mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN MEMORY OF MOTOR MACHINIST MATE 2ND CLASS ROGER H. SPOONER
Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2022-4-26

. Madam , it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today, to pay tribute to an extraordinary sailor, World War II veteran, and dedicated civil servant, Mr. Roger H. Spooner, who transitioned from labor to reward on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at the age of 99. His funeral service was held on Sunday, February 27, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. under the ``Spooner Oak'' on Bartow Gibson Highway in Seminole County, Georgia. prgtoken Roger Hern Spooner was born November 18, 1922, as one of eight children to the union of Lewis and Delia Spooner. prgtoken In his pursuit of a life outside of farming, Roger answered the call to serve his nation when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October of 1941 at the age of 18. After completing boot camp, he was sent to the aircraft carrier, prgtoken U.S.S. Yorktown, with a destination of Pearl Harbor, which had just been bombed. After arriving at Pearl Harbor and witnessing the remnants of damage and lingering smoke from the invasion, the crew of 2,500 sailors headed to the coast of Australia. In May of 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea, Roger saw action when the U.S.S. Yorktown endured damage, and the crew suffered 61 casualties. Following the gruesome battle, the carrier and crew returned to the Navy yard at Pearl Harbor for repairs. Once repairs were made, the crew made their way to Midway Island to join other ships in preparation for the Battle of Midway, which took place in June of 1942. Many historians consider it to be the most important battle in the Pacific during World War II as it was a clash between the U.S. Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor. prgtoken During the Battle of Midway, the U.S.S. Yorktown incurred a massive hit beyond repair, and the crew was told to abandon ship. One-by-one every crew member went down a line into the water with their life preservers into water that was so oily that once they were covered, you could only see the whites of their eyes. After being stranded afloat for a day, Roger and his crewmates were rescued. prgtoken Roger served another four years in the Navy, where he attended submarine school and completed nine war patrols out of Perth, Australia. He was later discharged from the Navy as a Motor Machinist Mate Second Class, after being involved in a motorcycle accident. Following his military service, he continued to serve his community and make an impact in the lives of others by serving his fellow Veterans as a member of the American Legion Post 157, Donalsonville. prgtoken In addition to serving, farming, and raising his family, Roger also ventured into the trucking industry. He worked for a company for almost 18 months before he decided to go into trucking for himself in 1948. From there, he started his company, Spooner Farms Trucking, LLC. His first truck was a 1940s model ``gas burner'' GMC, but over the years, he acquired several Kenworths and Peterbilts. Roger's sons, Da
PAYING TRIBUTE TO MADELEINE ALBRIGHT
Elissa Slotkin (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2022-4-26

. Madam , I rise today to pay tribute to one of our country's greatest public servants and diplomats. prgtoken Madeleine Albright was a stateswoman, a trailblazer, and someone who has been a friend and mentor to me and to so many other women in national security. prgtoken I appreciate Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer for creating this Special Order hour and allowing me to host it here and allow Members of Congress from across this entire body to contribute some remarks, some recognition, for a woman who has done so much to change the course of history in the United States. prgtoken I think it is particularly important because not only was she our first Secretary of State, not only was she at the U.N not only does she have a storied history in national security in the executive branch, she was also here in Congress as a Congressional aide, a chief of staff, a national security staffer, that made her mark in this body as well. prgtoken She was also a national security staffer at the White House, one of the first women to represent our country in the United Nations and, of course, our very first female Secretary of State. Her remarkable career and achievements are made all the more astonishing by the fact that she first came to this country as a refugee, having first left Czechoslovakia to escape the Nazis and then again to flee communist rule in Eastern Europe after the Second World War. prgtoken Secretary Albright would be the first one to tell you that her story would only be possible in the United States, the country she loved and served even long after her time in government had come to an end. prgtoken She left her stamp at the U.N. and at the State Department with her intelligence, her passion for human rights, and her unwavering commitment to democratic ideals. On the world stage, she stood up to dictators, shined the light on human rights abuses, and championed diplomacy and democracy. prgtoken Even though she had always been an idol for me as a young woman in national security, I actually didn't get a chance to meet her until 2018, until I became a Member of Congress. But the years that I have spent getting to know her since then have been incredibly important to me. prgtoken I think what many of us will recognize and remember is the class of 2018--that large group that were elected in 2018 to come into this body--it had the most women that had ever been elected; one of the most diverse classes that had ever been elected; one of the classes that contained the largest number of national security people; people that were veterans; and people that were former intelligence community folks--like myself. Madeleine Albright was the speaker when we all traveled to Williamsburg for our orientation, our session to get to know each other and how to be a Member of Congress. prgtoken I met her there, along with her wonderful chief of staff, Jacob Freedman, and basically had the honor of hosting her and walking her
TRIBUTE TO HATTIE DANIELS RUSH
Gwen Moore (Democrat, WI) \u2014 2022-4-26

