mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING ANN SWENSON AS IOWAN OF THE WEEK
Cynthia Axne (Democrat, IA) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise today and ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring Ann Swenson as our Iowan of the Week. prgtoken Ann Swenson is the daughter of two public school teachers who taught her the importance of empowering young people in their classrooms and standing up for educators everywhere with the local teachers' union. prgtoken After graduating from college, Ann found herself merging her personal love for music and passion for education by following in her mother's footsteps and becoming an elementary music teacher. prgtoken As an elementary music teacher in Waukee Community Schools, she spends her days connecting kids to music--helping them discover new talents, gain a new perspective, and most importantly, have fun, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ann found herself finding new and creative ways to brighten her students' days through music--whether it be over Zoom during virtual learning, or wheeling a cart of materials around so students wouldn't have to travel from classroom to classroom. prgtoken Ann's impact reaches far beyond the classroom. She also serves as copresident of the Waukee Education Association and on the executive board of the Iowa State Education Association. She works directly with educators and support staff to ensure that they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. prgtoken As Ann says, ``all teachers deserve to have a voice because happy teachers help make happy kids.'' prgtoken She has spent her entire career inspiring her students and fighting for educators across Iowa, and I'm so proud to name her this week's Iowan of the Week.
RECOGNIZING THE YMCA OF GLENDALE'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY
Adam B. Schiff (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the 100th Anniversary of the YMCA of Glendale. prgtoken Established as a nonprofit in 1922, the YMCA of Glendale is dedicated to strengthening community by fostering social responsibility, healthy living, and youth development. Over the last century, the YMCA of Glendale has focused special attention to meeting the needs of underserved populations. Its caring staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that people from all backgrounds, incomes and abilities can grow, learn, and thrive together. prgtoken The YMCA of Glendale is also a strong advocate for healthy living. In addition to hosting in-person classes--including tai chi, swimming, dance, and yoga--it has also expanded their online wellness resources, making fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness tools even more accessible. prgtoken The YMCA includes thousands of members and provides programs across the age spectrum, from childcare for infants to its Silver Sneakers program for active older adults. The YMCA has focused on youth programs and since its inception, has been one of the leading nonprofit agencies providing youth services in Glendale. In addition to educational and athletic services for young members, they also host two summer camps in the greater Los Angeles area, serving over 1,500 campers. By promoting leadership and establishing the four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, children and teenagers are equipped with skills that will last them a lifetime. prgtoken The YMCA of Glendale has also been a leader in creating international bonds. Recently, the organization established an official ``Sister YMCA relationship'' with the Artsakh YMCA--the first of its kind for both chapters. Together they hope to provide technical assistance and training, promote cross-cultural understanding, and effect positive change in shared communities. prgtoken I am proud to recognize the YMCA's immense contribution to the community and sustained efforts to build healthy bodies, minds, and spirits. I ask all Members to join me in congratulating the YMCA of Glendale upon its centennial anniversary.
CONGRATULATING THE RECIPIENTS OF THIS YEAR'S RIGHT DIRECTION AWARDS
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate the recipients of this year's Right Direction Awards. prgtoken The Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia established the Right Direction Awards in 2015 in an effort to uplift and celebrate D.C. youth. Since then, over 150 inspirational young people in D.C. have received this award. prgtoken The Right Direction Awards honor D.C. youth who demonstrate tenacity and resilience in the face of significant challenges, including experiencing isolation, homelessness, loss of loved ones and acclimating to a new country. prgtoken Congratulations to this year's recipients: Darrell Anderson, Dineia Jones, Kaitlyn Arbertha, Dieudonne Kazzembe, Mylan Barnes, Maleek Loggins, Eric Curry, III, Jymeen McGrier, Robert Edwards, Osman Milla, Arno Fonkoue, Daja Mitchell, Isabella Getahun, Ariyah Nash, Antwon Gibson, Ashanti Paylor, Shaniya Gibson, Derren Richardson, Christy Hill, Eric Wade, Jr, Dellvon Hughes and Jamarri Kane-White. prgtoken Madam , I ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring this year's recipients of the Right Direction Awards for persevering through major life challenges to have a positive effect on their community.
