mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
INTRODUCTION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION 1045
Eddie Bernice Johnson (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , this past Saturday marked the 25th anniversary of the genocide that took place at Srebrenica. In 1992, following Bosnia and Herzegovina's declaration of independence from Yugoslavia, Bosnian Serb forces, also called the Army of Republika Srpska, attacked Eastern Bosnia in order to unify and secure Serb territory. During this struggle for control, those Bosnian Serb forces committed crimes of ethnic cleansing and the systematic murder of the non-Serb population. Over 8,000 Bosnian men and boys were systematically executed at Srebrenica in July 1995. prgtoken The House of Representatives rightfully classified the atrocities that happened in Srebrenica and other policies of aggression prgtoken and ethnic cleansing by Serb forces during the Bosnian War as genocide in 2005, and again in 2015. Yet the denial and diminishing of what happened persists in some populations. prgtoken During my time in Congress, I have had the opportunity to meet the mothers of the boys and men killed during the war and have heard their stories of grief and sorrow. prgtoken As a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Bosnia, I have also seen how the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina has overcome many obstacles and developed since declaring independence. Though significant progress has been achieved, there is more work left be done. Peace is fragile in this region and the International community must continue its efforts to ensure that Bosnia and Herzegovina remains a peaceful and inclusive country. prgtoken Earlier this week, I introduced a Resolution honoring those who lost their lives during the worst atrocity on European soil since World War II. The Resolution is also a testament of support for the Bosnian people's aspiration for greater Euro-Atlantic integration. prgtoken Madam , the genocide at Srebrenica serves as a reminder of the consequences that occur when the international community fails to react to actions of military force. I stand with the victims and survivors of the Srebrenica genocide and believe this tragedy should never be forgotten.
HONORING THE MEMORY OF DEANDREE WATSON
Rashida Tlaib (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor the memory of the late DeAndree Watson, a young public servant and community advocate for the city of Detroit. prgtoken DeAndree was born and raised in Detroit, and product of Detroit Public Schools, graduating from Cass Technical High School in 2008. DeAndree went on to attend the University of Michigan, serving as Class President for the 2012 graduating class, graduating with the highest honors. DeAndree began his commitment to service and the city of Detroit as an intern for former councilman Charles Pugh before rising through the ranks to serve as Policy Analyst for Detroit City Council and District One Councilman James Tate for six years. Through this role, DeAndree helped lead critical legislation for the 13th Congressional District in Northwest Detroit and across the city. prgtoken DeAndree dedicated his life to serving residents, a priority that was reflected in his daily work. His commitment to serving residents went beyond policy, and included supporting numerous associations, block clubs, and organizations with critical services whenever he could. DeAndree held several roles in his young professional career, not only serving as a Policy Analyst, but also serving as the President and leader of the New Leaders Council, a young progressive coalition of talented rising leaders across Detroit. His planned journey back to the University of Michigan to pursue his Law Degree would have undoubtedly set him on a path to further his ongoing work to serve the city of Detroit and our district. DeAndree's hard work and dedication to working on behalf of the people of Detroit was unmatched. He was known for his professionalism, attention to details, and the love he held for the City of Detroit. DeAndree was a bright and affable rising star with limitless potential ahead of him. We are stunned and saddened by his sudden and tragic death. prgtoken DeAndree Watson embodied the spirit of community, leadership and Detroit. His presence will truly be missed. Please join me in honoring his memory and this great loss to our community.
TRIBUTE TO RIGDON FRANCIS CURRIE ON HIS 90TH BIRTHDAY
Anna G. Eshoo (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Rigdon Francis Currie, a former long-time resident of Palo Alto who is celebrating his 90th birthday on July 17, 2020. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to Constance Berry Currie and Charles James Currie and he had one sibling, Charles James Currie, Jr. prgtoken Georgia born and bred, Rigdon retains the elegant accent and perfect manners he learned growing up in the South. A Georgia Tech and Harvard Business School graduate, Rigdon served our country in the Air Force for two years, and went on to lead a productive and adventure-filled life. His great career at Xerox was followed by a productive tenure as a venture capitalist, creating hundreds of well-paying jobs. Exceedingly generous with his time, resources and talent, he mentored countless career-seekers, leading them to positions that ideally suit them. His generosity extended to many non-profit organizations, including the Pacific Theological School in Berkeley where he served on the Board for many years. His efforts in Mann County resulted in many miles of roads in Point Reyes being free of trash. prgtoken Rigdon is an ardent birder. He has seen and identified more than 5,000 species during his birdwatching avocation, and travelled to 90 countries in pursuit of them. He loves sharing his love of birds with others, and often carries a tripod and telescope to make sure others are able to see and appreciate his finds. prgtoken Rigdon is the adoring father of two sons, Steven and David, their partners and his grandchildren. He is the proud stepfather of Chris and Alexis, their spouses and children. There is nothing any of them can ask of him that he would refuse. The center of his family is his wife of 40 years, Trish Johnson. Together they have welcomed hundreds into their Palo Alto and Point Reyes homes, creating havens for those in need. They also created parties, hikes, apple pressing and good times for friends in need. prgtoken A brilliant business man, an extraordinary birder, a most generous philanthropist, a friend to so many and a devoted family man, Rigdon Currie sets an example for all of us to emulate. His ninety years have been filled with adventure and giving to others, and we are a better and stronger country because of him and his work. prgtoken Madam , I ask the entire House of Representatives to join me in honoring Rigdon Francis Currie as he celebrates his 90th birthday, and in wishing him many more years of living life to the fullest.
