mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING TOWACO VETERAN AND COMMUNITY LEADER GERALD CHARLES GEMIAN ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY
Mikie Sherrill (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise today to honor Mr. Gerald Charles Gemian and wish him a very happy 100th birthday on August 25, 2022. Mr. Gemian is a veteran and a longtime resident of Montville, New Jersey. prgtoken I want to thank him for his service in the United States Army Signal Corps during the Second World War. Mr. Gemian served from 1942 to 1945 as an Army Staff Sergeant combat radio operator in the Central Pacific Theater. There, he supported assault groups during the Island Hopping Campaign, which was an integral part of the Allies' military strategy against Japan. This mission involved taking over an island and establishing a military base on it, which would in turn be used as a launching point for the assault and takeover of another island. As a radio operator, Mr. Gemian's job was crucial to the success of the Allied efforts in battle. His unit landed on shore and secured the island in order to set up a communications base. They used a grid system to determine locations for the artillery to bombard, and then radioed the coordinates over to the fleet and the field artillery. He and his unit remained in combat until the island was fully secured, and once one island was secured, they traveled to the next target. Mr. Gemian went from island to island in the Pacific until the end of the war. prgtoken Mr. Gemian fought in actions across the Pacific theater; including in the Kwajalein and Eniwetok campaigns in the Marshall Islands; in the Mariana Islands and Palau. His unit encountered difficult conditions during the campaigns. They were often short on supplies including water, food, and ammunition. The islands were hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees. Mr. Gemian and his unit also had to worry about hidden snipers and booby traps that littered the islands. He survived numerous enemy attacks and battles and he was never wounded. prgtoken After serving in the military, Mr. Gemian became an engineer and moved to Montville in 1977. There, he became an active life-member of Montville VFW Memorial Post 5481. prgtoken Mr. Gemian was married to his wife, Elizabeth, for 74 years until she passed away in 2021. He has a son, 3 granddaughters, and 3 great- grandchildren. prgtoken Mr. Gemian is a true American hero, and we are indebted to him for his great service to our Nation. It was a pleasure to sit down with Mr. Gemian at Montville's Memorial Day Ceremony around the 75th anniversary of D-Day to talk about his experiences from World War II. I am proud to honor him today, and I hope he has a wonderful 100th birthday.
HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF STANLEY GWUDZ
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Stanley Gwudz, who retires from his work with General Dynamics Electric Boat, on August 24, 2022, following a career with the organization that spans almost half a century and 13 different roles in the trades and shipyard leadership. Mr. Gwudz's tenure with Electric Boat has been one defined by impact within and loyalty to the organization, and he leaves the company as the Director of the Virginia Class Submarine Program and Ships Management. prgtoken A native resident of Uncasville in Montville, Connecticut--a stone's throw away from Electric Boat's Connecticut base of operations in Groton, Connecticut--Stanely was destined to support the strength of our nation by contributing to the success of our region's industrial productivity. Having earned his BS in Business Administration from the University of New Haven--and later an MA in Organizational and Industrial Psychology from his alma mater--Stanley began his career with Electric Boat in 1973 as a shipfitter. Given his first-hand, on- the-ground knowledge, Stanley transitioned quite smoothly into and outperformed within leadership roles at Electric Boat, empowering the institution's long-term growth over the last several decades. Year after year, he has excelled under high-pressure positions, contributing in major ways to the construction of several eras of US submarines, including the Los Angeles, Ohio, Seawolf, and most recently, Virginia Class programs. Clearly, Stanley has been a history-maker in terms of advancing sea-based defense systems, a foundation of US national security. prgtoken Madam , since my first arrival to Congress through to my chairmanship of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Sea power and Projection Forces, Stan has been a constant presence throughout my office's engagement with the shipyard in Groton. I have come to learn over the years of Stanley Gwudz's established reputation as a standard- setter, mentor, and someone who can deliver both ahead of schedule and under budget. Our nation, and the history of growth Eastern Connecticut has experienced, are forever indebted to his service. I can personally attest, that despite all of his amazing success he has retained a very down-to-earth manner. As the Irish often say, Stan ``never put on airs'' dealing with young, brand-new hires or the highest corporate executives. prgtoken Stan has not only provided for our common defense through private industry, but also prioritized public service through leadership in municipal government for the Town of Montville. With his retirement, Madam , we are losing a giant. We will remain forever grateful, however, of the legacy left in his place, and the permanent brand of efficiency we can trust General Dynamics Electric Boat to deliver upon in part because of him. To that end, Madam , I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in congratulating Stanley Gwudz on a well-earned retirement, thanking him an
HONORING SHELLEY BERKLEY
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise today, along with my colleague, Rep. John Garamendi, to honor former Congresswoman Shelley Berkley for her outstanding service as the Executive Officer and Senior Provost of Touro University California. The Honorable Ms. Berkley has been engaged in her community for her entire life. As the first person to attend college in her family, Ms. Berkley earned her undergraduate degree from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and her law degree from the University of San Diego. prgtoken Ms. Berkley served on the Nevada Board of Representatives, where she oversaw the rapid expansion of higher education, simultaneously developing new schools and ensuring that tuition stayed low. In 1998, she was elected to Congress, where she went on to serve for 14 years. During her time in the House of Representatives, she served on the Transportation Committee, Veterans Affairs Committee, Foreign Affairs Committee, and the Ways and Means Committee. She worked on 114 pieces of legislation related to healthcare and worked to build the new Veterans Administration medical complex in Southern Nevada. While she was passionate about healthcare, her work did not stop there. She collaborated with members of the European Parliament on issues affecting the entire Transatlantic Alliance. prgtoken Since leaving Congress, Ms. Berkley has continued to work hard to give back to her community. In her time at Touro University California she has overseen two of the fastest growing medical schools in the United States. Under her leadership, the university has graduated hundreds of physicians, nurses, therapists and pharmacists each year. In addition to her work at Touro University, she also serves on numerous local and national boards, including: the Anti-Defamation League, Patient Pals, National Osteoporosis Foundation, the Israel Project, and European Leadership Network. prgtoken Madam , former Congresswoman Shelley Berkley has been a dedicated and passionate public servant. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor her here today.
