mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE CAREER OF MS. BETH SHERMAN
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to honor Ms. Beth Sherman for her dedicated service to LaGrange County, Indiana. Residents of LaGrange County owe a debt gratitude to Beth for her leadership at the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce. prgtoken Beth joined the chamber in 2006, and soon after became its executive director, a position in which she served for 12 years. Under her leadership, the chamber's membership doubled, and business in the county blossomed. The chamber's membership stands at more than 400 businesses today, up from the 146 members in 2006 when Beth started. The county's unemployment rate is roughly half that of the national average, and future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 47.4 percent, considerably higher than the US average of 33.5 percent. These benchmarks, and others, can be attributed in large measure to Beth. prgtoken Her commitment to helping local businesses grow was palpable, as she advocated tirelessly for its members, brought members of the Chamber together through events, helped to transform the Chamber's marketing and outreach efforts, and more. Aside from her work in the chamber, Beth is a beloved member of the LaGrange County community and intends to remain active in retirement. prgtoken I am proud to include in the Record this document as a testament to Beth's work and legacy. Because of her, more Hoosiers in LaGrange County have good jobs, can support their families, and enjoy a higher quality of life. Although she will no longer lead Chamber, her legacy will endure, and her commitment to the community and state will serve as a proud example for others in the years to come.
RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF MR. RAYMOND H. GONZALES
Jason Crow (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today along with my colleague, Congressman Perlmutter, to recognize the exceptional accomplishments of Mr. Raymond H. Gonzales and commend him for his outstanding work as County Manager of Adams County--the 5th largest county in the State of Colorado. prgtoken Mr. Gonzales is a third generation Coloradan, proud son of Brighton, Colorado, and a dedicated public servant with over 20 years of experience. As County Manager, he supported more than 2,500 personnel, and has always remained devoted to not only his staff, but to all county employees. Adams County has flourished under his nine years of leadership. In a recent survey, 94 percent of employees prgtoken named the County an ``Employer of Choice.'' In 2019, he was the first county manager to receive the ``County Manager of the Year'' award from the Colorado City and County Management Association. prgtoken Mr. Gonzales has dutifully implemented the policies and priorities of the Board of County Commissioners and expertly overseen the day-to-day operations of the county throughout his tenure. Mr. Gonzalez managed many initiatives that positively impacted the residents of Adams County. Initiatives such as the People and Culture Services Department, the establishment of a new animal shelter, the completion of the state- of-the-art human services building, and a new Veterans memorial dedicated to Adams County Veterans who served and sacrificed for their country. prgtoken We thank Mr. Gonzales for his years of service to Adams County, and we are pleased he will be taking the next step in his career as the President of the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (MDEDC) and Executive Vice President of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to the incredible things he will do for the State of Colorado.
IN MEMORY OF LEO A. HUPPE
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to honor Leo A. Huppe, a World War II hero and active member of the seacoast community who passed away in late October at the age of 96. Born on February 25, 1925, in Laconia and residing in Rochester for more than 75 years, Leo was a long-time New Hampshire resident and an honorable member of our community. At the time of his passing, Leo was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great grandfather. prgtoken As a young patriot, Leo went above and beyond the call of duty in his service to his country. Among the many medals, ribbons, and badges he received for his heroic actions throughout World War II in the Asiatic Pacific, Leo was awarded the Silver Star and the World War II Victory Medal, as well as the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Medal and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon. prgtoken After his service, Leo worked diligently as a self-employed carpenter before entering a well-deserved retirement in 1987 with his wife, Evelyn, with whom he shared over 75 anniversaries before passing. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I share my condolences to Leo's daughter, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchild, and great-great grandson. As we recognize Mr. Huppe, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring his rich life and legacy.
