mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
SAVING NEMO ACT
Ed Case (Democrat, HI) \u2014 2023-11-17

I rise today to urge my House colleagues to join in protecting our world's fragile coral reef ecosystems by restricting international imports of protected ornamental reef fish and coral species collected by destructive and unsustainable practices. prgtoken Our oceans are indispensable to life on our planet, not only to our global environment but to the billions that are directly or indirectly reliant on its resources. Our oceans in turn rely on the health and diversity of our coral reefs, some of our most diverse ecosystems, with nearly 25 percent of the ocean's fish dependent on coral reefs for shelter, food and reproduction. And our coral reefs are interdependent with healthy, diverse and sustainable marine flora and fauna. prgtoken Among these are prized ornamental reef fish and coral species highly valued by collectors. While it is possible to collect them at sustainable levels which do not harm the coral reef or broader marine ecosystem, high demand leads too often to unsustainable and destructive collection practices such as overcollection of species overall, overcollection of younger specimens, collection through reef-dredging, gill nets, explosives or poison, and harm to specimens leading to excessive deaths in transit. Most of the collection occurs internationally where most of our world's coral reefs are found, in countries, such as in Southeast Asia, which do not have strong regulation or enforcement regimens against unsustainable or destructive practices. prgtoken As the largest importer of ornamental reef fish, our country has both responsibility for creating the demand that leads to such practices, and the opportunity to channel that demand to sustainable collection. The Saving Natural Ecosystems and Marine Organisms Act would do so by prohibiting the import into our country of protected reef species taken using unsustainable or destructive practices. The enforcement mechanism would be administrative certification, in conjunction with cooperating collecting countries where possible, that ornamental reef fish and species to be imported into our country were collected without following those practices. prgtoken I ask for my colleagues' support of this bill which is one piece of a much larger effort to save our oceans from their own worst enemy: us.
HONORING THE HEROICS OF RICHARD FIERRO AND THOMAS JAMES
Doug Lamborn (Republican, CO) \u2014 2023-11-17

November 19, 2023 marks the one year anniversary of a violent attack in Colorado Springs killing five people and injuring 22 others. I would like to once again extend my prayers of peace and healing for the families and victims. During the incident, two heroes took action that night to prevent further harm and should be honored for their heroic acts. prgtoken Richard Fierro and Thomas James stepped up at their own peril to save lives and protect others. The two heroes worked together to stop the gunman and remove the firearm from him, Mr. James even incurred injuries when a bullet was fired into his abdomen. Because of the decisive, quick, and selfless action of these two men, more lives were not taken by the attacker. This is the true spirit of selflessness and duty that we are privileged to experience so commonly in Colorado Springs. prgtoken Information Technician 2nd Class Thomas James was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, the highest non-combat decoration the Navy can award for heroism. prgtoken Richard Fierro, a retired Army Major, received the Lifesaving Military Hero of The Year Award from the American Red Cross. prgtoken May we all remember their actions to save the lives of others and thank them for their service to our Nation and community on the anniversary of this terrible event.
RECOGNIZING THE PORTERVILLE ELKS LODGE
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-11-17

I rise today to recognize the Porterville Elks Lodge on their 100-year anniversary and thank them for their significant contributions to the Porterville community. The Porterville Elks Lodge was established in 1923 on Porterville's Main Street. prgtoken For more than a century, the lodge has served as a meeting place for residents of the community and the home of the Porterville Elks Lodge Club. The club's unwavering commitment to public service and the Porterville community has guided its mission since the lodge's founding. Today, the club has 149 members, all of whom dedicate their time to giving back to and investing in the local community. The club is passionate about the well-being of Porterville's residents and focuses many of their efforts on helping children and veterans prgtoken Last year, the club raised more than $32,000 for the Purple Pig Major Project--the second-largest contribution from the California delegation of clubs. The project's funds are used to support disabled youth with the medical treatments and therapies they need to thrive. Through their affiliation with the Elks National Foundation, the Porterville Elks Lodge Club has also awarded students throughout the community with scholarships to support their academic goals and connected veterans and servicemembers with rehabilitation services. prgtoken During the recent flooding in California, the Porterville Elks Lodge Club worked with the Central California Family Crisis Center and Parenting Network to donate jackets, baby formula, and other items to residents in need. Their efforts were critical in helping families in my district recover from the devastating storms. The club's longstanding history of service is ingrained in the fabric of the Porterville community. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in celebrating the Porterville Elks Lodge on their 100-year anniversary. Their work to enrich the community of Porterville will be felt for generations to come.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ERNESTINE RACLIN
Rudy Yakym III (Republican, IN) \u2014 2023-11-17

