mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2024-1-25

I rise today to congratulate 2nd Lieutenant Madison Marsh on being selected as Miss America 2024. Lieutenant Marsh is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, currently pursuing a master's in public policy at the Harvard Kennedy School, and represented the State of Colorado in the national pageant. Although she is now famous across the country, she is best known in Arkansas as a native of Fort Smith, and our State is proud of her achievements. prgtoken Marsh is the first Active-Duty member of the military to win the Miss America crown, and she is already setting a tremendous example for young women nationwide with a desire to make a difference. Her aptitude in the field of aerospace and her commitment to military and civic service is an example for us all. Marsh grew up in Fort Smith as a hard-working student, athlete, and community leader. She excelled in the classroom while participating in numerous extracurricular activities including cheering at Southside High School, pursuing her private pilot's license, and working toward her black belt in Taekwondo. She has been an inspiration to her friends, family and residents of her hometown for many years. prgtoken Her life was altered forever when her mother passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2018. Despite the tragedy she and her family experienced, Marsh persevered in her goals, honoring her mother along the way. Marsh turned her grief into action with the creation of the Whitney Marsh Foundation. As president and founder, Marsh has already raised more than a quarter-million dollars for research with her leadership team at the foundation and brought her voice to this cause in the Halls of Congress. In addition to her public policy studies, she is also a graduate intern at the Harvard Medical School, contributing to efforts to use artificial intelligence to detect pancreatic cancer. prgtoken Having graduated from the Air Force Academy in 2023 with a degree in physics, she was selected for pilot training, which is scheduled to begin after completion of her master's program, with the goal of becoming an Air Force fighter pilot. She has commented in recent interviews that she became interested in aeronautics at a young age and set about doing what was necessary to become a pilot. Her hard work and a passion for aeronautics and space led her to the U.S. Air Force Academy, where she shined. During her time at USAFA, Lieutenant Marsh was honored as a two-time National Astronaut Scholar, eight-time Dean's List honoree, named to the Superintendent's List three times, and interned with NASA for gamma-ray burst research. prgtoken As a native of Fort Smith and the chair of the U.S. Senate Air Force Caucus, I am proud that Madison Marsh is representing her community, her State, and our Nation's armed forces with dignity and excellence. I wish her the best of luck during her reign as Miss America and continued success in her career of service with the U.S.
HONORING SHERIFF DEAN GROWDON
Doug LaMalfa (Republican, CA) \u2014 2024-1-25

I rise today, along with my colleague, Rep. Tom McClintock, to honor the nearly 30-year public safety career and service of Lassen County Sheriff Dean Growdon. prgtoken Sheriff Growdon's career began in 1994 as a Correctional Deputy for the Lassen County Sheriff's Office. He would serve there briefly before being promoted to Deputy Sheriff where he would serve as the resident Deputy in Big Valley and in the main office in Susanville. In 1998, Dean received the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award from the Susanville Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) No. 2381. prgtoken Dean was then promoted to Sergeant, supervising the jail, as a Patrol Supervisor, Commanded the Interagency Narcotics Force, and was appointed as team leader for the Sheriff's SWAT team. In 2005, Dean was recognized with a Certificate of Valor, the highest law enforcement award for valor in the State by the California State Attorney General Lockyear for his actions during a domestic violence incident. prgtoken Dean has been a vocal advocate for our first responders serving on many different Statewide boards where he impacted public safety policy. As a member of the California State Sheriff's Association, Dean served on prgtoken the legislative committee, influencing new laws. Dean was appointed and served as the Chair of the Detention and Corrections Committee and served on the Corrections Standards Authority and then the Board of State and Community Corrections. prgtoken Dean's public service career will be remembered fondly for his dedication to improving the Lassen County Sheriff's Office and the community. His commitment to mentoring his fellow employees, his compassion, his knowledge, and leadership have been impactful and will be greatly missed by our community. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Northern California, I thank Sheriff Dean Growdon for his service, and we wish him all the best in his retirement.
