mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Eastern Washington Wildfires (Executive Calendar)
Patty Murray (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-9-7

last month, the Gray and Oregon Road wildfires in Eastern Washington caused serious devastation and forced thousands of people to evacuate, including members of my family and members of my staff. While folks on the ground are still assessing the awful scope of the damage and what resources our communities need to recover and rebuild in the aftermath, we already know that these fires burned tens of thousands of acres; destroyed hundreds of buildings, including over 350 homes; and, tragically, the fires were responsible for two deaths. prgtoken My heart goes out to the many families whose lives have been upended by these horrific fires, including our selfless firefighters, some of whom lost their homes to the flames while they were working hard to defend others'. I am incredibly grateful to all of our firefighters who have worked around the clock for weeks to get these fires under control. And I am also grateful to so many other first responders who helped keep our families safe from the blazes--law enforcement officers who raced door-to-door warning people as the fires approached, dispatchers who prgtoken worked so quickly to coordinate emergency response efforts, and everyone who helped those in danger, from evacuating families to conducting boat and helicopter rescues, to all of the volunteers who chipped in for the recovery effort. prgtoken We are all relieved that those fires are now under control, thanks to the heroic efforts of so many firefighters, but communities in Eastern Washington have a long way to go on the road to recovery. So I will absolutely be staying in close touch with folks in my State and on the frontlines and making sure that our families and communities have the support they need to get through this. prgtoken I am also going to continue to push to bolster our national efforts to prevent and mitigate and respond to wildfires and other extreme weather events, and that has to include more action on climate change because it is painfully clear--and it has been for a while now--that the climate crisis continues to make wildfires like this more common and more severe. prgtoken Beyond the recent fires in Eastern Washington, my State has seen devastating fires in the Sourdough fire in the North Cascades; fires on our Olympic Peninsula, on Tribal lands, in the Columbia River Gorge; and we have seen high risks for catastrophic fires in literally every corner of my State. prgtoken Over the last few years, Washington State has seen drier and hotter summers, which means longer and more dangerous fire seasons. And we are not alone. My heart breaks for the communities in Hawaii where the Presiding Officer has seen the impact firsthand. They were hit hard by devastating, unprecedented wildfires last month and are still suffering from that damage. prgtoken We have to do more to address the climate crisis that is driving increasingly severe disasters. And on another important note, we abs
Eastern Washington Wildfires (Executive Calendar)
Debbie Stabenow (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-9-7

before talking about some good news, I think, for so many of us across the country, I want to just thank Senator Murray for all of her leadership in the devastation she is describing in Washington State. I know that our Presiding Officer, with what is happening in Maui--the people of Hawaii are so fortunate to have you and Senator Hirono, who are out every day describing what needs to happen and pushing hard to make it happen. prgtoken We have a lot of issues that are really important, a lot of devastation, a lot of extreme weather events; and we certainly understand that the climate crisis is adding to all of what we are seeing right now and the devastation. And it is critical--it is critical--that we keep focused on that.
RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY FOR WALLACE CHAPEL ZION CHURCH
Thomas H. Kean, Jr. (Republican, NJ) \u2014 2023-9-8

I rise to extend my warmest congratulations to the Wallace Chapel AME Zion Church on their 100-year anniversary. prgtoken For a century, the Wallace Chapel has been a pillar of strength and a source of inspiration within our community. Their unwavering commitment to serving others and being a source of hope has left an indelible mark on our communities. prgtoken The first congregation was established in 1923 when Adelaide Edney longed for a church of her choice in Summit, New Jersey. That summer, more than 30 people were regularly attending the church services, building the strong community that Wallace Chapel is known for today. From worshiping in the hallways to having their own property, Chapel Wallace remains a historic, cultural and sacred place to celebrate and worship the Lord. prgtoken As we celebrate this milestone, may we recognize the importance of this church for our community and the positive impact they have made towards other churches in the area. prgtoken Once again, congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone, and may God's grace continue to shine upon them.
CELEBRATING HONEYWELL'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF DOING BUSINESS IN SOUTH BEND, INDIANA
Rudy Yakym III (Republican, IN) \u2014 2023-9-8

it is my honor to recognize and congratulate Honeywell on 100 years of operations and doing business in South Bend, Indiana. prgtoken For a full century now, Honeywell has been a staple in the South Bend community as well as a source of stability and economic opportunity for hardworking Hoosiers in our area. prgtoken I often say that Hoosier manufacturing is second to none. Honeywell's South Bend facility proves this point every single day. By manufacturing aircraft wheel and brake systems, Honeywell Aerospace helps to keep people in the skies and American aviation safe and constantly on the move. prgtoken I had the pleasure of touring their South Bend facility and meeting members of Honeywell's team last month. There, I was able to see firsthand the quality, professional work Honeywell employees do day in and day out and why Honeywell has chosen a home in South Bend for the past 100 years. prgtoken Congratulations again on reaching this impressive milestone. I thank them for their many contributions to the city of South Bend and Indiana's Second Congressional District. I wish them continued success and many more years in business and anniversaries to celebrate going forward.
WELCOMING HATEM HOSSINO
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-9-8

