mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING CHIEF OF STAFF ELLIOTT GUFFIN
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2023-10-6

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to honor the public service of a long-time member of my team, George Elliott Guffin IV, and wish him success as he enters the next stage of his career. prgtoken A native of Jackson, Mississippi, Elliott is a proud graduate of the University of Mississippi--a fact he will share with you within five minutes of meeting him. Elliott began his congressional service in the United States Senate in the office of Senator Roger Wicker prior to joining my staff in May 2016 and beginning a long tenure of service to the people of North Carolina's 8th, and later 9th, Congressional District. prgtoken As a young staff assistant, Elliott excelled at many things. His sunny disposition, eagerness to learn, and dedication to public service are the main reasons why I didn't fire him that time he forgot and stranded a scheduled tour group at the White House. However, my faith in Elliott was rewarded as he grew to be a trusted advisor, mentor to others, an exceptional leader, and a valued part of the team. prgtoken Advancing as a legislative correspondent, legislative aide, legislative assistant, senior legislative assistant, legislative director, deputy chief of staff, and chief of staff, Elliott never wavered in his commitment to serving our constituents. Over the years, he helped me secure legislation to push for the paving of roads for the Green Gap community in the Uwharrie National Forest--a process that will soon come to fruition. In addition, Elliott helped me secure multiple pieces of legislation to address the needs of our farmers, expand rural broadband access for North Carolinians, and increase support for our region's troops, military families, and veterans. prgtoken I am especially proud of the work Elliott accomplished in defense of the Second Amendment, drafting legislation with me to harden and secure schools and pushing for concealed carry reciprocity. prgtoken Over the years, Elliott has established himself as a trusted leader and friend to his colleagues. He was the backbone of our office--always willing to do whatever was needed to help the team. I have been impressed by the attention Elliott gave to his managerial role by setting aside time to work with each member of our staff in order to help them develop into great congressional staffers. Through his dedicated leadership, Elliott has taken what has always been a great team and built an exceptional one by understanding the values and motivations of his peers. prgtoken Of all his tremendous achievements for North Carolina and the country, I am most proud of the man I've had the privilege to watch him grow into. I always tell my staff that over all things, family is first. Elliott has taken this to heart since day one, even ensuring I made it to my son's soccer game as we drove from the opposite end of North Carolina. I've been able to see the same values watching him get married and start his own family, starting with his lovely wif
HONORING CELEBRA GRAPEVINE 2023
Beth Van Duyne (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-10-6

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the 2nd Annual Celebra Grapevine festival which will take place on October 7th in Grapevine, Texas and is dedicated to celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. prgtoken In 1988, President Ronald Reagan established Hispanic Heritage Month to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions made by Americans of Hispanic descent. Consistent with this fine tradition, Celebra Grapevine provides North Texans with an opportunity to embrace diversity and honor the Hispanic heritage that has influenced traditions, art, and cuisine throughout our community. Celebra means to celebrate in Spanish, which is a fitting name for this festival. Grapevine's Latino population, which makes up more than 30 percent of the city's population, plays an important role in growing the city's economy and making the city a great place to live, work, and raise a family. prgtoken I commend the City of Grapevine and Celebra Grapevine for their commitment to fostering unity and building bridges in our community. I hope their festival is a great success.
