mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE TX03 CONGRESSIONAL YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL
Van Taylor (Republican, TX) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the 2020-2021 Congressional Youth Advisory Council (CYAC) as the fifteenth year of the program draws to a close. prgtoken Over the past year, students from public, private, and home schools in grades 9th through 12th across Texas' Third Congressional District participated in my youth program as they learned more about our democracy, engaged in policy discussions, and offered innovative solutions to issues of the day. From student governments, athletics, fine arts, honor societies, and a multitude of community and civic organizations, these servant leaders proved to be engaged members of our community both inside and outside of the program. prgtoken Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, students assembled virtually during interactive sessions to discuss topics of importance to their generation in a constructive and thoughtful way. These young leaders also capitalized on their experience by completing various assignments and offering feedback on current events which corresponded with our meetings. prgtoken This year's students impressed me with their knowledge and willingness to engage in thoughtful dialogue, even when their opinions differed from one another. Now as we conclude this year's Congressional Youth Advisory Council, I am certain this next generation of leaders will work towards solutions to better our Nation. prgtoken I thank every member of the Congressional Youth Advisory Council, for their commitment to this program even amidst the uncertainty of the world around us. It has been an honor to know them and serve them in Congress, and I look forward to seeing what each of them accomplishes as they go forward. prgtoken Hannah Abraham, Sahithi Alla, Ian Bensley, Carlos Betancourt, Kody Blackwood, Bishop Curry, David David, William Davidson, Krutin Devesh, Madilyn Eckenrode, Ariel Feldman, Karis Fulks, Stephanie Gallagher. prgtoken Rithvik Ganesh, Jai Gupta, Devon Jackson, on Karicher, Mysha Khan, Isabelle Ma, Tanya Magesh, Connor McSorley, Campbell Morrow, Kaylie Mowell, Param Naik, Ryan Oltmann, Ethan Ong. prgtoken Ariana Palomo, Christian Pressler, Pranavraj Prithviraju, Sophia Rahim, Jacob Reed, Sean Reyes, Micah Sanchez, Rhea Sood, Ella Streber, Kevin Sun, Avery Van Scoy, Pranav Varanasi, Alexandra Vincent.
HONORING DR. MICHAEL CHIGLINSKY
H. Morgan Griffith (Republican, VA) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise in honor of Michael Anthony Chiglinsky, a Salem, Virginia School Board member, who died on April 13, 2021 at the age of 65. Widely and affectionately known as ``Dr. Mike,'' he left a memorable mark on the Roanoke Valley area through his care and service to the children and families of the region. prgtoken Dr. Chiglinsky was born on August 7, 1955 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He attended nearby Lycoming College and then earned a doctorate in psychology at Georgia State University. He pursued a career as an expert in children and family therapy, which brought him to Southwest Virginia. prgtoken Dr. Chiglinsky and his wife Joanne founded ACA Counseling Services, offering support to local youth and families. He had a passion for helping children and families, which he further fulfilled as a member of the Salem School Board. His service on the board began in 2009, and he rose to vice chairman in 2013. Professional expertise, a friendly demeanor, and an interest in helping people characterized his service. prgtoken Dr. Chiglinsky's service extended far beyond Salem schools and his private practice. He often testified as an expert witness in juvenile and domestic relations court, assisting in evaluating their needs for services. His testimonies were always regarded with great value and his professional judgement was held in the highest esteem in the courts. prgtoken Dr. Chiglinsky is survived by his wife Joanne; his children, Brian, Katherine, and Peter; his daughter-in-law, Crystal; his sister, Ann; and two brothers, Joseph and Vince. I offer my condolences on the loss of this selfless and service-minded community leader.
HONORING THE 2020 TEEN MISS AGRICULTURE USA, SAMANTHA HARPER
Kat Cammack (Republican, FL) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I am proud to honor Miss Samantha Harper, 2020 National Teen Miss Agriculture USA of Florahome, Florida. Miss Harper is a 2021-22 Florida State Fair Ambassador where she demonstrates her love for Florida's strong agricultural traditions. She also serves as president of the Putnam County 4-H County Counsel and is a proud FFA student and student government participant at Q.I. Roberts Jr./Sr. High School. Congratulations to Samantha on all of her accomplishments.
RECOGNIZING THE UNITED HEALTH CENTERS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise today in honor of the United Health Centers of the San Joaquin Valley's 50th Anniversary of service to the Central Valley. prgtoken In 1971, concerned citizens identified the need for accessible and quality healthcare in the Valley's rural communities and formed committees to find solutions. Their advocacy work established the foundation for what would become United Health Centers of the San Joaquin Valley (UHC), incorporated later that year. prgtoken UHC is a nonprofit organization providing comprehensive medical, dental, and community health services to underserved communities in the San Joaquin Valley. Their mission is to provide accessible, comprehensive quality health care to everyone with respect and compassion regardless of their ability to pay. prgtoken Today, UHC operates a total of 24 health centers in Fresno, Kings and Tulare Counties, improving access to care for over 150,000 patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they have led local efforts in the fight to limit the devastating effects of the coronavirus by conducting 200,000 COVID-19 screening tests and providing 55,000 vaccinations in the first year of the pandemic. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the United Health Centers of the San Joaquin Valley and their 50 years of committed service to the region's healthcare community.