I offer my congratulations to the Study Committee's Senior Policy Counsel, Omar Hossino and his wife Leen, on the birth of their first child, a boy. prgtoken Hatem Hossino, named after his paternal grandfather, was born at 8:29 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, 2023, in Arlington, VA. The name `Hatem' is Arabic for ``decisive,'' ``determined,'' and ``judge.'' The Hossino family traces its lineage to Syria, through the village of Salamiyeh. prgtoken As Chairman of the RSC's National Security Task Force, I have long valued Omar's strategic advice. He has been instrumental in moving forward important policy legislation through the House and continues to be integral to the Committee's congressional staff as it advances policies on behalf of the American people. prgtoken Best wishes to Omar, Leen, and all their families on the newest addition to the Hossino family.
BATTLE CREEK'S 150TH BIRTHDAY
Mike Flood (Republican, NE) \u2014 2023-9-8

I wish to honor Battle Creek, Nebraska as they celebrate their prgtoken 150th birthday. One hundred fifty years ago in August 1873, Battle Creek was founded. Sitting along the Elkorn River Valley in Madison County, Battle Creek has grown through the years, welcoming new families, businesses, and visitors. prgtoken With a population of a few more than 1,000 people, they exhibit the best of what small town Nebraska has to offer: A great quality of life, family-owned businesses, and great recreation. They're one of the first stops on the Cowboy Trail. And Battle Creek is proud of its community members--both new and old. One outstanding example is Rose O'Neill, the cartoonist who imagined the Kewpie Doll, which has gained fame around the world. As Battle Creek reaches this sesquicentennial birthday, there is much to celebrate.
CELEBRATING THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF TENT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Guy Reschenthaler (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-9-8

I rise to recognize the congregation of Tent Presbyterian Church in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, as it celebrates the church's 250th anniversary. prgtoken Tent Presbyterian is an important institution in the Uniontown community, where its members bring the service and testimony of God into thousands of lives. Originally formed in 1773, the church was first led by Reverend James Powers, who inspired the congregation to have faith even when faced with the immense difficulties of early colonial life. Reverend Powers originally preached under a tent in the western Pennsylvania woods until the physical building was constructed 18 years after the church's founding. prgtoken Two hundred and fifty years later, Tent Presbyterian is currently led by Reverend Jeff Smith, who continues the legacy of service and faith started by Reverend Powers and built upon by many others. Reverend Smith has led his congregation faithfully over the past 4 years, dutifully bringing the Gospel's message into Fayette County. The church's work strengthens and enriches the community, providing spiritual guidance to many searching hearts. prgtoken , Tent Presbyterian Church is an important part of our region's heritage and history. On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 14th Congressional District, I congratulate its leadership and congregation on their 250th anniversary and thank them for their service to southwestern Pennsylvania.
RECOGNIZING ALLAN AND KIM OVERHISER INDUCTION TO MICHIGAN FARMERS HALL OF FAME
Bill Huizenga (Republican, MI) \u2014 2023-9-8

I rise today to recognize and congratulate both Allan and Kim Overhiser for their incredible service to Allegan County and on their induction to the prestigious Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame. It is an honor to express my gratitude for their dedication and commitment to our community and Southwest Michigan. prgtoken Mr. Allan Overhiser was raised on the Overhiser farm and decided to follow in his family's fruit growing tradition. When his father retired, Allan and Kim Overhiser took over the business and became the fifth generation of family farmers. Under their combined leadership, the farm has expanded to 325 acres and includes more than 30,000 fruit trees. Allan and Kim have brought on their son, Alex, to continue managing the family's farming operations. prgtoken Coinciding with his agricultural and business leadership, Allan has also diligently served his community. Allan spent 16 years as the Casco Township Clerk from 1988 to 2004 and has continued his service as the Township Supervisor since he was first elected in 2004. On Allan's watch, his constituents have directly benefitted from the development of a 20-acre park overlooking Lake Michigan, the creation of the South Haven Area Water and Sewer Authority, and the establishment of the South Haven Area Emergency Services Authority. He is a recipient of the Michigan Horticultural Society Distinguished Service Award. prgtoken In addition to helping run their family farm, Kim Overhiser has also distinguished herself as a community leader. She is a founding member of the Michigan Agritourism Association, a board member for the Lakeshore Harvest Country Association, a Cub Scout leader, and as a strong supporter of Fennville High School Athletics and Bands. Kim's passion for service has helped make Southwest Michigan an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. prgtoken , I thank the House for joining me to congratulate Allan and Kim Overhiser on their well-deserved Hall of Fame induction and for their years of dedicated service to Allegan County and Michigan's 4th Congressional District.
HONORING JOSEPH TRENT SIFF
Lloyd Doggett (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-9-8