RECOGNIZING KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2023-10-6

. Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize the musical achievements of Kenny Wayne Shepherd. prgtoken Kenny received his first guitar from his grandmother at the age of four and began to play the guitar in earnest at age seven. It is here when he began his love of the American genre of blues. With a Stratocaster electric guitar replica, he taught himself to play one note at a time. Growing up in Shreveport, Louisiana, he was exposed to music that influenced his relentless pursuit of his guitar skills and love of this art form. From Elvis to Ledbelly, the combination of country, blues, and rock which flowed through his hometown created the musician we hear today. His parents brought all varieties of music into his home, which deepened his appreciation for the talents and stylings of other artists. From Hank Williams, James Brown, and Crosby Stills Nash and Young to Stevie Ray Vaughan and Albert King, these artists were the foundation of the musical talents we all enjoy today from Kenny Wayne. prgtoken At a very young age, Kenny's father brought John Lee Hooker and Muddy Waters to Shreveport to p]ay. This was the moment that turned on the light of blues music in Kenny Wayne's life. Kenny's father, Ken, remembers his son playing his electric guitar with headphones on listening to CDs of John Lee Hooker, B.B King and Howling Wolf. Kenny was able to pick up by ear the unique aspects of American blues music. Stevie Ray Vaughan asked a young Kenny Wayne if he would like to watch from the side of the stage during his concert and on that night the impact of this incredible guitar virtuoso was ingrained in a 7-year-old aspiring musician. prgtoken Chris Layton, who played drums in Stevie Ray's band, Double Trouble, later became the drummer for the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band. He remembers the exceptional talents of Kenny when he heard some of his earliest recordings. Chris was deeply impressed by Kenny's determination, focus and dedication to his craft. prgtoken Kenny had the opportunity to travel with his father to many different music venues, where he played to a variety of audiences. Many folks began to point out the remarkable talent that he displayed. Bill Pfordresher, a record producer, told Kenny's father that they should cut a record. Ken Shepherd had three rules for Kenny. First, that he must finish high school before he would allow him to pursue music full time. Ken's second rule was once music was no longer fun for Kenny he could stop at any time. The final rule was Kenny had to be involved in every business decision that was made about his career. They, then called in some favors from friends and recorded a record in New Orleans which quickly took off. Kenny now found himself as the opening act for the Eagles. prgtoken Kenny's circumstances in his career success were unique. He and his dad were a father-son team and Kenny was not the lead singer in the early days of his band. Kenny was able to overcome these c
STONY DWIGHT RUSHING
Dan Bishop (Republican, NC) \u2014 2023-10-6

. Pro Tempore, today I rise to honor the legacy of the Union County Board of Commissioners Chair, Stony Dwight Rushing. prgtoken Stony loved his family and he loved Union County. He was fiercely devoted to his wife, Anne-Marie, and his two children, Reagan and RyLee. Stony also served Union County for four terms on the Board of Commissioners from 2002 to 2006, and then again from 2014 to 2023. Over the course of these four terms, Stony's fellow Board Members chose him to serve as Chairman for two of them. Stony was a congenial presence and a highly effective servant to his community. He stood for our God- given rights and took every opportunity to make people's lives better. His larger-than-life presence that still echoes throughout Union County will truly be missed. prgtoken Outside of his involvement with the Union County Board of Commissioners, Stony mentored young North Carolinians on the importance of firearm proficiency and safety. Stony served as a certified firearms instructor and owner of Take Aim Training Range. In fact, he was the NRA South Carolina Youth Hunter Education Challenge State Coordinator, and was honored as the 2013 NC Governor's Conservation Achievement Award winner for ``Hunter Education Instructor of the Year.'' Stony also served as the Union District Chairman for the Boy Scouts of America between 2006 and 2009. prgtoken On behalf of the entire 8th Congressional District of North Carolina, I rise to honor and celebrate Chairman Stony Rushing's fruitful life and dedicated service to others. I thank Stony and may he rest in peace.
RECOGNIZING THE WASCO WOMAN'S CLUB
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the Wasco Woman's Club on their 100-year anniversary and to thank them for their significant contributions to the Wasco community. Founded in 1923, the Wasco Woman's Club was started by 13 young women who joined together to improve Wasco through volunteer service. Their unwavering commitment to public service has guided their mission over the past century. The Wasco Woman's Club now has approximately 40 members, many of whom are active in other non-profits and faith-based organizations in the community. The club is passionate about the well-being of the city's residents and focuses many of their efforts on strengthening local schools, libraries, and youth programs. prgtoken For a century, the Wasco Woman's Club has offered a chance for women of all ages to come together and give back to the Central Valley community. The club is a strong supporter of the Ronald McDonald House and Toys for Tigers organization, helping children and their families get through incredibly difficult situations. Additionally, the club hosts regular events for those in the community, including the Wasco High School Student Art and Photography Awards and the Christmas with Santa Event for special needs students. The club is also the proud owner of the oldest adobe building in the city, which they use to host special events and community gatherings. Amid all of their work, the members of the Wasco Woman's Club are committed to uplifting each other through their long-standing friendships and shared commitment to the betterment of the community. prgtoken Pro Tempore, I ask all my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating the Wasco Woman's Club on their 100-year anniversary. Their work to enrich the community of Wasco will be felt for generations to come.
HONORING KRISTEN BENNETT
Chuck Edwards (Republican, NC) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, I rise today to honor Ms. Kristen Bennett for her invaluable work as a Congressional Intern serving in my Hendersonville office. I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her hard work and recognize the meaningful contributions she made at the office this year. prgtoken Interns work with staff to serve constituents in North Carolina's 11th Congressional district. Kristen was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants and exceeded every expectation. prgtoken It was a pleasure to work with Kristen, and I am proud to have such an intelligent and ambitious intern representing my office. Kristen exemplified the spirit of public service and represents the best that Western North Carolina has to offer. I congratulate her on the successful completion of her internship.
