mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MRS. SUE AUGUSTINE
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today along with my colleague, Rep. Mike Thompson, to honor the life and lasting contributions of Mrs. Sue Augustine, longtime Solano County resident. Passing away at 82, Mrs. Augustine leaves behind an indelible legacy of love, leadership, and service to her community and family. prgtoken Born in 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Mrs. Augustine demonstrated a hardworking and tenacious spirit from a young age. After graduating from St. Mary's High School in Mount Clemens, Michigan, she worked as a receptionist and switchboard operator for the City of Mt. Clements, where she met and married Mr. Len Augustine. prgtoken Mr. Augustine's service in the Air Force brought their family all over the world, ultimately leading them to establish a permanent home in Vacaville. Mrs. Augustine was a critical member of the Solano County community, working as a library assistant at both Vacaville libraries and volunteering for numerous charities. From crocheting for Hearts and Hands to supporting St. Mary's Church to serving at the Church Food Locker, Mrs. Augustine embodied the spirit of generosity and selflessness in every aspect of her life. prgtoken Mrs. Augustine will be remembered not only for her years of service to Solano County, but also for her genuine kindness and compassion. Her willingness to lend an ear and a helping hand to anyone in need earned her the widespread respect and gratitude of her community. Mrs. Augustine impacted the lives of countless members of her community and her steadfast leadership, constant smile, and patient mentorship undeniably enhanced the lives of her fellow Solano County residents. prgtoken Mrs. Augustine's enduring spirit will live on in her loving husband, son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Mrs. Augustine's loved ones. We know that they, along with the people of Solano County, join us in celebrating her life and legacy.
RECOGNIZING CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH OF BUFFALO
Brian Higgins (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-8-15

today I am honored to recognize the impact of Calvary Baptist Church of Buffalo. Calvary Baptist will celebrate its 85th anniversary on September 15, 2023, which will mark several decades of critical service to our community and its residents. prgtoken Calvary began on Clinton Street with Rev. Polite in 1938, and through the years, has become a staple of the Western New York region. This church is compassionate and dedicated to the mission of helping others, and they do this through local and global leadership that focuses on fostering strong intergenerational disciples. The efforts in Christian education have made significant impacts on the lives of many, and the nurturing of all followers (of every generation) is a testament to the love and unity within this church family. Every day, our community ought to recognize and appreciate the leadership and members of Calvary for their selfless work and devotion. Their contributions to the betterment of our community have not gone unnoticed, and their impact extends far beyond the walls of the congregation. prgtoken Reverend Corey Bernard Gibson of Buffalo, New York, was named as the seventh and current pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church. Pastor Gibson has continued to carry out community service, catering to both spiritual and social needs. This includes the continuation of the Community Outreach Day and the establishment of a scholarship for the local community high school, along with various other events throughout the year that focus on benefiting the children of Buffalo. It is critically important to recognize such efforts, and I ask that you join me in thanking the leaders and membership of Calvary Baptist, alike, for their successful endeavors over the last 85 years.
HONORING THE STAFFORD NAACP FOR 67 YEARS OF SERVICE
Abigail Davis Spanberger (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2023-8-15

I rise today to recognize the Stafford County NAACP in honor of 67 years of service to the community. prgtoken Founded in 1956, the Stafford County NAACP has worked tirelessly ``to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination,'' working to build a better future for everyone in Stafford County. prgtoken As the first and longest-serving president of the Stafford County NAACP, Frank White, Sr. laid the groundwork for this branch's long-term commitment to service. His legacy continues through his son, Frank White, Jr.--an active member. prgtoken Under the current leadership of President Yolanda Roussell, the Stafford County NAACP continues to be a beacon in the community through its activism, partnerships with local churches, support for Black-owned businesses, voter registration drives, and community forums on African American history, public education, and mental health. prgtoken The Stafford County NAACP brings the entire community together for large celebrations--including the Stafford County NAACP Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration and the Stafford County NAACP Juneteenth Commemoration and Celebration. These events would not have been possible without the hard work of its members. prgtoken The Stafford County NAACP has demonstrated a fervent commitment to our communities and an extraordinary devotion to the strength and prosperity of our Commonwealth. As the U.S. Representative for Virginia's Seventh District, I am honored to recognize this organization for its tremendous record of service to Stafford County-- and I thank the Stafford County NAACP for building a stronger Virginia.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF JOAN KAPLAN DAVIDSON
Marcus J. Molinaro (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise today to honor the legacy of Joan Kaplan Davidson, a philanthropist and champion of conservation in New York State who recently passed away at the age of 96. prgtoken Joan spent her life advocating for the restoration and conservation of New York's treasures and her legacy is one of vision and action. She served as the leader of the J.M. Kaplan Fund, as the New York State Commissioner of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, and gave her time to countless non-profit boards and committees. I had the pleasure of working alongside her to designate the Hudson River as New York's first Heritage River and to work to advance numerous local waterfront development plans and historic preservation projects. Joan chose to make a profound impact through the power of small, decisive actions, and her work has inspired me and countless others. prgtoken , I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the enduring legacy of Joan Kaplan Davidson, a woman who made a profound difference in the Hudson River Valley and New York State.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF KATHY BAILEY
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise today to celebrate the life of Kathleen Bailey who passed away surrounded by her loved ones earlier this month. prgtoken Born and raised in Northwest Pennsylvania, Kathy was known throughout Oil City for her love and dedication to the region. She was a true advocate for Oil City, working hand-in-hand with local businesses for the betterment of the community. Those who knew Kathy could attest that her enthusiasm was infectious. prgtoken Aside from her work in the community, Kathy was passionate about the arts. In her free time, she sang in the Barrow-Civic Theater and the Erie Philharmonic Choir. She also played the organ for St. Stephen Church and St. Joseph Church. prgtoken , scripture in Thessalonians 4: 13-18 instructs us with these words: ``Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.'' prgtoken Kathy lived to bring hope and optimism to so many in her community. Let us also count our blessings that we were fortunate enough to know Kathy Bailey. I send my sincere condolences to her husband, Scott, and their family during this difficult time.