MOURNING THE LOSS OF MATTHEW PETER
Paul Tonko (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise to mourn the heavy loss of Matt Peter, a friend to all and a rising star in our community whose light was cut short far too soon. prgtoken As a former chief of staff to the mayor of Albany, an Albany County legislator, and executive director of the Albany Parking Authority, Matt was a public servant in the truest sense of the word. His passion and love for his community shone through in everything he did, and he had a determination and the know-how to get things done to improve people's lives. prgtoken He accomplished so much during his years as a legislator, from helping modernize the parking authority to championing policies that provide mental health and substance use treatment. While his impact will continue prgtoken to resonate with all across Albany city and Albany County, Matt will be best remembered for his kindness, his intelligence, and immense spirit of service. prgtoken My prayers and deepest condolences go out to his fiancee, Corinne, his parents, Bill and Nancy; his siblings, Brian and Sara; and all of his many family and loved ones. prgtoken Rest in peace, my dear friend.
RECOGNIZING AUBREY PATINO'S DEDICATION TO THE NEEDIEST IN HER COMMUNITY
Debbie Dingell (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to recognize Aubrey Patino, the Executive Director of Avalon Housing in Ann Arbor, MI. After eighteen years with Avalon, including seven as ED, she is moving on. Her work in service to the homeless population of Washtenaw County is worthy of commendation. prgtoken Aubrey graduated from Western Michigan University in 2004 before achieving her Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan in 2005. During this time, she was an assistant at the Michigan Neighborhood Partnership in Detroit as well as an intern with Avalon. Before coming onto Avalon's team full time, she was the Intensive Case Manager at the Downtown Emergency Service Center in Seattle, WA, where she dealt with Homeless Outreach and Transition. prgtoken Aubrey joined the Avalon team in 2007 where she started as a Senior Property Manager. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the Housing Support Services Leader in 2010 and the Associate Director of Avalon Housing in 2012. In 2014, as one of five homeless services providers across the country, she was invited by the National Alliance to End Homelessness to complete the Transatlantic Practice Exchange, where she went to the United Kingdom and studied best practices in the field of housing and homelessness. Her experience in the UK still guides her work in Washtenaw County to this day. prgtoken In 2017, Aubrey was selected as the new Executive Director of Avalon Housing. Her tenure at the helm has been a world of change and has been a boon to the homeless in her community. Aubrey's work on supportive housing funding has resulted in growing and innovative efforts. As a key member of the Washtenaw Housing Alliance, Aubrey helped develop the City of Ann Arbor's affordable housing millage ballot initiative, which citizens overwhelmingly supported. This millage provides a significant, ongoing source of financing for affordable housing development. Aubrey has also consistently advocated for harm reduction across the agency and the community, using a compassionate, evidence-based model for engaging people who struggle with substance use disorders. She continues to advocate for unarmed crisis responses at Avalon properties and throughout the community. Aubrey has also built productive relationships prgtoken with local law enforcement. Aubrey's efforts have in turn led to Avalon providing full-time staff at the Washtenaw County jail to support returning citizens. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognition of Aubrey Patino's hard work and dedication to the homeless community. Though we will miss her presence at Avalon, she has set them on a great path of success. We wish her the best in her future endeavors, and thank her for her service. I thank Aubrey.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF THE HONORABLE ROBERT C. COATES