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the life and service of Commissioner Hattie Daniels Rush, an innovator, entrepreneur, business consultant and former White House appointed Commissioner to the Commission on Presidential Scholars. It saddens me to say that this amazing community leader passed away on April 17, 2022. prgtoken Commissioner Rush started her journey as a trailblazer when she was just a child. She was one of the first African American children to attend 35th Street School and began to desegregate the Milwaukee Public School System. She did encounter racism and learned to confront and mediate such situations. The early lessons she experienced as a child helped mold her into the strong and inspirational woman she became as an adult. prgtoken Commissioner Rush was a graduate of the HBCU Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri. She always understood the importance of education. Commissioner Rush committed her life to public service, serving as a cheerful educator and licensed family therapist in the City of Milwaukee for many years. She also had a deep commitment to her faith in God and served in many roles with her church, Holy Redeemer. Her combination of skill sets from being a trained teacher and her work with the church put her in the perfect position to help Holy Redeemer open the first African American Christian school in the city, Holy Redeemer Christian Academy, where she served as the school's Program Director. Under the leadership of Commissioner Rush, the Holy Redeemer campus expanded to five separate schools and a range of social service institutions providing impoverished children with educational opportunities across Milwaukee. prgtoken One of her greatest contributions to this community was to cultivate the minds of young Black people by teaching them how to break down barriers and obstacles to achieving their goals. President was so impressed with Commissioner Rush's work that he offered her a position in his administration. Commissioner Rush accepted a part-time appointment to the Commission on Presidential Scholars so she could continue her work as the Program Director for Holy Redeemer Schools. prgtoken Hattie Daniels Rush has been my friend since kindergarten and a close friend of my family. My sister Brenda and I often debated who Hattie was most fond of and I had the privilege of visiting her before her transition. Hattie had a true loving and giving spirit; she accepted people as they were and encouraged them to be the best they could be. I count it all joy to have celebrated 65 years of friendship with Hattie Daniels Rush. I will truly miss her, and the people of the 4th Congressional District and the State of Wisconsin will miss this incredible woman. prgtoken She leaves behind her beloved husband and daughter, Robert Rush and Ericka Rush, siblings that include Attorney John Daniels, Bishop Sedgwick Daniels, Valerie Daniels-Carter and a host of other relatives
Business Before the Senate (Executive Session)
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2022-4-26

as we begin this 5-week work period, Senate ' focus will remain the same as it has been since last year: fighting inflation and lowering costs for American families. prgtoken At times, we will pursue this goal through legislation, as has been the case with our competition bill, with legislation to reform shipping practices that we passed recently, or finding ways to lower prescription drug costs. prgtoken And to that end, today, the Agriculture Committee is also holding a hearing on legislation to improve transparency in meat prices. prgtoken In addition to legislation, Senate will also help lower costs by confirming the right people to serve in the Federal Government. On that note, we will aim today to finish the confirmation of Lael Brainard to serve as Vice Chair of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. prgtoken Soon, the Senate will also work to confirm another very important nominee: Mr. Alvaro Bedoya to serve as Commissioner of the FTC, the Federal Trade Commission. Of all the Agencies in the Federal Government, the FTC is among the best equipped for protecting Americans from price gougers, manipulators, and those trying to rip off American consumers--or at least the FTC would be, if it had full membership. But, sadly, the FTC has been stuck at a 2-2 deadlock for well over a year, rendering it incapable of executing the full breadth of its agenda. prgtoken We have had two , two s. The nominees have resisted going after Big Oil and so many of the other excesses of corporate America. And who pays the price? In a very literal sense, it is American consumers as they see prices rise on everything from groceries to the number that pops up every time they fill up their tank. prgtoken But the story is grossly different in corporate America, and an FTC with full membership could shine a light as to why. While Americans across the board are making sacrifices to support themselves and their families, corporate America is raking in record profits. prgtoken As one article from Yahoo Finance summarized earlier this year, corporate America's 2021 profits were higher than ever. prgtoken Corporate America's profits were higher than ever. prgtoken Perhaps no sector has evoked more frustration and anger from the American people as the largest oil and gas companies and the prices they are charging. prgtoken Last year, the top 25 oil and gas companies reported $205 billion in profits. Where has that money gone? To help American consumers? No way. To ease our energy troubles? Not at all. prgtoken According to one news source yesterday, 28 of the largest oil and gas companies gave out $394 million in CEO compensation. And in the fourth quarter last year, stock buybacks among these companies rose by more than 2,000 percent--2,000 percent. prgtoken All this extra money they are making they put in the pockets of the CEOs and the wealthy shareholders who dominate in the oi
HONORING JOHN WILLIAMS
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-4-26