RECOGNIZING ASHLEY HAINES
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, I rise today in recognition of Ashley Haines and her service to Virginia's First District and the Nation. prgtoken Ashley earned her bachelor's degree from James Madison University, where she majored in Public Policy with a minor in Political Communication. Prior to joining my office, Ashley interned on the 2021 Virginia Governor's Primary Race and was a Legislative Aide on the Virginia House District 26 campaign. prgtoken Ashley joined my office in 2021 as my Communications Assistant and worked her way up to Deputy Press Secretary. Ashley's outstanding work ethic and willingness to learn has made her an invaluable member of Team Wittman. From coordinating telephone town halls, arranging interviews with local sources, and crafting press releases, Ashley has contributed tremendously to providing the best constituent service in the Commonwealth. prgtoken I thank Ashley for her contributions and dedicated service over the past two years. Her positive attitude and openness to new challenges will be dearly missed in my office. I wish her the best as she continues her journey as Communications Director for Congressman Derrick Van Orden. prgtoken Pro Tempore, I ask you to join me in recognizing Ashley Haines for her service to Virginia's First District and the Nation. May God bless Ashley as she continues her career in public service.
HONORING THE LIFE OF ALLISON ELIZABETH KENNEDY
Mark E. Green (Republican, TN) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, I rise today in honor of the life and legacy of Allison Elizabeth Kennedy, a devoted mother, beloved wife, cherished daughter, and follower of Christ. prgtoken Allison is remembered by those who knew her best as a woman with a servant's heart; the first to volunteer, the first to help, the first to pick up the phone. Throughout her life, Allison graciously shared the love and joy obtained through a deep and abiding faith with those around her. No one who met her was ever surprised to find that she was a woman of faith; she exuded her love for God in all that she did. prgtoken Born in California and raised in Vancouver, Washington, Allison grew up around a large prgtoken extended family that instilled the values of selflessness, generosity, and integrity in her from a young age. Even as Allison grew older, she stayed deeply connected to her roots. Her devotion to family only came second to her devotion to God. prgtoken Allison's mind was as strong and capable as her heart. Growing up, she consistently excelled in her studies. Her success in cheerleading and high school mock trial reflected her competitive spirit and relentless commitment to excellence. Allison went on to graduate from Washington State University with distinction. Her academic journey did not end there. She later earned a master's in public policy from American University in Washington D.C. where she developed an appreciation for our nation's capital. It was also here that she found a worthy mission--serving the public through road safety advocacy. prgtoken Allison proved to be a determined policy advocate who labored to improve safety conditions for drivers and pedestrians across our great nation. Allison's career began when she was hired at the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety where she ultimately became Director of Government Relations, promoting safer transportation policies. Her efforts will live on through the policies she fought tirelessly for and that made it into landmark pieces of legislation like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Allison's service will continue to impact the lives of children, teen drivers, pedestrians. and motorists in America. prgtoken While in Washington D.C Allison found new meaning and solace in her Roman Catholic faith. Allison became known for always being the first to volunteer or to welcome new faces into the Church. In particular, she enjoyed serving at the Our Lady of Bethesda Retreat Center, where she helped prepare young couples to embark on the blessing of marriage. Washington is also where Allison met her devoted husband, Brian. Allison and Brian were engaged in December 2014 and married in November 2015. prgtoken Allison was an unwavering support to Brian and a devoted mother to her two sons: Christopher and Callahan. After five years of trying to start a family, she and Brian were blessed with the gift of Christopher through adoption. In 2022, they were granted another b
HONORING FLANNER HOUSE'S 125TH CELEBRATION ANNIVERSARY
André Carson (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, today I rise in celebration of the 125th anniversary of Flanner House. prgtoken Located in Indiana's 7th Congressional District, Flanner House was founded in 1903 as a community center for Indianapolis' African- American community. Today, the organization is central to the surrounding community, serving the whole family with programming like the Child Development Center, Center for Working Families, and an Elders Center. The organization has implemented innovative solutions to problems our community faces, including a Food Justice Initiative that led to the opening Cleo's Bodega Grocery and Cafe, and Flanner Farms. These efforts provide healthy, affordable, and culturally appropriate produce to address food insecurity while employing young people and neighbors. Flanner House also continues to feed the soul by celebrating Black history, culture, and talent through the Ujamaa Bookstore and other community-strengthening programming featuring Black artists, scholars, and musicians. prgtoken Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our gratitude and best wishes to an organization that has created immeasurable change. Organizations like Flanner House care deeply about their community and the people they serve. I extend my heartfelt congratulations on this milestone anniversary and wish Flanner House many more years of success.
