mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING PRESIDENT BARRY DUNN
Dusty Johnson (Republican, SD) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and honor President Barry Dunn of South Dakota State University for winning the Harold W. McGraw Jr. Prize in Education. This award is a testament to the progress President Dunn has made during his tenure to improve academic access and success in Indian Country through the Wokini Initiative and the New Beginnings Initiative. Education is an undisputed path to better career prospects and is vital to those in Indian Country facing staggering unemployment rates. prgtoken Investing in recruitment, retention, and graduation of Tribal students is a critical step to helping them participate in the American economy and the American Dream. I am proud that I, along with my colleagues, have been able to successfully secure Federal funding for the New Beginnings Initiative during my time in Congress. prgtoken Madam , the Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Education is one of the most competitive and prestigious awards in education. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating President Barry Dunn for this remarkable achievement.
RECOGNIZING TEDDY TENDLER
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to recognize an outstanding constituent in my district, Teddy Tendler. Teddy is an eight-year-old student at Congregation Kol Emet in Yardley, Pennsylvania. In April, Teddy decided to incorporate her passion for technology towards supporting her community. With the support of her parents, Jared and Corey, Teddy launched a Facebook campaign as a service project for Hebrew School. Her goal was to donate laptops to Family Service Association of Bucks County, which operates an emergency homeless shelter. Teddy was able to provide six laptops, six sets of headphones, a printer, paper, and ink to Family Service Homeless Shelter residents in Levittown, Pennsylvania. Whether they are used for education or just playing games and being a kid like Teddy, these computers will make a large impact for both homeless kids and adults. In August, Teddy was awarded the ``6ABC Hometown Hero Award'' from Family Service Association to recognize her fundraising efforts. We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact Teddy has had on our community. I wish her continued success in her future endeavors.
HONORING WARDEN JEFFREY E. KRUEGER
Billy Long (Republican, MO) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor Warden Jeffrey E. Krueger of the United States Medical Center for Federal Prisoners (USMCFP) in Springfield, Missouri. prgtoken Warden Krueger started his career with the Bureau of Prisons as a Correctional Officer at the United States Penitentiary Terre Haute, Indiana, in 1989. He has since served as a Lead Foreman at FMC Lexington, Computer Services Manager at FDC Oakdale and FCI Pekin, Management Analyst-Program Review Division in the Central Office, Regional Computer Services Manager in the North Central Regional Office, Associate Warden at USMCFP Springfield, Warden at FDC Duluth, Warden at FCI Schuylkill, Warden at FCI Pekin, Complex Warden at FCC Terre Haute, Regional Director for the North Central Region, and finally as the Warden at USMCFP Springfield. He currently serves in Senior Executive Service. prgtoken In September of 2020, Warden Krueger asked the Bureau of Prisons to end his career at USMCFP Springfield after serving as Regional Director for the North Central Region. He will be retiring in December 2022, and is building his new home in Nixa, Missouri. During his two stints at USMCFP Springfield, Warden Krueger has become involved in the local community and the Ozarks in general. prgtoken Madam , Warden Krueger has loyally served the Bureau of Prisons in a variety of roles for 33 years. I would like to thank him for his dedicated service and congratulate him, his wife, Dawn, and his son, Drake, on his retirement.
HONORING CLAUDIA MAE TAYLOR DONALSON
Scott DesJarlais (Republican, TN) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor the memory of Claudia Mae Taylor Donalson. Claudia is the most recent honoree of the Women of Lincoln County Committee--a group that has joined together to recognize and honor influential women that have played such a significant role in the County's history. prgtoken Claudia was a lifelong Lincoln County resident born April 13, 1916. She was the only child to her proud parents Jessie and Mary Lacy Taylor. She was educated in Fayetteville public schools where she would later return as a teacher. Donalson attended Tennessee State University in Nashville for her undergraduate degree and Alabama A&M University in Huntsville for her graduate studies. prgtoken She was married in 1944 to a prominent Lincoln County community member, Dr. Latha Mitchell Donalson, known as L.M who was a surgeon and hospital administrator. After Claudia retired from teaching, she worked as a dietician for her husband who founded Donalson Hospital now known as Donalson Nursing Home. prgtoken One of the greatest joys of her life was being an educator. She spent thirty years working to better the lives of children as a teacher in both the Fayetteville and Lincoln County school systems. prgtoken Claudia was a woman of great faith. She was baptized as a child and became a lifetime member of the St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Fayetteville. She served her church in many capacities as Trustee, Vice President of the Women's Missionary Society, the Layman's Organization, and the Kitchen Committee. prgtoken A woman with a true servant's heart, she was incredibly active in making her community a better place. She was a member of the Tennessee Retired Teachers Association, the NAACP, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc the Advisory Board of First National Bank-Pulaski, the Fayetteville and Lincoln County Child Development Center, Lincoln Medical Center Auxiliary, Lincoln County Historical Society, Hannah's House, and the R.F. Boyd Auxiliary at Meharry Medical Hospital. She was also a Volunteer Hostess for the Fayetteville/Lincoln County Museum and Civic Center. prgtoken In her free time, she enjoyed traveling with her husband abroad, gardening, reading, refinishing furniture and mastering her needlework skills. She passed away on October 2, 2007. prgtoken I hope that the Congress will join me in recognizing the life of Mrs. Donalson, and I congratulate the efforts of the Women of Lincoln County Committee for their work in recognizing and adding to the historical records of the women who have helped shaped the history of their county.
