mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CONGRATULATING DUCHESNE BOYS' SOCCER ON THEIR CLASS 1 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-12-22

I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Duchesne High School on their victory in Missouri's Class 1 Boys' Soccer State Championship. prgtoken The Pioneers claimed the Class 1 title for the first time in 20 years with a narrow 1-0 victory over Dubourg. Junior Zach Hubert came off the bench to net the game's only goal, as goalie Ben Burke led the defense in recording its ninth shutout of the season. The team should be commended for all their hard work throughout the past year and for bringing home a state championship to their school and community. prgtoken , please join me in recognizing the Duchesne Boys' Soccer Team for a job well done.
COMMEMORATING GEROLD PRATHER
Bill Huizenga (Republican, MI) \u2014 2023-12-22

I rise today to recognize and commemorate the heroic actions of Gerold Prather. On May 15, 2022, Mr. Prather of Kalamazoo, Michigan, rescued a teenage boy who was struggling to swim in Lake Michigan. prgtoken That day, the teenage boy and his friends were at least 100 feet out in the lake when they started to call for help. The friends were struggling and had submerged under the water. prgtoken In another group at the beach, Mr. Prather heard calls for help, entered the lake, and swam to the boys. Reaching them, the boys submerged and resurfaced. With difficulty, Mr. Prather first pushed a boy toward the beach and then positioned him on his back and towed him to a point about 50 feet from shore where, tiring, Mr. Prather shouted for help. Another man waded into the lake and helped Mr. Prather and the boy get to the beach. prgtoken In honor of these lifesaving actions, Mr. Prather has been awarded the Carnegie Medal, a prestigious honor bestowed upon those who ``enter extreme danger while saving or attempting to save the lives of others.'' Mr. Prather is one of 16 total Carnegie Medal recipients slated to receive the honor in 2023. prgtoken , please join me in thanking Mr. Prather for his heroism and commemorating him for his lifesaving actions.
RECOGNIZING GLOBAL HUMANE'S LAUNCH OF HUMANE TOURISM CERTIFICATION PROGRAM HELPING TO PUT ANIMAL WELFARE AT THE FOREFRONT OF TOURISM
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-12-22

I rise today to recognize important efforts on behalf of animals worldwide and the humane treatment of animals through a new Humane Tourism certification program created by Global Humane, the international brand of American Humane, the first and most experienced national humane organization which was created in 1877 to ensure the safety, welfare, and well-being of animals. prgtoken Global Humane has extended its conservation impact with this new Humane Tourism program. At the same time as millions of people worldwide seek opportunities to connect with Earth's majestic wildlife, Global Humane has identified an opportunity to apply its expertise in animal welfare and create a unique certification program to help ensure animals are treated humanely in the travel and hospitality industry. The first audits were conducted in August 2023, which established that the properties met the certification requirements. The sites that are certified include Nyosi Wildlife Reserve and Mantis Founders Lodge in South Africa, Ichingo Chobe River Lodge in Namibia, and Zambezi Queen on the border of Namibia and Botswana. prgtoken Humane Tourism is a unique animal welfare certification program that assesses and certifies wildlife reserves, lodging facilities, and tour operators for their humane responsibility toward the animal life that these operations may encounter and have the potential to impact. prgtoken , I ask today that we recognize the importance and impact the Global Humane Tourism certification can have on keeping animals safe in the tourism industry worldwide.
HONORING R.J. CORMAN RAILROAD GROUP
Andy Barr (Republican, KY) \u2014 2023-12-22

I rise today to honor a unique and important business, R.J. Corman Railroad Group, which is headquartered in Nicholasville, Kentucky. The company is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023. prgtoken R.J. Corman Railroad Group was founded in 1973 in Central Kentucky by visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist Richard J. Corman with a single backhoe and a dump truck. The company now operates in 24 states and more than 70 locations throughout our nation. R.J. Corman Railroad Group employs more than 1,400 people, over 500 of which are based in the state of Kentucky. prgtoken R.J. Corman Railroad Group's numerous services encompass railroad construction, short line railroad operations, industrial switching services, transloading operations, emergency response services, track material logistics, distribution centers, signal design and construction, and My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. The company serves six Class I freight railroads, many regional and short line railroads, as well as various rail-served industries. R.J. Corman Railroad Company operates three short line railroads serving multiple regions of the state contributing to the economic development of the corresponding communities. Through its dedicated employees, R.J. Corman Railroad Group strives to be the best-in-class service provider in the industry through its total commitment to customer satisfaction, increasing efficient operations while providing an ever-improving safe, and rewarding work environment. prgtoken R.J. Corman Railroad Group is a highly respected Kentucky business. As the company celebrates its 50th anniversary, I congratulate all their employees and wish them a bright future. I am honored to recognize this company before the United States Congress.
HONORING GEORGE LITTLE FOR HIS SERVICE TO SANDHILLS COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND THE PEOPLE OF MOORE COUNTY
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2023-12-22

