mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF CLAY PARKER DAVIS
Harold Rogers (Republican, KY) \u2014 2023-4-3

I rise today to pay tribute to one of my closest long-time friends, Clay Parker Davis, upon his retirement from The Center for Rural Development's Board of Directors in Somerset, Kentucky. prgtoken When I embarked on a mission to establish The Center for Rural Development (The Center) in southeastern Kentucky, Clay was one of the first local leaders that we recruited to help advise the board on industrial development and financial issues in our rural region. Clay was the founding Board Chairman when The Center opened in 1996 and has remained a dedicated advisor for more than 25 years. The Center was designed to launch innovative programs in leadership, economic development, education, advanced telecommunications, technology improvements and public safety training, while also serving as a venue for performing arts and cultural events in the community. The Center is now an iconic centerpiece of southeastern Kentucky, thanks to the innovative leadership of Clay Davis. prgtoken In addition to his service at The Center, Clay's expertise has been coveted by a number of Kentucky organizations and he has worn several hats, including Citizens National Bank President/CEO for 35 years, First National Bank and Trust Executive Vice President in Georgetown, YMCA President in Somerset, Kentucky Bankers Association Past President, Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce, the City of Somerset, and the Somerset-Pulaski County Industrial Foundation, among others. prgtoken When I consider the individuals who made the biggest impact in southern and eastern Kentucky over the last four decades, I count Clay Davis among those who invested a great wealth of wisdom and worked tirelessly to make our region a better place to live. I want to personally express my deepest gratitude for his loyal friendship, trusted advice, and courageous leadership over the years. Recently, Clay has been in a valiant battle for his health, and I'd like to close with this blessing on his behalf from Numbers 6:24-26: ``May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.''
HONORING MR. RANDALL ROBINSON
Barbara Lee (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise today, along with the Congressional Black Caucus, to honor the extraordinary life and career of Randall Robinson, a legendary activist, lawyer, and a true fighter for racial justice. From reparations for Black Americans to ending apartheid in South Africa, Mr. Robinson dedicated his career to advocating for equity and human rights for all people of African descent. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Randall's family, his wife Hazel Ross-Robinson, and his three children, Anike, Jabari, and Khalea. They are in my prayers during this difficult time. prgtoken Mr. Robinson's story is one of tremendous courage and is a testament to the goodness that exists in humanity, even in the face of racial injustice. Born in the Jim Crow South, Mr. Robinson's worldview was heavily influenced by the racial discrimination he faced from a young age, as he grew up in a society marked by institutional racism and attended segregated schools. From these experiences, Mr. Robinson found a deep passion for political activism and racial justice. He rose to become a leader in representing the African diaspora and African people in the United States. prgtoken Randall was a proud graduate of Harvard Law School, a Ford Fellow, a Congressional staff member to Representatives Bill Clay & Charles Diggs, and founder of the TransAfrica Forum. Through TransAfrica, Mr. Robinson organized sit-ins and civil demonstrations, influenced US foreign policy to the Caribbean and throughout the African continent, and ultimately established the leading foreign-policy think-tank for African Americans. prgtoken But perhaps, Mr. Robinson's most notable achievement was his contributions to the end of apartheid, as he forced the United States to confront the evils occurring in South Africa. His organizing efforts included leading daily sit-ins in the South African embassy calling for Nelson Mandela's release from prison. Randall's commitment to South African liberation earned him seven arrests for civil disobedience, but ultimately helped influence a congressional override of President Ronald Reagan's veto of economic sanctions against the South African government. prgtoken Mr. Robinson's dedication to the African community never ceased, even after Nelson Mandela's successful release and the official end of apartheid. prgtoken He famously missed President Mandela's inauguration, as by then he had already led a month long hunger strike to protest the treatment of Haitian refugees fleeing a military junta. Mr. Robinson ended his hunger strike only after President Clinton committed to granting those fleeing violence in Haiti asylum hearings. prgtoken On a personal note, I had the privilege of working with Randall when he was a senior staffer to the late Congressman Diggs and myself with Congressman Ron Dellums. I vividly remember helping Randall organize TransAfrica and the hard work, brilliance and passion of this effort. He never lost his