today, it is with a heavy but grateful heart that I rise in honor of the late Joseph ``Joe'' Trent Siff, who was a dedicated, principled political activist with more than 50 years of support and work for local, state, and national leaders. His involvement began in 1968 and lasted through his local precinct work in Houston and his volunteer work for Rep. Lizzie Fletcher in 2022. prgtoken Joe was born on November 16, 1947, in Akron, Ohio, the son of Alvin Stanley and Iris Gene Siff. The Siff family moved from Akron to Houston, Texas, when Joe and his twin brother Ted were 6 months old. prgtoken From the beginning, Joe and Ted were each other's biggest supporters and good-natured competitors--even running against 1 another for president of their sixth-grade class, but losing to a third candidate. prgtoken With an impressive list of accomplishments as a child and young adult, Joe was an Eagle Scout as well as a proud member of the first class to attend all 4 years at Memorial High. He was also a multi-year class officer and champion orator and debater. Joe excelled at almost everything he did. prgtoken As a huge Houston Colt 45's/Astros fan, Joe worked for many years as a press box runner and assisted sports writers, announcers, and scoreboard keepers during home games. Always 1 to pay it forward, he helped several fellow members of the Memorial High speech and drama teams get summer jobs as tour guides and ushers. prgtoken After completing his freshman year at Lafayette College, Joe finished college at Rice University, studying architecture. In 1968, he was part of the campaign team to elect John Hill as Governor of Texas. prgtoken In 1970, Joe was elected president of the Associate Student Chapters of the American Institute of Architecture (AIA), where he served on the national board and testified before Congress. Two years later, Joe would return to help John Hill become the Texas Attorney General while also taking part in the campaign for Sissy Farenthold for Governor. He also served on the advance team for Sargent Shriver's Vice-Presidential campaign. prgtoken Campaign work inspired Joe and eventually resulted in him becoming an assistant to Boston Mayor Kevin White. Before Joe's health problems arose, he would also serve as a precinct election worker. He was a loyal member of the Texas ic Party. His advocacy, like his concern for others, knew no boundaries; his passion knew no limits. prgtoken At the completion of his work for Mayor White, Joe returned to Houston where he started his career as a financial advisor. He quickly became a senior vice president at Prudential Bache Securities and then at Lehman Brothers. prgtoken In the early 1980s, Joe married Bonnie Hickerson. This marriage was blessed with the births of Iris Trent Siff and then Jordan Benjamin Siff. prgtoken Joe's personality was infectious. He maintained relationships, fostered friendships, and often tried to help friends achieve their goa
HONORING THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE AND LEGACY OF INA YVONNE WHISENHUNT TILLMAN
Terri A. Sewell (Democrat, AL) \u2014 2023-9-8

