mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MILDRED McMILLAN GARRETT
Pat Fallon (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to recognize the life and service of Mrs. Mildred McMillan Garrett. Mrs. Garrett enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps in the Second World War as a cook. prgtoken A native of Emory, Texas, Mrs. Garrett was born on September 5, 1923, and was 1 of 7 children in a military family. Despite the challenges posed by segregated schooling and living through the hardships of the Great Depression, she excelled in her studies at the historic Rosenwald Schools at Sand Flat and Richland. Her lengthy public service career began as a soldier in the Women's Army Corps. She was 1 of only 2 women from Rains County to join. After the war, Mrs. Garrett attended Texas College and received a certificate in cosmetology. She married David Garrett on December 24, 1945, and raised many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. prgtoken Mrs. Garrett was a longtime member of the Prairie Grove Baptist Church, where she often cooked for attendees and assisted in fundraising events. She was appointed to the Hope Well Cemetery Committee and served on the Board of Directors for the A.C. McMillan African American Museum. Furthermore, Mrs. Garrett was the first black woman to serve in numerous leadership positions across Rains County as a city councilmember and mayor pro tempore. Under her management, Emory experienced increased infrastructure development. At the same time, she continued to participate in volunteering and outreach efforts in her community. For her work and service, the Mildred McMillan Garrett Memorial Bridge is dedicated in her honor. prgtoken Her passion and love of God, family, and country will always be remembered. I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital to recognize Mrs. Garrett's extraordinary life and service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MONONGAHELA CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE
Guy Reschenthaler (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise to recognize and congratulate the congregation of the Monongahela Church of the Nazarene in Monongahela, Pennsylvania for 100 years of service to God and the surrounding community. prgtoken The Monongahela Church of the Nazarene was originally organized with 24 members on July 25, 1923, the small group of members sought God's will for their lives. The congregation held tent meetings until the physical church was built and established nearly a decade later. Rev. Frank Strickler from the California Church of the Nazarene, aided by David Mitchell, became the Church's first Pastor. Throughout the years, the church was blessed with the spiritual leadership of nine Pastors. prgtoken In 2000, Reverend Raymond DiCamillo became the current Pastor of the church. Under his leadership, the Monongahela Church of the Nazarene remains committed to reaching the lost, helping those in need, and loving those they meet. With the Holy Spirit guiding them, they look forward to building on this storied history for the next 100 years. prgtoken , the Monongahela Church of the Nazarene's story is deeply rooted in our great Nation's origins. On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 14th Congressional District, I congratulate them on their 100th anniversary and thank them for their service to southwestern Pennsylvania's faith community.
HONORING THE ACHIEVEMENT OF JANELLE SPOHN OF OZARK, MO.
Eric Burlison (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-8-1

I rise today to recognize the achievement of Janelle Spohn, a student at Ozark High School located in Ozark, Missouri, in my district. prgtoken Ms. Spohn has been selected as a 2023-2024 recipient of the CBYX Scholarship. She is one of 250 high school students nationwide to be so honored. The CBYX Scholarship is a U.S. Department of State-sponsored program and stands for Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange. It was inaugurated in 1983, and since its inception, the CBYX program has allowed 27,000 American and German participants to expand their intercultural understanding. prgtoken Ms. Spohn and the other scholarship recipients will spend the next school year in Germany living with a host family, attending a German high school, and participating in language and cultural immersion training to gain a better understanding of German culture, language, and everyday life. prgtoken CBYX scholars also have the chance to visit Germany's parliament--the Bundestag--meet with government officials, participate in intercultural seminars, and explore Germany. Scholars return home to the United States with a new perspective on global affairs and German social, economic, and political life. prgtoken Ms. Spohn is the daughter of proud parents Michael and Montessa Spohn, and according to her school principal, Jeremy Brownfield, ``Janelle is an outstanding student maintaining a weighted GPA above a 4.5. She is able to do so while a majority of her course load are honors courses, balancing academics with a busy schedule of extracurricular activities including wrestling and choir. She is beloved by her teachers and known for being kind and an incredibly hard worker. She is also quick to help students in need. We are excited for her to have this wonderful opportunity to study abroad but her presence will be missed by classmates and staff alike during the upcoming school year.'' prgtoken , I think you can understand why we are so proud to have Janelle Spohn as a constituent. We look forward to hearing about her year in Germany and how her experiences as a citizen diplomat will shape her future. We congratulate her on her achievements.
