mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
REMEMBERING WALTER IGNATIUS WILLARD
Troy A. Carter (Democrat, LA) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise today to honor the late Walter Ignatius Willard. prgtoken Walter was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on April 14, 1957, the fifth child of twelve born to the late Elliot ``Doc'' Willard Sr. and Mary Jane Jordan Willard. He passed away peacefully on February 11, 2022, at the age of 64, after a well-fought battle with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. He is survived by the love of his life, Valerie ``Missy'' Sims; their three daughters, Jordan, Jillian, and Jenna; his eleven siblings; and many nephews, nieces, and friends. prgtoken A proud Purple Knight, Walter attended St. Augustine High School, and prior to graduating in 1975, played trumpet for St. Aug's renowned Marching 100. He not only was the trumpet section leader, but also was the first musician selected to play the band's newly introduced herald trumpet. He then earned a B.A. in political science in 1979 at Tulane University, where his ceaseless love of music led him to join the university's marching band. Walter then ventured to Washington, D.C where he obtained his J.D. from the American University Washington College of Law in 1982. While in the nation's capital, Walter worked in the Capitol Hill offices of Louisiana Congressman Gillis Long, Senator Russell Long, and Senator J. Bennett Johnston. prgtoken Walter returned to New Orleans to start his law career, eventually earning a Master of Law degree in energy and environment from Tulane Law School in 1993. Over the course of his 30-year legal career, he was admitted to the bar for the states of Louisiana, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, and served as judge pro tempore for the Orleans Civil District Court. As Dr. Martin Luther King once said, ``True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.'' A passionate advocate for justice, Walter spent his career leveraging his judgment and compassion in the pursuit of Dr. King's vision for authentic peace. One of his greatest endeavors in this regard was acting as one of the plaintiffs in the historic Supreme Court redistricting case Chisolm v. Edwards, which set the stage for Louisiana's first African American Supreme Court justice. prgtoken Walter's remarkable life was characterized by unconditional love and support for family and friends, zealous engagement with community programs and initiatives to improve life for others, and an ardent devotion to God. A lifelong parishioner at St. Raymond Catholic Church, he was an altar boy in his youth and became a member of the church's choir as an adult. Selflessly committed to the betterment of his community, Walter's civic involvements included acting as a voluntary attorney in child neglect cases for the Orleans Parish Juvenile Court CASA program, participating on the mayor's Environmental Affairs Advisory Committee as well as the Task Force on City-Owned Cemeteries, and serving as a member and chair of the New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission. Additi
IN RECOGNITION OF LETRENT'S PHARMACY
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Letrent's Pharmacy as they celebrate their 50th anniversary of serving the people of Bedford, Pennsylvania. For 50 years, Letrent's Pharmacy has served the people in that community with the utmost care and consideration. The pharmacy has been a family owned and operated business since Richard Letrent opened the pharmacy in 1972 after spending 5 years in another location not too far from his current flagship store. prgtoken Richard, his wife Connie and their daughter, Connie are all proud alumni of Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, and their tight-knit family make up three of the five practicing pharmacists at Letrent's. prgtoken Throughout the time they have operated the pharmacy, the Letrent's have dedicated themselves to ensuring the health and wellness of the Bedford County community. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District it is my honor to wish the Letrent family a happy 50th anniversary, and many, many more to come. Congratulations on this incredible milestone.
RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS AND DEDICATION OF MS. LYNNE TELFORD
Doug Lamborn (Republican, CO) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise today in recognition of the achievements and dedication of Ms. Lynne Telford, the CEO of Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado. Ms. Telford is retiring after 11 years of faithful service to those in need in the Pikes Peak Region. prgtoken Since taking the reins at Care and Share Food Bank, Lynne has demonstrated steadfast leadership, not only within the Care and Share organization but across the non-profit industry in Colorado Springs. prgtoken Shortly after her start with Care and Share, Lynne identified the need for resiliency in operations. She helped to build a disaster response system during the Waldo Canyon Fire (2012), the Black Forest Fire (2013), and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. prgtoken Thinking outside the box, Lynne helped develop a successful Direct Services branch, including Sunny Side Markets and Mobile Markets. Her goal was to reach those unable to be served by traditional food bank methods. prgtoken Additionally, Lynne established an endowment fund under the Care and Share Foundation to spin-off operating funds each year. prgtoken Care and Share Food Bank is currently opening up a third distribution center in the San Luis Valley of Southern Colorado. This unprecedented addition will increase trucking and shipping efficiencies, getting food to those in need faster. prgtoken During her time as CEO, Care and Share more than doubled the amount of food distributed, totaling 25 million lbs. in 2021. Incredibly, revenue generation under Lynne's leadership has grown exponentially. In 2021, more than 17,000 people made a gift in support of Care and Share. prgtoken But her leadership and service to her community doesn't end there. Lynne has served on the Board of Directors for Leadership Pikes Peak (2003-2006), the Pikes Peak Library District (2004-2016), the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC Board (2014-2019). In addition, she currently serves on the Colorado Food Advisory Council, the Colorado Springs City for Champions Committee, and was appointed to the Colorado State Board of Human Services in 2019 by Governor Polis. prgtoken Lynne's value to our community is undeniable. So much so that in 2020, Lynne was the recipient of the coveted United Way S. Jerrard ``Jerry'' Smith Community Service Award, an award presented annually to an individual whose involvement in public policy and civic issues led to the growth and betterment of the Pikes Peak region. prgtoken Madam , I ask that my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me in honoring Lynne Telford and her legacy of kindness, creative thinking, and hard work that will transcend generations to come. Lynne's service to her community has provided many homes in Colorado's 5th Congressional District with a warm, dignified meal. I congratulate and thank Lynne for her many accomplishments and wish her the very best in her next adventure.