I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of an educator, administrator, and all-around phenomenal woman, Ina Yvonne Whisenhunt Tillman, who passed away on August 8, 2023, at the age of 85. prgtoken Ina was born in Vredenburgh, Alabama, to the late Martha Packer Whisenhunt and Walter Carver Whisenhunt, Sr. Upon graduating high school, Ina followed her passion for education at Alabama State University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1960. Returning home from Montgomery as a teacher, Ina spent the next decade teaching in the Selma City School System. prgtoken As a college student, Ina was inspired to get involved in the fight for civil rights by influential activists like Thelma M. Glass and Attorney E.D. Nixon, who served as her professors and frequent speakers. When she returned to Selma, she continued to stay involved in the Movement, participating in numerous marches and demonstrations. She was a proud member of the Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church, where she heard Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. speak, solidifying her commitment to fighting for liberty, equality, and justice for all, especially the African-American community. Bringing her activism to her classroom, Ina bravely prgtoken took on the task as 1 of the first Black teachers to integrate Cedar Park Elementary School. prgtoken In 1971, Ina left home again, relocating to Mobile, AL, to advance her career in academia. She served as the Educational Director of Head Start in Pascagoula, MS, before transitioning into the Mobile County School System as a Title-IV Assistant Director and Chapter I Assistant Director. Ina made her mark as a dynamic educator and always worked to improve the lives of her students both inside and outside the classroom. Aspiring to become a principal, Ina continued her education at the University of South Alabama, earning her master's degree in 1974 and then at the University of Alabama for her associate's degree 2 years later. prgtoken Following a battle between local Black educators and the school system, where a judge ruled in favor of the educators regarding discriminatory hiring practices, Ina accomplished her goal, becoming the Assistant Principal of Mattie T. Blount High School. She later served as Principal of E.T. Belsaw/Mt. Vernon School until her retirement in 1995. prgtoken Throughout her life, Ina was an active member of her community, no matter where she relocated. She was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; The Links, Incorporated; and Phi Delta Kappa. prgtoken She also received many awards and recognitions, including the Outstanding Educational Service Award from Blount High School; the Outstanding Educator Award from Phi Delta Kappa; the Top Career Woman of the Year in 1988; and the Area Director's Award from The Links, Inc. prgtoken Later in life, Ina expanded her community impact through the written word. She authored books and papers, even writing one on
RECOGNIZING ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF STEVE DENSMORE
Rashida Tlaib (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-9-8

today, I want to recognize Assistant Fire Chief and Melvindale City Council Member Steve Densmore for his 27 years of service with the Dearborn Fire Department in Michigan's 12th District Strong. prgtoken Assistant Fire Chief Densmore got his start in public service in 1996. After only 1 year of service, he received the first of many Meritorious Company Commendations. In addition, he has been recognized numerous times for valor and lifesaving. Over the course of his public service career, Assistant Chief Densmore has committed himself to continuous professional development, completing numerous certification programs in various rescue operations techniques and other technical programming. prgtoken Assistant Chief Densmore has been an outstanding public servant to the communities served by the Dearborn Fire Department. Please join me in recognizing his 27 years of commitment to protecting our families' safety across Michigan's 12th District Strong as we wish him well in his retirement.
CELEBRATING EUGENE "GENE" FRANCK
Eric Swalwell (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-9-8

I rise to recognize Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eugene ``Gene'' E. Franck for his service that went above and beyond the call of duty in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. prgtoken Gene was born in Berkeley, California, growing up in Albany with his family. As a child, Gene had always wanted to be a pilot, following in the footsteps of uncles who had flown for the military. prgtoken After he graduated high school, Gene enrolled at San Jose State University where he joined the Air Force ROTC on campus and pursued a degree in Aeronautical Operations to become a pilot. During his sophomore year of college, Gene decided to drop a class, becoming a ``part-time'' student eligible for the draft. Within a month, he received his draft letter. Remaining committed to his dream of becoming a pilot, Gene joined the United States Army, completing basic training at Fort Polk, Louisiana, and graduating from flight school at the top of his class in June 1968. prgtoken On January 31, 1969, Gene was sent overseas as part of the first contingent stationed in Da Nang, Vietnam. With the call sign ``Spider Man,'' Gene served with the ``Ghost Riders,'' a Company 158th Assault Helicopter Battalion. By March 1969, Gene regularly flew UH-1H Huey aircrafts to carry out combat assaults and transport supplies to local infantry units, flying approximately 100 hours a month. prgtoken On November 18, 1969, Firebase Fuller, located atop Dong Ha Mountain, received enemy fire, critically injuring 3 men. Due to extreme cloud cover and poor visibility, the requested medevac units could not reach Firebase Fuller. After hearing a desperate call for anyone to evacuate the injured, Gene decided to risk his life and rescue the men. With only 40 feet of visibility and verbal radio directions from a Lieutenant on the ground, Gene safely landed and transported the injured to the USS Repose and an Army hospital in Quang Tri. prgtoken Gene returned to the U.S. in February of 1970. Just 1 week later, he married his wife, Noreen. They had 2 children, Chad, and Lisa. Gene returned to civilian life in Pleasanton, working at Pacific Bell Telephone Company for 27 years ascending from non-management personnel up to an executive at the time of his retirement in the late 1990s. He lost Noreen to cancer on October 6, 2008, after 39 years of marriage. He later married his current wife, Kay, and together they enjoy golfing, traveling, and spending time with his 6 wonderful grandchildren. prgtoken Gene exemplifies the Army Aviation motto, ``above the best.'' His bravery and courage went above and beyond, saving the lives of injured soldiers and countless others through the vital supplies he transported overseas. May we continue to honor and thank him for his sacrifice for our country.