HONORING CORPORAL DONALD A. SHIELDS
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise today to honor the life of service and sacrifice of United States Marine Corps veteran Corporal Donald A. Shields. prgtoken Cpl. Shields was born in the town of Harpersfield, New York in 1932. After graduating high school, Cpl. Shields voluntarily enlisted into the United States Marine Corps on September 7, 1951 during the onset of the Korean Conflict. Cpl. Shields left his job as a dairy farmer to serve. prgtoken After completing basic training, Cpl. Shields was deployed to Korea where he served selflessly and honorably. Cpl. Shields earned two Purple Hearts for his valor and sacrifice, along with the Korean War Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and, most notably, the South Korean Presidential Unit Citation for his service with the 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division in Korea. prgtoken Following his 3 years of service in the Marines, Cpl. Shields was honorably discharged from active duty, although he continued to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve until 1959. Upon his return stateside, he found employment as a truck driver for Mobil Oil Corporation. Cpl. Shields moved his family to Castleton, New York and drove for Mobil for 33 years before retiring. prgtoken Donald always remained involved in his local community. He worked for the Town of Schodack as a building inspector and member of the Zoning and Planning Board. Donald was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7337, a communicant of St Paul's Methodist Church, and a Boy Scouts Troop Leader. Donald was a proud family man, and enjoyed traveling with his wife, spending time with his grandchildren, and doing handyman work for his friends. prgtoken Corporal Donald A. Shields' record of service to his country and Rensselaer County is admirable, and it is my honor on behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District to recognize the commendable life and inspiring legacy of Corporal Shields.
TRIBUTE TO OHIO WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY'S GOSPEL LYRES CHOIR
Jim Jordan (Republican, OH) \u2014 2023-8-18

I am honored to commend to the House the 50th anniversary of the first concert of Ohio Wesleyan University's Gospel Lyres Choir. prgtoken From its founding in October of 1972 by students Cheryl Smith and Marteal Pitts, the Gospel Lyres Choir provided a place for African American students at Ohio Wesleyan to gather in fellowship and friendship and to use their musical gifts to praise God. At its debut concert on campus on November 4, 1973, the Choir numbered an impressive 22 members. prgtoken Through the years, Choir members served as unofficial ambassadors of Ohio Wesleyan, performing at churches not just in the city of Delaware, Ohio, but across our great state and beyond. Its members formed strong, lifelong bonds as they touched countless lives with the Gospel message they shared through their music. prgtoken , Choir alumni will gather on campus during Ohio Wesleyan's homecoming weekend this October for a reunion concert and celebration. On behalf of the people of Ohio's Fourth Congressional District, I thank the members of the Gospel Lyres Choir for contributing so richly to the musical landscape of our great state. I wish them all the best as they mark their golden anniversary.
