mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING JOE MAYER'S LIFETIME COMMITMENT TO ADVANCING AMERICA'S SECURITY AND HIS ADVOCACY FOR AMERICA'S MISSION IN SPACE
Bill Posey (Republican, FL) \u2014 2022-7-5

. Madam , I rise to recognize a constituent from Florida's Space Coast who has dedicated his career to advancing the strategic security of our nation and strengthening America's technological capability, and who has been a well-known and passionate advocate of our mission in space--Mr. Joe Mayer. prgtoken In 1976, Joe graduated from William Paterson College in New Jersey, then attended Georgetown University, and earned a Master of Science of Foreign Service degree focusing on national security. He got his start working on Capitol Hill as an aide to U.S. Senator Jake Garn of Utah, advising on defense and national security issues and helping to support the B-1B strategic bomber as well as funding for the Strategic Defense Initiative. Joe then went on to serve on the staff of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence focusing on arms control. prgtoken In 1986, Joe joined Rockwell International taking the lead on Rockwell's NASA space-related business. He worked to modernize the Space Shuttle program and became a leading advocate for the International Space Station. Joe later worked for The Boeing Company supporting their human space exploration efforts. He became the Chair of Citizens for Space Exploration, a pro-NASA, pro-space advocacy organization, received a NASA Space Flight Awareness award from the Boeing leadership team, and was named an Associate Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. prgtoken In 2007 Joe joined the Lockheed Martin Space team in Houston representing the company in the community and advocating on behalf of the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV)/Orion spacecraft. He worked with community partners and traveled across the country meeting with the public, school children, community leaders and elected officials explaining the value of human space exploration. The Houston Mayor and City Council honored Joe for his professional and community contributions with a Declaration designating February 26, 2013, as `Joe Mayer Day in the City of Houston'. prgtoken In 2013 Lockheed Martin dispatched Joe to Florida's Space Coast where he has served the space community in numerous civic and charitable positions and has been a leading voice for our nation's space program. Joe's local leadership roles have included Chairing the board of the Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast, Chairing the Cocoa Beach Chamber as well as Chair of VISIT Florida and Space Coast Citizens for Space Exploration. He has served on the Boards of Brevard Cultural Alliance, Florida Defense Contractors Association, the Astronaut Memorial Foundation, and the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. He is a member of the Space Coast Civilian-Military Association and serves on my Congressional Space Advisory Committee. prgtoken After more than 40 years of service, Joe recently announced his plans to retire, and we thank him for his tireless service and commitment to our communities, and for his strong
TRIBUTE TO DREW TROJANOWSKI
Adam Kinzinger (Republican, IL) \u2014 2022-7-5

. Madam , today I wish to recognize the service and career of Drew Trojanowski, who has a long record of service to National Security and our Nation's veterans. prgtoken Mr. Trojanowski served in the U.S. Army from 2006 to 2015, most notably as a sniper. Mr. Trojanowski deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan in support of the Global War on Terrorism; also serving as a combat advisor to a foreign military in the realms of operations, tactics, intelligence, and civil affairs. He concluded his military career serving in the Arizona Army National Guard, where he helped develop long-range plans for the Joint Counter Narco-Terrorism Task Force. prgtoken Mr. Trojanowski began serving veterans in 2015, after returning from Afghanistan, at the Mesa Chamber of Commerce; he established the Mesa Veterans Program and Mesa Industry and Defense Council, a consortium of more than 70 aerospace and defense companies. prgtoken Mr. Trojanowski's career with U.S. Senator John McCain initiated in 2016 as a military and veteran advocate, where traveled throughout Arizona interfacing with veterans, DoD instillations and personnel and industry. prgtoken In December of 2016, Senator McCain asked Mr. Trojanowski to be his Military Legislative Assistant and senior policy advisor. In that role, he was at the forefront of advocating for reform, resources, funding, and benefits that our military and veterans earned and deserve. prgtoken During his time with Senator McCain, Mr. Trojanowski helped champion the writing and passage of significant legislation impacting American servicemembers families and veterans. These include the VA Mission Act, National Defense Authorization Act, the VA Appeals Modernization Act, the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act--also known as the Forever G.I. Bill--and the Veteran Overmedication and Prevention Act. These bipartisan bills, all of which were signed into law, serve as Mr. Trojanowski's dedication and leadership on behalf of the military and veterans. prgtoken In 2018, Mr. Trojanowski joined the White House as a Presidentially Commissioned Officer and Special Assistant to the President on the Domestic Policy Council. In this role he oversaw the Departments of Veteran Affairs, Defense, NASA and Labor. During his tenure, Mr. Trojanowski was the policy lead on three executive orders and 56 regulations, including the implementation MISSION Act and the PREVENTS initiative. prgtoken It is my honor to recognize Mr. Trojanowski's outstanding military service and continued service to our military, veterans, and their families. As Mr. Trojanowski begins a new chapter, I have no doubt that he will continue to be a voice for all those who serve.
CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF JOHN HEUBUSCH
Mike Garcia (Republican, CA) \u2014 2022-7-5