HONORING MICHAEL MEDART
Ann Wagner (Republican, MO) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise to congratulate my friend, Michael ``Mike'' Medart, of Medart Engine & Marine, on the conclusion of his tenure as Chairman of the National Association of Wholesaler- Distributors (NAW), an association comprised of the distributors who keep America moving. prgtoken During Mike's leadership, NAW fought for and defended pro-business policies that boost our local economies. NAW, with its partners, also donated more than $1 million in PPE and other supplies to help reopen America. NAW saw rapid growth in the industry and the association itself and was crucial in reopening America at a critical time. prgtoken The name Medart is familiar to Missourians in my district and our region, having been a mainstay in the community for more than 100 years. Mike is at the helm of a third generation of leadership, an incredible legacy of which he should be proud. The family-owned company prioritizes a ``Golden Rule Service'' commitment to their customers and employs more than a hundred workers, with many having been with the company for decades. prgtoken I congratulate Mike and thank him for his leadership nationally and at home in Missouri!
IN RECOGNITION OF SERGEANT PAUL EDWARD THORNTON
Michael C. Burgess (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the exemplary work of Sergeant Paul Thornton as he retires from a life of public service. He has served the citizens of the State of Texas, in the communities of Houston, Huntsville, and The Colony as a police officer for over 34 years. prgtoken Sergeant Thornton began his law enforcement career in 1988 when he was hired as a police officer with the University of Houston Central Campus Police Department. He attended the County Sheriff's Office Academy. Between 1988 and 1992, Sergeant Thornton also worked as a police officer with the Sam Houston State University Police Department and the Walker County Sheriffs Office. During this time he also earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University. prgtoken On September 2, 1992, Sergeant Thornton was hired by The Colony Police Department. Just a year later, he was named The Colony PD's ``Officer of The Year''. In 1995, he became The Colony PD's first and only K9 Officer. He and his K9 colleague, Major, a narcotic detection dog, worked the streets several years combating illegal narcotics. prgtoken In 1998, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. After his promotion, he served as both a Night Shift and Day Shift Patrol Sergeant. As a Patrol Sergeant, he has been in charge of the Crossing Guards, Bike Patrol Unit, Traffic Enforcement Division and the departments off-duty employment program. He has also served as the department's Criminal Investigations Supervisor and the Internal Affairs Sergeant. prgtoken In 1999, be met the love of his life and wife, Karen Thornton. Karen is a United States Air Force Veteran and holds a Master's Degree from the University of Texas-Austin. Sergeant Thornton and his wife have three children, Alex, Samantha, and Tyler; and two grandchildren, Clayden and Reagan Thornton. prgtoken Sergeant Thornton has devoted over 34 years faithfully serving and protecting his community. For more than three decades, he has put strangers' safety above his own, and we are indebted to him. I am deeply grateful for his service to our community and state, and I wish Sergeant Thornton and his family the best in his retirement.
RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF POINT OF VIEW
Van Taylor (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , today, I rise to recognize national talk radio program, Point of View, as they celebrate 50 years of media ministry committed to providing listeners with biblical clarity and truth. prgtoken Since launching in 1972, under talk radio pioneer, Marlin Maddoux, Point of View has offered listeners authentic insight on a full spectrum of subject matter and current events affecting our nation's families, constitutional freedoms, and faith. In recognition of his efforts, Maddoux received the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Award of Merit and was prgtoken later inducted into the NRB Hall of Fame. In 1994, Christian Today Magazine recognized the program as America's most popular live Christian call-in show. prgtoken Much of the longtime success of this program can be attributed to current host, Kerby Anderson, whose impressive background includes serving as the President of Probe Ministries and as the author of more than 25 books ranging from topics focused on media and technology, to economics and intelligent design. Cohost Penna Dexter shares the same devotion to God's truth as she provides listeners with weekly commentary focused on Christian conservative politics and prominent cultural issues affecting the family. Throughout it all, the Point of View team has remained steadfast in their commitment to sharing the truth of God to restore a Christian worldview and provide biblical wisdom in today's culture. prgtoken For 50 years, Point of View has brought needed attention to prominent issues while serving as a source of wisdom rooted in God's word. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to the Point of View team on this milestone anniversary and ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing their devoted service to truth and keeping God's word at the center of their message as they seek to enlighten the people of this Nation.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF SOUTH CAROLINA FIREFIGHTER HOBART ERICKSON
Jeff Duncan (Republican, SC) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise today to honor the service of Mr. Hobart ``Hobie'' Erickson of Donalds, South Carolina, who has served as a first responder firefighter for over sixty-five years. prgtoken Mr. Erickson began his career as a firefighter in 1965 in New Jersey where he served for thirty years, rising to the position of Chief. In 1995, Mr. Erickson and his wife retired to Donalds, South Carolina. After being encouraged by his wife, Lois, Mr. Erickson left retirement to serve the Donalds Fire Department where he has since spent 35\1/2\ years in continued service. prgtoken In January of 2022, Mr. Erickson turned 95 years old. According to the South Carolina Firefighters Association, Mr. Erickson is the oldest of 17,000 actively serving firefighters in the state. Although he is no longer able to fight fires, Mr. Erickson is a vital member of the department where he tends to the fire trucks and answers calls for medical assistance. He attributes his health and energy to the protection of Jesus Christ and his loving wife. The younger firefighters in Donalds look up to Mr. Erickson, and he even exercises with them several hours a week. Younger firefighters gather around Mr. Erickson to hear his stories and his advice on how to treat others and how to be a successful leader. prgtoken Mr. Erickson's selfless leadership has made not only the Third District of South Carolina proud, but the entire state of South Carolina. His tireless commitment to keep his community safe and healthy for over a half of a century is something we should all aspire to have. Throughout his career, he has exemplified what it means to be a true servant leader. I am confident in the future of first responders in my district because of the example Mr. Erickson has set. prgtoken Madam , it is a privilege to be able to serve the Third District of South Carolina and to honor those who have dedicated their life to service, like Mr. Erickson. I wish Mr. Erickson and his family many more years of health and happiness.
RECOGNIZING LANE CHANGE
Vicky Hartzler (Republican, MO) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the outstanding work of a local nonprofit in my district for their commitment to ending substance abuse. prgtoken Lane Change was established by Lauren and Cory Mitchell, along with Brad and Stacy Segebarth, after local resident Lane Austin died from a fatal overdose while waiting for an available inpatient drug treatment facility. Within less than three short years, Lane Change has transformed many lives through education, outreach, and prevention in the Lebanon Community. Most importantly, their organization has helped families receive counseling and inpatient treatment for substance abuse through local and regional partnerships. Their network has become a vital resource for patients and probationary drug offenders, something that did not exist when Lane Austin lost his life over three years ago. prgtoken Founder and executive director, Lauren Mitchell, is continually expanding her vision for Lane Change as she recognizes more unmet needs in her community. Her organization does not simply want to treat the symptoms of substance abuse but address the fundamental problems that drive it. Like many programs, their leadership understands that substance abuse is frequently linked with mental illnesses or social trauma in childhood and adolescence, making early intervention crucial to prevention. Lane Change has already outgrown their current facility as they have expanded their program to include a safe place for local students to spend time away from troubled home environments. prgtoken None of this would have been possible without the generosity of donors and community volunteers. I am proud of each one and for Lauren Mitchell whose vision and commitment made this nonprofit possible. She has already made a tremendous impact. In the coming years, I look forward to watching Lane Change continue to grow and transform lives in southwest Missouri.
HONORING WALLACE JAY NELSON, JR.
