mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE SERVICE OF TEXAS STATE SENATOR LARRY TAYLOR
Brian Babin (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise today to honor the service of my friend, Senator Larry Taylor, who admirably served two decades in the Texas Legislature as State Representative for House District 24 from 2003 to 2013 and as State Senator for Senate District 11 from 2013 to today. Senator Taylor will retire after a distinguished career at the end of this current session in early 2023. prgtoken Senator Taylor was raised in Friendswood, Texas, and is a lifelong Texan and Baylor University graduate. He and his wife, Kerri, have three children and five grandchildren. Senator Taylor formerly owned Truman Taylor Insurance Agency in Friendswood, an independent agency started by his father more than 50 years ago. prgtoken Senator Taylor served five sessions in the Texas House of Representatives before his election to the State Senate. During the 82nd Legislature, Representative Taylor served on the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, a 12-member body made up of legislators and members of the public who are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor and the of the House of Representatives and are tasked with identifying and eliminating waste, duplication, and inefficiency for more than 130 Texas state agencies. As a House member, he also served on the following committees: Elections, Insurance, Voter Identification and Fraud Select Committee, Windstorm Insurance Oversight, Emergency Preparedness Select Committee, Special Purpose Districts Select Committee, Ways and Means, Appropriations, Calendars, Hurricane Ike Storm Devastation to the Texas Gulf Coast Select Committee, Property Tax Relief and Appraisal Reform Select Committee, Business and Industry, House Administration, Health Insurance Risk Pool Deficit, Windstorm Coverage and Budgetary Impact, and Public Health. prgtoken Senator Taylor has served five sessions in the Texas State Senate and spent four of those sessions as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education. He also served as Chair of the Senate Finance Article III working group and was a member of the important Budget Conference Committee, a select group chosen to ensure that legislators passed a balanced budget. Additionally, he is a member of the Legislative Budget Board, a permanent joint committee responsible for developing budget and policy recommendations for legislative appropriations. Senator Taylor has served on the following Senate committees: Education, Finance, Future of College Sports in Texas Select Committee, Higher Education, Ports Select Committee, Veteran Affairs, Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs, Coastal Barrier System, Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety Select Committee, Texas Commission on Public School Finance, Cruise Industry Development, Business and Commerce, Intergovernmental Relations, State Real Property Data Collection, Reporting and Assessment Select Committee, Government Organiza
SHERRY EMS
Brad R. Wenstrup (Republican, OH) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise to congratulate Sherry Ems for her dedication and service to our State, our Nation, and our servicemembers working as the Executive Director at the United Services Organizations Ohio these last seven years. prgtoken For many service men and women, the USO offers the comforts of home: a place to rest or a meal to eat, as they ship off to another duty station, return from a long journey from a faraway base, or prepare to deploy. Sherry's service was a bright beacon of hope, integrity, and diligence. prgtoken She is exemplary of the patriotism and commitment we associate with the USO. Over the many years she served, Sherry's contributions went a long way towards supporting our service men and women. She embodies the civic pride we have in our troops and our nation. prgtoken I thank her for her tremendous work and service over the years at the USO and for our men and women in uniform, and we all wish her the best in her future endeavors.
HONORING THE LIFE OF ROBERT CHASE
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise today to honor Robert Chase, a World War II veteran who passed away in early July at the age of 95. Born in 1926 in Lynn, Massachusetts and later residing in Rollinsford, Robert was a veteran, active member of his community, and a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. prgtoken As a young patriot, Robert enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 18 to fight in World War II, where he bravely fought with the 102nd Infantry Division in Europe. Robert was awarded a bronze star for bravery early in his career. He continued to serve his country in the years after the war as an officer and combat engineer in the 101st Engineers Division and as an officer in the Air Defense Command. prgtoken Following the conclusion of his service in 1969, Robert worked diligently in business for different companies before he founded the NH Clinic for Hypnosis in 1980. There he helped the people of New Hampshire with a variety of treatments, including helping Granite Staters quit smoking. He especially loved performing his hypnosis for local schools. He was also an avid woodworker, restored antiques, and loved hosting his annual yard sale for his entire neighborhood. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I wish to share my condolences with Bob's family, including his late wife Dorothy, their three sons and daughter-in-laws, two daughters and son-in-laws, eight grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. As we recognize Mr. Chase, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring his rich life and legacy.
