mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING JOSE ROLANDO VILLAREAL, J.D.
TJ Cox (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Mr. Jose Rolando Villareal, J.D. whose story of success and achievement is a true testament to all that is possible here in America. Throughout his life, Mr. Villareal has been a shining example of the immigrant experience in our country through his perseverance, tenacious spirit, and service to others. prgtoken Mr. Villareal and his three sisters were born to Jose Maria and Elisa Villarreal in the border city of Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico and immigrated with his family to the United States as a young child. The family originally arrived in Eagle Pass, Texas then, like so many other migrant farmworker families, lived in various states following the harvest until eventually settling in San Jose, California. There in Silicon Valley, Mr. Villareal was able to become the first in his family to attend college. He earned his bachelor's degree from San Jose State University and then earned his Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law. prgtoken Mr. Villareal then began his professional career in the Central Valley, where he served in various capacities focused on improving the lives of vulnerable, underserved communities in the region. He served as chief public defender in Fresno County for eight years and as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the California Rural Legal Assistance, an organization that has transformed the lives of thousands of working families and immigrant communities. Mr. Villareal has also served his community as Mayor of Sanger, California, where he led efforts to spur economic development and strengthen public safety. prgtoken Our history as a nation of immigrants is rich with countless stories of struggle and success. Like many child immigrants, Mr. Villareal spent much of his life striving to secure a foothold in our country and achieve the American Dream. Though his experiences as an immigrant were never easy, he persevered and achieved his ultimate goal of successfully gaining U.S. citizenship. Throughout his career, Mr. Villareal endeavored to encourage other immigrants to strive for this goal and has become a role model for his community. prgtoken Mr. Villareal has become a source of pride for his wife Enriqueta and their four children Rolando, Adrian, Alejandro, and Meliza, who have all supported him in sharing the story of his life via a published memoir. His lifetime of accomplishments has been rooted in his deep commitment to service. His dedication to the Central Valley's immigrant community and personal mission to improve the lives of others perfectly exemplifies the virtues of American society. prgtoken Madam it is my privilege to recognize Mr. Villareal and I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating his exemplary commitment to achieving the American Dream.
HONORING TOMMIE MABRY, PH.D.
Bennie G. Thompson (Democrat, MS) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to honor an outstanding prgtoken public servant, Tommie Mabry, Ph.D. A native of Jackson, Mississippi, Mabry grew up in the Midtown neighborhood and rose from humble beginnings. prgtoken He is the founder and CEO of Tommie Mabry Company. As an advocate for education and student success, his goal is to provide insight to educators on factors that often hamper access to academic achievement. Mabry has traveled across the United States speaking about the importance of student investment and development. prgtoken As a first-generation high school graduate, he embarked on his undergraduate journey at Tougaloo College receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education in 2011 and a Master of Arts in Child Development in 2017. He is the Best-Selling author of two books: A Dark Journey to a Light Future and If Tommie Can Do It, We Can Do It. prgtoken Despite many obstacles and distractions, Mabry has been determined to better himself in order to give back to his community and others. He recently received his Ph.D. in Higher Education from Jackson State University. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Tommie Mabry, Ph.D.
REINTRODUCTION OF THE STUDENTS HELPING YOUNG STUDENTS ACT
André Carson (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I am pleased to reintroduce the Students Helping Young Students Act. This important legislation will invest in college students who support and mentor K-12 students at after-school activities. l am pleased that this legislation has been endorsed by MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership and I am grateful for the feedback I received from my constituents on this proposal. This legislation will make a meaningful difference in the lives of all Hoosier students, and young Americans across the country, by ensuring that college students can be compensated for the critical work of mentoring and supporting their younger counterparts. prgtoken It is an honor to represent students of all ages in Indiana's Seventh District. I am continually impressed by the many college students in my district and across the country that, in addition to their studies, help mentor and support K-12 students in after-school programs. These college students, by serving as powerful examples and mentors, continue to inspire my colleagues and I about the importance of peer mentorship opportunities. This includes the crucial role of work study programs in helping students finance their postsecondary education. prgtoken Several examples in Indiana underscore the importance of supporting mentorship programs, both to the mentee and the mentor. David, a biology major at Marian University in Indianapolis, also served as a mentor. Through David's mentoring, his mentee has improved in school and built up self-confidence; David, too, recognizes that he has