APPRECIATING THE SERVICE OF JULIE KIM
Michael T. McCaul (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to honor the career of Julie Kim upon her retirement from the Congressional Research Service (CRS) after 33 years of dedicated public service. During this time, Ms. Kim advised Members, congressional staff, and committees on a wide range of foreign policy issues and historic world events with significant ramifications for the security of the United States and U.S geopolitical interests. prgtoken Ms. Kim joined CRS as an Analyst in European Affairs in the immediate aftermath of the fall of the Berlin Wall, at a time of momentous change in Europe and during a critical period in U.S. foreign policy. Ms. Kim covered the post-communist transitions in Eastern Europe, the break-up of the former Soviet Union, and the wars in the Western Balkans in the 1990s. Through her written analysis and consultative work on topics ranging from U.S. foreign assistance to Central and Eastern Europe, to NATO and European Union enlargement, to sanctions policy and peacekeeping operations in the Western Balkans, Ms. Kim contributed immensely to the knowledge of this body and its ability to provide oversight and respond legislatively to the implications of these seismic events for European security, transatlantic relations, and U.S. global leadership. prgtoken Ms. Kim also directly supported CRS' leading role in implementing the Frost-Solomon Task Force on the Development of Parliamentary Institutions for the countries of Central and Eastern Europe in the 1990s. She later served as a key CRS liaison with the House Democracy Assistance Commission/House Democracy Partnership (HDP), which evolved from the work of the Frost-Solomon Task Force, and subsequently participated in many congressional legislative strengthening programs in Europe and beyond. prgtoken For the past 19 years, Ms. Kim served in a number of managerial positions at CRS, including 11 years as the Section Research Manager of the Foreign Policy Management and Global Issues section within the Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division (FDT), and as Acting Deputy Assistant Director of FDT several times. In recent years, Ms. Kim headed the Europe and the Americas team of analysts, who have been actively engaged in advising Congress as it addresses Russian military aggression against Ukraine, as well as political unrest and migration in Latin America, among other significant foreign policy challenges. Ms. Kim also contributed to many CRS-wide managerial initiatives, including playing an integral role in managing the public release of CRS products and working to increase diversity and inclusion at CRS, including through her efforts to establish a relationship between CRS and the Rangel/Payne summer internship program. In all of these managerial posts, Ms. Kim demonstrated exemplary leadership skills and mentored countless new analysts and younger colleagues, leaving a lasting imprint and legacy of excellence and service on the CRS workforce. prgtoken Plea
APPLICABILITY OF THE AIRLINE DEREGULATION ACT TO STATE WORKERS' COMPENSATION PROGRAMS
Lance Gooden (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to discuss an important issue to both our nation's employers and their employees; and that is regarding the applicability of the Airline Deregulation Act (ADA) to State Workers' Compensation programs. When Congress enacted the ADA in 1978, one of the main goals was to place maximum reliance on competitive market forces to help lower prices and improve efficiency, innovation, variety, and competition in the delivery of air transportation services. prgtoken But the ADA was never intended to prohibit states from regulating workers' compensation systems. prgtoken In my home state of Texas, there has been litigation on this issue for over a decade, and there is no end in sight. That is why Congress needs to step in and why I filed Amendment 300 to H.R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act. prgtoken My amendment, which unfortunately was not able to be made in order as part of the House's consideration of H.R. 3935, would have amended the Airline Deregulation Act to clarify that the original intent of the ADA was not to preempt state workers' compensation laws with respect to billing and payments for air ambulance services. prgtoken The foundation of the state workers' compensation system is individual state regulation of reimbursement amounts under their workers' compensation medical fee schedules, thereby creating cost transparency. In most states, this is accomplished by setting workers' compensation medical fee services at a percentage above what providers receive under Medicare. prgtoken As a result, workers' compensation coverage is widely available to employers of every size across all industries; and ensures employees are protected from the economic impact of workplace injuries. prgtoken Unfortunately, the protections and certainty this system affords both employers and workers alike started to be undermined in 2010 when numerous air ambulance service providers began asserting the ADA preempts state workers' compensation medical fee schedules, creating a pathway for air ambulance fees to unreasonably skyrocket. prgtoken The preemption of state workers' compensation laws within the ADA is a pure accident. When Congress passed the ADA in 1978 to deregulate the airline industry, it certainly did not intend to deregulate workers' compensation insurance payments to air ambulance companies. prgtoken As part of the 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act, Congress established the Air Ambulance and Patient Billing Advisory Committee at the Department of Transportation to address several issues involving air ambulance companies, including medical fees, consumer choice, and protecting consumers from balance billing. In March 2022, the Advisory Committee submitted its report to Congress, which included a recommendation to amend the ADA to clarify that it does not preempt state laws relating to state regulation of workers' compensation insurance programs. prgtoken My proposed amendment
HONORING THE DALLAS AREA RAPID TRANSIT (DART) 40TH ANNIVERSARY
Michael C. Burgess (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-8-4

today I stand to commemorate a momentous milestone in the history of North Texas. It is with great excitement that we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, a creation that has continued to link our communities together over the years. prgtoken Four decades ago, in 1983, a vision was born to transform the Dallas Regional Transport system--a limited municipal bus system--into a well- developed transportation network that would connect our neighborhoods, bridge distances, and bring people closer together. Today, we stand with great appreciation for that dream as the DART has served not only as a system of trains but also to unify the metropolitan area. prgtoken Throughout its history, the transport system started as a small rail line of just 65 miles that connected Denison to Downtown Dallas. Moving forward, the rail line served a greater purpose than just transporting people, but also worked to transport the workers and materials that have helped advance the development of our beloved North Texas communities. Today, this system boasts over 90 miles of track, making it one of the longest light rails in the United States. DART not only has connected people across the community but has also continued to serve as a means of promoting economic growth by providing greater access to local businesses. prgtoken I stand here today to celebrate the accomplishments we have seen over the past 40 years; it is important to continue to look forward. As the greater Dallas area continues to grow and evolve, DART will continue to serve not just as a train but as a means to connect our community. Congratulations on 40 years.