HONORING HAPPY TRAILS RIDING ACADEMY
Connie Conway (Republican, CA) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Happy Trails Riding Academy for decades of service in the San Joaquin Valley of California. prgtoken Happy Trails was founded in 1984 as a small, backyard program in Tulare, California, providing therapy through horseback riding. While the academy began by serving only a few riders, its operation has expanded into a beautiful facility serving thousands of rides each year. prgtoken The sole, fully accredited therapeutic riding center in the San Joaquin Valley between Modesto and Bakersfield, Happy Trails serves people of all ages, but mostly children. Through horseback riding, the academy provides an alternative to traditional therapy for people suffering from physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities including Cerebral Palsy, ADD, ADHD, head trauma, brain injury, sight and hearing impairments, Autism, and Down Syndrome. prgtoken Aside from physical improvements, Happy Trails is proud of the psychological benefits their therapy provides, including improved self- confidence, increased interest in the outside world, emotional control, self-discipline, and a sense of normality. The social improvements are also worth noting: riders gain new friends and a sense of joy they've often lost in life. prgtoken Happy Trails is volunteer driven--an average of seventy-five people volunteer each week, donating more than eleven-thousand hours of service yearly. The academy also partners with major community organizations including Tulare Youth Service Bureau, Tulare County Mental Health, United Way, and Kaweah Delta Rehabilitation Center of Kaweah Delta Hospital. Appreciative of the support the community provides, Happy Trails reciprocates by opening its facility for events by other nonprofits. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to prgtoken join me in commending Happy Trails Riding Academy for decades of service in the San Joaquin Valley and for many more decades of growth and success to come.
HONORING JOSH NASS
Don Bacon (Republican, NE) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to acknowledge someone I have the privilege of calling both a friend and close colleague. Josh Nass is a leader in both the Jewish and pro-Israel communities, and someone whose contributions to strengthening our nation's alliance with the State of Israel has been critical to fostering the US-Israel relationship. prgtoken As Israel finds itself under constant attack on the battlefield, it is incumbent upon members of this chamber to speak out in her defense. But sadly Israel is not just the subject of a military war; but also facing a continuous onslaught of attack in the public domain. prgtoken Intellectually dishonest movements such as the Boycott Divestment & Sanctions campaign have exposed Israel's detractors for their unmitigated hate toward a country whose contributions to the Western world are enumerable. For that reason I believe it to be fitting for leaders such as Josh who fearlessly stand up for our nation's lone friend and ally in the Middle East to be recognized for having the courage of their convictions to speak truth to power. prgtoken For his fearless advocacy on Israel's behalf, Josh was recently honored alongside Secretary of State Pompeo with the Builder of Jerusalem Award. Among the distinguished government officials who recognized him for his award was The State Department's former Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Heather Nauert. prgtoken Josh is also involved in a myriad of social and public policy endeavors designed to advance a more muscular American foreign policy, while ensuring our nation's steadfast support for Israel remains unwavering. Among these commitments is his service as the Treasurer of The Israel Heritage Foundation, an organization dedicated to strengthening Israel's security and combatting bigotry and antisemitism in all forms.
PAYING TRIBUTE TO CHARLES ``SANDY'' WENTZELL
Jefferson Van Drew (Republican, NJ) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , last week, I had the pleasure of attending Charles ``Sandy'' Wentzell's 100th birthday celebration. prgtoken Sandy is the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 253's oldest surviving World War II and Korean war veteran. In the Army Air Corps, he served as a technical sergeant and flew 34 missions over Berlin in a B-17 Superfortress during World War II. Then, Sandy joined the newly formed U.S. Air Force as a ground air controller with South Korean forces. During this time, he was captured and taken prisoner. However, Sandy bravely escaped captivity in the middle of the night during freezing cold temperatures. It is truly remarkable that he was able to flee, and it was such an honor to be able to meet him. prgtoken Sandy should be so proud of his bravery and successful escape, and I want to thank him for his heroic service to our country. God Bless Sandy, and God Bless our United States of America.
REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF EDDIE DANIEL DIXON
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise to recognize the life of Marshall County District 2 Supervisor Eddie Daniel Dixon. He was well-known throughout Marshall County for his integrity and steadfast commitment to public service. prgtoken During his 40-year career with the Marshall County School District, Mr. Dixon wore many hats--from educator to school bus driver. He taught trade skills at H.W. Byers High School with high hopes for his students to find work and raise a family in Marshall County. Mr. Dixon's strong desire to improve the quality of life for all residents led him to seek a seat on the Marshall County Board of Supervisors in 2000. His calm demeanor and thoughtful remarks earned him many supporters and a lengthy stay in office. Mr. Dixon served four and a half terms for the residents of District 2. prgtoken The South Reporter, a newspaper in Holly Springs, published an article that included a quote from Marshall County Sheriff Kenny Dickerson. ``Eddie's been an icon to work with as far as county government,'' Sheriff Dickerson said. ``He was compassionate, yet firm when he needed to be. He loved H.W. Byers. He's going to be missed.'' prgtoken Mr. Dixon, a lifetime believer in the importance of education, graduated from Alcorn State University. His accomplishments also included serving as president and vice president of the Marshall County Board of Supervisors. He also served as president of the Mississippi Association of Supervisors. Mr. Dixon served as director of the board of the Northeast Mississippi Planning and Development District. He also played a central role in the development of the Marshall County Workforce Training Center. Mr. Dixon was a parishioner at St. Joseph Catholic Church, a member of the Knights of Columbus, and a member of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. prgtoken Mr. Dixon is survived by his wife, Maxine Howard Dixon, and their four children: Brignetta Dickerson, Wanda Dixon-Beasley, Eddie Dixon, Jr and Trevan Dixon. He is also survived by two brothers, Floyd Dixon and James Dixon. Survivors also include four grandchildren. prgtoken Mr. Dixon was devoted to God, family, and to the citizens of Marshall County. His service will always be remembered.
CELEBRATING THE 21ST ANNIVERSARY OF REV. DR. TRUNELL D. FELDER
Robin L. Kelly (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , today we celebrate the 21st Anniversary of Rev. Dr. Trunell D. Felder's leadership of New Faith Baptist Church International. prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church International has served the Chicagoland area for 21 years under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Trunell D. Felder; prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church was founded in 1976 as a result of the efforts of Rev. Junius Dudley who wished to bring the Black worship experience to the Park Forest community area; prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church experienced phenomenal growth under the leadership of Rev. Frank Thomas, bringing membership from 30 active members to 2,250 active members; prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church continued to expand within the community and, in 1984, broke ground for a permanent facility at 25 S. Central Avenue in Matteson, Illinois; prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church expanded to youth outreach and developed a youth ministry targeting high school and junior high school students with programs such as ``Jesus and Me'' (J.A.M.) and ``Helping Young People Excel'' (H.Y.P.E.); prgtoken Whereas, Rev. Dr. Trunell D. Felder began his official duties as Senior Pastor of New Faith Baptist Church on October 1, 2001 and saw membership grow from 2,250 active members to 7,000+ active members; prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church expanded their evangelism and community efforts within Matteson and surrounding communities, especially within the Ford Heights community through providing free health screenings, free school supplies, job fairs, and a carnival to the community; prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church became an international ministry in 2005 and expanded to Ghana, West Africa with 15 churches and 6 Christian schools, and to Cape Town, South Africa with 6 churches; prgtoken Whereas, Rev. Dr. Trunell D. Felder and Rev. Dr. Alexis L. Felder founded The Joseph Assignment, a Christian global humanitarian organization that has impacted the lives of over 320,000 people living in extreme poverty; prgtoken Whereas, New Faith Baptist Church International continues to dedicate their time and service to the Matteson community and surrounding areas, sharing the love of Christ with the world--until all have heard; and prgtoken Now, therefore, be it resolved, by the House of Representatives of the United States of America that the hard work and service of Rev. Dr. Trunell D. Felder and New Faith Baptist Church International be remembered and honored.