I rise today to honor George Little for his great service to Sandhills Community College (SCC) and to thank him for serving as Chairman of SCC's Board of Trustees. prgtoken Earlier this month, George announced that he was stepping down as Chairman of the SCC Board of Trustees, a role he has served in for almost four decades. George became board chair in 1985 and under his leadership both the college and our community at large have grown tremendously. When George became Chairman, SCC was still a small, growing institution. However, George saw its potential as an academic institution and development driver. During his tenure, SCC has risen to become an academic powerhouse and established an endowment of over $50 million, a sum unheard of at the community college level. prgtoken George is a nationally recognized academic leader, great American and dear friend. While he will continue to serve on the college's board, I certainly know he will be missed at the helm. That being said, I know he will continue to serve with vigor and have full faith that his chosen successor, Larry Caddell, will be able to carry on George's great work. prgtoken George's dedication to service and constant willingness to step up when needed is commendable and inspiring. It has been an honor serving the people of Moore County alongside him. prgtoken , please join me today in recognizing George Little for his service to our community and the great state of North Carolina.
RECOGNIZING DEPUTY CHIEF DENNIS J. SORENSEN
Scott Perry (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-12-22

I am honored to recognize Deputy Chief Dennis J. Sorensen on the auspicious occasion of his retirement on January 10, 2024, from the City of burg Bureau of Police after more than 31 years of distinguished and tireless service. prgtoken Dennis began his career on May 22, 1992. He was a member of the 53rd class of burg Area Community College Police Academy and graduated in September 1992. prgtoken Serving the majority of his time in the 1st Platoon as a Patrol Officer on the midnight shift, then Patrol Officer Sorensen was promoted to Corporal in 2000. He earned his way to the Criminal Investigations Division, becoming the Adult Offender Supervisor from 2000 to 2011. After earning promotion to Sergeant, he commanded the Special Operations Unit, and served with the burg Bureau of Police to assist in the Hurricane Katrina disaster. In 2011, Sergeant Sorensen was reassigned to the Uniformed Division, and served as the Officer in Charge of the 2nd Platoon. Through his outstanding work, shortly after his previous promotion, Sergeant Sorensen earned the rank of Lieutenant, and served as commander of the 1st Platoon until 2018. In 2020, he earned the rank of Captain, and commanded the Uniformed Patrol Division, and was honored with the position of Deputy Chief position in 2021. prgtoken Along with his impressive law enforcement record, Deputy Chief Dennis Sorensen is a decorated Veteran of the United States Army, wherein he served honorably for 30 years, achieving the rank of Colonel. He earned his Bachelor's degree and military commission from the California University of Pennsylvania, and served in myriad and vast leadership positions, deployments, and training schools; of particular note, earning the coveted status of Master Army Aviator. His military awards and decorations include: Army Meritorious Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Kosovo Campaign Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; NATO Medal; the Master Army Aviator Badge; the Pennsylvania Meritorious Service Ribbon; Pennsylvania Service Ribbon; Pennsylvania Twenty Year Service Medal; Pennsylvania General Thomas J. Stewart Medal; and the Pennsylvania Major General R. White Jr. Medal. prgtoken , I am honored and privileged to recognize Deputy Chief Dennis J. Sorensen on his well-earned retirement from the City burg Police Bureau. His tireless, faithful, and selfless service of more than 39 years to community, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the United States of America sets the standard by which we all should be judged.
RECOGNIZING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY'S SEATTLE CAMPUS
Pramila Jayapal (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-12-26

I rise today to recognize Northeastern University on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of establishing a campus in the City of Seattle. prgtoken In 2013, Northeastern opened its doors in Seattle with two programs, 32 students and 500 square feet of space in South Lake Union, A decade later, the campus has nearly 1,800 graduates, a dozen graduate-degree programs, hundreds of industry and community partnerships, and is among the largest of Northeastern's 13 global locations. prgtoken Northeastern has worked to bring programs in high-growth fields to the Pacific Northwest, such as computer science, data analytics, global studies and project management. Each program is designed to help students thrive in careers through classroom learning and real-world experiences. prgtoken On the occasion of this milestone, I am proud to recognize Northeastern University as a partner and valued member of the Seattle community.
INTRODUCTION OF THE JURY DUTY EXEMPTION FOR BREASTFEEDING ACT OF 2023
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-12-29

today, I introduce the Jury Duty Exemption for Breastfeeding Act of 2023, which would allow breastfeeding individuals summoned for jury service in the federal courts and in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to be excused from service upon the individual's request. The benefits of breastfeeding are well- documented, and individuals should not be deterred from breastfeeding by jury service. prgtoken This bill would apply to the D.C. Superior Court, in addition to the federal courts, because the D.C. Home Rule Act prohibits the D.C. Council from enacting any law relating to title 11 of the D.C. Code. Title 11 governs jury service in the D.C. Superior Court. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
RECOGNIZING MR. GLENN E. DENTON, JR.
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2024-1-2