HONORING THE LIFE OF POLICE CHIEF KEN BURK
Zachary Nunn (Republican, IA) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to recognize the life and service of Winterset, Iowa's Chief of Police, Ken Burk, who passed away on July 21, 2023, at the age of 59. Chief Burk spent the last 20 years dedicated to serving his community as Police Chief, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy of exceptional service. prgtoken To the people of Winterset, Ken Burk was more than just a Police Chief--he was a true pillar in his community. In a town of just over 5,300, almost everyone knew Chief Burk. Widely respected and always ready to chat about classic cars or the Kansas City Chiefs, he is remembered as a man who truly cared about his fellow neighbors and worked valiantly to keep his town safe. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues join me in remembering Chief Ken Burk as not only a tremendous public servant and protector, but as an even better person.
REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE OF THE LIEUTENANT MICHAEL WOOD
Jeff Duncan (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to honor the life and career of Lieutenant Michael Wood who served the Newberry, South Carolina community for over 20 years as an officer at the Newberry Police Department and passed away while in the line of duty on July 26, 2023. Lieutenant Wood, a resident of Prosperity, South Carolina, is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and two sons, Brandon and Alexander. prgtoken In 2003, Lieutenant Wood began serving the Newberry Police Department as an officer. In 2006, his dedication and commitment earned him a promotion to Corporal and subsequently Sergeant and Lieutenant. prgtoken While on duty on July 26, Lieutenant Wood responded to a call for service and was involved in a motor vehicle accident--succumbing to his injuries later. Newberry Police Chief Goodman praised Lieutenant Wood's service, work ethic, and creative community policing. For example, the ``walk-and-talk'' program was created by Lieutenant Wood to allow law enforcement and citizens to build a relationship founded on trust. Together, police officers and community members would walk the streets of Newberry while talking about life, sports, family or anything--just no talking about work. It was not about explaining law enforcement efforts, but rather helping to show communities that law enforcement officers are human and have the same passions, struggles, joys and dreams as their community. prgtoken Lieutenant Wood was a 1998 graduate of Newberry College where he also played football. Active in his community, he taught life lessons as both a baseball coach and Boy Scout leader, was a member of Wightman United Methodist Church and served on the Board of Directors for the Soil and Water Conservation District. prgtoken , it's an honor to recognize the life and selfless service of Lieutenant Michael Wood. I know Jennifer, Brandon and Alexander will remember him as a great husband and father, but Newberry will remember him as a friend, protector and inspiration. As the Apostle John said in the 15th chapter and 13th verse, ``Greater love hath no man than prgtoken this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'' Lieutenant Wood answered the call to be a police officer and answered the call again on July 26, 2023. My thoughts and prayers are with the Wood family, the Newberry Police Department and the entire community who mourns this tragic loss of life.
RECOGNIZING LOGAN LANGEMEIER FOR HIS SERVICE TO THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Barry Loudermilk (Republican, GA) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to recognize a dedicated staffer who is moving on to a new venture. After graduating from Georgia Southern University with a degree in accounting, Logan came to my Congressional office as an intern. Although he is originally from South Lake Tahoe, Nevada, he quickly became an honorary Georgian. prgtoken Logan was college football starter for 3 years at Georgia Southern. He was named on Sun Belt Conference Academic Commissioner's List and the Sun Belt Conference Academic Honor Role. prgtoken Logan has a strong desire to serve, and an even stronger dedication to this country. Despite having a job offer in hand after graduation, Logan chose to come to D.C. to work as an intern, and immediately made an impact on our office. prgtoken When the opportunity arose for Logan to join the staff of my House Administration subcommittee, he didn't hesitate. He saw it as another opportunity to serve--and he has been invaluable from day 1. prgtoken Logan is moving on to the next phase of his life, where he will begin his career in accounting. Logan has left a lasting impression on our entire team and will be impossible to replace; but I am grateful for his service, and I look forward to seeing him continue to succeed as he enters his new role.