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to honor the life and lasting contributions of The Honorable Robert C. Coates, a critical leader in the California judicial system. Judge Coates leaves behind an indelible legacy of service, selflessness, and humanitarianism. prgtoken Born in Pacific Beach in 1937, Judge Coates spent his early years cultivating what would become a lifelong passion for protecting the environment and addressing the most pressing issues impacting his community. After graduating with his Bachelor of Science in Engineering Geology from San Diego State University, Judge Coates joined the Naval Reserve, where he faithfully served our country. prgtoken Driven by a commitment to justice, Judge Coates earned his Juris Doctor from the California Western School of Law, beginning what would become an almost six decades-long career in the legal system. As a trial lawyer for 12 years, Judge Coates undertook a wide range of civil and criminal defense cases at the state and federal levels and notably won a case before the California Supreme Court. prgtoken In 1982, Judge Coates was appointed to a position as a Judge, where he spearheaded efforts to establish the highly successful Serial Inebriate Program, aimed at treating chronic alcohol abuse. In addition, Judge Coates was a leader in changing how the court addresses homelessness and mental health issues, helping pave the way toward a more equitable judicial system in California and beyond. prgtoken Judge Coates' commitment to enacting positive change was not only expressed through his critical work as a lawyer and judge, but also through his mentorship of the next generation of lawyers. He served as an Adjunct Law Professor at the University of San Diego School of Law, where he developed the School's Environmental Law course and established and directed the Environmental and Natural Resources Forum. Judge Coates' critical role in legal education also extended to the Thomas Jefferson School of Law, where he created and taught the Poverty Law course. prgtoken In addition to his leadership and mentorship, Judge Coates exemplified the spirit of altruism in all areas of his life. He chaired the San prgtoken Diego's Homeless Women Task Force, providing critical support to women who lack access to public health and psychological care. He also authored multiple books addressing the homelessness crisis in America, including A Street is Not a Home, which served as a model for multiple Grand Juries in implementing equitable solutions to housing disputes. prgtoken Judge Coates' enduring spirit will live on in his wife of 19 years, daughter, son, and three grandchildren. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Judge Coates' loved ones. I know that they, along with the people of California, join me in celebrating his life and legacy.
HONORING RABBI FELIPE GOODMAN
Susie Lee (Democrat, NV) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to honor Rabbi Felipe Goodman for his 25 years of dedicated service to Temple Beth Sholom and southern Nevada. prgtoken Before joining Temple Beth Sholom in 1998, Rabbi Goodman served as assistant Rabbi in Comunidad Bet-El de Mexico in Mexico City, one of the largest conservative synagogues in Latin America. He also co- authored the most widely distributed Pesach Haggadah of the Conservative Movement in Latin America. prgtoken Rabbi Goodman has served as the Senior Rabbi of Temple Beth Sholom in Las Vegas, Nevada for 25 years, and his charisma and dedication to community has made a profound impact on our Jewish community. Attendance at Shabbat services has increased significantly during his tenure through innovative programing and a true sense of community that has transformed Temple Beth Sholom into a more vibrant and stronger congregation. prgtoken Rabbi Goodman remains an active leader outside the synagogue. He currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Joint Retirement Board of the Conservative Movement. He is also one of the nine Permanent Members of the Joint Bet Din of Conservative Judaism, and one of a group of only 17 Conservative Rabbis in the world certified by The Joint Bet Din of The Conservative Movement, as experts in the laws and writing of ``Gittin.'' Rabbi Goodman is also part of the AIPAC National Leadership Council and is working on his new book. ``Torah from Sin City.'' prgtoken In 2013, Rabbi Goodman was selected by The Daily Forward as one of America's Most Inspiring Rabbis, among the distinguished ``36 Rabbis Shaping The 21st Century.'' In the past. he has served as a member of The Chancellor's Rabbinic Advisory Committee at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, a member of the Executive Committee of the Rabbinical Assembly, and as President of the Board of Rabbis of Southern Nevada. prgtoken , please join me today in honoring Rabbi Felipe Goodman for his many years of dedicated service to southern Nevada, and in congratulating Rabbi Goodman on his 25th Anniversary Jubilee.