H. Morgan Griffith (Republican, VA) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise to commemorate the life of my longtime dear friend Wallace Jay ``Wally'' Nelson, Jr. of Blacksburg, Virginia, who passed away on January 28, 2022. prgtoken Wally was a native Virginian and a graduate of Emory & Henry College, where he and I were roommates. While there he studied economics and went on to receive his master's degree in business from the University of Virginia. prgtoken Wally started his professional career at Burlington Industries. He worked hard and gave his all, earning the spot as the youngest-ever plant supervisor. His time there helped pave the way for the rest of his career in the commercial insurance industry, where he worked for more than three decades. He most recently served as the Vice President of SIA Group. prgtoken His life was evidence of his commitment to the improvement of the communities in southwest Virginia. He cared deeply for all people and was greatly involved in public service. Over the years, he was an active that aided in fundraising efforts for numerous political candidates. He also served with the Blacksburg Partnership, Junior Achievement, prgtoken and the Roanoke Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, where he served as president of the group's recruitment division. He also served as a co- chair for the New River Valley Rail 2020 to lead the effort to expand the passenger rail service. prgtoken Wally lived to serve and care for others. He prospered in any situation that allowed him to unite and care for others--he never met a stranger. But most of all, he adored his family. His humble giving heart, hard-working nature, and steadfast faith are just some of the most notable characteristics that defined the kind of man Wally was. prgtoken Wally was proceeded in death by his loving parents, Wallace and Helen Nelson. He is survived by his cherished wife Heather; children Crandall Murphy and husband Shannon, Wallace Jay Nelson III and wife Tory, Krystine Hammerle and husband Ryan, Katherine Nelson and Ben Stovall; grandchildren Jackson and Paige Nelson, as well as many other beloved extended family and friends. prgtoken A man whose legacy and love for family, neighbors, and community will long be remembered. Wally was a dear friend that will be greatly missed. I am honored to pay tribute to Wally's life. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones.
HONORING PETER STEC FOR ACHIEVING SCOUTING'S HIGHEST AND MOST PRESTIGIOUS RANK, EAGLE SCOUT
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2022-2-18

. Madam , I rise today to honor Peter Stec for his exceptional community service that has earned him the rank of Eagle Scout. prgtoken Peter has been involved with the Scouts for many years and, through perseverance and hard work, has become the Senior Patrol Leader of Boy Scouts of America Troop 6016 in Queensbury, New York. Peter has dedicated his time in the Scouts to the well-being of the community of Queensbury, culminating in his Eagle Scout community service project. prgtoken For his Eagle Scout project, Peter created a COVID-19 memorial garden recognizing Warren County residents who passed away during the pandemic. Peter built benches and planted trees and shrubs along the Warren County bike path in Queensbury. The COVID-19 memorial garden creates a space for Warren County residents to sit and reflect on those they have loved and lost. Peter's project exemplifies his deep commitment to improving his community. prgtoken Peter's dedication to his community is evident not only in his Eagle Scout achievement, but also in his engagement in music, arts, and school. Peter is an exemplary student who is also an accomplished musician in his school's jazz band and has had his artwork displayed in the Saratoga National Racing Museum. prgtoken Rising through the ranks to Eagle Scout requires dedication and perseverance, and Peter stands as an exemplar of that fact. His work is a strong indication of his exceptional leadership skills and commitment to service. prgtoken On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I would like to thank Peter for his contributions to the community and congratulate him on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. It is so important, now more than ever, that our youth learn the values of service to the community and nation. I am excited to see where Peter's bright future takes him.
RECOGNIZING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF KHOJALY TRAGEDY
Paul A. Gosar (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2022-2-22

. Madam , I rise on another somber day of remembrance of the Khojaly tragedy which occurred on February 26, 1992, 30 years ago. I am here once again to acknowledge this historic tragedy and commemorate the lives lost that day. prgtoken Azerbaijan is an area of unlimited potential and the Azerbaijanis have carved out a remarkable society and a stable government after decades of struggle under Soviet rule. This success was not achieved without struggle. prgtoken From its oppressive governance and collapse the Soviets created conflict in several regions. For Azerbaijan, problems with neighboring Armenia erupted into the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. In this initial conflict, one notable tragic incident occurred on February 26, 1992. prgtoken In the town of Khojaly in the Karabakh region, civilian Azeris were subjected to indiscriminate shelling and targeting. From these attacks it is reported that up to 613 civilians died with more wounded and taken hostage. prgtoken We cannot change what happened but we can remember the victims and remind the world that the targeting of civilians is never acceptable. We must learn from the past as we continue to pursue a peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict which continues today. The U.S. advocates for a peace which honors the memory of those who perished at Khojaly so no one will suffer the same fate. prgtoken Madam , today we solemnly remember the Khojaly victims and we will keep them in our hearts and minds as we foster a strong working relationship between our two countries and pursue a peaceful and fair resolution to the conflict.