HONORING EMMA INEZ HIGH JOHNSON
Debbie Wasserman Schultz (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , it is with a heavy heart that I rise to honor the life of Mrs. Emma Inez High Johnson. prgtoken Born in New Market, Alabama, Emma Inez High Johnson began an uncommon life of modesty, sacrifice, and service. Her commitment to men, women, and children from all walks of life made her efforts more distinct and special. It was over twenty-five years ago when Bishop Victor T. Curry affectionately and appropriately tabbed Emma, Queen Inez. This noteworthy and royal designation perfectly captured the very essence of a woman, regal in both nature and nurture. prgtoken This accomplished, yet uncomplicated, woman was proudly connected to her faith and her family, readily accepting her divine destiny and mission as a wife, mother, nurturer, worshipper, and most importantly, a woman of faith. Emma labored to ensure that those with whom she worked were treated with compassion, dignity, and respect. Her encouragement and empowerment of her colleagues in many ways reflected her warm spirit. prgtoken Emma wed the late Pastor Joe Cephus Johnson in 1966 and together they celebrated three children and a 52-year marriage. prgtoken As first lady of the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, Emma labored fervently in service. As chairwoman of Women in the Spirit of Excellence (W.I.S.E.), servant leader of the Women's Ministry, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School instructor, a member of the Encouragement Ministry, Women's Day speaker, and directress of Ebenezer's Angelic Choir, Emma's multi-giftedness was constantly on display. prgtoken Beyond the walls of Ebenezer, Emma's work for an assortment of causes and organizations was hard to miss. In her roles as vice president of the International Association of Minister's Wives and Minister's Widows Coterie of South Broward, a member of the Progressive Kingdom Baptist Association, a member of the Divine Divas, and a 2nd Generation Member of the Red Hatters Society International, Emma was deeply entrenched in the work of community service. prgtoken My heart is with her daughters and family, and the entire Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church family in mourning the loss of this kind and compassionate and virtuous woman. prgtoken We are forever blessed to have shared this time with Queen Inez on Earth. May her memory be a blessing.
RECOGNIZING FIRE ENGINEER CURTIS TREVOR GOLD
Norma J. Torres (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise today to honor Curtis Trevor Gold and his many years of dedication to the City of Ontario as an Ontario Fire Engineer. prgtoken Curtis joined the Ontario Fire Department in 2016 as a firefighter. In 2019, he was promoted to fire engineer. During his time at the Department, he served as a member of the Urban Search & Rescue Team. This team involves technical rescue operations that requires extrication and medical stabilization of victims of various emergencies. As an experienced firefighter, Curtis also became a training instructor, mentoring younger firefighters. He was also a member of Ontario Professional Firefighters Local 1430. prgtoken Sadly, our community is now in mourning. On Saturday, August 27th, Curtis tragically passed away in an off-duty accident. He is survived by his wife and family. I offer my deepest condolences on their loss. prgtoken For his outstanding accomplishments, it is my honor to recognize Firefighter Curtis Trevor Gold. His years of civic service and commitment to the Department and the people of Ontario are worthy of the highest commendation. He will be missed.
INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION FOR ELECTORAL SYSTEMS (IFES) RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE
David E. Price (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and to place the following statement from IFES in the Record. Resolution of Support for Ukraine The Board of Directors of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), meeting in Arlington, Virginia, USA on this 15th day of March 2022, does hereby declare its full support for the people of Ukraine, and the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. The Board of Directors condemns the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation as a flagrant act of aggression and violation of international law, including the Helsinki Final Act and the United Nations Charter. Since Ukraine became an independent country more than 30 years ago, its people have repeatedly chosen the path of freedom and democracy. Over the course of three decades, IFES has been honored to support Ukrainians in their efforts to strengthen and safeguard their democracy. The Board of Directors of IFES affirms its continued solidarity with the Ukrainian people, who are bravely resisting this unprovoked assault on their freedom and democracy. The Board of Directors pays tribute to the contributions of current and former IFES staff in Ukraine who have helped to build Ukrainian democracy. We stand in solidarity with these IFES staff, with the Central Election Commission of Ukraine, and with our civil society partners and the members of the public institutions with whom we work. The Board of Directors further recognizes the important work of those fighting for democracy and human rights in and around Russia and Belarus, especially those who have worked to oppose the invasion of Ukraine. The IFES Board of Directors eagerly looks forward to the day when peace in Ukraine, and respect for the sovereign and democratic rights of the Ukrainian people are restored. We pledge to stand with the people of Ukraine now and in the future.