MOURNING THE LOSS OF MICHAEL S. BERMAN
Steny H. Hoyer (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2024-1-29

a few days ago, we lost a great Minnesotan and great American: Michael S. Berman. He passed away on January 12 at age 84. A skilled lawyer, shrewd political advisor, and principled public servant, Mike made indelible contributions to our nation. prgtoken Mike's penchant for politics was evident when he was a young man. Shortly after graduating the University of Minnesota Law School in 1964, he volunteered on President Lyndon B. Johnson's reelection campaign and organized a successful voter registration drive in his community. Impressed with Mike's work, Walter Mondale--then Attorney General of Minnesota--hired Mike to serve as his special assistant. Mike later moved here to Washington, D.C. in 1966 to serve on Mondale's Senate staff as Counsel. He quickjy became one of Mondale's most trusted advisors. prgtoken Mike's close professional and personal relationship with Mondale continued after Jimmy Carter made the Senator his running-mate. Mike led Mondale's transition team following the 1976 presidential election and went on to serve as the Vice President's Counsel and Deputy Chief of Staff. prgtoken After leaving the White House, Mike continued to advise numerous political leaders and mentor up-and-coming political operatives from across the country--and across the generations. They trusted his judgment, enjoyed his humor, and appreciated his honesty. Between 1968 and 2004, Mike also scheduled every ic National Convention. Indeed, few people could match Mike's understanding of the innerworkings of the ic Party. He was a fixture of the Washington political landscape for decades. Mike also remained a prominent voice on some of the most pressing issues facing our nation and world--from promoting gun safety to advocating for civil and human rights. prgtoken Crucially, , Mike was a man of character and kindness. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 42 years, Carol--especially in the final months before she tragically passed away of lung cancer in 2007. He showed the same devotion to his second wife, Debbie, whom he married in 2012. My wife Elaine and I are praying for her and their three children and their spouses: Rachel and Dr. Steven Feinleib, Ben and Jen Cowan, and William Cowan. My thoughts are also with their four grandchildren and with Mike's two sisters, Sheila Teitelbaun and Nance Alexander. They ought to take comfort in knowing that we grieve with them. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring Mike Berman and praying for his many friends and family.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Bradley Scott Schneider (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today regarding votes I missed on January 12, 2024, due to family obligations. prgtoken Had I been present for Roll Call No. 9, on the China Exchange Rate Transparency Act, I would have voted yea. This is common sense, bipartisan legislation that will protect global market participants from the economic security threats posed by China. prgtoken Additionally, had I been present for Roll Call No. 10, on H.J. Res. 98, I would have voted nay. This resolution would weaken workers' rights and diminish the National Labor Relations Board ability to effectively do its job.
HONORING RIGOBERTO A. RAMIREZ
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to honor Rigoberto A. Ramirez for his devotion and dedication to his community as a leader, volunteer, and outstanding citizen. prgtoken For his years of service to the City of Stanton, Rigoberto A. Ramirez will be honored as Stanton's 2024 Citizen of the Year by the Cypress College Foundation at the 49th Annual Americana Awards on March 16. prgtoken A former Stanton City Council member and Planning Commissioner, Mr. Ramirez first made Stanton home in 1995 with his new bride, Jhovana. They still live in their first home, where they raised their son, Nicholas. prgtoken From the day they joined the Stanton community, Rigoberto and Jhovana felt a strong connection to both the residents and the community of Stanton. prgtoken Along with serving 10 years on the City Council, from 2012 to 2022, Rigoberto is an active member of the Blessed Sacrament School Consultative Board, the Orange County Youth Motivation Task Force, and the Servite High School Board of Directors. prgtoken In his professional life, Ramirez earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in 1990 from Loyola Marymount University. A California native, he currently holds the title of Director for a retirement services firm that he has been with since 1991. He is responsible for twelve representatives that provide retirement services to clients across eight states. prgtoken In his spare time, he enjoys volunteering for non-profit events and managing Pony Baseball. prgtoken Please join me in thanking Rigoberto Ramirez for his years of service to the City of Stanton and the Orange County community.