CURRICULUM VITAE FOR TECHNICAL SERGEANT MICHAEL BETTIS
Scott Perry (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-8-4

I am honored to recognize Tech Sergeant Michael A. Bettis. prgtoken Sergeant Bettis is retiring upon 20 years of tireless service to our Nation. His service in the U.S. Air Force as a Firefighter spanned from 2000 through 2004, during which he was twice deployed. During his deployment in the UAE, he was selected for Senior Airman below zone, and also earned the Air Force Achievement Medal. He then deployed to Qatar in 2004, before a brief return to civilian life. prgtoken Tech Sergeant Bettis was called back to our Nation's service in the West Virginia Air National Guard, wherein he cross-trained into the Security Forces in 2008, and deployed a third time in 2010 to Saudi Arabia. He reenlisted in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, where he finished his storied and successful career. prgtoken . I'm privileged to commend Tech Sergeant Michael Bettis on his tireless, selfless and loyal service to the United States, and I wish him Godspeed in his future.
DAVID CITY'S 150TH BIRTHDAY
Mike Flood (Republican, NE) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise today to wish David City, Nebraska a very happy 150th birthday. prgtoken August 6, 1873 marks the day David City was made the county seat of Butler County. prgtoken Since 1873, David City has grown and distinguished itself in many ways. Providing an excellent quality of life for their small town with exceptional education and job opportunities. prgtoken While David City is home to just about 3,000, it's the birthplace of notable people--like former U.S. Senator Roman Hruska; the founder of Hallmark cards, Joyce Hall; and Catholic Bishop Kenneth Steiner. prgtoken Major employers in the City include Timpte, ADM, and David City Public Schools among others. prgtoken David City is proud of its Catholic roots. Aquinas Catholic Schools educates many of the town's people and St. Mary's Church is almost as old as the town itself. prgtoken As David City reaches this sesquicentennial birthday, there is much to celebrate. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Nebraska's First Congressional District, I congratulate David City on 150 years and wish them fun as they celebrate this incredible milestone.
REMEMBERING THE HONORABLE CYNTHIA DOTY
Jerrold Nadler (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-8-4

I rise to pay tribute to the Honorable Cynthia Doty, long time resident of the Upper West Side, political activist, and ic District Leader, who passed away in Manhattan at the age of 72 on July 17, 2023. prgtoken I first met Cynthia 30 years ago working in local ic politics. I worked alongside her former boss Assemblymember Ed Sullivan in the New York State Assembly. Cynthia served 9 years as his Legislative Associate and Special Assistant. In Albany, she drafted legislation and negotiated budgets. In the district, she advocated on behalf of thousands of constituents to protect their housing and deliver needed services. prgtoken Cynthia was a major force in the Three Parks Independent political club and served as its President and as District Leader. Cynthia was kind, honest, and skilled at her position, and was both respected and beloved within the community. She was extremely reliable--if she said she was going to get something done, it would always get done--and she was a gracious host to me and others who visited her political club frequently. Under her leadership, the club members were very active in gathering petition signatures and mobilizing the vote in our area for countless elected officials at all levels of politics from District Leader to Congressman, Senator, and President. Cynthia and her club did the work to help get elected across the country--not just in New York--and organized bus trips to Connecticut and Pennsylvania to get out the votes. She ran phone banks that reached voters across the country and was always finding ways for volunteers to get involved and fight for causes they believed in. She was my guest at both inaugurations of President and frequently attended marches and protests on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. She opposed the war in Iraq, supported a woman's right to choose, and defended LGBTQ+ rights. She supported community farms and was a member of a CSA (community supported agriculture) where she enjoyed volunteering. prgtoken Cynthia was born into a ic family in Philadelphia in 1951, where she developed her progressive principles and a deep commitment to public service. Cynthia went to public school, co-chaired the racial justice committee at her college, and led several college groups to Washington to protest the Vietnam War. Her parents were active in politics--her father, Ethan Allen Doty, served as a judge for over 40 years and was a leading figure in the ic reform movement. Her mother, Beatrice Graham Doty, was a ic State Committeewoman. Her brothers, Ed Doty and Warren Doty, both served in elected positions in Pelham, New York and Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts respectively. prgtoken Cynthia was not only into politics. She spent 20 years as a theatrical costume designer in major productions that appeared on Broadway, at Lincoln Center, and at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. She wor