learned from his mentee and is inspired to help additional younger students. prgtoken Another student, Celia, at the University of Southern Indiana, mentored a young third grade student. Celia was mentored herself while also in the third grade; this experience helped her understand the importance of mentoring younger students to help achieve their goals and learn from their older peers. Mentoring younger students has helped Celia discover her passion for education and youth development programs. Celia also shared her college experiences with her mentee, who has in turn become interested in attending college. prgtoken The examples of David and Celia represent how the influence and investment from a mentor can improve younger student lives and outcomes. Their stories are common: in fact, at-risk youth that have a mentor are 55 percent more likely to attend college. Moreover, at-risk youth that have a mentor are 52 percent less likely to skip a day of school and 46 percent less likely to use drugs. Mentoring also increases community engagement, as at-risk students are 78 percent more likely to volunteer in their community engagement, as at-risk students are 78 percent more likely to volunteer in their community and are 130 percent more likely to hold a leadership role in clubs or teams with a mentor in their lives. Mentoring not only helps students stay away from drugs and violence, but a
TRIBUTE TO MR. MICHAEL FEINSTEIN
David J. Trone (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the career of CEO & President of The Bender JCC of Greater Washington, who is stepping down this month. prgtoken For nearly 15 years, Michael Feinstein has served as the CEO & President of the Bender JCC of Greater Washington. On Oct 30, 2020, Michael is stepping down as the CEO & President of the Bender JCC of Greater Washington. prgtoken Michael's success was grounded in his unwavering dedication and exceptional skill. Prior to becoming the CEO, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of the Center for three years. prgtoken However, Michael's life of service did not begin with the Bender JCC. Michael has over prgtoken 25 years of experience as both a consultant to and leader of entrepreneurial businesses and nonprofit organizations. prgtoken As an executive coach he has helped leaders manage change and create a new, more successful future for themselves and their organizations. He has owned and managed businesses in the manufacturing, service, and high-tech industries, and served in a variety of lay leadership roles in community and nonprofit organizations before becoming a Jewish communal professional. prgtoken Throughout his career, Michael has led by example as a friendly but resolute face on the Bender JCC rounds and beyond. Time and time again, Michael has established himself as a pivotal figure within the community. His ability and commitment showed every single day through his presence at the corridors of the preschool, the Fitness Center, the indoor and outdoor pools, through his personal attention to the campers and their families, the special attention to the inclusion campers, members, through the multiple fundraising events, and the enormous amount Board Meetings and Committee meetings. prgtoken Please join me in thanking Mr. Michael Feinstein for his incredible service to the Bender JCC of Greater Washington and to the Community at large.
RECOGNIZING OFFICER JOSHUA KEAR
J. French Hill (Republican, AR) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Officer Joshua Kear as the recipient of the 2020 Teen Court Faye Shepherd Award for Juvenile Justice. prgtoken The award recognizes a member of the community who has dedicated themselves to serving at-risk youths. prgtoken Before becoming a law enforcement officer in Conway, Mr. Kear battled alcohol addiction. Through a faith-based rehabilitation center, he was able to overcome his struggle. prgtoken Officer Kear, does not hide from his previous struggles, instead he uses them to assist and encourage others facing similar challenges. prgtoken Serving as a mentor for many in the juvenile detention system, he reassures them that things will get better and that he will not give up on them. His love and commitment to those in the community serve as an inspiration for all. prgtoken Thank you to Officer Kear, the Conway Police Department, and our law enforcement officers around the country, whose positive impacts on our communities often get overlooked. Congratulations to Officer Kear for winning the 2020 Teen Court Faye Shepherd Award for Juvenile Justice.
TRIBUTE TO MIKE BAKER
Harold Rogers (Republican, KY) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to pay tribute to Mike Baker who recently retired as Clay County Clerk after nearly a decade of service to the people of Clay County who elected him to that role in 2010. prgtoken Mike's heart for public service was inspired by his aunt, Florence Baker who also served as Clay County Clerk. In fact, his first job in public service was under her watch, when he started working as her Deputy Clerk at the young age of 19. It was a role he thrived in and maintained under the administration of three other county clerks, encompassing a total of 38 years of service in the Clay County Clerk's office. prgtoken Outside of the Clerk's office, Mike and his wife, Linda have been faithful stewards to the community through various philanthropic efforts. Together, they have collected thousands of Christmas Shoeboxes for Samaritan's Purse, filled with gifts for less fortunate children around the world. Mike has also partnered with the Manchester Baptist Church and Blanket America to collect and distribute more than 10,000 coats for the people of Kentucky's Appalachian region who are most in- need during winter months. prgtoken As he begins a new chapter of life, I wish Mike many wonderful years of retirement with his family.
COMMEMORATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CHILDREN'S ATTENTION HOME
Ralph Norman (Republican, SC) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Children's Attention Home in Rock Hill, South Carolina. prgtoken The Children's Attention Home provides nurturing care and life changing services for youth in need. The Home's noble objective is to provide a temporary care shelter where a child can experience a loving, secure family life until their own home conditions improve or a permanent home can be found. prgtoken The need for a children's home in Rock Hill became evident 50 years ago when children were being placed in jail due to the lack of emergency shelters and foster homes. To meet this need, individuals, churches, and businesses throughout the community donated their time, energy, and money to rent and renovate a house near Winthrop University. In the fall of 1970, the Children's Attention Home opened its doors to provide shelter for children who had been victims of child abuse. prgtoken Throughout the last 50 years, the Home has provided the love and care over 8,000 children desperately craved. 8,000 young lives have been improved through initiatives like the Palmetto School, which provides individualized educational opportunities for children, and the Crossroads program, which helps older youth pursue a path to successful independence. prgtoken The lifechanging work of the Children's Attention Home is a shining example of the sense of community felt across Rock Hill. It is for that reason I congratulate them on a successful 50 years of helping the most vulnerable members of our community, and I look forward to hearing how they continue to serve over the next 50 years.
IN MEMORY OF GREGG WILLIAM WINTERS
Greg Pence (Republican, IN) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today in memory of fallen Muncie Police Officer Gregg William Winters. Officer Winters was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 8, 1991 at the young age of 32. prgtoken Gregg Winters was born on February 25, 1958 to parents Ezra ``Zeke'' and Beverly Snyder Winters. A lifelong resident of Muncie, he attended Muncie schools, graduating from Southside High School in 1976. He had worked for Wise's Food Market and Motion Industries before joining the Muncie Police Department in 1986. He graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 1987. He attended Shawnee Heights Baptist Church and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police. prgtoken On December 28, 1990, Officer Winters was responding to the scene of an alleged public intoxication. Officer Winters was transporting the subject to the Delaware County Jail when the man pulled out a concealed weapon and executed Officer Winters in cold blood. Officer Winters was struck five times. He bravely battled his injuries for eleven days before succumbing to his wounds. prgtoken Officer Winters served courageously for four years on the Muncie Police Department. Those that served with him describe a wonderful and brave man who always put his community first. prgtoken As the thirty-year anniversary of Officer Winters' death approaches, I want to let his widow Molly and two sons Kyle and Brock know that we are forever grateful for Officer Winters' service and his memory will always live on. prgtoken God bless.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Bill Huizenga (Republican, MI) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today regarding missed votes. Had I been present for roll call vote number 215, On Ordering the Previous Question for Providing for consideration of the resolution H. Res. 1153 condemning unwanted, unnecessary medical procedures on individuals without their full, informed consent, and providing for consideration of the resolution H. Res. 1154 condemning QAnon and rejecting the conspiracy theories it promotes, I would have voted ``nay.'' Had I been present for roll call vote number 217 H. Res. 1153 condemning unwanted, unnecessary medical procedures on individuals without their full, informed consent, I would have voted ``yay .'' Had I been present for roll call vote number 218 H. Res. 1154 condemning QAnon and rejecting the conspiracy theories it promotes, I would have voted ``yay.''
HONORING BLAKE HURST
Sam Graves (Republican, MO) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I proudly pause to recognize Blake Hurst. Blake is a close friend and fierce leader who, after many meaningful years of service, is retiring as president of the Missouri Farm Bureau. prgtoken Blake is a staple of the Missouri agricultural community after serving as a district board member and Vice President of the Missouri Farm Bureau before being elected its President in 2010. He is best known for his passion for agriculture and longtime advocacy on behalf of farmers. Blake has spent a significant amount of his life ensuring that farmers across the state of Missouri are heard and fighting for favorable agriculture policy at the state and federal levels. prgtoken Blake's devotion to the success of agriculture in Missouri has exponentially improved the life of all in the Sixth District and beyond. While the Missouri Farm Bureau will miss the institutional knowledge that Blake has brought to the table, I'm sure that Blake's family will enjoy having his experienced hand in growing their greenhouse business and taking care of their own corn and soybeans together. prgtoken Madam , I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing Blake Hurst for his commitment to Missouri agriculture, the state of Missouri and the Sixth Congressional District. I am honored to represent him in the United States Congress and honored to call him and his family my friends and neighbors.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF JUDGE DOUGLAS FAHL
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to honor the service of Whitley Superior Judge Douglas Fahl. prgtoken As a practicing attorney of nearly 25 years, Judge Fahl's record of public service is nothing short of exceptional. prgtoken Having practiced law in the United States for over 20 years, Judge Fahl has also been called upon to represent military law across the world, including Guantanamo Bay and Iraq. prgtoken In Whitley County, Judge Fahl spearheaded a new veterans treatment court program. Through the program, jurisdictions serve a large segment of the veteran population involved in the criminal justice system. The program has long fostered a better understanding between judges and the issues with which veterans, often casualties of war, struggle. So successful in Whitley County was this program that two neighboring county's court systems now direct qualifying veterans to Judge Fahl. prgtoken In September 2020, Judge Fahl was appointed the Indiana National Guard's very first certified military judge. Few men were more qualified for such an appointment. Brig. Gen. Bobby L. Christine, National Guard adviser to the Judge Advocate General's Corps spoke in support of Judge Fahl's credentials and stated, ``Lt. Col. Doug Fahl's selection to serve as military judge for the state of Indiana is proof positive that the rights of those who defend America will be safeguarded. No finer selection for judge could be made.'' prgtoken Judge Fahl has served northeast Indiana, and our Nation, with the highest honor and distinction. This record is a testament to his tireless commitment to the people which make our country great and ideals to which our Nation strive.