I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Glenn E. Denton, Jr who passed away on November 25, 2023. He was 73 years old. prgtoken Mr. Denton was born in Rushville, Nebraska to Glenn and Joyce Denton. He was one of nine children. From an early age, Mr. Denton learned the value of hard work and perseverance, having grown up working on his family's ranch. After his high school graduation in 1968, Mr. Denton enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, who served in the Civil War, and father, who served during World War II. In 1969, while on a mission to recover the remains of fallen Marines in Vietnam, Mr. Denton, along with seven of his comrades in the 1st Marine Division, made a promise to each other to share the stories of the Marines who lost their lives--all while sharing Kool-Aid together. From that day on, the eight Marines became known as the Kool-Aid Kids. After his service, Mr. Denton moved to Bakersfield, where he became a recruiter for the Marine Corps. Soon after his move, Mr. Denton acquired a 10-acre parcel of land, which was first used by his fellow Marines as a place to gather. During this time, he remained steadfast in his commitment to preserving the legacy of his fellow servicemembers who lost their lives during the war. prgtoken In 1978, the Kool-Aid Kids' mission inspired him to start Camp Hamilton Veterans Memorial on his parcel, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring service men and women from all branches of the military. Mr. Denton named the memorial after his brother in arms, Leonard Hamilton. Today, Camp Hamilton has planted more than 339 trees to honor servicemembers who lost their lives during or as a consequence of war. With the help of the Memorial's dedicated volunteers, Camp Hamilton has become a place where servicemembers, veterans, families, and loved ones come together to celebrate the sacrifice and bravery of the Marines, airmen, soldiers, and sailors from across the Central Valley. prgtoken After a career spanning nearly thirty years, Mr. Denton retired in 1995 as a Master Gunnery Sergeant. He was a highly decorated Marine, having been awarded a prestigious Purple Heart medal to honor his bravery and sacrifice during the Vietnam War. Mr. Denton is survived by his siblings, children, and his loving wife, Esther. Mr. Denton's service to our country, commitment to his family, and dedication to the Bakersfield community will forever be remembered. prgtoken , I ask all of my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring the incredible life of Mr. Glenn E. Denton, Jr.
HONORING SHERRI SAGER
Zoe Lofgren (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-1-2