HONORING JIM PHILLIPS FOR HIS LIFETIME OF SERVICE TO THE NORTH COUNTRY AND THE NATION
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Jim Phillips, President and CEO of the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance, for his lifetime of service to the North Country and the Nation. prgtoken Jim Phillips, a longtime business leader with experience in cross border commerce, founded the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance (Can/Am BTA) in 1992. He recognized the need for a bi-national coalition of private and public stakeholders to advocate for the needs of the users of the U.S.-Canadian border including trade, transportation, border management and tourism. Jim Phillips has served as its President and CEO since its founding, creating an effective transcontinental and bi-national organization with engagement from twenty-seven states and all the provinces of Canada. The organization he built and leads involves a combined network of over 60,000 companies and organizations including producers, shippers, brokers, chambers of commerce, universities, bridge and tunnel operators, business and trade corridor organizations as well as economic development and government agencies. prgtoken Under his many years of leadership at the Can/Am BTA, Jim Phillips became one of the most respected voices in all matters related to the U.S.-Canadian border in both countries, consistently earning the trust and partnership of Canadian and U.S. officials at all levels and over many administrations. Throughout the years, Jim Phillips has directly contributed to many border related advances including multiple infrastructure investments, the Shared Border Accord and enormous progress toward U.S.-Canadian customs and regulatory harmonization, among many others. prgtoken In the 21st Congressional District, Jim Phillips was pivotal in working with the North Country Chamber of Commerce to develop the original concept of the Quebec-New York Corridor as a vehicle for bi- national collaboration, and in helping to secure more than $107 million for the new U.S. border facilities at Champlain in 2005. Jim Phillips also played a leading role in the original organization of the Northern Border Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, an important bi- partisan platform for northern border advocacy. prgtoken Jim Phillips has made an indelible impact on the North Country and our relationship with Canada through his decades of experience and leadership. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to thank Mr. Phillips for his lifetime of service to New York and the United States.
CELEBRATING NELL LONG'S 100TH BIRTHDAY
Mo Brooks (Republican, AL) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Mrs. Nell Long on the occasion of her 100th birthday. prgtoken Nell Long was born in Alabama's Oak Grove community on July 12, 1920. Her family settled in Alabama long before that. Nell grew up during the Great Depression, so she possesses a toughness and tenacity that only true hardship can produce. Nell worked hard to help her family as a girl. She harvested cotton with her father and preserved food with her mother. Nell went on to finish high school, most notably, in the light of an oil lamp--electricity did not come to Oak Grove until 1935. prgtoken At nineteen, Nell married James Long and started a family They had three beautiful children. As an active mother, Nell volunteered as a substitute teacher, a 4-H Club leader, in the PTA, and on local campaigns. She worked in her children's school lunchroom. She did all this in addition to helping James on their farm. Nell and James were committed to conservation in Madison County and the fruits of their labor can still be seen in our community today. In 1986, Nell was named Madison County Woman of the Year for dedicated service in the community and church. prgtoken After James' passing, Nell has remained active in the community. She is a member of the local Homemaker's Club, Hunt Springs Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and of Owens Cross Roads Church of Christ. She has inspired scores with her dedication to improving the lives of others. prgtoken Madam , the Tennessee Valley is fortunate to have such an exemplary citizen for 100 years. Nell Long's unwavering hard work, strong family values, and unshakable faith embody the best of our community. prgtoken I wish Nell and her entire family the very best as they celebrate Nell's centennial birthday.