HONORING THE 2023 WOMEN OF THE YEAR: CHERYL SUDDUTH
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Cheryl Sudduth as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional Districts Women of the Year. prgtoken Cheryl is involved with numerous organizations that aim to improve the status of marginalized people in her community. As a Senior Director for Goodwill's AbilityOne program, she oversaw the building of thousands of fair housing units in Alameda County. Through this program, Cheryl also created programs that employ and train thousands of people who are traditionally excluded from the job market. Veterans, disabled individuals, formerly incarcerated people, and people returning to the workforce have benefitted from Cheryl's work. She has also been involved with Alliance 4 Girls, a local program providing mentorship to young girls to give them a space to grow and thrive. Through this program and others, Cheryl has personally mentored hundreds of girls in her community. In addition, she has served on a variety of boards and commissions, including the West County Wastewater District, Contra Costa Racial Oversight Body, ACLU, and NAACP. She also gives her time to a variety of organizations, ranging from racial justice, education, the environment, public safety, and much more. She has received numerous awards and recognitions for her considerable contributions to the community at-large. Cheryl's commitment to her community and improving all different aspects of public life serves as an inspiration to all who know her. prgtoken On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Cheryl Sudduth for her positive contributions to our community.
CELEBRATING THE WORK OF BO SHUFF
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, I rise to recognize the indefatigable work of Bo Shuff, who recently stepped down as Executive Director of DC Vote after seven years. At DC Vote, Bo helped lead the movement to make the District of Columbia the 51st state and to prevent Congress from interfering in D.C.'s local affairs. I have worked closely with Bo on these efforts. prgtoken During Bo's tenure at DC Vote, the House of Representatives twice passed my bill, the Washington, D.C. Admission Act, that would make D.C. a state. Those are the only two times in history either chamber of Congress has passed the D.C. statehood bill. prgtoken Bo has been involved in campaigns and advocacy since 2000, when he worked on behalf of then-Vice President Al Gore as part of the Florida Coordinate Campaign. In 2002, he worked on the statewide coordinated effort to re-elect then-U.S. Senator Tom Harkin and then-Governor and now-Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. In 2003, Bo worked in more than 30 states for the Human Rights Campaign to pass equality legislation and to elect candidates who supported LGBTQ rights. prgtoken Bo has also worked for the Congressional Progressive Caucus, serving as Chief of Staff of its foundation, what is now the Progressive Caucus Center. In 2013, Bo became Campaign Manager for the mayoral campaign of now-D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. After that successful campaign, Bo became Executive Director of DC Vote. prgtoken I ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the important contributions of Bo Shuff to the District of Columbia and the Nation.
RECOGNIZING FIRE CHIEF JOSEPH M. CLUCHEY FOR HIS SERVICE AND RETIREMENT
Bill Foster (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-10-10

. pro tempore, I rise today to recognize Fire Chief Joseph M. Cluchey on his over 42 years of service to the Illinois fire community as he begins his well-deserved retirement. prgtoken Mr. Cluchey began as an on-call firefighter in the South Elgin Fire Department and worked as a contract paramedic in the St. Charles Fire Department in 1981 before becoming a career firefighter. He worked hard and made his way up the ranks to become fire chief for the South Elgin and Countryside Fire Protection District. He valiantly served in this capacity for 12 years before suffering an injury from a roof collapse, which caused him to retire from South Elgin in 2014. prgtoken After his retirement from South Elgin, he took on a leadership role as the statewide operations chief for Mutual Aid Box Alarm System. In that capacity, Chief Cluchey served countless communities statewide through the organization's non-discriminatory mutual aid response system for fire, EMS, and specialized incident operational teams. prgtoken In November of 2016, after a nationwide search Mr. Joseph M. Cluchey was sworn in as Fire Chief of the Elburn & Countryside Fire Protection District. The district currently operates out of three stations which serve all or portions of ten communities including 2 large subdivisions located in the 11th Congressional district of Illinois. prgtoken Pro Tempore, I am proud to represent the community of Elburn, Illinois and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Fire Chief Joseph M. Cluchey for his over 42 years of dedication and fire service to the community and wish him a happy retirement.