I rise to recognize the many contributions of Sherri Sager, SVP and Chief Government Relations Officer at Stanford Medicine's Lucile Packard Children's Hospital (LPCH) at Stanford. After over 29 years of outstanding service with LPCH, Sherri has retired. Our community is grateful to her for her many years of advocacy and dedication to making our government's healthcare system work better for our most vulnerable patients and their families. prgtoken During her time at LPCH, Sherri organized and managed the government relations program, monitored proposed laws and public policy that could impact the Hospital, and oversaw the community partnerships and volunteer services departments. She served on numerous nonprofit boards and statewide task forces and was recognized for her knowledge of public policy, especially related to healthcare, organizing ability, and political acumen. Sherri believed that we could work to keep kids from having to come to the hospital in the first place by investing in improving the health of all children in the community. prgtoken , it is my pleasure to recognize and commend Sherri Sager for her commitment to helping improve healthcare access for low-income women and children in our community. Sherri will be missed in her retirement, and we wish her the best in this new phase of life.
HONORING ROBERT COKER
Mario Diaz-Balart (Republican, FL) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to recognize a long- standing friend and community leader, Mr. Robert Coker, as he retires in his 42nd year of service from U.S. Sugar, working on behalf of farmers across South Florida. prgtoken Mr. Coker began his successful career with U.S. Sugar in 1982 in its Community Affairs Department. By 1993, he became Vice President of Community Affairs, ascending to Senior Vice President by 2000. For 23 years, Mr. Coker served as senior Vice President, elevating U.S. Sugar and its Public Affairs department to a new, nationally recognized standard of excellence. prgtoken A man known across government, industry, and the South Florida community as a consummate professional; a man of integrity and unwavering dedication to his community, Robert Coker leaves behind a legacy of legislative victories for Florida's agricultural sector. From transportation, tax, and trade to agriculture, environment, and labor policy, Mr. Coker ensured that farmers' needs were well-represented, from Tallahassee to Washington, D.C. prgtoken A loving husband to his wife Mendy and dedicated father to his three children, Mr. Coker's impact both personally in his community and professionally has left an indelible mark on us all. I know his work will serve as the foremost example for all those to follow, and I wish him the very best as he steps into this next stage of his life. prgtoken , it is a privilege to be able to address the House on behalf of my dear friend, Robert Coker, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this outstanding individual.
RECOGNIZING FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH WEST POINT
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to honor the First Baptist Church of West Point, Virginia. December 21st marked the Church's 150th anniversary. prgtoken Since its founding in 1873, the First Baptist Church established itself as a cornerstone of West Point and the surrounding communities. Today, we recognize the First Baptist Church's service to the people of West Point as a place for the faithful to gather in worship, for those in need to receive help, and for the young to be nurtured and educated. prgtoken It was from modest beginnings that the First Baptist Church came into being. In 1870, there were fewer than four hundred people living in the village of West Point. Among them was Mrs. Sue Davis, who dreamed of a Baptist Church in her community. Mrs. Davis travelled to Stevensville to contact Rev. Alfred Bagby about starting a Baptist Church in West Point, which he and a group of fifteen other Baptists did when they met on December 21st at 2 o'clock to baptize Clarence Anderson as the first member received into the Church. prgtoken Over the next 150 years, the First Baptist Church has had many great pastors. Among them was Rev. Marvin Kerby, who stood as a true example of Godly integrity during his tenure of more than 31 years as Senior Pastor. prgtoken His leadership had a profound impact on West Point and the surrounding communities. The Church thrived as a source of spiritual support to those in need, not just in Virginia but the entire world. prgtoken Rev. Dr. James Goebel has stood as Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church for almost nine years. During that time, he has continued the traditions of the great pastors who came before him, ensuring that his congregation will continue to prosper for generations to come. prgtoken Therefore, , I ask that you rise with me in honoring the First Baptist Church for its dedication to serving the people of West Point for 150 years.
HONORING HENRY McGINNESS
Chuck Edwards (Republican, NC) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to honor Mr. Henry McGinness, for his work as an intern serving in my D.C. office. I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his hard work and recognize the meaningful contributions he has made to the office this fall. prgtoken Henry is from Norwalk, Connecticut, and is currently a junior at Georgetown University where he is studying Government. Henry is an avid New York sports fan and grew up attending different sporting events in the city. prgtoken Interns work with staff to serve constituents in North Carolina's 11th congressional district. Henry was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants and exceeded every expectation with his positive attitude and impressive work ethic. prgtoken It was a pleasure to work with Henry, and I am so proud to have such an intelligent and ambitious intern representing my office. Henry exemplified the spirit of public service and represents the best that our nation has to offer. I congratulate Henry on this successful completion of his internship, and on behalf of the people of Western Carolina, I thank him.
RECOGNIZING KELLE SHULTZ UPON HER RETIREMENT
Tim Burchett (Republican, TN) \u2014 2024-1-5

today, I recognize Kelle Shultz, a devoted and compassionate leader who has served as president of Knoxville Habitat for Humanity since 1995 and is now entering a well-deserved retirement. prgtoken Kelle's work has helped many East Tennesseans who otherwise might not have a place to call home, and her efforts earned Knoxville Habitat recognition as a top 40 Habitat affiliate worldwide. Since she took over, she significantly increased the organization's home-building and repair services for low-income families, peaking at 24 homes a year in 2018. Under Kelle's leadership, Knoxville Habitat also built the 200,000th home built by Habitat for Humanity globally, and Knoxville Habitat became the largest home builder in the city during the 2008- 2009 Great Recession. prgtoken Knoxville Habitat also implemented a series of Financial Fitness classes to educate Habitat homeowners, and this program is now a prerequisite to Habitat homeowners around the world. Knoxville Habitat has an overall homeowner success rate of 96.4 percent, which is a testament to how well Kelle understands what these homeowners need and how to provide paths to prosperity. prgtoken She has also shown leadership for Habitat for Humanity in other ways. She has actively led the East TN Executive Directors group, served on the Habitat Tennessee Board of Directors and the U.S. Council for Habitat International, and fostered collaborations with local organizations. She was named Outstanding Leader of the Year by Habitat Tennessee in 2015 to recognize her amazing work. prgtoken Kelle Shultz is a pillar of the Knoxville community and I wish her well in her retirement.