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the retirement and commend the service of John Heubusch, an individual who has spent decades in both the private and public sector and who, for the past 13 years, has played a pivotal role in the growth and revitalization of one of the jewels of our nation: the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. After guiding this prestigious institution through the challenges of the past decade, he will be enjoying his well-deserved retirement. prgtoken A native of our nation's capital, John Heubusch spent his college years in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia area studying political science and receiving a master's degree in National Security Studies from Georgetown University. John started his career in public service nearly forty years ago working as an analyst for the Department of the Air Force. He soon moved to Capitol Hill, serving as a staffer for Congressman Denny Smith, where he quickly ascended the ranks to become his prgtoken Chief of Staff and working directly with Congressman Smith to trim down wasteful Department of Defense spending and maximize the efficiency and the safety of the military under the Reagan administration. Under the administration, John served as the Chief of Staff to Secretary of Labor Elizabeth Dole before becoming the Vice President of Communications of the American Red Cross, one of the largest and oldest non-profit humanitarian organizations in the world. In these roles, from the Pentagon to Capitol Hill, to the Red Cross, John embodied what it means to serve one's country and be a faithful advocate for the greater good. prgtoken After impressive stints in the campaign and corporate worlds, John was personally selected by former First Lady Nancy Reagan and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute Board of Trustees to serve as Executive Director. In this role John led this organization, which oversees the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, into a new era of success and fostered renewed respect for President Reagan's legacy. Under his leadership, the Reagan Foundation championed the same values that President Reagan embodied, including charity, private goodwill, and free enterprise. Additionally, the Reagan Library under John educated a new generation of Americans about the life, presidency, and ideals of President Reagan. Leaving the Reagan Foundation with a historic $250 million endowment as he enters the next chapter of his life, John has provided an invaluable service to our community and our nation, as the Reagan Foundation, Institute, and Library remains well equipped to face the years ahead and continue their critical mission in preserving the legacy of one of our greatest presidents. prgtoken I cannot commend John Heubusch enough for his service to California's 25th District and the Nation. We thank him for his stewardship of President Reagan's legacy, and while we will miss him, his retirement and the opportunity to--spend--mor
HONORING COLONEL MAURA HENNIGAN, UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
Kaiali’i Kahele (Democrat, HI) \u2014 2022-7-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor and recognize a friend, leader, and a Marine. In August of 2020, Colonel Hennigan was hand-selected by the Commandant of the Marine Corps to assume the duties as the Director of the Marine Corps House Liaison Office. Colonel Hennigan's selection was the result of an impeccable record of service and her vast experience in the Marine Corps. prgtoken Throughout her tenure, Colonel Hennigan led the daily operations of the House office with uncanny skill and aplomb. Her acute awareness and in-depth insight allowed her to facilitate a shared understanding between the Marine Corps and the House of Representatives. Her relationship with myself and many Members of Congress is one that we have valued greatly. Colonel Hennigan's unique leadership skills and interpersonal abilities allowed her to be an incredible advocate on behalf of the Commandant of the Marine Corps. prgtoken After graduating from the University of Mary Washington, she was commissioned in 1994. Throughout her career she has commanded various units from platoon to group levels, and deployments to combat zones. She served as a Marine Corps Commandant's Fellow at the United States Institute of Peace and studied Women, Peace and Security. She also has held multiple assignments in Hawaii at both Marine Corps Air Station Kane'ohe, and United States Pacific Command. prgtoken In 2022, President nominated Colonel Hennigan for the rank of a Brigadier General, making her only the 16th female general officer in the history of the Marine Corps. On behalf of myself, and all my colleagues in the House of Representatives, we wish her luck in all her future endeavors and success leading Marines of the future. She will always have a home in the great state of Hawaii. She will be greatly missed. Pomaika`i, Maura.
HONORING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VETERANS CONSORTIUM
Debbie Wasserman Schultz (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2022-7-7