IN HONOR OF RITA SEMEL'S 100TH BIRTHDAY
Nancy Pelosi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to recognize a visionary and inspiring leader, my longtime friend Rita Semel, as she recently celebrated her 100th birthday. Beloved in the Bay Area and beyond, Rita has torn down barriers to peace and brought communities together--here at home and around the world. prgtoken Personally, it has been a great privilege to have had a front row seat to Rita's greatness for many decades. Deeply committed to her faith and driven by her values, every day she lives out the spirit of tikkun olam, `to heal the world'--which she teaches us is not just a gentle phrase, but a clarion call to action. prgtoken Born a New Yorker, but forged into a true San Franciscan by more than eight decades in the Bay Area, Rita has long seen the world not as it is but as it could be--and has labored tirelessly to make real her inspiring vision. At a time when few women could be found in the workplace, she helped break barriers by serving as a reporter at the San Francisco Chronicle during World War II and freelancing for nonprofits as a working mother. prgtoken San Franciscans are especially grateful for her decades of leadership of the San Francisco Interfaith Council, which she helped establish in the wake of the devastating Loma Prieta earthquake to bring our community together. Under her leadership, the Council has been a force for justice and opportunity and has improved countless lives: from offering emergency shelter in the winter for people experiencing homelessness to fostering interreligious understanding to creating a chaplaincy program at the Youth Guidance Center, and so much more. prgtoken That this revered Bay Area institution, three decades later, continues to unite San Franciscans across races, religions and economic backgrounds is a testament to her unyielding belief that we are always more powerful together than we could ever be alone. prgtoken As she advanced justice at home, Rita has also brought boundless energy and a fierce spirit to her work building a world without poverty, violence or discrimination. All Americans can be proud of her service representing our nation to the world as a delegate to two United Nations World Conferences on Women. And as a longtime Jewish activist, she was an early and vocal supporter of the state in Israel-- and has been an essential force in advancing a safer, fairer future for Jewish people around the world. prgtoken All who have had the high honor of working alongside Rita know that she never takes no for an answer--and it is best to save time and just agree with her right from the start. For her relentless work, she has been recognized with many accolades, including Woman of the Year by the California State Assembly, the San Francisco Foundation's Community Leadership Award and the Rosa Parks Award from Women in Community Service. Most importantly, however, her impact is measured by the indelible mark she leaves on the lives of her loved ones, her many friends
HONORING THE SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA FOR NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Darren Soto (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , Seminoles have called Florida home for thousands of years. Their ancestors met the Spanish when they touched down on Florida's shores in 1510 and created a refuge for those who sought to escape slavery and oppression. In 1830, when President Andrew Jackson broke the treaties he signed with native peoples and ordered those east of the Mississippi River be ``removed'' west, the Seminoles resisted and fought for their freedom alongside their neighbors. They kept their ways and traditions alive in the Everglades of Florida, where they remain free and unconquered to this day. prgtoken Facing the threat of the termination of services and Federal assistance in the 1950's the Seminole Tribe of Florida organized to develop a constitution, advanced through meetings under the old Council Oak Tree on the Hollywood Reservation. Federal recognition in 1957 reinforced the inherent sovereignty and necessitated a new form of self-governance for the newly organized Tribe. As more outsiders came to Florida, the Tribe adapted and developed new economic opportunities, including tourism enterprises and cattle operations. prgtoken Today, the Tribe counts over 4,000 members. They are a sovereign government, with their own schools, police, and courts. Members continue their traditions of sewing, patchwork, chickee building, and alligator wrestling but the Seminole Tribe also adapted to a changing world. Today, they run one of the largest cattle operations in the United States and own the Hard Rock Hotel & Casinos, an international business with locations in 74 countries. prgtoken The Seminole Tribe also gives back to its community and is actively helping to protect the Everglades they call home. The Seminole Tribe has been actively involved in the Everglades restoration effort since its inception and has contributed significant resources to ensure that the overall restoration effort is successful, while protecting its sovereignty and unique way of life. For all this and more, we honor The Seminole Tribe of Florida for National Native American Heritage Month.
IN HONOR OF THE RETIREMENT OF FIRE ENGINEER RADOSLAV MARINKOVICH
Debbie Dingell (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Fire Engineer Radoslav Marinkovich of the Dearborn Fire Department. His honorable years of service to our community is worthy of commendation. prgtoken Fire Engineer Marinkovich retired on November 23, 2021, after serving over two decades with the Dearborn Fire Department. He has been a trusted member of the department since July 1998, when he began his career as a Firefighter I. He rose to level of Firefighter II in March 2005. Assigned to Fire Station 3 on Wyoming Avenue, he was promoted to position of Fire Engineer in December 2007. prgtoken The recipient of numerous awards, Fire Engineer Marinkovich is an example to his peers. He is a three-time recipient of the Meritorious Company Commendation and a nine-time winner of the Safe Driving Award. He earned the Unit Commendation Award For June 25, 2021, Catastrophic Flooding, and was a part of the prgtoken invaluable team that assisted the citizens of Dearborn in a time of crisis and need. To top off an award-winning career, he was given the 2021 Meritorious Service Award For Over 20 Years of Exceptional Service. When faced with a challenge, he does not faulter. Fire Engineer Marinkovich has been a stellar member of the department for the past twenty-three years and his lasting commitment to serving others has made him stand out among his fellow firefighters. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Fire Engineer Radoslav Marinkovich for a career of exemplary service to the Dearborn Fire Department. I join with Fire Engineer Marinkovich's family, friends, and colleagues in extending my gratitude to him for his honorable service in protecting our community and thank him for his role in serving the people of the City of Dearborn for the past two decades.