IN RECOGNITION OF MAYOR RICHARD ``DICK'' STARLIPER
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise today to honor Mayor Richard ``Dick'' Starliper for his outstanding service to the Waynesboro community. prgtoken For decades, Mayor Starliper has demonstrated his dedication to the people of Waynesboro. Currently, he is serving in his 16th year in office. Prior to his tenure as mayor, he served as a Waynesboro Borough Councilman for 14 years. During this time, worked to promote small businesses, expand Waynesboro's historic downtown, cut taxes, and ensure the safety of Waynesboro residents. prgtoken In addition to his official duties, Mayor Starliper is an active participant in the prgtoken Waynesboro community and other civic organizations. He is a member of the Greater Waynesboro Chamber of Commerce, the Waynesboro Beneficial Fund, the Pennsylvania State Mayors Association, and the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs, as well as the president of the Bums Hill Cemetery Association. Mayor Starliper also founded the Franklin County Mayor's Association, which encourages communication between county leaders. prgtoken Mayor Starliper is an incredible asset to the Waynesboro community. His steadfast dedication to our community has made Waynesboro a better place to live, work, and raise a family. It is my privilege to serve the people of Waynesboro alongside Mayor Starliper, and I wish him continued success in this vital work.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND COMMEMORATING THE PASSING OF FORMER CONGRESSMAN CARLOS ROMERO BARCELO
Jenniffer González-Colón (Republican, PR) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise today to commemorate the life of a former member of this House who defined an epoch in Puerto Rican Politics. prgtoken On Sunday May 2nd, Carlos Romero Barcelo died, ending an outstanding career in Puerto Rico's political environment, as Mayor of San Juan, Governor, State Senator, and Resident Commissioner, and even after leaving elected office still an active leader in his party and in the cause of Puerto Rican Statehood to his very last days. He was one of the figures that marked indelibly the last 50 years of our political scene. prgtoken In his younger years he was part of a group of leaders who saw the need for a vision of the cause of equality of rights for the American citizens of Puerto Rico. He, a , joined Luis Ferre, a , to refocus the statehood movement towards bringing an answer to the needs of the people for prosperity and security and affirmation of their rights. prgtoken In was this group that after many decades of virtual one-party rule in Puerto Rico established a balance of competitive elections, that expanded the use of primaries from local to national; that made it a goal to whenever possible attain equality in the rights and benefits of working families. And above all, to promote the essential step to equality and prosperity: the attainment of Statehood for Puerto Rico. prgtoken That quest brought him repeatedly to the halls of this Congress, as a party leader, as a governor, and as a participant in the hearings processes for the Status Bills of 1989 to 1991. Finally, as part of this House from 1993 to 2001 where he stood out in this effort, including his work with Congressman Young on the last Puerto Rico status bill to pass the full House in 1998. prgtoken Carlos was characterized for his energetic presence, for never being timid in expressing what he felt or believed, for demanding much of himself and of those who worked with him. His character was fiery, passionate, and inspiring in return strong passion both from supporters and opponents. You could not be neutral about him and he did not want you to be. But he also knew the value of teamwork and of giving an opportunity to those with potential. It was a privilege to know Carlos Romero, to work with him, to have followed and, yes, to have differed from him--if you had solid and respectful arguments, he returned that respect. prgtoken Carlos was part of a family who lent many figures to Puerto Rico's politics for over a century, and whose members we now embrace in solidarity in this trying time. It was not always easy and public opinion was often cruel, but that is the price of service. prgtoken It is the end of an era, and as we celebrate the achievements of a former member of this House it is also time to reflect and to reaffirm our commitment to the cause he stood for. It is now up to those who follow in his footsteps, to continue the journey towards that cause of equality for all, for which he worke
QUINNE MOFFAT
Ed Perlmutter (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and applaud Quinne Moffat for earning the ``Best in Show'' Award and third place recognition for her creative and unique drawing as part of the 2021 Congressional Art Competition. prgtoken As a first-time participant in the art show and a student at Golden Senior High School, Quinne created a work of art entitled, ``Adoration''. This artwork used oil paint and is a hyperrealistic oil painting of man looking down at his son who is wrapped in a knitted purple blanket. prgtoken Quinne spent countless hours and used numerous tools to learn new techniques and refine her drawing skills and education in the arts. I appreciate her participation in the competition and the support provided by her teacher at Golden Senior High School. prgtoken Congratulations to Quinne Moffat for her hard work and participation in the 2021 Congressional Art Competition. I am certain she will exhibit the same dedication and character in her future accomplishments, and I wish her the best of luck going forward.