HONORING JUDGE OLA M. LEWIS
David Rouzer (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise to honor the memory and life of a trailblazing judge from Brunswick County, North Carolina, who was passionate and fearless in her commitment to justice and the law while also showing great compassion for those who needed help to get their lives back on track. Sadly, Judge Ola M. Lewis passed away late last year. This past Saturday, July 11th, would have been her 55th birthday. prgtoken The daughter of a paratrooper of the 82nd Airborne Division and two public school principals, Judge Lewis learned early in life the value of education, hard work, and service to one's community. She grew up in Spring Lake, North Carolina, and soon moved with her family to Brunswick County. Like her father, she graduated from Fayetteville State University and then in 1990 earned a law degree from North Carolina Central Law School. After a stint in private practice she returned home to Brunswick County to serve in the District Attorney's Office. prgtoken Just two years later, in 1993, Judge Lewis was appointed district court judge becoming the youngest serving district court judge in North Carolina. She spent seven years as a district court judge before being appointed to serve as a ``special Superior Court judge'', traveling around 21 North Carolina counties. Her motto: ``have gavel, will travel''. prgtoken She made history as both the first woman and the first African- American judge in North Carolina's Fourteenth Judicial District. She is the longest serving female judge in the history of North Carolina. prgtoken Judge Lewis has left a real impact in our community that will continue to be felt. She fostered the creation of specialized drug treatment and mental health courts, which have helped countless those that need it the help necessary to put themselves back on the right track. Her drug court program became a national template that has been replicated to help others struggling with addiction and mental health challenges nationwide. prgtoken She was one of the first to see and respond to the scourge of the opioid addiction that has ravaged the nation, co-founding in 2017 the Brunswick County Opioid Addiction Task Force. She encouraged Governor Roy Cooper to declare the growing opioid addiction crisis a statewide public health emergency. prgtoken In recognition of her contributions and dedication to our local communities and to our state, she was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor Cooper, the Old North State Award by Governor Beverly Purdue, and the Dogwood Award by Attorney General Josh Stein. prgtoken Madam , Judge Ola Lewis leaves a legacy for which her wonderful family, colleagues and friends can be proud. Hers was a great life of service to the benefit of every citizen, our communities, and our state.
IN MEMORY OF REVEREND GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER RICHARDSON, JR.
Martha Roby (Republican, AL) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a beloved Alabamian, Reverend George Washington Carver Richardson, Jr. Dr. Richardson passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2020. Dr. Richardson was deeply devoted to the Lord, a loving husband and father, and a strong voice for the community. He will be dearly missed by all. prgtoken Dr. Richardson was born in Geiger, Alabama, to George and Louise Richardson. At the early age of four years old, Dr. Richardson began preaching. He spent his early years preparing to enter Ministry, and he went on to earn his BA Degree, Bachelor of Theology, Masters of Divinity, Masters in Religious Education, Doctor of Divinity, Doctor of Humane Letters, Existential Degree, and L.C.U. Degree all from various institutes. prgtoken Dr. Richardson's faithfulness to spreading the Gospel never wavered as he traveled across the United States, preaching to crowds, conducting workshops, and leading seminars. He served as Pastor to several churches, but he led the Hutchinson Missionary Baptist Church for almost forty years. prgtoken Not only was Dr. Richardson devoted to the Church, but also to the community. He worked towards the betterment of mankind his entire life through his involvement with the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. Richardson served on several Civic Boards and Committees, such as the SCLC, NAACP, and Montgomery Improvement Association. He also helped spearhead the Selma Movement from beginning to end, participating in marches and demonstrations in the area, including Bloody Sunday. prgtoken In 1967, Dr. Richardson moved to Bessemer, Alabama and became the first African American to campaign for a major political office, running for the Office of Mayor. His campaign paved the way for future African American leaders to take leadership positions in the city of Bessemer. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Reverend George Washington Carver Richardson, Jr. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered, and his remarkable legacy will be remembered for years to come.
JULY VETERAN OF THE MONTH
Kevin Hern (Republican, OK) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise to honor the First District of Oklahoma's July Veteran of the Month, Major Ralph Wilson. prgtoken A pilot in the United States Air Force, Major Ralph Wilson honorably served our nation for twenty years. Upon returning home from service, Ralph continued to serve at the Tinker Air Force Base for twenty years. prgtoken Major Ralph Wilson served in both World War II and the Korean War. He flew sixty-nine missions in World War II and fifty in the Korean War. Major Wilson flew unarmed reconnaissance missions in Korea. He is the recipient of numerous awards and is a decorated airman. When asked about his service by the Tulsa World, he explained, ``I never considered myself a hero, I just did my part.'' Major Ralph Wilson served his country selflessly, and he now carries himself with dignity and humility in his community. He is certainly part of the ``Greatest Generation.'' prgtoken In addition to working at the Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, Wilson developed a hobby of woodworking and volunteered with local schools helping children build projects. He answered the call to defend freedom across the globe and sacrificed whatever was necessary in the name of that noble cause. It is my honor to recognize Major Ralph Wilson as the 1st Congressional District of Oklahoma's July Veteran of the Month.
HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
Susan W. Brooks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor the centennial year of a tremendous university in my district, Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU). IWU is a private university that was founded in 1920 on three basic pillars: academic excellence, Christ-centered education and global worldview. prgtoken It is a testament to the academic excellence of a school to achieve the success that IWU has for one hundred years. Indiana Wesleyan University is a Christian comprehensive university of The Wesleyan Church. The University was founded in 1920 as Marion College before changing its name to Indiana Wesleyan University in 1988. IWU committed to liberal arts and professional education. Nearly 3,000 students are enrolled in traditional programs on the University's 350-acre residential campus in Marion. Most buildings on the Marion campus have been built in the past 25 years, so students live and learn in a visually striking environment with well-appointed residence halls and academic facilities, all on a campus that is only an hour away from both Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. prgtoken IWU offers more than 80 undergraduate degrees, 38 graduate degrees and 5 doctorate degrees and students represent more than 80 Christian denominations and 10 foreign countries. Indiana Wesleyan has received national attention for its innovative adult education program, which began in 1985. Over 10,000 adult learners attend classes at education centers in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio, and online. prgtoken In its first one hundred years, IWU has produced over 80,000 degreed alumni. IWU has a 78 percent retention rate for those starting as college freshmen. The Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats have won 5 national championship titles in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), including 2 NAIA national championships from the record-setting 2006 to 2007 women's basketball team that went 38-0 and the 2012-2013 women's basketball team. IWU has won an additional 3 NAIA national championships in 2014, 2016 and 2018 in men's basketball. prgtoken Congratulations to Indiana Wesleyan University for a century of success thanks to the hard working and dedicated faculty, staff, administration, board members, students and alumni. Hoosiers of the Fifth District and beyond are grateful and look forward to another century of extraordinary leadership and educational opportunities.
COMMEMORATING THE LIFE-SAVING ACTIONS OF 7-YEAR-OLD LILLIE DAVIS
Jason Smith (Republican, MO) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Lillie Davis of Willow Springs, Missouri for her heroic actions that helped save the life of her father, Seth Davis. prgtoken Lillie's father has suffered from epilepsy since he was a child. Because of this, Lillie was trained for emergency situations at a young age. When her father went into an epileptic seizure one spring morning, 7-year-old Lillie knew just what to do to help him. She acted with poise and bravery and went through the proper motions to save her dad. She calmly called her mother, who called 9-1-1, and then helped talk Lillie through the motions. Lillie made sure her dad was still breathing, then turned his head to make sure he wasn't holding his breath. She even opened the back door so the first responders could quickly enter upon arrival. prgtoken First responders stated that they have never seen a young child know just what to do in an emergency like this. I commend Lillie for her acts of bravery that helped save her father's life. She is a true hero! prgtoken For her heroic actions, it is my great pleasure to celebrate Miss Lillie Davis today before the U.S. House of Representatives.
HONORING MAJOR GENERAL JAMES J. MINGUS ON HIS 35 YEARS OF MILITARY SERVICE
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Major General James J. Mingus on his 35 years of exemplary military service. For the last two years, Major General Mingus has served as Commander of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. prgtoken Part of the XVIII Airborne Corps, the 82nd Airborne Division is the Nation's Global Response Force and has participated in nearly every major United States conflict around the world since its inception. As Commander, Major General Mingus answered historic calls to duty on behalf of our great nation. prgtoken Major General Mingus began his career in 1981 with the Iowa Army National Guard and today fulfills his duty as Commander of the 82nd Airborne Division. Throughout his storied career, he has held every rank and commanded more than 18,000 paratroopers spread across six brigades. prgtoken A decorated public servant, Major General Mingus holds the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with 2 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Bronze Star Medal with 4 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, and a Purple Heart. He represents the best our nation has to offer, and future generations will look up to his leadership for years to come. prgtoken As Fort Bragg's Congressman, I know I speak for our entire community when I say we are truly grateful for his tireless service and prgtoken cannot thank him enough. I extend my most heartfelt appreciation to Major General Mingus; his wife, Amy; and children, Nathan, Zoe, and Luke as they embark upon this exciting new chapter. prgtoken Madam , please join me today in honoring Major General James J. Mingus on his 35 years of extraordinary military service.