lifelong member of the Salem Missionary Baptist Church and served the Church as a Sunday School teacher, a combined choir member, the Director of Christian Education, and Sunday School Superintendent. Additionally, he served on the Deacon Board with distinction. prgtoken Mr. Swinton was also a dedicated family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Dollie Woods Swinton to whom he was married for 68 years. Together they had 1 son, Benjamin Anthony Swinton, who preceded him in death. He is also survived by a daughter, Juanita Balls Williams, brothers Harry W. Swinton and Roosevelt (Naomi) Swinton, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. prgtoken Mr, , I ask that our colleagues join me in honoring the remarkable life of Deacon Benjamin Swinton. His long life of service as a counselor and spiritual leader made an indelible impact on his community and will be remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE SELBYVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
Lisa Blunt Rochester (Democrat, DE) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise to celebrate the centennial anniversary of the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company. Just over 100 years ago, a group of young men saw a need in their community, decided to act, and established this company. Now, a century later, it has grown into what it is today--a critical part of the Selbyville community with a legacy of exceptional service. prgtoken In addition to this occasion being a chance for fellowship and comradery between those in uniform, it is also an opportunity for the rest of us, whom the members of the Company serve, to pause and express our gratitude for their selfless and dangerous work. prgtoken To these firefighters: we in Delaware know the risk each of them takes when they put on their uniforms and go to work each day. And to take on these risks is as remarkable as it is inspiring. Our state would not enjoy the same peace of mind without people like them answering the call and volunteering their time to protect our communities. prgtoken In Delaware, we are incredibly proud to have so many wonderful volunteer firefighters prgtoken up and down our state. I am proud to be their Congresswoman, and especially as a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I am proud to be their champion in the House of Representatives. prgtoken Again, , I would like to extend my congratulations to everyone at the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company for this historic accomplishment and thank them for their selfless service. Here's to the next hundred years.
REMEMBERING RICHARD ``DICK'' RAVITCH
Jerrold Nadler (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise to recognize lifelong New Yorker, political power broker, former New York Lieutenant Governor, and dear friend and mentor of mine, Richard Ravitch, on the occasion of his passing on Sunday, June 25, 2023, at the age of 89. I am proud to be joined today to remember Richard by Representatives Daniel Goldman, Eric Swalwell, Adam Schiff, Patrick Ryan, Nydia Velazquez, Gregory Meeks, Grace Meng, and Joseph Morelle. prgtoken The son of a Russian Jewish immigrant, Richard was born in Manhattan in 1933. He attended Oberlin College and transferred to Columbia College, earning a bachelor's degree in history in 1955. Richard continued his education, graduating from the Yale University School of Law in 1958. After graduation, Richard served active duty in the United States Army during the Berlin Wall Crisis in 1962. prgtoken Richard took the helm of his family's construction company, HRH Construction Corporation, in the 1960s, developing landmark buildings such as Waterside Plaza and Citicorp Center. An early advocate for integrated, affordable housing, Richard partnered with Bayard Rustin and A. Phillip Randolph on the first de-segregated housing project in Washington, D.C. prgtoken A successful businessman, Richard was recruited to help halt the financial collapse of New York's Urban Development Corporation in 1975. Shortly after, Richard chaired the Metropolitan Transportation Authority from 1979 through 1983, advocating for a tax increase to generate greater revenue and created a $8.5 billion financing plan to revive the mass transit system. He also served as the President of the Player Relations Committee for Major League Baseball, working as the chief negotiator for the league. prgtoken Richard's innovative solutions in New York earned him an appointment as the state's Lieutenant Governor by David A. Paterson in 2009. In 2011, Richard formed the State Budget Crisis Task Force with former Federal Reserve Chair, Paul Volcker, to draw attention to the financial vulnerabilities that state governments may possess. This work resulted in his selection as an advisor to the Governor of Michigan during Detroit's economic rebound in 2019. prgtoken He believed in the power of information and helped create a boot camp for mid-career journalists at the City University of New York's School of Journalism. These are just a few examples of how, for over 40 years, Richard served the public and left a physical and financial imprint on the residents of New York. prgtoken Though Richard was never elected to an official position, he played an integral role in maintaining the stability of numerous landmark institutions. He did not believe politics to be a zero-sum game, and saw it was an opportunity to uplift entire communities. He is preceded in death by his son, Steven, and survived by his wife, Kathleen, and children Joe, Michael, Liz, Carrie, and Laura, and 13 grandchildren.