DR. MARGARET B. HILL POST OFFICE BUILDING
Jamie Raskin (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2024-1-29

. Madam , such time as I may consume. prgtoken I rise in support of H.R. 1060 to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1660 East Date Place in San Bernardino, California, as the Dr. Margaret B. Hill Post Office Building. prgtoken The legislation introduced by my friend and colleague, Mr. Aguilar, would rename the Del Rosa Post Office to honor Dr. Hill, a beloved educator and longtime advocate for the people of San Bernardino. prgtoken I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Aguilar).
EDWARD GANT, LIFE AND LEGACY
Donald Norcross (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to honor and commend the Life and Legacy of Edward Gant. prgtoken Born in Pleasantville, New Jersey and raised in Absecon, New Jersey, Edward Gant spent much of his childhood along the beautiful shores of New Jersey, being considered by those close to him a ``Bay Rat''. Edward Gant enjoyed the shore so much that it became a way of life for him. He was a fisherman among many other things, and passing those traits onto his children, most notably Gabriel and Matthew Gant. While spending many of his days enjoying New Jersey's magnificent waters, in the spring of 1974 Edward Gant began an apprenticeship, that would become a staple in who he was. prgtoken Edward Gant was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 351, and during his career he became IBEW's business manager and, was an advocate and instrumental voice involved in many individuals' careers as well as local organized labor. During his time as a IBEW member, he became a close friend and mentor to me. Edward Gant and I worked closely together not only in IBEW related matters but matters that were paramount to all working families. prgtoken Returning to his roots in Pleasantville, New Jersey, Edward Gant spent time as a board member on the New Jersey Casino Redevelopment Authority (CRDA). It was evident that his love for the area in which he grew up and developed so many fond memories held a special place in his heart. Edward Gant wanted to give back, making positive and everlasting change. prgtoken Today, Edward Gant is survived by his wife Susen; his son and daughter in law, Gabriel and Kiersten; his son and daughter Matthew and Andrea; and his two grandchildren, Lyla and Jaxson. prgtoken , I ask you to join me in honoring and commending Edward Gant of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, a resident dedicated to his community and who has thoroughly served them to the best of his ability.
RECOGNIZING THE SCHOOL OF MINES FOOTBALL TEAM
Brittany Pettersen (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2024-1-29

I rise today to recognize the School of Mines for ranking number one in NCAA Division II for the first time in their football program's history. The Orediggers fought hard for their spot at the top through a strong and impressive season. They earned the division title by winning the Super Region IV final for the third year in a row and made the playoffs for the fifth year in a row, continuing the second-longest playoff streak in the country. Although they did not win in the final championship game, their season was an inspiration to people across Colorado. prgtoken This achievement was earned by the dedication of the players, support from students and the community, and the coaching of Pete Sterbick. The team has proven that the Colorado School of Mines is more than an academic powerhouse, it is an athletic one as well. prgtoken On behalf of the residents of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, I congratulate the Orediggers on their successful season.
IMMIGRATION AND THE CONSTITUTION
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2024-1-29

I give much respect to this book called the Constitution, which, if we read some of the opening comments made, it is said that the Declaration of Independence was the promise and the Constitution was the fulfillment. prgtoken It is a good roadmap and a good truth, so it disturbs me that the Governor of the State of Texas is standing up against the supremacy of the United States and the Constitution. Amendment 10 says: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States, respectively. prgtoken It is the responsibility of the United States Government to deal with immigration issues and, therefore, the Texas National Guard should not be militarized to stand up against the Border Patrol agents. Federal agents in the service of their Nation should be allowed to do their job and that is to secure the border, and they have been doing that. prgtoken Pass legislation is what this Congress must do to give further authority to the President of the United States, and those Border Patrol agents will follow the law. We need to ensure that the law is followed by the States and the Governors, and the law that the President upholds is a law that is supreme. prgtoken , follow the United States of America and that law.