HONORING THE LIFE OF JOSEPH J. QUINN, JR.
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to mourn and observe the passing of a diligent public servant and a passionate community member, Joseph ``Jack'' Quinn, Jr. of Suffield, Connecticut. A dedicated member in local politics and a loving family man, Jack passed away on November 7, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones, after 85 years on this Earth. prgtoken Born to Joseph J. and Mary Mae Quinn in Hartford, Connecticut, Jack demonstrated fierce loyalty to our State from the get-go. Jack's life- long intention was to improve what our region had to offer his fellow neighbors by way of hard work and civic engagement. This intention extended through every aspect of his life--even for his professional career, Jack chose to serve an impressive 37-years with the Connecticut Department of Transportation before moving on to a rightfully deserved retirement. prgtoken Of course, Jack's personal commitment to improving his own community went far deeper than just an occupation with the State. His intrinsic community-oriented perspective encouraged his involvement within state and local politics throughout the entirety of his life. He was an ardent member of the local ic Town Committee, leading to various roles of service with the Town of Suffield, including a stint in leadership as a selectman. In his tenure with the municipal government, Joseph helped the town oversee several priorities from managing operations of the Suffield Police Department, to uplifting and preserving Suffield's 350 years of history, to improving proper traffic safety and the town's infrastructure. Beyond his time as selectman, it is worth noting Jack maintained his ability to advocate for the interests of the Suffield community through an innumerable amount of settings--acting as a traditional participant in state conventions, serving as a commissioner for the Suffield Police Commission, a member for the Pedestrian and Traffic Safety and Infrastructure Committee, serving on Suffield's Water Pollution Control Authority and additionally the Vice Chairman of the Heritage Committee. prgtoken Throughout his impassioned involvement with the town, Joseph unwaveringly prioritized Suffield's best interests and sought to leave the town and its government even better than when he began his work. Armed with the vitality brought by his own sense of dedication, Jack kept a busy, local presence even into his latest years, working at Vinnie's Little Acre in Windsor Locks over the holidays, utilizing his younger experience as a florist to produce arrangements for and share stories with fellow community members. prgtoken Madam , Joseph Quinn, Jr. was a diligent civil servant who deeply and consistently enriched the lives of those within the community. I have had the honor to represent the Town of Suffield for many years in Congress and have seen Jack's dedicated work firsthand. He epitomized what it meant to be a loyal public servant and a passionate community member. In his
RECOGNIZING RICHARD WILSON'S SERVICE AS A FEDERAL EMPLOYEE
Adam Smith (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise to recognize Richard Wilson on his many years of service in the Federal Government and then as a board member for the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE). prgtoken Richard was an experienced and accomplished public servant. With 38 years at the U.S. Postal Service and 26 years of service with the Naval Reserve, he exemplified his dedication to serving his community and his country. prgtoken Richard Wilson was dedicated to his work with NARFE. After spending time representing his State as president of the Washington Federation, he became a member of the association's National Executive Board. prgtoken My office and I were pleased to have worked with Richard in his capacity at NARFE and are saddened to hear of his passing. He and his contributions to our community will be sorely missed. prgtoken Madam , it is my privilege and honor to remember Richard Wilson for the achievements he made during his lifetime.
CONGRATULATING THE ZUNI CROSS-COUNTRY BOYS TEAM
Teresa Leger Fernandez (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I am pleased to send my congratulations to the Zuni Cross-Country Boys Team who won the New Mexico State Cross Country Championships for 2021. Their win is even more impressive during a pandemic that made it impossible to train last year. They make us all proud. prgtoken Zuni's cross-country program is in a class of its own. I am so impressed with its leadership in the running world especially in hosting one of the largest meets with more than 30 schools in attendance. It is an honor to represent a community where the running culture is so strong. prgtoken I extend my warmest wishes for the future. I have no doubt Zuni will continue to impress us all through the ages.
HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF REVEREND DR. DeFOREST B. SOARIES
Bonnie Watson Coleman (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to honor Reverend Dr. DeForest B. Soaries on his retirement as the spiritual leader and senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, New Jersey. As a pioneer in the faith-based community, Dr. Soaries shared his teachings of spiritual growth, educational excellence, and economic development for the last three decades. prgtoken Reverend Soaries served not just his flock, but as the first African American man to hold the prestigious position of New Jersey's Secretary of State, he led the entire great State of New Jersey. Dr. Soaries devoted his time to implementing grassroots initiatives to enhance the quality of life for thousands of New Jersey residents. Bridging the gap between underserved communities and voting accessibility as former chairman of the United States Election prgtoken Assistance Commission, he assisted Congress in establishing the Help America Vote Act of 2002. Dr. Soaries has worked tirelessly to pave the way for the next generation of civic leaders through his numerous community initiatives to free individuals from the burden of debt by launching the dfree Financial Freedom Movement and currently serves as an independent director at three companies: Independence Realty Trust, Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, and Ocwen Financial Corporation. prgtoken I applaud Dr. Soaries for his outstanding accomplishments and commitment to creating opportunities for economic empowerment in our state. On behalf of the state of New Jersey, I would like to formally congratulate Reverend Dr. DeForest B. Soaries on his retirement and wish him the very best as he embarks on his next chapter of life.