HONORING OFFICER ANTHONY FERGUSON OF THE ALAMOGORDO POLICE DEPARTMENT
Gabe Vasquez (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the memory of Anthony Ferguson, a dedicated public servant who was killed in the line of duty while serving as a police officer in my district. prgtoken Officer Ferguson spent eleven years serving his community as a member of the Alamogordo Police Department. As a field training officer in the patrol division, he trained countless other officers to protect and serve. On July 16, 2023, Officer Ferguson was senselessly killed in action while protecting his fellow New Mexicans. prgtoken Officer Ferguson is remembered by his family, friends, and fellow officers as loyal and courageous in the performance of his duties. His sacrifice in the line of duty serves as a solemn reminder of the bravery and commitment of our law enforcement officers. His loss is felt across the state, and my deepest condolences go out to all who knew and loved him. prgtoken We owe a debt of gratitude to our law enforcement officers that can never be fully repaid. We must strive to honor Officer Ferguson's memory by continuing to support and appreciate those who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. prgtoken On behalf of the great people of New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District, I thank Officer Ferguson for his service, and his ultimate sacrifice for the community of Alamogordo. We must not let his bravery be forgotten.
INTRODUCTION OF THE NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING COMMISSION DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOME RULE ACT
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-8-1

today, I introduce the National Capital Planning Commission District of Columbia Home Rule Act. This bill would remove the authority of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), a federal agency, to review or approve the development of District of Columbia-owned real property. This bill would also remove the requirement that the D.C. Mayor get NCPC's approval before selling D.C.-owned real property and allow D.C. agencies to transfer jurisdiction over D.C.-owned real property among themselves without NCPC's approval. prgtoken Under federal law, NCPC has approval authority for the development of D.C.-owned buildings located in the ``central area,'' including the location, height, bulk, number of stories and size of such buildings. D.C. is required to consult with NCPC on D.C.-owned buildings outside the central area, but NCPC has only advisory authority in those areas. The central area is defined by the concurrent action of NCPC and the D.C. Council and currently consists of the Downtown and Shaw Urban Renewal Areas. prgtoken NCPC's authority over D.C.-owned real property is unnecessary, as demonstrated by the virtual absence of its use to disapprove sales or development, and violates D.C. home rule. The federal government should not be able to slow or block the development of D.C.-owned real property or add to the cost of development. prgtoken This bill is an important step to increase home rule for D.C. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
HONORING THE CAREER OF CUONG ``VINCE'' PHUNG
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to honor the achievements of Senior Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Cuong ``Vince'' H. Phung. prgtoken Mr. Phung was born in Saigon, Vietnam, then immigrated to the United States, eventually graduating from Garden Grove High School in June of 2000. He entered the Navy in September of that same year. prgtoken In January 2001, he reported to his first command at the Naval Station in San Diego, California. For his first deployment, he was assigned to Air Department V-1 and V-3. From there, he was hand-picked to oversee three work centers, including ten Marines and three Sailors. He then was able to get his Master Training Specialist designation, as well as his associate degree, while working at CNATTU North Island, California. prgtoken In June 2009, he reported to a new position in Mugu, California. There, he completed two deployments and advanced to First Class Petty Officer while also holding multiple other positions in the organization. He also found time to volunteer, where he was able to lead nine servicemembers and 60 workers in achieving closure for missing service members in Vietnam. Because of his selfless acts, he became recognized as Junior Sailor of the Quarter, Chief Petty Officer, and a handful of other notable distinctions. prgtoken Later in his career, he reported to the Navy Recruiting District in San Diego, California, where he was able to return to his hometown of Garden Grove as an Enlisted Recruiter for prgtoken a year. In his new role, he was able to enlist 30 individuals and 12 Officers. prgtoken In November 2016, he reported to the ``Black Knights'' of Strike Fighter Squadron 154, serving multiple roles including assurance supervisor and maintenance controller. With this job, he directed 13 work centers, totaling 150 personnel. prgtoken A few years later in 2020, he began a new role as Force Individual Augmentation and Exercise Manager. In total, he served a total of 23 years of honorable and dedicated service. Today, he is a highly decorated officer, with distinctions including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and 9 other awards. prgtoken Outside of his career, Mr. Phung is also joined by his three children and two goddaughters. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and commemorating the outstanding career and accomplishments of Cuong ``Vince'' Phung.