HONORING JOSE FRIAS RAMIREZ
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise today to honor Jose Frias Ramirez, for his dedicated service to the Guadalupanos de Iglesia Santo Rosario and his reception of Guadalupanos de Iglesia Santo Rosario's Unsung Hero Award. prgtoken Mr. Frias Ramirez credits his commitment to service and work ethic to his personal background and upbringing. Born in Mesquita de Oro, Zacatecas, Mexico, on April 10, 1930, Mr. Frias Ramirez was unable to complete his education after the 4th grade because he had to drop out of school to help care for his family. prgtoken Mr. Frias Ramirez has been married to his wife, Roselia Ramos, since 1953. They were wed in Venecia, Tamaulipas, Mexico. The couple welcomed six children: Juana, Mariana, Jose Manuel, Graciela, Martin, and Arturo into their lives. When he and his family moved to California, Jose learned English and earned an equivalent to a high school diploma in 1972. prgtoken Mr. Frias Ramirez served Guadalupanos de Iglesia Santo Rosario in several roles including as President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Committee Chairman. Mr. Frias Ramirez was also instrumental to the success of Mission of Mercy Surgical and dental missions in Mexico and Philippines, which were missions led by Cora P. Ramirez. prgtoken For 25 years, Mr. Frias Ramirez led a year-round Sunday Fundraising Menudo sale for the Guadalupanos Society and oversaw the production of 30,000 tacos during the four-day Yolo County Fair. Known to be a very generous and hard-working person, Mr. Frias Ramirez also donates his two-week vacation time every year to assist with fundraising efforts. prgtoken , Mr. Frias Ramirez has been an indispensable and dedicated member of Guadalupanos de Iglesia Santo Rosario and our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MR. JOHN MORDASKY
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise today to mourn the loss of Mr. John Mordasky of Stafford, Connecticut. The Town of Stafford, State of Connecticut and our nation lost a giant whose example of public service citizenship will leave a gigantic footprint with his passing at age 97 on April 1, 2023. John's amazing life could be the script of a Hollywood movie, given his courageous service as a decorated World War II combat veteran, Connecticut state representative, his lifelong vocation as an iconic New England dairy farmer, and his deep devotion to his beautiful family I had the honor to know John as a friend for 36 years and to serve with him in the Connecticut General Assembly for eight years. He will always stand out to me as the quintessential model of public servant who always put the public interest and the public good above petty, political or personal gain. prgtoken Born 1925 to Francis and Sophia Mordasky in Stafford, John, like many who have woven themselves into the American story, formed the strongest of roots out of his identity as a first generation American and eastern Connecticut native. The loyalty he discovered through this identity and from his parents' upbringing formed a ferocity within John not to be matched by many. He was tough as nails. At age 17, following the United States entry into World War II, John did not hesitate to enlist in the war effort and was at the forefront of the Allied effort to defend democracy. He was assigned to the US Army Air Corps and became a B29 tail gunner--one the most dangerous, high-risk duties in the bomber fleet. John experienced intense combat defending his aircraft and crew in more than 22 frontline missions from direct enemy fire. John's planes crash landed twice during individual missions, fortunately on the reclaimed island of Iwo Jima in the final months of the Pacific campaign. prgtoken Upon the conclusion of the War, John returned home to eastern Connecticut from half a world away. His devotion to serving his community did not end however when he hung up his uniform for the last time. In his immediate post-war life, he went back to school on the GI Bill and attained a bachelor's in animal sciences from the University of Connecticut's flagship College of Agriculture, where he also met the love of his life, Louise Rosemary ``Rosie'' Rossiter. prgtoken Equipped with an education, John and Rosie found property back in Stafford and started Pinerise Dairy Farm. Together, their life in agriculture existed as a platform to launch broader involvement in the community. For John, he became an active member in the Connecticut agricultural community: from 4H, to the Connecticut Milk Producers Association, to his honorary membership in Future Farmers for America. John also notably served on Stafford's Board of Selectman and Zoning Board of Appeals. Each of these involvements were pursued as the two raised six children: Rose, Frances, David, Bill, John, and Maureen; and house