RECOGNIZING JIM DEMERSMAN
Eric Swalwell (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise to recognize Jim DeMersman on the occasion of his retirement as the Executive Director of Pleasanton's Museum on Main on Friday, November 4, 2022. prgtoken Jim graduated from Houghton University with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Business Administration in 1980. He began his museum career at the Genesee Country Museum as an assistant to the director of education and curator. He then moved to the Bay Area to work as the executive director of the Hayward Area Historical Society until 2007. prgtoken In 2009, Jim became the executive director of Pleasanton's Museum on Main. Jim helped to expand the museum's annual visitor numbers from 9,000 to 30,000 by promoting enriching exhibits and upgrading the permanent prgtoken exhibit room with additional technology to expand public access. Jim also expanded the offerings at the Adobe Historical Facility by addressing numerous historic program needs. In addition, Jim oversaw joint programs that helped connect the museum to the community through building a network of supporters by hosting multiple nonprofit events in partnership with Pleasanton's Downtown Association, Heritage Association, and Art League. prgtoken Jim's leadership at Museum on Main also saw the creation of new and exciting programs. Jim helped create the first Wine and Valentines event, which has become an annual fundraiser. The museum also popularized and expanded an Ed Kinney series to include matinees and evening performances. prgtoken When the pandemic struck, Jim helped the Museum on Main pivot to virtual programming to allow staff to continue to serve the community. Popular fundraising events like the Ghost Walk Event moved to a virtual format, allowing even more community members to engage and enjoy the museum's activities. Even with remote work and financial hurdles, Jim sustained operations by utilizing grant funds from public and private foundations. prgtoken For 13 years, Jim DeMersman has played a pivotal role in preserving the history and culture of California's 15th Congressional District. I join the Tri-Valley community wishing him rest and relaxation with his husband, Richard, as he begins his retirement.
HONORING THE LIFE OF VIRGINIA S. EATON
Jim Costa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life of Virginia Eaton, an esteemed doctor, a beloved wife and mother, and a cherished community member of the Central Valley. prgtoken Virginia was born on April 23, 1923, to Dorothy and Walter Stammer. Born and raised in Fresno, CA, she was an accomplished pianist during her childhood and eventually attended Fresno High School. Upon her graduation, Virginia decided to leave the Central Valley to attend the prestigious Stanford University where she graduated with honors, earning a degree in biology in just three years. Virginia then continued her academic journey at USC Medical School in 1943, which she graduated from at the age of 23 as the only woman in her class. Upon completion of medical school, Virginia kickstarted her career in pediatrics by completing an internship and residency at Los Angeles Children's Hospital before returning to Fresno. prgtoken Back home, she worked as a pediatrician in private practice and met Lewis S. Eaton whom she married in 1950. Following the birth of their first son, William, Virginia moved her practice to the Fresno County Public Health Department where she traveled to various rural farm and Native American communities that lacked access to resident pediatricians. She worked tirelessly for these communities until her two youngest children, Joan and John, went off to college, prompting Virginia to begin working for the Central Valley Regional Center in 1974. Here, Virginia was a pioneer in using genetics to help diagnose and assist children with developmental disabilities and continued her good work at the Central Valley Regional Center until her retirement at the age of 78. prgtoken Virginia's passion for medicine never wavered and she often shared her sage expertise with loved ones far beyond her career; however, she also possessed many other talents and interests. Sharing a fascination of the arts with her husband Lewis, the couple collected many paintings, sculptures, and poetry, supported and befriended several local Fresno artists, and were instrumental in the founding of the Fresno Metropolitan Museum. Virginia was also very influential within the River Parkway Trust which established the Lewis S. Eaton Trail following his passing in 1992. Virginia served on the Fresno County Planning Commission as well where she carried out her commitment to improve her community. Appropriately, her efforts and generosity were recognized with Fresno State's highest non-degree award, the President's Medal of Distinction. prgtoken In addition to these accomplishments, Virginia will be remembered for her love of reading, gardening, collecting antiques, raising desert tortoises, and attending San Joaquin Valley Town Hall and Fresno Philharmonic. She is survived by her three children and their spouses, her six grandchildren, her siblings Joan Diehl and Walter Stammer, and will be remembered forever by the countless patients and community members w
CONGRATULATING THE WORLD DOG ALLIANCE
Rodney Davis (Republican, IL) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate the World Dog Alliance. prgtoken Over 30 million dogs are slaughtered for food every year, among which 70 percent are stolen pets. The World Dog Alliance (WDA), an international animal welfare organization dedicated to promoting an explicit ban on dog and cat meat, has campaigned for a ground-breaking ``Dog and Cat Diplomacy''. The WDA is working with governments around the world to eradicate this horrific practice through legislation and international cooperation. prgtoken The WDA was founded in 2014 by Genlin. His philosophy is to ``change human society, save dogs and cats''. To achieve his vision, Genlin is working hard to set up the international agreement to prohibit the eating of dog and cat meat. His efforts have led to international attention to the dog and cat meat issue. Since the domestic dog and cat meat ban was passed in the 2018 Farm Bill (H.R. 2, Sec. 12515), Congress has called on the administration to initiate the International Agreement to Prohibit the Eating of Dogs and Cats proposed by the WDA. I am hopeful that we can get this done. prgtoken I thank Genlin and the World Dog Alliance for all the hard work they put in daily. Know that it is recognized and greatly appreciated.