. Madam , I rise today to honor John Williams, whom I have named the 5th Congressional District's 2022 Climate Crisis Champion from Napa County for his inspiring leadership in combatting the climate crisis currently gripping our communities. prgtoken Born in Clymer, New York, Mr. Williams earned his bachelor's degree from Cornell University and his master's degree in Oenology from University of California, Davis. Mr. Williams founded Frog's Leap Winery over 40 years ago, working as a cellar hand at Stag's Leap Winery and Spring Mountain Winery to finance the first vintage of Frog's Leap wine. prgtoken On top of his deep passion for making excellent wine, Mr. Williams has made Frog's Leap Winery a pioneer of organic viticulture practices by abstaining from chemical fertilizers and pesticides, reducing irrigation, and installing solar technology. In fact, he brought a solar installation to Frog's Leap before any other winery in Napa County, starting a climate-friendly trend in the industry. prgtoken Mr. Williams participates in various community activities that work to combat climate change. He is a founding member of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers Environment and Climate Committee and also serves on the organization's Industry Issues Committee, which works to educate on climate-smart farming practices and setting measurable climate action goals for the wine industry. He was the 2020 Porto Protocols on Climate Change and the recipient of the coveted ``Susty'' award from the Ecological Farming Conference. Mr. Williams has also played a major role in the Napa Valley River Restoration project. prgtoken Mr. Williams' family have only good things to say about his amazing climate work and environmental business practices. John and his wife Tori have been married for 12 years, and collectively are the proud parents of Rory, Kylor, Kelly and Owen and four grandchildren, Hal, Alma, Casey and Sophie. prgtoken Madam , it is evident that John Williams has dedicated his life to combating the climate crisis in our communities. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.
IN HONOR OF LOUIS BURKOT
Ann M. Kuster (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2022-4-26

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Louis Burkot as he celebrates 40 years as the founding artistic director of Opera North in Lebanon, NH. prgtoken Among his accomplishments, Louis has conducted the Dartmouth College Glee Club and more than 700 Opera North Resident Artists from around the world. His expertise in vocal and choral music has contributed significantly to the Upper Valley community and beyond. Louis' knowledge of vocal and operatic music has been invaluable for many young singers, many of whom have gone on to major careers around the world. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's Second Congressional District, I thank Louis for his many years of service, and for being a part of what makes the Granite State so great. I am honored to recognize and congratulate Louis on 40 years of incredible work, and I wish him many more.
CASSIE TANNER
Ed Perlmutter (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2022-4-26

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and applaud Cassie Tanner for her service to the West Metro Fire Protection District. prgtoken Cassie has served on the Board of Directors of the West Metro Fire Protection District for eight years. During her tenure, she has provided strong leadership through a number of significant changes and is currently serving as Board President. prgtoken During her tenure on the Board, Cassie oversaw the budget and policy decisions for the West Metro Fire District. In this role, she supported local firefighters who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting people, property and the and community at-large. Her background in banking, finance, employee relations as well as her common sense, problem-solving skills helped make her a valuable member of the Board. prgtoken I have known Cassie for many years and know her to be a hardworking, dedicated member of our community. I extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to Cassie Tanner for her service to the West Metro Fire District and to our local community. I know she will continue on to do great things in our community and I wish her well in all of her future endeavors.
ORDERS FOR WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27, 2022
Margaret Wood Hassan (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2022-4-26

I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it adjourn until 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 27; and that following the prayer and pledge, the morning hour be deemed expired, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later in the day, and morning business be closed; that upon the conclusion of morning business, the Senate proceed to executive session to resume consideration of the Garnett nomination; further, that the cloture motions filed during yesterday's session ripen at 3:30 p.m.; finally, that if any nominations prgtoken are confirmed during Wednesday's session, the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action.
CONGRATULATING GRAMMY AWARDED ROCKFORD NATIVE ROBERT ISTAD
Cheri Bustos (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2022-4-26