HONORING THE LIFE, LEGACY, AND SERVICE OF MR. KIRK MEYERS-HILL
Jasmine Crockett (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise today to honor the life of my friend and community champion, Kirk Meyers-Hill, who passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023. prgtoken Mr. Meyers-Hill was a true servant leader across the South Dallas community who made it his mission to uplift the needs of others. He'll be remembered for his dedicated service to the LGBTQ+ community and his strides in strengthening our neighborhoods across Dallas. It is the passion and love for people that made him the outstanding leader he was. prgtoken In 2005, Mr. Meyers-Hill founded Abounding Prosperity, Inc an organization that remains a beacon of hope and resource throughout the community. Through AP, he remained diligent in being a tireless advocate for the health and wellness of the Black family, particularly Black LGBTQ+ neighbors in Dallas. Specifically, he and his organization served as a hub for providing much-needed services such as HIV/STI testing & screening, HEP C screening, pREP education, and much more. During the recent Monkeypox outbreak, Mr. Meyers-Hill and his team quickly sprang into action by providing education and serving as one of the main centers for vaccinations. prgtoken In addition to his service with Abounding Prosperity, Inc Mr. Meyers-Hill served as President of Dallas Southern Pride which is an annual celebration and outlet for Black LGBTQ+ neighbors to celebrate who they are. This annual event has only grown under the leadership of Kirk and as a result, has become one of the premier events for Black LGBTQ+ neighbors across the country. Outside of the celebration, Dallas Southern Pride embraces the strong impact our LGBTQ+ neighbors have had on history locally in Dallas, nationally, and internationally. prgtoken Mr. Meyers-Hill was not only a great non-profit leader, but unequivocally known as an advocate for our community in every situation. He continuously kept a smile on his face and strived to make a difference in the lives of others. His generous and warm spirit is what I believe will keep us strong as a community, especially for those who had the pleasure of knowing him. I am confident in the fact that our LGBTQ+ community in Dallas is where it is today only because of Kirk Meyers-Hill and his trailblazing work. prgtoken These remarks stand as a testament to the life, legacy, and service of Kirk, who so profoundly touched the lives of so many people. My thoughts and prayers are with his husband, Ricky, and his entire family and community of loved ones whom he impacted through his work. The Bible reminds us in Psalms 30:5 that ``weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.'' Today, and in the days to come, I pray that God will comfort his family and friends with the peace that passes, knowing that despite our time of sadness, Kirk Meyers-Hill lived a purposeful life of service and changed countless lives for the better.
RECOGNIZING EDWIN F. SMITH
Brett Guthrie (Republican, KY) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise to recognize Edwin F. Smith. prgtoken I am proud to join the community of Glasgow in celebrating Edwin Smith's 100th birthday on April 12, 2023. The community is not only recognizing the Kentucky native for his momentous birthday milestone, but also recognizing his service to our nation. prgtoken U.S. Army Air Force 2nd Lieutenant Edwin F. Smith is a veteran of World War II. He played football at Glasgow High School and was offered a scholarship to play at the University of Louisville. However, his life went down a different path after the attack on Pearl Harbor. He enlisted in 1941 to fight for our country and became a pilot. Shortly after serving in World War II, he was one of two people to survive a deadly plane crash during a military training exercise. prgtoken Following his service, he attended the University of Tennessee before transferring to Bowling Green Business University, which is now Western Kentucky University, and graduated with a degree in accounting. Edwin Smith continued to give back to his community following his military service through volunteer work and sharing his experience in the military with students. prgtoken Edwin Smith is a father, stepfather, grandfather, and great- grandfather. A piece of advice he gave one of his children is to ``count your blessings--not your troubles.'' He has lived a remarkable life of service. I thank him for his service and wish him a very happy 100th birthday.