I rise to celebrate the life and honor the legacy of Ernestine Raclin, who passed away at the age of 95 earlier this year. prgtoken Born and raised in South Bend, Indiana, as the youngest daughter of Ernest and Ella Morris, Ernestine devoted much of her life to making her home community an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. prgtoken Many times that meant being a trailblazer and taking on roles and responsibilities like few women before her did. prgtoken That meant chairing 1st Source Bank and 1st Source Corporation for more than 20 years, being the first woman Board Member of the University of Notre Dame, and being the first woman to chair a major campaign for the University. Ernestine was also the first woman in our country to chair a United Way campaign and to serve on the Board of United Way of America. prgtoken In addition to her business acumen, Ernie was also deeply passionate about the arts. Ernestine believed strongly in the transformative power of the arts and the many ways that art can elevate and improve the human spirit. That passion translated into action, and throughout her life Ernie gave back to the wider South Bend community by generously volunteering her time, talents, and treasure to countless projects rooted in the arts. prgtoken Above all, Ernie was a leader who loved her family and possessed a unique ability to inspire and rally people around serving causes greater than themselves. prgtoken In her life Ernestine ``Ernie'' Raclin wore many hats: she was a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a great grandmother, a mentor, a colleague, a philanthropist, and a dear friend. prgtoken The sheer number of remembrances that have come in since her passing goes to show just how many lives Ernestine Raclin touched and shaped for the better. prgtoken I know that Ernestine's family and many friends dearly miss her and her kindly presence. But I also know that we ``do not grieve like those who have no hope,'' and take comfort in knowing that God-willing, one day we will be reunited with her for all eternity. prgtoken I am proud to have known Ernestine and to help celebrate a life very well-lived. I join so many others in thanking God for sending us this compassionate soul who became a friend to so many and such a pivotal leader in the wider South Bend community. prgtoken God bless Ernestine Raclin.
HONORING MARK TRESNOWSKI ON HIS RETIREMENT
Darin LaHood (Republican, IL) \u2014 2023-11-17

I would like to honor and congratulate Mark Tresnowski on his retirement following an exceptional legal career. prgtoken An accomplished and highly respected attorney, Mark served as a founding member of the American Investment Council. Upon his retirement from Madison Dearborn and his term of leadership of the Council, I recognize Mark for his service to the Council, his professional contributions, and his support to his community. prgtoken Mark has dedicated much of his career to helping people achieve their personal and professional dreams. Throughout his distinguished career, he has served as a mentor to countless attorneys who have valued his wisdom, work ethic, and experienced perspective. He also serves as a faculty member in the Practicing Law Institute seminars and has published articles in Venture Capital Journal, Buyouts, and the M&A Lawyer. prgtoken Mark is also very involved in his local community and is a leader in supporting children and their families as a trustee of Children's Home & Aid in Chicago, Illinois. Mark exemplifies the values of dedication and leadership. prgtoken I want to express the utmost gratitude to Mark. I am certain that my fellow Illinoisans feel the same pride and respect towards him that I do. Congratulations Mark, and best wishes for a happy and relaxing retirement.
CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF DR. JOHN PIPKIN
Ronny Jackson (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-11-17

I rise today to honor the remarkable legacy of Dr. John Pipkin of Amarillo, Texas. On December 11, 2023, Dr. Pipkin will retire from West Texas A&M University, where during his 30 years of service he created one of the most successful equine programs in the United States. prgtoken At West Texas A&M University, Dr. Pipkin acted as a Regents Professor of Animal Science and the Director of the Equine Industry Program, preparing thousands of students to succeed in a career in the horse and agribusiness industries. As the head coach of the distinguished horse judging team at West Texas A&M, Dr. Pipkin led his teams to over 160 national champion and reserve champion titles, and his competitive equine and ranch horse teams have won over 60 national and reserve national championship honors. prgtoken Outside of his accomplishments in the university setting, Dr. Pipkin's legacy in the equine industry spans over 40 years, officiating over 400 horse events across the globe, including over 20 world championships. Dr. Pipkin also serves as a National Director for the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and was the Chairman of the AQHA Judges Committee, AQHA Show and Professional Horsemen Committee, AQHA Show Council, and the World Conformation Horse Association Judges Committee. In 2022, Dr. Pipkin was named the Nutrena Don Burt AQHA Professional Horseman of the Year for his lifelong commitment to the equine industry and his development of numerous educational and testing materials for the AQHA judging program that have been instrumental in developing many of the scoring systems currently used to judge classes such as western riding, trail, showmanship, horsemanship, and equitation classes. prgtoken On December 4, 2023, Dr. Pipkin will transition to his role as the American Quarter Horse Association's Director of Officials. There, Pipkin will be responsible for working alongside the AQHA show department and judges committee to manage the direction of the AQHA judges, stewards, and drug-testing programs. prgtoken I would like to thank Dr. Pipkin for his dedication to the success of the students and faculty of West Texas A&M University Equine Department and wish him the best as he supports the AQHA membership and continues to advance the equine industry.
RECOGNIZING 2023 BEST COMMUNITY FOR MUSIC EDUCATION RECIPIENT CANON- McMILLAN SCHOOL DISTRICT
Guy Reschenthaler (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-11-17