RECOGNIZING MICHAEL GOODNOW
Derek Kilmer (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to recognize and honor an outstanding individual in my district, Bremerton City Councilmember, Michael Goodnow. This year marks a significant milestone as he helps organize the 27th Kitsap Pride Festival, his 25th year assisting, a momentous occasion that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and equality in our community. prgtoken Councilmember Goodnow has been an unwavering champion for the rights and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community in Bremerton and beyond. Through his tireless efforts and dedication, he has fostered a spirit of unity and acceptance, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. prgtoken Beyond his role in organizing the Kitsap Pride Festival, Councilmember Goodnow has been a strong advocate for social justice issues throughout his tenure in public service. His commitment to equality extends far beyond this event, as he actively works to promote equal rights, combat discrimination, and improve the lives of marginalized communities. prgtoken Some of the roles he's had in the community include the Executive Director of the Roxy Theatre, Director of the Kitsap County AIDS Foundation, Project Coordinator at the Pride Foundation of Seattle, and Coordinator at the Kitsap Health District, working on HIV prevention in the late 1990s. Michael is also Bremerton's first openly gay elected City Councilman and first openly gay City Council President. prgtoken , I am honored to join my constituents in congratulating Councilmember Michael Goodnow on this remarkable milestone. His unwavering commitment to equality and inclusivity serves as an inspiration to us all. May we continue to support and uplift individuals like Councilmember Goodnow, who work tirelessly to build a more just and equitable community for everyone.
PLANT VOGTLE'S UNIT 3 OFFICIALLY ONLINE
Rick W. Allen (Republican, GA) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to congratulate Southern Company and all of the co-owners on their historic accomplishment of Unit 3 at Plant Vogtle officially coming online this week. prgtoken Plant Vogtle, located in Georgia's 12th District, is now home to the first newly-constructed nuclear unit in the United States in more than 30 years, with Unit 4 shortly to follow. prgtoken Announced earlier this week, Unit 3 is fully operational and will provide 24/7 baseload power to 500,000 Georgia homes and businesses for decades to come. prgtoken A project of this magnitude does not come to fruition easily, but the persistent efforts and dedication since 2012 have culminated in what can only be defined as a major win for all Georgians and America as a whole. prgtoken Seeing the results of the meaningful collaboration and hard work that made this possible is truly a blessing. prgtoken I am beyond proud that Georgia-12 is leading the way in America's nuclear energy expansion; congratulations to Southern Company, Oglethorpe Power Company, MEAG Power, and all involved for this historic accomplishment.
CELEBRATING WINAMAC COIL SPRING'S 75TH ANNIVERSARY IN BUSINESS
Rudy Yakym III (Republican, IN) \u2014 2023-8-1

it is my honor to recognize and congratulate Winamac Coil Spring, Inc. on 75 years of doing business in Indiana's Second Congressional District. prgtoken For more than 7 decades, Winamac Coil Spring has been a leading manufacturer of compression, extension single and double torsion springs, and wireforms. prgtoken I am proud to represent the ``RV Capital of the World'' in Congress. The work Winamac Coil Spring has done for 3-quarters of a century has played a meaningful role in allowing our District to have and maintain that distinction. prgtoken The professional, quality work Winamac Coil Spring does is not limited to the recreational vehicle industry, however. From agriculture to appliances, construction to industrial, Winamac Coil Spring serves a wide variety of industries and markets, with an ironclad commitment to customer satisfaction always at the forefront. prgtoken Additionally, Winamac Coil Spring's example as a successful family- owned business is an inspiration to those looking to start their own companies, as well as a source of pride for many Hoosiers. prgtoken Congratulations again on reaching this impressive milestone. I thank them for their many contributions to Pulaski County and communities through the Second District. I wish them continued success and many more years in business and anniversaries to celebrate going forward.