HONORING THE MEMORY OF THE HONORABLE RICHARD ALBERT ST. JOHN
Norma J. Torres (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to honor my constituent from Pomona, the Honorable Richard Albert St. John. It is with more than a heavy heart that I share that Richard Albert St. John passed away on November 4, 2021. prgtoken From the young age of 16, Richard served his country first with the merchant marines on the Great Lakes steamers. One year later, Richard enlisted into the Army where he served as a marine engine mechanic. After leaving the Army and working in a car factory, Richard re- enlisted and served in the Korean War. He was seriously wounded during the war, and was awarded the Purple Heart. prgtoken After being discharged as a Sergeant First Class, Richard relocated to Los Angeles in 1953 and entered public service with the Sheriffs Department and then as an investigator with the District Attorney's office. He attended law school at night at Pacific Coast University while working in law enforcement during the day. Upon passing the bar, he worked as the Assistant County Counsel for Butte County. He later returned to Los Angeles where he met Judith Wallingford and married her in 1970. prgtoken Richard's experience and success as a trial lawyer led him to be recruited to the District Attorney's office. From 1975 to 1998, Richard served as a Juvenile Court Referee and then as a Superior Court Judge on the Santa Barbara County Superior Court. prgtoken In retirement, Richard dedicated his time to his art, family, and traveling with his beloved wife. Richard was a dedicated husband, loyal friend, and selfless public servant. He will be fondly remembered by his loved ones, friends, colleagues, and community. prgtoken Today, Madam , it is my honor to recognize the Honorable Richard Albert St. John on the House floor to the State of California. May he rest in peace.
RECOGNIZING MR. KEVIN BELL ON HIS RETIREMENT
Mike Quigley (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today to join the Lincoln Park Zoo colleagues in honoring Mr. Kevin J. Bell. Kevin recently retired as the zoo's President and CEO after 26 years of dedicated service. Kevin's retirement marks the end of a long career as a leader in the wildlife Conservation and Zoo world. Since he was a young boy, Kevin growing up on the grounds of the Bronx Zoo, where his father worked, had a passion for animals. prgtoken Kevin has been with Lincoln Park Zoo for 45 years, starting as a volunteer at the age of 10, he became a part-time animal caretaker at 17, and a keeper at 20. After earning his degrees, he was hired in 1976 as the curator of birds at Lincoln Park Zoo, promoted in 1992 to assistant director, and appointed in 1993 to director. After the zoo privatized in 1995, Kevin was named president and CEO of the Lincoln Park Zoological Society, which manages and operates Lincoln Park Zoo. prgtoken Kevin joined the American Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1976, and 20 years later would become the chair of the Privatization Task Force. A well-respected expert, he has published numerous articles in zoo- related publications. In 2011, he was selected as one of the three U.S. delegates to serve on the board of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). Madam , please join me and all our colleagues in the House of Representatives in recognizing Mr. Bell's years of service and congratulating him on his retirement.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF FRIENDLY HOUSE AND 85 YEARS OF TAMALE DINNERS
Ruben Gallego (Democrat, AZ) \u2014 2021-11-23

. Madam , I rise today in celebration of Friendly House, which turned 100 years old in 2020. prgtoken Friendly House first started in 1920 as part of a local initiative to help immigrants in Arizona obtain citizenship and adjust to the United States. Today, Friendly House's services have expanded to include youth and adult education, family and emergency services, and workforce development, while still maintaining their original commitment to providing immigration and citizenship services. For the past 100 years, Friendly House has advanced America's identity as a nation of opportunity by helping individuals and families fully participate in American life. prgtoken After being delayed by a year due to COVID-19, Friendly House will celebrate its 100th anniversary at its 85th signature Tamale Dinner on December 3. For many, tamales represent coming together with loved ones, especially around the holidays. Friendly House's annual Tamale Dinner has been bringing together the Phoenix community for over eight decades, making it the longest standing fundraiser in the State. prgtoken I would like to thank Friendly House for 100 years of service to the Phoenix community and wish them the best as they continue to grow their impact over the next 100 years.