HONORING CAPTAIN JOHN A. SWEAT, JR. FOR HIS INDUCTION INTO THE NORTH CAROLINA MILITARY VETERANS HALL OF FAME
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to honor and congratulate my friend Captain John A. Sweat, Jr. upon his induction into the North Carolina Military Veterans Hall of Fame. prgtoken Over the years, CPT Sweat has answered historic calls to duty on behalf of our nation, state, and community. He began his extraordinary career in 1986 with the U.S. Air Force and served honorably in both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. CPT Sweat's leadership extended far beyond the battlefield and he was named Active Duty Volunteer of the Year for his off-duty devotion to family services. CPT Sweat was selected as the Tactical Air Command First Term Airman of the Year and served in a special duty billet as an instructor at the Security Police Academy at Lackland Air Force Base. prgtoken Following tours in Turkey, Florida, and Texas, CPT Sweat went on to join the North Carolina Air National Guard. Exemplary of his tireless leadership, he became the first officer to complete training with the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. From his days at basic training to his 2011 retirement from the North Carolina Air National Guard, he only missed one day of service over his combined 24 years, 9 months, and 23 days of military service. prgtoken He has led a career of distinction and is an effective, prolific leader. In addition to his military service, CPT Sweat has served on the Concord City Council since 2009. A tireless public servant, he has also served on the Racial Diversity Committee, Historic Commission, and the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Concord and is a member of the Habitat for Humanity Executive Board and Literacy Council for Cabarrus County. prgtoken This year's class was selected by an independent selection committee that includes North Carolina military veterans and civilians. In total, a group of eighteen was chosen to join the ranks of our state's greatest heroes in the Hall of Fame. CPT Sweat is especially deserving of this honor and will now be enshrined forever for his remarkable contributions to our great nation and state. prgtoken Madam , please join me today in congratulating CPT Sweat on his induction into the North Carolina Military Veterans Hall of Fame.
RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF ROBERT WILSON
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2020-10-9

. Madam , I rise today to honor the U.S. Military service of Robert Wilson who is a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal. Robert ``Bobby'' Wilson, a native of Tupelo, Mississippi, volunteered for the U.S. Army in December 1951. Once he completed Basic Training in Hawaii, he entered the Korean War. prgtoken On February 6, 1953, Mr. Wilson was on patrol with other members of his company 1\1/2\ miles in Chinese territory called the Coonwah Valley. On that frigid night with the temperature below zero, he and his fellow men were attacked by the enemy who were firing mortar rounds. Mr. Wilson was seriously injured and needed to be transported to receive medical treatment. He was picked up by a medic and placed on a stretcher. Another firefight ensued before he could be taken to a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital where he would be treated for 18 shrapnel wounds over the course of 39 days. His courage and bravery under fire earned him the Purple Heart Medal. It is my honor to recognize Mr. Wilson for his service to America and his pledge to protect our freedoms. prgtoken In December 1953, Mr. Wilson completed his military service and returned home to his wife, Tomicene. The high school sweethearts remained in Tupelo where they raised two boys, David and Robert. The Wilsons were married 64 years before Tomicene passed away. In the years since her death, Mr. Wilson has often reflected on his days of service. ``I'd do it again,'' Mr. Wilson said. ``I still have shrapnel in my leg and pain, but I will always be proud that I served my country.'' prgtoken Mr. Wilson's service and sacrifices made to defend our nation will always be remembered. I am honored to call this Mississippi patriot a friend.