HONOR FLIGHT OF SOUTHERN OREGON
Cliff Bentz (Republican, OR) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise to recognize the Veterans from Oregon's Second Congressional District who, through the efforts of Honor Flight of Oregon, are visiting their memorials on the National Mall. When I meet these heroes, I am reminded of the enduring words of Abraham Lincoln, who said, ``Honor to the Soldier, and Sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country's cause. Honor also to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field, and serves, as he best can, the same cause--honor to him, only less than to him, who braves, for the common good, the storms of heaven and the storms of battle.'' These words, , still ring true today. Those who value liberty are indebted to these heroes, for each one of them defended our freedom through acts of service, sacrifice, and bravery all on behalf of our country. It is my privilege to include in the Record their names. prgtoken The Veterans on this Honor Flight from Oregon are: Carlo Pelaccio, Navy; Richard Azhocar, Air Force; Arden Baker, Air Force; Charles Bamber, Navy; William Barry, Army; Stephen Bonebrake, Navy; Robert Bruton, Army; Brian Busch, Marine Corps/Army; Robert Crum, Navy; Larry Dickson, Army; George Eisenhauer, Army; Frank Escalante, Army; Carl Hanhart, Navy; Theodore Henderson, Army; Edward Hill, Marine Corps; James Jackson, Army; Robert Keller, Navy; Robert Kohlhoff, Navy; Jack Lillard, Army; Gary Lowe, Navy; Walter McPherson, Marine Corps; Robert Miller, Army; Michael Myers, Marine Corps; Riley Terrance, Army; David Roberts, Marine Corps; Douglas Schruth, Army; Kelly Toller, Marine Corps. These heroes join over 240,000 Veterans, who since 2005, have been honored through the nationwide Honor Flight Network of volunteers. I would also like to recognize the volunteers and guardians traveling on this trip who have also served our country: Paul Mills, Army; Robert Crum, Army; Douglas Hanhart, Navy; Michael Whitfield, Army; Robert Allen, Army; James Scroggins, Marine Corps; Earl Snellings, Navy. prgtoken , in his 1983 radio address to the Nation, Ronald Reagan said, ``Veterans know better than anyone else the price of freedom, for they've suffered the scars of war. We can offer them no better tribute than to protect what they have won for us.'' As a Nation, we must never take for granted the liberties we enjoy today, recognizing that these freedoms have been hard-won by the honor, commitment, and sacrifice of our Veterans. Each Member in this chamber and citizen in these United States should be humbled by the courage of the brave Veterans who voluntarily underwent the dangers necessary to preserve our country. Colleagues, please join me in thanking these Veterans and the volunteers of Honor Flight of Oregon for their remarkable service and devotion to our great country.
RECOGNIZING PLANTER'S HARDWARE AND BUILDING INC. FOR OVER A CENTURY IN BUSINESS
Mike Rogers (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise today to recognize the Runyan family, who has been operating Planter's Hardware and Building, Inc for over a century. prgtoken A member of the Runyan family has been operating Planter's Hardware & Building Inc. prgtoken on the square in downtown Ashland, Alabama, since approximately 1916. The business got its name from its original clientele, and originally catered to the needs of local farmers. Planter's Hardware has altered its inventory to reflect changing times in favor of supplies for timber, poultry, and cabinet making. Planter's Hardware offers customers cost-effective solutions and personalized service six days a week. prgtoken On March 13, 2023, one of the pioneers of Planter's Hardware, Joseph Walton Runyan, Sr passed away at the age of 89. Joseph was deeply loved by his community and will be deeply missed. prgtoken , please join me in recognizing the Runyan family for their hard work in operating Planter's Hardware for over a century, as well as honoring the memory of Joseph Walton Runyan, Sr.