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate Robert Istad for receiving a Grammy Award for ``Best Choral Performance.'' prgtoken Robert Istad is a native of Rockford, Illinois and a graduate of the Christian Life High School. Now a professor of Choral Studies and a conductor at Cal State Fullerton, Robert's passion for music has become a fulfilling career. This year, Robert won a Grammy Award for ``Best Choral Performance'' for his work on the classical piece Mahler Symphony Number 8, Symphony of a Thousand. It is the first Grammy Award for Robert and his renowned choir, the resident chorus at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. prgtoken Madam , I am proud to, again, formally congratulate Robert Istad on his first Grammy Award, and wish him much success in his life and career.
Dietary Supplements (Executive Session)
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2022-4-26

if I were to ask you ``How did you start your day?'' I would imagine you would have your own answer. prgtoken Most people would say: Oh, I made a cup of coffee. I took the dog out for a walk. I went for a run. prgtoken Another answer might come to mind: Oh, I took my vitamin tablet, my dietary supplement. prgtoken In fact, 77 percent of people in America take a dietary supplement, including me. I take a multivitamin tablet. I don't know if it does me any good. I figure it won't do me any harm. I believe in it. I believe Americans ought to be able to make that choice. prgtoken I also believe that Americans who take vitamins, minerals, and herbs for their health and well-being have a right to know what is in them-- pretty basic. prgtoken Many people assume if that product is sold in the United States of America, somebody has inspected it, and it must be safe. Unfortunately, that is not always true. prgtoken The Food and Drug Administration has the authority to regulate dietary supplements and take dangerous products off the market, but it lacks information that it needs to use this authority effectively. prgtoken The Food and Drug Administration can't even tell us how many dietary supplements are sold in America. They give us a range: somewhere between 50,000 different dietary supplements and 80,000--50,000 and 80,000--a gap of 30,000 products? What is going on here? They don't even know how many products are being sold, let alone what they are or what is in them. prgtoken Let's go back to 1994. That was the year Congress passed a law and gave the FDA the authority to regulate supplements. Now, we all know that the Food and Drug Administration has the most important responsibility when it comes to the drugs that we take to make sure they are two things: safe and effective--safe and effective. prgtoken But what about dietary supplements? Well, we passed something called DSHEA, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act. The law made some progress, but there was a problem with it. Manufacturers of dietary supplements--get this now--manufacturers of those vitamins and minerals that are for sale in all those shops and all those drugstores are not required to tell the Food and Drug Administration what products they are selling in the United States, under what names. They are not required to disclose to the FDA what is in those products or where they are manufactured. And believe me, a lot of them are manufactured outside the United States. So when it comes to dietary supplements, the Food and Drug Administration and American consumers are pretty much flying blind. prgtoken Making matters worse, since 1994, this dietary supplement industry has grown dramatically. Listen to these figures. In 1994, there were 4,000 dietary supplements sold in the United States. Today, as I said earlier, the number is as high as 80,000. So in 27, 30 years, we have seen the number of dietary supplements for sale go from 4,00
PRESIDENT ULYSSES S. GRANT 200TH BIRTHDAY
Brad R. Wenstrup (Republican, OH) \u2014 2022-4-26

I rise today to recognize the 200th birthday of our 18th United States President, Ulysses S. Grant. prgtoken President Grant was born in Point Pleasant, located in Clermont County in Ohio's Second Congressional District. When Ulysses was a child, the Grant family moved to Brown County, also in Ohio's Second District, and there he was educated before accepting a nomination to the United States Military Academy at West Point. prgtoken Following his commissioning, Grant served in the Mexican-American War, and most notably, the Civil War, where he became Commanding General of the United States Army in 1864. prgtoken General Grant oversaw the surrender of General Lee at Appomattox Court House and served as Commanding General of the Army until he was elected President in 1868. He served two terms as President, overseeing the beginning of the Reconstruction Era in the United States. prgtoken President Grant is the General who ``saved the Union.'' He was a great leader who left his mark in American history. We should all seek to follow his example and leadership. prgtoken , I am honored to have President Grant's birthplace in Ohio's Second Congressional District, a true landmark of our Nation's history.
TRIBUTE TO CALEB SMITH
Roger Marshall (Republican, KS) \u2014 2022-4-26

I rise today to honor and recognize Caleb Smith of Newton, KS. Caleb is the recipient of the 2021-2022 Kansas principal of the year. prgtoken Caleb has shown outstanding leadership at Newton High School in order to earn this award. His passion for the students, working with the staff, and creative ideas to enhance technology at the school all contributed to this great success. Caleb found out about this honor Monday, April 11, following a school scavenger hunt where he walked all over the campus to find his students presenting the award to him. Superintendent Fred Van Ranken celebrated Caleb saying, ``Mr. Smith has done an outstanding job of trying to create an amazing culture at Newton High School and within the Newton communities, and it shows. I am so happy for Caleb to be recognized at the state level for what he and his team are doing at USD 373.'' prgtoken This is an honor that Caleb should be immensely proud of. After reading through countless quotes from fellow teachers and Newton students, it is clear that Caleb has a true passion--and immense talent--for teaching our future leaders. This award is a testament to all of his hard work in providing outstanding education for all students that walk through his classroom. I am ecstatic to hear about the impact this great Kansan is having on our future generations. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Caleb Smith of Newton, KS.