RECOGNIZING NATHAN WEINBAUM AS OCTOBER 2022 VETERAN OF THE MONTH
Tim Burchett (Republican, TN) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I want to honor Tennessee's Second District's October Veteran of the Month, Seaman Nathan Weinbaum. He served our country in the U.S. Navy for nearly five years as an Electronic Technician for Ohio Class Submarine Communications. prgtoken Nathan earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Human Ecology from the University of Tennessee. After the 9/11 attacks, Nathan was inspired to join the armed forces to protect his country, and he joined the Navy as a submarine radioman. prgtoken He was assigned to Bangor Naval Base in Washington State, where his duties included Control and Operation Submarine communications systems. During his time on the Submarine, he completed five strategic deterrent patrols aboard the U.S.S. Louisiana Ballistic Missile Submarine. prgtoken After he retired, he was still dedicated to helping his fellow servicemembers. He currently serves as Blount County's Director of Veterans Affairs, where he has focused on expanding the use of social media to help veterans and their dependents. He has also helped countless veterans get their VA benefits and honorary high school diplomas and services medals they hadn't received, including four Purple Hearts. In 2013, he was awarded the State of Tennessee County Veterans Service Officer of the Year Award for his above-and-beyond service for his fellow veterans. prgtoken He is married to his lovely wife Cheval and they have a daughter Caitlyn. prgtoken Our country's heroes are the men and women of our armed forces, like Seaman Nathan Weinbaum, and it's my honor to recognize him as our Veteran of the Month. I thank Nathan for his service, and for his dedication to helping his fellow veterans.
HONORING LYN HAWTHORNE HOWARD
Kevin Brady (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise to honor the distinguished career and public service of my Texas constituent and good friend, Mrs. Lyn Hawthorne Howard. Lyn is a cherished business leader, philanthropist, community leader, and artist. Passionate about Texas history and culture, she has led significant efforts to restore and preserve historic buildings and homes in and around Conroe, Texas. prgtoken Lyn was born in Shreveport, Louisiana. But as they say, she ``got to Texas as soon as she could.'' She attended Texas Woman's University, graduating with a degree in Education. Lyn was also a member of the famous Kilgore Rangerettes--one of America's most prestigious dance and drill teams. As a Rangerette, Lyn grew a deep appreciation for Texas culture as she traveled and performed throughout our great state. prgtoken Lyn is a principled business leader, and her devotion to hard work has served as an inspiration to women all over Texas. Lyn broke through the glass windshield, becoming the first woman to own and manage a successful Toyota dealership. Invited to visit Japan with a group of American car dealers, the Toyota Company was surprised to learn there was a woman in the group. The company suggested she may be more comfortable participating in the tours arranged for ``dealers' wives.'' Confidently, Lyn replied, ``no, thank you,'' and reminded her Japanese hosts that she too was a car dealer and insisted on attending all the meetings with her fellow Toyota auto brokers. Another one of Lyn's successful business ventures was her investment in the San Antonio- based LDS Telecom company. As a result of Lyn's leadership, she led the business to become a major telecom company in Texas, and she sold her stake in the early 1980s with tremendous results. prgtoken Lyn always puts her community first, playing a vital role in preserving Texas's history. Recently, Lyn is devoted to preserving the history of Conroe, Texas. She purchased and restored the original home of Conroe city founder, Isaac Conroe and has played a leading role in several important historic preservation and restoration projects. She has long been a leader and organizer of Conroe's annual Founder's Day celebration. prgtoken Lyn is also a passionate member of multiple historical preservation societies. In 2021, she was recognized as a fifty-year member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas in two chapters: The Alamo Missions Chapter and The Judge Nathaniel Hart Davis Chapter. prgtoken Lyn has been involved in beauty pageants for over forty years, winning titles of Miss United America Elite 2012 and Miss United Royal 2013. She is also a talented singer, dancer, and painter. Always seeking new artistic challenges, Lyn recently became interested in sculpture which has become her latest passion. She has sculpted bronze busts of her husband and another bust of President which has been displayed in Washington. Currently, she is working on a sculpture of Conroe
RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT OF MS. ROBIN MAHAN AS CLERK OF HALIFAX COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD
Bob Good (Republican, VA) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , on behalf of the people of the 5th District of Virginia, I am privileged to recognize Ms. Robin Mahan of Gretna, VA as she retires from her position as clerk of the Halifax County School Board after 45 years of service to the school system. Ms. Mahan officially retired on September 30th after serving with seven superintendents. prgtoken It is truly an honor to recognize your commitment and devotion to Halifax County schools and our students. I wish her the best in her retirement and may God bless her in her future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING THE ESCANABA VET CENTER STAFF