. Madam , I rise today to commemorate the 30th anniversary of The Veterans Consortium, a nonprofit organization providing pro bono services to our nation's veterans with cases pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC). prgtoken The Veterans Consortium was established after the first Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims encouraged Congress to create a program to provide veterans with suitable legal representation before the Court--and help them receive every dollar in benefits they are entitled to. prgtoken A competitive grant was awarded to The Veterans Consortium for the formation of a legal services corporation to carry out Congress's wishes. Although today it is an independent nonprofit, The Veterans Consortium's founding members are four hallmark veterans advocacy organizations: The American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, National Veterans Legal Services Program, and Paralyzed Veterans of America. prgtoken Over the past 3 decades, The Veterans Consortium has become one of the most prominent organizations providing pro bono services for veterans' claims, with almost 6,000 volunteer attorneys having delivered over $400 million in rightful benefits, care, and compensation to American veterans. They did so by astoundingly winning over 83 percent of their appeals cases. prgtoken While this number demonstrates the effectiveness of the Consortium, it also underscores significant room for improvement in the Department of Veterans Affairs benefits determination process. That's what makes the work of The Veterans Consortium so important. prgtoken As Chair of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations subcommittee, I have the distinct honor and responsibility of leading the only committee in Congress that cares for our servicemembers through their entire lifecycle: both during and after their service. prgtoken I'm proud to work with our VSOs to ensure those who have risked their lives for this Nation are supported throughout their transition to civilian life and are able to age with dignity. A critical component of that work is ensuring the Veterans Benefits Administration is adequately funded and that our veterans receive the benefits they need and are entitled to. prgtoken We know the benefits and claims process is in dire need of reform, and it has been for years now. That is why I will continue working with VA Secretary McDonough to improve upon the existing system, and by conducting rigorous oversight of all VA agencies to ensure they are spending the money we provide effectively. prgtoken Congress can honor our veterans--and the decades of committed work of The Veterans Consortium--by legislating and using the power of the purse to make sure the benefits and claims process is working for those who served their country. For all that veterans sacrifice for this Nation, the least we can do is ensure they receive the benefits they were promised and
CELEBRATING THE 2022 RAYMOND TOWN FAIR
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2022-7-7

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the Raymond Town Fair. As the summer months heat up and the nights grow later, town fairs and festivals take on special importance not only as opportunities to gather with friends but meet new members of the community and celebrate the history of this town. Raymond encapsulates some of the Granite State's best qualities, and tonight's celebration serves as a shining example of what this town has to offer the state of New Hampshire. prgtoken From the fireman's parade and morning pancake breakfast to the annual pageants that kick off the fair, Raymond has enshrined its sense of community with timeless traditions and open arms to all who are joining for the first time. For decades, this fair served as an opportunity for local businesses and craftspeople to establish themselves in Raymond. Now in the present day, vendors from across New England are bringing their goods and services to Raymond because of its reputation for friendliness and community-building. This legacy of excellence will only continue into the future, and I can't wait to see the success of this fair in the years to come. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to congratulate the Town of Raymond for hosting such an excellent fair. I also want to give my special thanks to Phil Merrill, his wife Tracy, and the Raymond Town Fair Committee for their work making this year's fair possible. I look forward to a continued partnership with Raymond and its residents who I am proud to represent in Congress.
HONORING PAUL SWEIGERT, M.D.
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-7-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor Paul Sweigert, M.D. in celebration of his outstanding medical career in Napa County. prgtoken Dr. Sweigert was born and raised in Sacramento, California, and graduated from Jesuit High School in Carmichael. He received a bachelor's degree in physical therapy in 1981 from California State University, Fresno. He then graduated from Dartmouth Medical School in 1990 with a Doctor of Medicine. prgtoken Dr. Sweigert began his medical career at the Providence Medical Center in Portland, Oregon, studying internal medicine from 1990 to 1993. He then moved to Bath, Maine, to practice as a primary care physician. In 1997, Dr. Sweigert moved to Napa, where he joined the medical staff of the Queen of the Valley Medical Center. While working at the Queen of the Valley Medical Center, he also took over the practice of Dr. Alvin Lee Block in 1998 and launched Red Bike Medicine as a solo practitioner in 2014. He is revered in Napa County for his excellent medical care, hard work, and kind nature. prgtoken Dr. Sweigert has been a devoted member of the Napa Solano Medical Society (NSMS) and the California Medical Association (CMA) for 25 years. He was a CMA delegate from 2006 to 2012, NSMS president from 2007 to 2008, and a hospital representative to CMA's Organized Medical Staff Section from 2009 to 2013. On May 2, 2022, Dr. Sweigert received the Napa Solano Medical Society Professor Emeritus award in appreciation of his long and illustrious career as a physician, teacher, and friend. prgtoken In his free time, Dr. Sweigert enjoys traveling, gardening, bicycling, serving his community, and spending time with his family. Dr. Sweigert has held numerous community-related roles, including being a local soccer coach, a Board of Trustees member for Justin Sienna High School, and a member of the prgtoken Honoring Choices Napa Valley steering committee. Dr. Sweigert and his wife, Patricia, have two children, Kelsey and Eric. Following his retirement in 2022, Dr. Sweigert will move to Bozeman, Montana, to be a full-time grandfather. prgtoken Madam , it is evident that Dr. Paul Sweigert has dedicated his life to the people of Napa through his medical career. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.
CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE McHENRY MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Josh Harder (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-7-7