HONORING ALABAMA LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY SENIOR TROOPER CHRISTOPHER CARLTON
Barry Moore (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-8-18

today I rise to recognize the heroic action of Senior Trooper Christopher Carlton with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. prgtoken On February 17, 2023, at approximately 4:38 P.M Senior Trooper Carlton responded to a vehicle crash on Highway 84 in Houston County, Alabama. Senior Trooper Carlton rescued Jessica Joy Thrasher of Lynn Haven, FL and 4-year-old Simon Thrasher, from the scene. prgtoken Upon Trooper Carlton's arrival, a member of Wicksburg Rescue advised Carlton that another ambulance would be required for both patients since they needed immediate medical attention. Without hesitation, Carlton transported Simon to Flowers Hospital in his patrol vehicle to ensure rapid treatment and care. prgtoken Physicians, nurses, and hospital staff were able to stabilize Simon after the incident, and both Jessica and Simon are expected to make a full recovery. prgtoken I am confident Trooper Carlton's quick and selfless actions saved the lives of Jessica and Simon. prgtoken I would like to thank Senior Trooper Christopher Carlton for his service. He serves the State of Alabama with integrity and always answers the call of duty. I extend my gratitude for his hard work and diligence in public service. The Second Congressional District of Alabama is blessed to have such an outstanding citizen.
REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE OF COLONEL BOB DILL
Jeff Duncan (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise today to reflect on the life and military service of Colonel Bobby Dill, who passed away on August 14, 2023, at the age of 91. prgtoken Colonel Dill was a native of Greenville County in South Carolina. He was a 1955 graduate of Clemson University and earned a master's degree from Oklahoma University. In the U.S. Army, he served in Korea, Vietnam, Germany and on Army Staff at the Pentagon. prgtoken After retiring from military service, he spent several years investing in the next generation by working as a substitute teacher. Later, he would leave retirement to take on a new career as a newspaperman--working diligently to keep his community informed. With his wife LaVerle at his side, he wrote articles, attended countless meetings, and remained devoted to printing the truth. prgtoken , Colonel Bob Dill's life was devoted to serving his country and his local community. Soloman tells us in the book of Proverbs that ``a good name is to be chosen rather than great riches.'' Colonel Bob Dill was a kind man who loved his country, and his memory will live on in the Third District of South Carolina.
HONORING MARY K. CLARK
Chuck Edwards (Republican, NC) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise today to honor Mary K. Clark as she celebrated her 102nd birthday on August 9, 2023. prgtoken Ms. Clark proudly served our country as a World War II Navy Lieutenant. During the war, she worked on a triage group as an operating room nurse stationed in the Pacific Theater. prgtoken While serving in the Navy she met her loving husband, Edward L. Clark. The couple was married for 65 wonderful years. Ms. Clark now resides in Candler, North Carolina. prgtoken It is my honor to recognize her today.
TRIBUTE TO SENATOR JOHN L. SCOTT, JR.
James E. Clyburn (Democrat, SC) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise today to pay tribute to a dedicated servant leader, good friend, and native son of South Carolina. South Carolina State Senator John L. Scott, Jr. transitioned from this life on August 13, 2023, in Charleston, South Carolina. His passionate work to improve access to education and health care will have profound implications for generations to come. prgtoken Senator John L. Scott, Jr. was born on October 21, 1953, in Richland County, South Carolina, to the late John L. Scott, Sr. and Gracie W. Scott. Senator Scott graduated from C.A. Johnson High School in Columbia, South Carolina, and attended my alma mater, South Carolina State University, where he graduated in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in accounting. He would go on to found J.L. Scott Realty Company, Inc in 1981 and serve as owner and President of C&S Consulting Group. prgtoken I knew Senator Scott well through his transformational work in the state. From 1988 to 1990, he served as Vice Chair for Richland County Council. He was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1990, where he served until his election to the South Carolina State Senate in 2009. Throughout his nearly 33 years in elected office, Senator Scott sponsored legislation to promote access to education and affordable housing, improve career outcomes for HBCU students, and further rural equity. He was recognized with many awards and accolades throughout his service, from the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina's highest civilian honor; to receiving the South Carolina National Guard Association Senator of the Year award; to receiving honorary Doctorates from various universities. prgtoken His dedication to the betterment of the Palmetto State extended to our South Carolina Military Department, as Senator Scott commanded the Joint Services Detachment from February 18, 2017, to January 19, 2019. During that time, he actively recruited to increase enrollment, improved unit efficiency and readiness, and provided critical support for the Youth ChalleNGe Academy Program. prgtoken Senator Scott was a man of faith and a longtime member of New Ebenezer Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina. He was an active participant in the church, serving as Church Clerk from 1980 to 1995, on the Trustee Board from 1980 to 2005, and as a Deacon from 2005 until his passing. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Joan Crouch, son, John L. Scott, III, extended family, political colleagues, and the members of our shared brotherhood, Omega Psi Phi fraternity. prgtoken , I ask that you and our colleagues join me in recognizing the life and legacy of Senator John L. Scott, Jr. Senator Scott embodied the Biblical teaching to ``Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves,'' and as such devoted his life to improving the welfare of every South Carolinian. He will be sorely missed and well remembered.
RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF MARIE A. MAK, DIRECTOR OF CONTRACTING AND NATIONAL SECURITY ACQUISITIONS, GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE
Bennie G. Thompson (Democrat, MS) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise to recognize the dedicated public service of Ms. Marie Mak, Director of Contracting and National Security Acquisitions at the Government Accountability Office (GAO), upon her retirement from Federal service. Ms. Mak has devoted over 36 years of service to the Federal Government, including at Naval Air Systems Command and the U.S. Coast Guard, before joining GAO in 2002. prgtoken Since entering the Senior Executive Service in 2014, Ms. Mak has skillfully led numerous GAO teams to conduct insightful analyses of acquisition programs and contracting processes within the Departments of Homeland Security and Defense, resulting in high quality reports for Congress. Her wide-ranging portfolio has also included assessing the Federal Government's response to hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. prgtoken Throughout her GAO career, Ms. Mak has taken a balanced, fact-based approach to reviewing Federal programs--a fundamental cornerstone of what Congress and the American public value about GAO. Drawing on her experience at the Coast Guard, where she helped develop strategic plans and performance measures, and allocate resources, she was able to understand the challenges that agencies often confront in their day-to- day management efforts. She coupled that experience with a critical eye to recommended actions that agencies can take to improve their acquisition processes to deliver better, timelier, and more affordable systems used to execute their missions. She has testified before Congress several times on a variety of Coast Guard acquisition and disaster response contracting issues and delivered numerous briefings on key defense acquisition programs. As a result of Ms. Mak's work, Congress is able to hold agencies accountable to first responders, warfighters, and the American public. prgtoken Ms. Mak has received numerous GAO awards throughout her career, including the Customer Service Award and John Henry Luke Mentoring Award. While Ms. Mak's work has saved taxpayer dollars, she has also positively impacted the growth and development of the people with whom she works. Ms. Mak embodies GAO's people values of ensuring others are respected, valued, and treated fairly, and has served as a trusted mentor and advocate that invests her time in coaching and developing people. Her focus on staff development will benefit the next generation of GAO leaders to the advantage of Congress and taxpayers for years to come. prgtoken I congratulate Ms. Mak on her well-deserved retirement and thank her for her distinguished service to Congress and the American public.
RECOGNIZING DALE HAMILTON'S 60 YEARS OF SERVICE TO NORTH CONWAY
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2023-8-18

I rise today to congratulate Dale Hamilton on his retirement from the North Conway Fire Department after an impressive 60-year tenure as a firefighter. His position as the longest-serving member of the department speaks to his tireless dedication to maintaining the safety of the North Conway community, and his love for his work is an inspiration to those he serves with and those he strives to protect. His distinguished lifetime commitment to public safety is vital to keeping New Hampshire safe, and I commend his years of service to North Conway and the Granite State. prgtoken A longtime resident of North Conway, Dale joined the North Conway Fire Department in 1963, and has remained a fixture in the department ever since. Dale's experience in all positions, including operator of Engine 3, the ladder truck, and dispatcher, has made him an integral member of the North Conway Fire Department. Through his kind demeanor, dedicated work ethic, and his love of his craft, Dale has become a beloved and renowned member of the North Conway community. While we can never fully repay our debt of gratitude to Dale, we recognize his decades of service and immeasurable impact. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to congratulate Dale Hamilton on his well-deserved retirement and the work he has done to protect and serve the North Conway community. He will serve as a shining example for future North Conway firefighters, and I look forward to seeing what his next chapter holds. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING THE OPENING OF THE ITALIAN CONSULATE IN SPRINGFIELD MASSACHUSETTS
Richard E. Neal (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2023-8-18

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge a landmark moment for the people of Springfield and the broader western Massachusetts community: the reopening of the Italian Consulate in Springfield, Massachusetts. prgtoken The reestablishment of a consulate in our district is more than just a diplomatic gesture; it is a tangible commitment by the Italian government to enhance their services and accessibility throughout the U.S. For years, residents with ties to Italy--ties that span generations--have often had to embark on lengthy journeys to receive consular services. This investment ensures they no longer bear this burden, bringing critical services right to their doorstep. prgtoken This consulate is a living testament to the rich tapestry of cultural and historical ties that bind the Greater Springfield Community with the Italian diaspora. The collaboration between the consulate and local schools to offer Italian-language programs exemplifies this deep connection, going back to the beginning of Springfield's relationship with its sister city, Bracigliano, Italy. Furthermore, this consulate reinforces the essence of our shared stories, and serves as a beacon for younger generations to explore, understand, and appreciate the contributions and shared legacies of Italian-Americans in our district. prgtoken , I would like to extend my appreciation for the reopening of this consulate in Springfield. It stands as a testament to the shared heritage and enduring bonds forever connecting our two nations. The consulate is a welcome addition to the First District, and I anticipate many fruitful years of collaboration and growth ahead.