RECOGNIZING DONNA KALEZ AND GISELE ANDERSON AS MY CONSTITUENTS OF THE MONTH
Mike Levin (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , it is my honor to recognize Donna Kalez and Gisele Anderson for my April Constituents of the prgtoken Month. My district is home to more than 50 miles of beautiful California coastline, which includes some of the most incredible marine and sea life. Sightings of whales and dolphins off the beach and marina have brought tourists and locals alike to Dana Point for decades. Making this local phenomenon more accessible, Donna and Gisele collaborated as co-directors of the Dana Point Whale Watching Company for sightseers to experience the magic up-close. prgtoken Their advocacy for local cetacean brought joy to all who frequent the city, but Donna and Gisele thought bigger, believing the world also deserved to know just how special the marine life experience in Dana Point is. With their combined effort to put the city's name on the map by showcasing the exceptional 450,000 ``dolphin stampede'' and year- round sightings of rare whales, Donna and Gisele worked together to earn Dana Point well-deserved international recognition. prgtoken In order to make that happen, the women formed a steering committee composed of civic, scientific, academic, business and community leaders, overcame challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and competed internationally to achieve the title that honors Dana Point's tradition as a pioneer in marine conservation. Due to their diligent work with the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), Dana Point is officially recognized as the first and only Whale Heritage Site in the Americas and one of only four in the world. Better yet, they took the extra step to legally trademark Dana Point as the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World. prgtoken As a native Southern Californian, I know first-hand how incredibly special our coastline and marine life are to the community. I'm grateful to Donna and Gisele for leading the charge in also letting the world know just how blessed we are to have these incredible creatures right here in our backyards. As leaders in the community, I thank them both for their advocacy and trail blazing efforts of bringing global attention to the United States of America being home to the most amazing populations of dolphins and whales like nowhere else in the world, especially in Dana Point. I'm honored to recognize them both as my April Constituents of the Month.
HONORING LIN JEFFREY RILEY, SR.
Bennie G. Thompson (Democrat, MS) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise today to honor a remarkable hero, Lin Jeffrey Riley, Sr. prgtoken Raised in Senatobia, Mississippi (Tate County), Lin Jeffrey Riley, became the seventh child of Daisy Mae Riley and L.V. Coppage, born July 29, 1966. He found his calling late in life as the founder and organizer of the Marks Youth Outreach, Inc. Season after season, he lends his muscle to the Marks 49ers Athletic Programs. ``Coach Riley'', as he is known, has always been athletic, lively, outgoing, and creative. He was an outstanding student/athlete during his high school years. Coach Riley currently holds the top record for ``Most Quarterback Sacks'' in a single game at Senatobia High School. For three years consecutively, he received the Hawks Award for most forced and recovered fumbles, quarterback sacks, and pass interceptions. prgtoken After relocating to Quitman County in 1997, Riley worked several jobs. He operated Riley's Hand Car Wash and Detail Shop and coached football at the Quitman County Middle School and Madison Shannon Palmer High School. It was during those times when he got an eyeful and earful of recreational activities needed for the youth of this area. Because of Riley's initiative, enthusiasm, willingness and time for these youth, the Marks Youth Outreach Program, Inc. was founded and organized. prgtoken Having healthy, educated youth with Christian values is very vital for this county. Likewise, Coach Riley is at the top of the game working daily to ensure that these values are instilled in the youth of this community. But make no mistake he says, ``Success was anything but instant''. prgtoken A community baseball team was the initial beginning and from that other sports programs emerged--football, basketball, tee ball, cheerleading, and now kickball and flag football have been added. Riley credits the program's success to God and lives by the scripture: ``With God all things are possible . . .'' (Mathew 19:26). prgtoken Surviving 3 major strokes, Riley stills coaches and mentors countless of youth and has no plans on stopping anytime soon. On November 7, 2020, a field dedication ceremony was held in his honor. The football field is named Lin Riley Field, located in Marks, MS. prgtoken On February 28, 2015, Lin married his wife Tracey Hankins-Riley and is the father of Lindez Wright, Terrell Wright, Travis McAdory, Kevon Taylor, Trinity Taylor, Lance Johnson, King Lin Jeffery Riley, Jr Lakendrick Ware and Tommy Ware. He is a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Marks, MS. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Lin Jeffrey Riley for he is the epitome of an unsung hero.