Jack Bergman (Republican, MI) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , it is my great honor to recognize the staff of the Escanaba Vet Center. Their continued commitment to Veterans and their families throughout the pandemic is immeasurable, and they have become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. prgtoken The Escanaba Vet Center specializes in confidential services, offering counseling for post-traumatic stress disorder to services for general depression. By focusing on mental health and specializing in issues the public often does not see, the Escanaba Vet Center has had a direct impact on the lives of all those who utilize their services. Providing impactful and personable counseling services is the core mission of the Escanaba Vet Center--ensuring our Nation's Veterans are cared for in times of need. The individuals responsible for providing care to our Veterans deserve our unwavering gratitude. prgtoken The COVID-19 pandemic has had a lasting impact on our country and drastically limited the ability for service providers to offer safe care to Veteran communities across the country. The drive and determination of the Escanaba Vet Center's staff is steadfast and laudable. Their work throughout the pandemic has allowed thousands of Veterans to receive the necessary assistance they need and deserve. They have given our Veterans in the state of Michigan a chance to heal and reshape their lives outside of military service. prgtoken Madam , I am honored to recognize the staff of the Escanaba Vet Center in their fight to continually provide services to our Veterans. On behalf of Michigan's First District, I wish all staff members of the Escanaba Vet Center the best in their future endeavors. Michigan's First District commends their continued support of our Nation's Veterans and thanks them for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
COMMEMORATING THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PUERTO RICO HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
Jenniffer González-Colón (Republican, PR) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I congratulate the Puerto Rico Hospital Association (PRHA) in its 80th anniversary of service to the people of Puerto Rico. prgtoken The PRHA was established in 1942 with the mission of ensuring the quality of the services provided by the hospitals to the residents of Puerto Rico, and of improving the health of the residents of Puerto Rico by helping to provide the most comprehensive services possible. prgtoken Throughout the years, the PRHA has participated in numerous national and international forums--such as the American Association of Hospitals (Washington D.C.), the International Federation of Hospitals (London, England), the Latin American Federation of Hospitals (Buenos Aires, Argentina) and the Ibero-American Organization of Private Healthcare Providers (Madrid, Spain)--in order to guarantee that the services provided by their members are world-class. prgtoken The PRHA has consistently been a steadfast and an invaluable ally to the Office of the Resident Commissioner for Puerto Rico in the fight against the discriminatory treatment of the residents of Puerto Rico in federal social and healthcare programs. prgtoken I recognize the assistance of the PRHA in our fight for the fair and sustainable funding of Puerto Rico's Medicaid program and of the fair and equitable treatment for Medicaid beneficiaries and providers in Puerto Rico. I also commend their steadfast advocacy in Congress on behalf of their members.
RECOGNIZING FIRE CHIEF JERRY BROOKS
Ted Budd (Republican, NC) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Clemmons Fire Chief Jerry Brooks on his upcoming retirement from an incredible career protecting the residents of Clemmons, North Carolina. prgtoken After returning home from serving his country in the United States Army, Chief Brooks joined the Clemmons Fire Department in 1971 as a volunteer fireman. He quickly proved his mettle and cool head under pressure, and for the next eight years, he advanced through the ranks until eventuaJly being appointed Chief in 1979. prgtoken For more than 50 years--over 40 of which as Fire Chief--Chief Brooks has faithfully kept watch at his post, standing by to respond at a moment's notice to cries for help across his community. He guided his department in its transition from a largely rural force to an operation serving more than four times as many residents in less than half the space. He has also left an indelible impact on firefighting across the state as President of many professional organizations, including the NC State Firemen's Association, the Forsyth County Firefighter and Chiefs Association, and the Piedmont Firefighters Association. Despite having been honored numerous times for his exemplary service, including as the 2015 Chief of the Year, the residents of Clemmons fondly recognize Chief Brooks's humble demeanor. From escorting a World War II Honor Flight, to organizing the village's annual 9/11 memorial, it seems as though everything Chief Brooks does is a way to give back to his community. prgtoken Madam , please join me in thanking Fire Chief Jerry Brooks for his many years of service to the people of Clemmons. May we all share his courage and sense of duty. I wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.
HOMETOWN HERO--CROSSROADS COMMUNITY SERVICES DALLAS
Beth Van Duyne (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-10-28

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Crossroads Community Services Dallas, a nonprofit in North Texas that goes above and beyond to help with food insecurity in our community. prgtoken Crossroads Community Services selflessly ensures families can feed their children and get back on their feet during hard times. What started as a ministry at First United Methodist Church in DFW has turned into a life changing operation for thousands of families. prgtoken Crossroads serves more than 26,000 people each month, and that number only continues to grow. During the pandemic--as families were unemployed and quarantined--they distributed nearly 12 million pounds of food to North Texans. prgtoken Their dedication to helping families during challenging times has changed the lives of families across the metroplex. On behalf of our entire community, I would like to thank Crossroads for their service to North Texas and providing an essential lifeline to thousands of families in need.