RECOGNIZING THE HONORABLE SIDNEY JOHN BARTHELEMY, A CHERISHED PUBLIC SERVANT FROM THE STATE OF LOUISIANA CELEBRATING HIS TENURE AS MAYOR OF THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS FROM 1974 UNTIL 1978
Troy A. Carter (Democrat, LA) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , today I rise to pay tribute to an outstanding, cherished public servant from my home State of Louisiana. I am proud to say, my dear friend and mentor, The Honorable Sidney John Barthelemy gave me my first job in city government upon graduation from college. As an American political figure, he served as the second African American to hold the New Orleans mayoral chair from 1986 to 1994. He was a member of the Louisiana State Senate from 1974 to 1978 and a member at-large of the New Orleans City Council from 1978 to 1986. He is a proud member of the ic Party. prgtoken The Honorable Barthelemy was born on March 17, 1942, in New Orleans, Louisiana, and was the third of six children (Ruth, Lionel, Jr Joyce, Anthony, Felix) in a deep-rooted New Orleans family, born to Lionel and Ruth (Fernandez) Barthelemy, Sr. He grew up in the historic 7th Ward, and attended Corpus Christi Elementary School, founded by Saint Katharine Drexel, SBS, foundress of The Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament; and St. Augustine High School (New Orleans), run by the Josephites Fathers and Brothers. prgtoken He then sought to enter the priesthood with the Josephites, studying at Epiphany Apostolic Junior College in Newburgh, New York, and then St. Joseph Seminary in Washington, D.C where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy and pursued graduate study in theology. While in the seminary, he worked summers as a laborer in a stevedoring company. prgtoken In 1967, having made the decision not to enter the priesthood, Honorable Barthelemy returned to New Orleans and became an administrative assistant in the office of Total Community Action. In 1968, Barthelemy married Michaele ``Mickey'' Thibodeaux. They are the proud parents of Cherrie, Bridget, and Sidney, Jr. From 1969 to 1972, he was director of the Parent Child Center of Family Health, Inc. During these years, he also completed a Master of Social Work degree at Tulane University in New Orleans, worked part-time for the Urban League of Greater New Orleans, and assisted with various political campaigns, joining COUP (The Community Organization for Urban Politics), a political organization based in the 7th Ward of New Orleans. prgtoken From 1972 to 1974, Barthelemy was Director of the Department of Welfare under Mayor Moon Landrieu. Backed by COUP, Barthelemy was elected in 1974 to one term in the Louisiana State senate from District 4, defeating a White incumbent who had held the seat for sixteen years. He was the first African American to serve in that body since Reconstruction. While he served in the Legislature, he also joined Xavier University of Louisiana as assistant director of the Urb-involve Program and as an instructor in the Department of Sociology. He became an adjunct faculty member in the Applied Health Sciences Department, Maternal and Child Health Section, of Tulane University. prgtoken In 1978 Barthelemy was elected to an at-large seat on the N
MORTON HIGH SCHOOL
Ed Perlmutter (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Morton High School in Morton, Illinois. At this school, classes past and present have achieved tremendous success and a legacy of excellence carried on by the students that followed them. prgtoken As the Morton High School athletics department has grown, so has the prominence of their girls' basketball team, known as the ``Lady Potter's''. In an unprecedented record of success in eight seasons from 2015 to 2022, the Lady Potters won four Illinois State Championships, three in succession. In that time, they have won 244 games and only lost 23. The Lady Potter's have been led to victory 559 times against 159 defeats by the architect, builder, and coach of the team, Bob Becker. Becker has been awarded Coach of the Year multiple times by the Illinois High School Association and was named to the Illinois basketball coaches' Hall of Fame in 2020. In addition, seven of his Lady Potters have gone on to play Division I college basketball. prgtoken A kind, retired Hall of Fame sportswriter brought their story to the nation, comparing them to the current NBA champions: ``They are the Golden State Warriors, only with Pony Tails''. Their accomplishments also garnered public praise in a CBS' 60 Minutes feature. prgtoken With 2022 marking the 50th anniversary of Title IX, which guaranteed the Lady Potter's right to play, there is much to celebrate. The Class of '72 also celebrates their 50th anniversary as graduates of Morton High School this year. Morton High School continues to honor the legacy of the classes before them and their tremendous achievements throughout the year. prgtoken Congratulations to classes past and present of Morton High School, including the 2022 Lady Potter's basketball team. The school pride is worthy of celebration. Keep up the good work.