HONORING STEVE KERR
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to honor Steve Kerr in recognition of his contributions to gun violence prevention. prgtoken Mr. Kerr was born in Lebanon in 1965. His father Malcolm served as President of the American University of Beirut but was shot and killed by a militia known as Islamic Jihad in 1984. At only 18 years old, this event had a profound effect on Mr. Kerr and inspired his activism. prgtoken For over 30 years, Mr. Kerr has led an historic career in professional basketball, both as a player and a coach. In 1986, while attending the University of Arizona, Mr. Kerr competed in the FIBA World Championship and was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 1988. Over the next 15 years, he played on seven teams and won five NBA titles. Mr. Kerr retired as a player in 2003 but returned to the NBA in 2014 as head coach of the Golden State Warriors. Since then, he has led the team to six NBA Finals and four championships--the most successful run in franchise history. prgtoken As someone well aware of the impact gun violence can have on families, Mr. Kerr has been especially involved in gun violence prevention. In the wake of mass shootings, including those in Parkland, Boulder, and Atlanta, Mr. Kerr used his platform as a leading figure in American sports to call for congressional action. During an NBA press conference in May 2022, Mr. Kerr once again spoke out to address the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. He referred to gun violence as ``a public health issue'' in desperate need of both recognition and treatment. He has supported charities and organizations focused on passing legislation to reduce gun violence such as the Giffords Law Center, Brady, and Sandy Hook Promise. Mr. Kerr has been an important part of Rock the Ride, a benefit bike ride and walk to help end gun violence. He has also dedicated much of his time to the East Bay chapter of Live Free, a national racial justice network that has worked to reduce gun violence in Oakland. prgtoken Mr. Kerr is a proud father of three children, Nick, Maddy and Matthew, and a devoted husband to his wife, Margot. prgtoken Madam , we thank Mr. Kerr for his unwavering dedication to the fight against gun violence. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.
RECOGNIZING RUTH ELLIS CLAIRMOUNT CENTER
Rashida Tlaib (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , today I want to recognize the outstanding work of the Ruth Ellis Center, based in Highland Park, Michigan, as they celebrate the grand opening of its Ruth Ellis Clairmount Center in Detroit. This expansion will allow Ruth Ellis Center to expand housing, access to healthcare, and community space for our most vulnerable LGBTQI+ youth in our district. prgtoken Founded in 1999, Ruth Ellis Center has established a national reputation for quality and innovation in providing trauma-informed services for lesbian, gay, bi-attractional, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ+) youth, and young adults, with an emphasis on young people of color, experiencing homelessness, involved in the child welfare system, and/or experiencing barriers to health and wellbeing for residents in Detroit. Its mission has remained true and continues to uplift and serve our communities. Ruth Ellis Center has implemented safe and supportive environments around young people to build their vision for a positive future. The Clairmount Center expands on that vision by providing an integrated health clinic at the housing center, while including access to a library, technical center, and much more. The Ruth Ellis Center goes above and beyond in its mission to ensuing access to holistic care and support services to one of the most underserved communities. I am proud to have secured direct investment for this critical work and project and I look forward to the continued partnership in serving our underserved. prgtoken Madam , please join me in recognizing the Ruth Ellis Center's numerous contributions on behalf of the people of southeast Michigan and the 13th District Strong as we congratulate them on the grand opening of the Clairmount Center.
HONORING THE OPENING OF VICTORY GARDENS
Josh Harder (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-10-7

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the opening of Victory Gardens in French Camp, California. Upon its opening, Victory Gardens will deliver housing and access to crucial resources for over forty homeless veterans in our community, thus providing a stable foundation that our local heroes deserve. prgtoken Veteran homelessness is an issue that impacts every corner of this country, and our community is not immune to this problem. No one who fought for our freedom should ever have to spend a night on the streets. Victory Gardens works towards solving this problem, as it has 48 units earmarked specifically for veterans struggling to find permanent housing. Victory Gardens will do more than provide housing, as the development is focused on helping our veterans with their mental and physical health as well. In line with this goal, the community will include a garden, common, computer room, and is located near San Joaquin General Hospital. prgtoken This life changing project has been made a reality thanks to the hard work, collaboration, and genuine care of so many in our community. Advocacy for this development came from the federal, state, and local levels in the form of letters, official applications, and lobbying. The funding comes from organizations and agencies like the State Veteran Housing and Homelessness Prevention fund, Low Income Housing Tax Credits, and much more. Finally, DFA Development and the Housing Authority of San Joaquin County worked together and saw this project through to completion. Though the problem of veteran homelessness persists, Victory Gardens is a major step towards our collective goal of ensuring that each and every veteran has a secure place to live. prgtoken Our way of life is only made possible thanks to the immense sacrifices of our men and women in uniform. It is our obligation to be there when they need us, and that is exactly what Victory Gardens does. I am grateful for the work done by those in our community to make this project a reality, and immensely proud to honor the opening of Victory Gardens.