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the McHenry Museum & Historical Society. Through its work over the last five decades, the McHenry Museum & Historical Society has served as a center for cultural enrichment, learning, and inspiration for our community in the Central Valley. prgtoken Located in the heart of downtown Modesto, the McHenry Museum welcomes thousands of visitors annually and works to preserve our local history. It's the continuation of a long tradition of public servants and committed community members working together to make sure that our community has a place to gather and celebrate its history. Modesto's first museum was opened in 1968 by the Citizens' Cultural Committee. By 1971, The City of Modesto recognized the success these efforts to chronicle early Modesto. It was then, that the vacated McHenry Public Library building converted into the McHenry Museum and Art Center. prgtoken The Museum was dedicated on July 4, 1972, when it took residence in the McHenry Public Library. One room became the changing exhibit room, another to display historic paintings, and the third was devoted to ``permanent'' displays. The auditorium was also part of the museum and was used for a variety of events from musical presentations to city council meetings. prgtoken To this day, the McHenry Museum & Historical Society continues to preserve our history and uplift the arts in a way that inspires our community. I thank the McHenry Museum & Historical Society volunteers, employees, generous donors, Board of Directors, Committee members, and public servants who give their time and energy to ensure that this incredible landmark will be around for decades to come.
RECOGNIZING THE MISSION OF SHRIMAD RAJCHANDRA LOVE AND CARE USA TO SERVE COMMUNITIES IN NEED ACROSS THE WORLD
Raja Krishnamoorthi (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2022-7-7

. Madam , today I rise to recognize the global mission of Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC) USA and the selfless Americans who serve communities in need across the world. prgtoken Led by thousands of highly motivated volunteers, SRLC is a global initiative that endeavors to meet the needs of the underprivileged through multi-pronged community support and development programs and other forms of educational, medical, and humanitarian care. Since its founding in 2003, SRLC has carried out its noble mission in big cities and small towns all over the world. With over 5,000 volunteers--most of whom carry distinguished expertise in medicine, engineering, and finance, and are active initiatives in over 50 cities worldwide--SRLC's mission to reduce human suffering is global and far-reaching. prgtoken Importantly, SRLC offers individuals a safe-haven in the face of armed conflict, relief from climate-related disasters, and access to medical care and other critical resources to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. In this effort, SRLC volunteers serve on the front lines of recovery efforts, rising to the challenges associated with providing emergency shelter to families impacted by devastating floods, tornadoes, fires, and other disasters. But don't just take my word for it; the data speaks for itself. According to recent estimates, SRLC has assisted more than 1.45 million patients in rural areas receive access to medical care to improve both physical and mental wellness in underserved communities. The organization has also impacted the lives of 1.47 million school children through educational initiatives that, for example, teach literacy and financial independence. In addition, SRLC has helped 2.34 million people through its humanitarian initiatives to combat homelessness, food insecurity, and economic disparity. prgtoken It is for this reason that SRLC now enjoys Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, a position it has held since 2020. prgtoken Throughout our history, Americans have always stepped up for one another in times of crisis. The obligation to be there for our fellow citizens is woven into the very fabric of our nation. For almost 20 years, this spirit of selflessness has been exemplified by Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC) USA and its devoted team of volunteers. It is my privilege to honor the important mission of SRLC and encourage all Americans to renew our collective commitment to lend a helping hand to those most in need.