HONORING THOMAS SCOZZAFAVA'S 34 YEARS AS MORIAH TOWN SUPERVISOR
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-4-6

I rise today to honor the incredible leadership and determination of Mr. Thomas Scozzafava. Mr. Scozzafava has dedicated his life to public service and, after 49 years, has announced his retirement at the end of this year. prgtoken Mr. Scozzafava was born and raised in the Town of Moriah and began his lifetime of service as the town's Buildings and Ground Superintendent. In 1985, at the age of just 28, he was first elected to the position of Moriah Town Supervisor. Mr. Scozzafava left that position in 1998 to work for the Moriah Shock State Correctional Facility. He was drawn back into local government in 2004 when he was again elected Town Supervisor. Ultimately, Mr. Scozzafava served as Moriah Town Supervisor for 34 years and dedicated over four decades of his life to public service and government work. prgtoken Mr. Scozzafava has had an unmistakable positive impact on the North Country. He worked tirelessly to improve the local infrastructure in Essex County, building two wastewater treatment plants and working with a team to develop a new local business park. Even as he retires, his passion for improving his community is leading to major changes, including laying the groundwork for a hydropower project that will generate electricity from the abandoned mines of Essex County. prgtoken Mr. Scozzafava spent 49 years dedicated to civil service and improving the North Country. While he will be greatly missed as a Supervisor in our community, we wish him nothing but joy in his retirement. On behalf of New York's 21st District, it is my honor to recognize and honor the service and achievements of Thomas Scozzafava.
HONORING HECTOR JAVIER ROCCO
Frederica S. Wilson (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-4-10

from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the life and legacy of Hector Javier Rocco and commending him for his devotion to the Nation and its ideals. prgtoken Whereas, Hector Javier Rocco was born on December 3, 1959, where he was raised, the oldest of 4 children to Hector Rocco and Doris Avalos. He was the son of a school teacher and businesswoman; and husband to Ines Veronica Perea: prgtoken Whereas, trained as a systems analyst and having worked in the Chilean fishing and mining industries for many years as a human resource manager; in 2001, Mr. Rocco and his family moved to Hollywood, Florida in the pursuit of the American Dream. There, as is common for many new immigrants to America, he worked a variety of jobs in the construction and furniture industry. He quickly gained skills and found a passion as a handyman. Realizing a life dream of becoming a business owner, Mr. Rocco and his wife opened a cleaning, remodeling, and repair company. For over twenty years, Mr. Rocco worked in Broward and Miami- Dade counties where he renovated homes, businesses, and schools. prgtoken Whereas, Mr. Rocco was grateful for America and the opportunities it provided for him and his family, and was known for his talent and dedication to his craft. Mr. Rocco raised children who grew up to be entrepreneurs, public servants, and community leaders: reveled in the successes and accomplishments of his children, and never missed an opportunity to express his love for them. prgtoken Whereas, his humor, bright spirit, graciousness, kindness, and joie de vivre were an inspiration to those fortunate enough to know and work with him; prgtoken Whereas, a committed brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend, Mr. Rocco was loved and respected both in the United States and around the world; prgtoken Whereas, Mr. Rocco leaves to carry on his legacy his four children: Hector Javier Rocco Jr Karina Stefania Rocco, Giovanni Paolo Rocco, Antonella Francesca Rocco, and five grandchildren; Walter Aaron Pescador, Sofia Victoria Rocco, Isabella Agatha Agudelo, Amelie Eleanor Agudelo, and Madolyn Olivia Rocco McNellis. prgtoken Whereas, left to mourn him are a host of family members, dear cherished friends, and a beloved community who lost a strong, forward- thinking leader and generous and knowledgeable individual; prgtoken Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, am honored to recognize the late Hector Javier Rocco for his exemplary career, contributions to his community, and devotion to his family and friends.