HONORING LAURIE SCHIPPER AS IOWAN OF THE WEEK
Cynthia Axne (Democrat, IA) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , as Women's History Month comes to an end, I rise today to recognize a strong woman who is a pillar of our community. Laurie Schipper is retiring from her position at Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence. She was nominated by her coworkers because of the significant impact on their lives as a mentor and supervisor and has changed the lives of many Iowans and survivors of domestic violence. prgtoken Laurie Schipper joined The Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV) in 1993 as its only staff person. Much has changed since 1993 and in the following 28 years, Laurie has changed her community, ICADV, and the state for the better. ICADV is now in strong hands with a diverse multigenerational staff of 12. prgtoken Laurie received her Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree in 1985 from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. Laurie has worked within the Battered Women's Movement for nearly 40 years, prior to Ms. Schipper's work with the Coalition, she worked in a battered women's shelter and rape crisis center in Ames, Iowa for 10 years. Over the years Laurie provided technical assistance and training to domestic violence advocates and other professionals who interface with battered women and their children. Laurie served on the Iowa STOP Violence Against Women State Coordinating Council, participated in national training and curriculum development, and consulted on public policy as it relates to domestic violence. prgtoken In thirty years of work, Laurie strengthened our domestic violence laws and protections, regionalized the state service delivery network, and made Iowa a national leader in responding to survivors' economic and housing needs. Laurie's leadership style at ICADV was one in which she surrounded herself with brilliant people and did her best to both challenge and support them and always had their backs when the going got tough. Ms. Schipper empowered and inspired the people around her to be the best of themselves. prgtoken It is clear from the praise Laurie has received from her friends and coworkers that her work with Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence will continue long past her tenure with the organization, which is why I am proud to name her Iowan of the Week. Please join me in congratulating Laurie Schipper for her 40 years of service to our community.
IN RECOGNITION OF THE CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF THE KIWANIS CLUB OF YPSILANTI
Debbie Dingell (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the centennial anniversary of the Kiwanis Club of Ypsilanti. I am proud to celebrate their 100 years of service to the children, youth, and families of our Ypsilanti community. prgtoken Kiwanis International was founded in 1915 in Detroit, Michigan. In its early years, members focused on business networking but changed its focus to service, particularly service to children, by 1919. Following this admirable mission of service to local communities, the Kiwanis Club of Ypsilanti was chartered on April 13, 1921 with 86 members as the 15th Kiwanis club in the Michigan district. prgtoken One of the first projects that the Ypsilanti Club embarked on, led by a Michigan State Normal College professor, was an information campaign about the benefits of consolidating rural schools in Washtenaw County, which directly led to the establishment of Lincoln Consolidated Schools. Other projects include over a thousand volunteer hours spent paving a road, cleaning the shoreline, and beautifying Riverside Park, a project led by Andrew Smith--and finished all in one day. The Ypsilanti Kiwanis also ran the Full Circle House in the City of Ypsilanti, a home for those who need help getting on their feet after battling mental health issues. From building projects to their annual Duck Race, generations of Ypsilanti families have served in the club. Their selfless hours of service have benefitted the entire Ypsilanti community. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Kiwanis Club of Ypsilanti. We are grateful for the club's century of impactful work and wish the Kiwanis Club of Ypsilanti continued success in service in the years ahead.
HONORING THE MEMORY OF COUNCIL MEMBER MARK HARGROVE
Norma J. Torres (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-5-4

. Madam , I rise today to honor my constituent from the City of Chino, Council Member Mark Hargrove. It is with more than a heavy heart that I share that Mark Hargrove passed away on March 28, 2021. prgtoken Mark Hargrove served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1983 to 1987, where he acquired the ranking of Sergeant. Following his service, Mark worked for the next thirty years at the California Department of Corrections. Twenty of those years were spent at the California Institute for Men in Chino, from which he retired as a Lieutenant. prgtoken Mark also played an important role in local policymaking. Mark served on the Planning Commission for the City of Chino and was then elected in 2018 to sit on the City Council. Mark became sick shortly after taking office but continued to fight for his community: he served as the City of Chino's representative on the Santa Ana Watershed Advisory Council, the Citizen's Advisory Committee to the California Institute for Men and Women, the Chino Valley Unified School District Measure G Oversight Committee, and the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce board. Such unyielding commitment to improving the lives of the residents of our community, even in the face of adversity, is just one reason we will miss Mark. prgtoken Along with being dedicated to his civic employment, Mark gave his time to supporting youth sports and education programs. He coached several youth sports and served as Chino High's sports boosters president and basketball boosters club president, which he also founded. In 2018, Mark received the Frank Elder Award, which honors individuals who have devoted their lives to the Chino community and the student-athletes of Chino High. prgtoken Today, Madam , it is my honor to recognize Mark Hargrove for his unmatched commitment and civic dedication to the City of Chino and to the contributions he has made to the greater community of the Inland Empire. May he rest in peace.