HONORING THE MEMORY OF JOSEPH McCOY AND BENJAMIN THOMAS
Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise in memory of Joseph McCoy and Benjamin Thomas--and to commend the City of Alexandria for its work on the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project (ACRP). prgtoken Through its partnership with the Equal Justice Initiative, the ACRP has brought our community together to remember the city's history of racial terror and to memorialize Joseph McCoy and Benjamin Thomas, who were lynched in 1897 and 1899, respectively. These lynchings were two of 86 documented lynchings committed in Virginia between 1880 and 1930. These acts of premeditated violence were deliberate attempts by whites to terrorize and control black populations across the state. prgtoken As our community convenes again on September 24, 2022 we do so to collect soil representing these two young men's lives. In October, Alexandrians will then make a pilgrimage to Montgomery, Alabama to deliver this sacred soil to its final resting place at the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. prgtoken These events also occur during a year in which the Emmitt Till Antilynching Act, a federal bill making lynching a federal hate crime, was signed into law by President on March 29. I was proud to support this long overdue legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, but also recognize that we still have much more work to do. prgtoken It is incumbent on all of us to remember this shameful episode of our history and others like it. In doing so, we are better able to see the continuous chain of racially motivated violence against Black Americans that spans our nation's history. We can truly honor the memories of Joseph McCoy and Benjamin Thomas, along with the countless number of named and unnamed victims of racial violence, by seeking justice for all Americans and working to build a more inclusive society.
RECOGNIZING CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT ANDREW J. PIEHL
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , l rise today to honor an outstanding leader and warrior, Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Andrew J. Piehl on the occasion of his retirement from the United States Air Force Reserve. Chief Piehl is the 349th Air Mobility Wing Cyber Operations Superintendent at Travis Air Force Base in California, and has served his nation for more than 35 years of selfless duty. prgtoken Chief Piehl started his career as a vehicle operator in 1987, stationed in Texas and Italy. Just three years later, he deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, answering our country's call to face down tyranny in response to Iraq's invasion and annexation of Kuwait. Since then, this proud son of Vacaville, California, served with distinction at Air Force bases across the globe and devoted his life to the service of our great Nation. prgtoken In his final job before retirement, he was the principal enlisted advisor for cyber warfighters at the largest tenant wing in Air Force Reserve Command, ensuring airmen were mission-ready to provide dynamic and integrated network defense capabilities, systems management, technical support, and financial management. Chief Piehl was an exceptional senior enlisted leader living by the core values of ``Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do.'' He always put his airmen and their needs first. prgtoken In addition to Chief Piehl's service, his wife Grace also selflessly served in the Air Force Reserve as a Senior Master Sergeant. She devoted her life to their two children, Shelby and AJ. In all that we do, may we reflect on the many sacrifices of our dual military families and their tireless devotion to duty. I cannot overstate the importance of the support that spouses and families provide to their service members in our Armed Forces. Service and sacrifice are not limited to just the service member, but often extend to the entire family. On behalf of the U.S. Congress and a grateful Nation, we thank Grace, Shelby, and AJ. Although the Air Force will say goodbye to Chief Master Sergeant Piehl, we know that the Piehl family's legacy and devotion to the service of this great Nation will continue for years to come. prgtoken I would like to help close out the final chapter of this inspiring Soldier and Joint Force leader's career with a heartfelt thank you from all the men and women of the U.S. Congress and Nation. Thank you, Chief Master Sergeant Piehl, for your 35 years of service to the Air Force and the Travis Air Force Base community, and congratulations on your retirement. We wish you well in your future endeavors.
REMEMBERING PHOUA THAO HANG
Ilhan Omar (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2022-9-2

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the life of Phoua Thao Hang. She leaves behind a large and loving family in Minnesota, and a legacy that will continue to inspire our community for years to come. prgtoken Phoua was born in 1952 in Sa Luong, Laos. She grounded her life in service to community, sharing cultural wisdom with younger generations of Hmong Minnesotans who did not get to experience the same life she did--being carried on her father's back from village to village, planting rice seedlings, and gathering water for her family before the sun rose. prgtoken Phoua's family noted that over the course of her life, she worked as ``an assembly operator, a waitress, a certified seamstress, a wreath- maker, and a farmer.'' Phoua became a distinguished member of the Twin Cities' Hmong community and contributed to countless efforts to build political, social, and economic capital. She was known as a mainstay of the St. Paul Farmers Market, where she sold her family's fruits and vegetables for two decades. She was a founding member of the Hmong American Farmers Association where she ``led the charge to lease a 155- acre farm, helped launch a marketing cooperative and food hub, spearheaded a micro-lending program, and tested key modules in a national training program,'' as remarked by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. prgtoken Phoua instilled in her children and grandchildren that sense of service, and our community will continue to be blessed by their thoughtful and impactful contributions in government, non-profits, and business. Phoua was killed senselessly on July 17, 2022, in a hit-and- run accident that has forever changed countless lives. I hold Phoua, her family, and our community in my heart as we honor her incredible legacy.