I rise to congratulate Canon-McMillan School District for being recognized by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation as one of the best communities for music education in 2023. prgtoken The NAMM Foundation celebrates schools and school districts by recognizing their ability to train and educate the next generation of musicians. 830 school districts, including Canon-McMillan School District, were recognized for the outstanding efforts of their teachers, administrators, parents, and students. prgtoken According to NAMM, over 3 million children did not have access to proper music education in 2019. Every student deserves a chance to learn and develop their artistic capabilities, and Canon-McMillan School District's continuous efforts undoubtedly help our children in Southwest Pennsylvania. prgtoken , on behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 14th Congressional District, I congratulate Canon-McMillan School District on this momentous occasion.
RECOGNIZING CHRIS JONES
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2023-11-21

I rise today in recognition of Chris Jones and his service to Virginia's First District, commonly called ``America's First District'' and the Nation. This is both a moment of reflection and a time to express our heartfelt appreciation for a job well done. prgtoken Chris began his career in public service as a District Representative for my predecessor, Rep. Jo Ann Davis, covering the regions of the Middle Peninsula and the Northern Neck, Chris' family has called the Northern Neck home for generations. Chris joined my office in 2007 and worked his way up to Deputy District Director. Chris has been the epitome of public service excellence, a dedication of over 20 years to the betterment of our community, our Commonwealth, and our nation. His journey has been one of tireless effort, navigation through the complexities of government--from the local, state, and federal--to serve citizens with grace, resilience, and an unyielding sense of purpose. prgtoken During Chris' tenure, he has been a beacon of leadership, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence and to uphold the values that define our Congressional office and as a true Virginia gentleman. Chris' genuine concern for the well-being of America's First District citizens, has left an indelible mark on all of us. prgtoken Today is not only a farewell; it's a moment to express our deepest gratitude. Chris' tireless dedication has set a standard for excellence that will be hard to match. His infectious enthusiasm will be sorely missed, but Chris' legacy will undoubtedly endure in the continued success of America's First District constituent services. prgtoken , I ask you to join me in recognizing the service and accomplishments of Chris Jones. May God bless Chris, and I look forward to seeing his continued success in the future.
HONORING THE LIFE OF GARY PETERSEN
Dan Newhouse (Republican, WA) \u2014 2023-11-21

today I rise to recognize Gary Petersen, a dedicated leader hailing from the Tri-Cities, who tragically lost his fight to cancer this past month. It saddens me that rather than announcing his next great achievement, I am instead here to mourn his passing. prgtoken Gary was known throughout both Central Washington, the U.S. Capitol, and the Department of Energy as a fierce advocate for the interests of the Tri-Cities. His leadership in our communities proved fruitful for decades, sparking both economic development and innovation for the citizens of Central Washington. prgtoken His advocacy for the Hanford cleanup mission has been the cornerstone of the success of our region, and I am in awe of the impact he has made over the years. His immense knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of our community's priorities was matched by so few, and I have no doubt his name will go down in history with the likes of Sam Volpentest and Bob Ferguson. prgtoken Gary's legacy includes leading advocacy for the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's campus, supporting the advancement of the Hanford cleanup mission, and advocating for growing the local economy at TRIDEC; he will also be known as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and personal friend of mine. prgtoken While he will be missed, his legacy will continue to live on in every corner of the Tri-Cities and Central Washington.
NO STOLEN TRADEMARKS HONORED IN AMERICA ACT OF 2023
Darrell Issa (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-11-21