RECOGNIZING MRS. AMANDA EARL
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to recognize Mrs. Amanda (Hall) Earl for her dedication to the people of California's 22nd Congressional District and to thank her for her public service to our country. prgtoken Mrs. Earl was born in Grapevine, Texas to Doug and Krista Hall. After graduating high school, she would go on to attend the University of Oklahoma, where she became a sister of the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority. In 2014, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and public relations. Following her graduation, Mrs. Earl began her political career working on state campaigns across Oklahoma. Eventually, her outstanding work ethic and grasp of public policy issues led her to Washington, where she would begin working as a Research Assistant for the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, under the leadership of Chairman James Inhofe. prgtoken Shortly after, she joined Senator Inhofe's personal office as a Legislative Assistant, working on major policy issues such as energy and water. Mrs. Earl worked under Senator Inhofe until 2019, when she left the Senate to become a Senior Advisor at the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs, where she worked on the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act, Endangered Species Act regulatory reforms, and oversight of the National Park Service. Mrs. Earl joined my Washington D.C. office at the beginning of the 117th Congress, serving as my Legislative Director. Her portfolio included some of the most important issues for the 22nd district, such as energy, prgtoken water, trade, environmental work, healthcare, and agriculture. prgtoken Not only did Mrs. Earl have an incredible grasp of these complex and challenging issues, but she dedicated an enormous amount of time to building relationships with relevant stakeholders in the Central Valley--even traveling to the district multiple times to meet with farmers, energy producers, hospital leaders, and more. She was also critical in leading my legislative team's work on the House Appropriations Committee, ensuring the Central Valley had a seat at the table when it came to funding the federal government. prgtoken One of her most significant accomplishments during her time in my office was her leadership on the Working to Advance Tangible and Effective Reforms (WATER) for California Act. This sweeping water legislation was made possible because of the months of effort on behalf of Mrs. Earl, and I am incredibly grateful for her work on this issue which is so critical for Central Valley communities and our local economy. After nearly a decade spent in both Oklahoma and Washington D.C Mrs. Earl would depart my office in March of this year and return to her beloved home state of Texas with her husband, Andrew. While her welcoming personality, signature quick wit, and leadership in our office are all greatly missed, I am incredibly excited for Mrs. Earl as she begins this exciting new cha
HONORING TROOPER JEFFREY DUNLAP
Chuck Edwards (Republican, NC) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to honor Trooper Jeffrey Dunlap, a devoted public servant, for his heroic actions on the evening of Monday, July 3. For more than 13 years, Trooper Dunlap has served in the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, risking his life every day to protect and serve the people of Buncombe County. prgtoken On the evening of July 3rd, Trooper Dunlap stopped his vehicle to assist a stranded motorist on I-26 West. In a horrific turn of events, the motorist pulled out a gun and shot Trooper Dunlap in the chest. Thankfully, the round was stopped by Trooper Dunlap's bulletproof vest, and he was able to swifty return fire. In the face of imminent danger, Trooper Dunlap neutralized the threat, saving his own life and protecting the lives of innocent bystanders. Following the shooting, Trooper Dunlap was taken to a local hospital and has since been discharged. prgtoken The true essence of heroism is the willingness to sacrifice one's own personal safety for the protection of others. Trooper Dunlap has and will continue to show up to work every day willing to place himself in danger for the greater good. I thank Trooper Dunlap, for exemplifying what it means to protect and serve.
RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE RESORT BEAR CREEK FIRE DEPARTMENT
Jack Bergman (Republican, MI) \u2014 2023-8-1

it is my honor to recognize the Resort Bear Creek Fire Department for 75 years of continued service to the residents of Petoskey and for their upcoming celebratory event being held on August 17, 2023. Resort Bear Creek Fire Department has been a staple of the community for decades and has become the standard in fire prevention and mediation for Petoskey residents throughout their history. Their desire to educate others on safe practices pertaining to fire management and control has had a direct hand in the prevention of countless tragedies within their constituency. I am heartened by the department's impact on local residents and am confident that their exemplary leadership will continue for years to come. prgtoken Fire departments across Northern Michigan have the immense task of keeping a vast wooded area safe from the possibility of fire. The residents, their homes, and local businesses rely on professionally run and operated departments like Resort Bear Creek to ensure that their investments and livelihoods remain protected. Their work has been a blessing to all within their service area and I cannot thank them enough for their efforts over these past 75 years. prgtoken , it is my honor to recognize the 75th Anniversary of the Resort Bear Creek Fire Department in Petoskey, Michigan and their celebratory event being held on August 17, 2023. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish everyone involved in the Resort Bear Creek Fire Department's history of success the best in their future endeavors and a successful celebratory ceremony.