recognizing and safeguarding intellectual property rights is a vital interest for the United States and a critical component of our leadership, which has historically championed strong IP rights. prgtoken Consistent and strong IP rights ensure that business will seek to innovate in the U.S. and enjoy the protections granted under our Constitution and laws. prgtoken It goes without saying that strong IP protections require that the government respect IP ownership and the right of IP owners to control who exercises their rights. prgtoken Similarly obvious is that the government should not condone IP theft. prgtoken That is exactly what has happened with the trademarks stolen by the Communist government of Cuba. prgtoken As if oppressing and brutalizing the Cuban people was not enough, the Castro regime also stole IP from legitimate owners during its vicious takeover of Cuba. prgtoken This included stealing valuable trademarks, such as ``Havana Club,'' from the Arechabala family. prgtoken The Arechabala family for years invested their time and resources building a world-renowned brand for their rum only to have the Communists steal it along with the rest of their property, including all of their production facilities. prgtoken The Castro regime then embarked on decades of exploiting that IP, manufacturing and exporting rum using the ``Havana Club'' trademark they stole. prgtoken The Arechabala family never recovered from what happened to them, but they transferred their rightful interests in their trademarks to the Bacardi family and company in the U.S. prgtoken As a world leader when it comes to IP rights, it should be clear that the U.S. government would side with Bacardi in a dispute between them and the Castro regime over these trademarks. prgtoken But in 2016, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, or USPTO, recognized the Cuban regime's claim on the ``Havana Club'' trademark even though it was stolen by the Cuban regime. prgtoken That is why I introduced this bill, which prohibits the executive branch from recognizing, enforcing, or validating any trademark used in connection with a business or assets that were confiscated without the consent of the original owner or successor-in-interest. prgtoken I was delighted to be joined by my ic colleague, Ms. Wasserman Schultz of Florida, in introducing it, and the bill has since been cosponsored by 17 other Members from both parties on the way to being overwhelmingly approved by the Judiciary Committee on a bipartisan basis. prgtoken We all agree that the U.S. government should not reward those who would steal and exploit trademarks, or any other IP, without the consent of the legitimate owners. prgtoken Allowing Cuba to propagate its misappropriation of IP also sets a harmful precedent for international IP protections. prgtoken I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this legislation.
ST. MARY GRADE SCHOOL WINS FOURTH BLUE RIBBON AWARD
Brad R. Wenstrup (Republican, OH) \u2014 2023-11-21

I rise to celebrate St. Mary Grade School's fourth Blue Ribbon Award. Located in Southwest Ohio and serving students across the region, St. Mary Grade School was founded by the Sisters of Charity. Opening its doors in 1908 with 100 students, the school has expanded and now has well over 400 students enrolled annually. prgtoken The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program seeks to honor schools from around the country that have a vision of excellence and hold their students and faculty to a high standard, and I can't think of a more worthy school than St. Mary Grade School. For over a century, this school has pushed each and every student to be the best they can be, academically and spiritually, and they continue to serve the local community to this day. prgtoken I, like the thousands of other graduates who began their educational and spiritual journey at St. Mary Grade School, owe so much of our educational foundation to the dedicated faculty who have devoted years of their lives to ensuring that future generations of Ohioans will continue to prosper. prgtoken I am incredibly proud that the National Blue Ribbon School Program has chosen my alma mater to be one of the forty private schools honored this year as the school is so deserving of this distinction. I am looking forward to their continued success in the community.
HONORING THE LIFE OF CAROLYN W. JONES
Debbie Wasserman Schultz (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-11-21

it is with a heavy heart that I rise to recognize the remarkable life of Carolyn W. Jones. prgtoken As a woman of faith, Carolyn was a leader of St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church in Dania Beach where she served as a Trustee, Church Clerk, and as a member of the Hospitality Ministry. prgtoken Carolyn, along with other prominent church members, was instrumental in ensuring St. prgtoken Ruth was recognized with a commemorative historical marker, detailing the notable status of the church in the community. Carolyn was also one of the founders of the revered JWS-Journey of Hope Cancer Ministry at St. Ruth. As a strong compassionate, servant leader, Carolyn had a passion for supporting and working in the community to fight against cancer. Carolyn was the team leader for the Dania Beach Relay for Life fundraising walks, where she and others in the community walked to honor cancer survivors. prgtoken Carolyn's love for developing young minds led her to be a part of the Broward County Public School District for more than 38 years. Her esteemed career included Parkway Middle School, Apollo Middle School, and Attucks Middle School. The pinnacle of Carolyn's educational career was when she was honored as Attucks Middle School Teacher of the Year. She was also a member of The Charmettes, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and the Red Hat Society. prgtoken As a supportive wife, Carolyn stood by her husband Albert as he served on both the Dania Beach and Broward County Commissions. prgtoken Truly an inspiration, Carolyn is remembered for her kind and generous spirit and legacy of service to family, church, and community. My heart is with her family in mourning the loss of this kind, generous, and compassionate soul. We were forever privileged to have shared this time with her. prgtoken May her memory be for a blessing.