RECOGNIZING MR. GARY RICE
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise today to honor Mr. Gary Rice and congratulate him on his 35-year career as a teacher in Hanford, California. prgtoken Mr. Rice began his career teaching first grade at Western Christian School in Hanford. After one year, he transferred to Pioneer Union Elementary--where he would teach for the next 34 years. As a teacher at Pioneer, Mr. Rice taught multiple grade levels, including first, third, fourth, and fifth grade. prgtoken Mr. Rice's true passion was teaching fourth grade because he was able to educate his students about one of his favorite subjects, the history of the State of California. As a fourth-grade teacher, Mr. Rice regularly led students on field trips to Sacramento to visit the California State Capitol, the city's historic Old Town neighborhood, and the California State Train Museum. He also led students on field trips to visit the historic California Missions, such as Mission San Miguel and Mission San Antonio. prgtoken As a dedicated educator, Mr. Rice was heavily involved in the school's extracurricular activities. He regularly organized the Pioneer Spelling Bee and was a fixture at the school's ukulele club--both teaching students how to play and encouraging them to show off their talents at events like the Pioneer talent show. prgtoken Mr. Rice is the type of teacher that students never forget. His sense of humor, passion for learning, and dedication to his students have made a lasting impact on the thousands of children he has taught over his 35-year career. prgtoken I ask all my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in honoring the incredible career of Mr. Gary Rice.
THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE McGOVERN-DOLE INTERNATIONAL FOOD AID PROGRAM
David Rouzer (Republican, NC) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise today in support of H. Res. 1156-- Expressing the commitment of the House of Representatives to building on 20 years of success of the George McGovern-Robert Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program. prgtoken During the past two decades, McGovern-Dole has provided more than 5 and a half billion school meals benefitting over 31 million school-age children and their communities. prgtoken I have seen this program in action--and it is a special sight to see. When I joined the then Chairman of the Agriculture Committee Mike Conaway several years ago overseas in third world countries where food is scarce and extreme poverty like you cannot believe is plentiful, it is obvious to see how imperative a nutritious meal is to a child's survival. Just as important, the McGovern-Dole program also provides an opportunity to learn, laying the foundation for an improved life and achievement. For many of these children from very poor means, the meal provided through this program at school is their only good meal of the day. prgtoken It is also important to recognize the support of American agricultural producers who make this program possible. America's farm families have produced more than 1.3 million metric tons of U.S. commodities for donation, doing their part in reducing hunger and improving primary education in countries around the globe. prgtoken Congress must continue to lead by example in tackling hunger and poverty around the world for years to come. These efforts not only help feed those who cannot help themselves, but it builds good-will and provides hope for the future for so many searching for it. Many laws have been passed by this chamber, but none have been more impactful to the lives of so many children who desperately need the help. prgtoken Madam , I'm proud to support this resolution expressing Congress' commitment to carrying on the success of this program along with the great legacies of Ambassador McGovern and Senator Bob Dole.
CELEBRATING THE 50TH TEACHING ANNIVERSARY OF MRS. MAE LOIS TUDMAN WHITE
Pat Fallon (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise today to honor Mrs. Mae Lois Tudman White of Mount Pleasant, Texas. Mrs. White has dedicated her life to service in her community, through both teaching as well as volunteering at her church, Maranatha Church of God in Christ. Mrs. White is a true woman of God, distinguished longtime educator, and a shining example of the good in this world. At age 72, Mrs. White's passion for educating the youth of her community is still going strong, achieving the incredible milestone of 50 years of teaching. prgtoken Mae Lois Tudman White was born on June 21, 1950, in Pittsburg, Texas, and moved to Mount Pleasant when she was one year old. She graduated as valedictorian from Booker T. Washington High School. Mrs. White received a Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in Education with a minor in Sociology from East Texas State University in 1972. Mrs. White began teaching that same year at E.C. Brice Elementary School, and later transferred to Vivian Fowler Elementary School, where she has taught since 1978. Her impact was immediately felt, and she has been recognized as ``Teacher of the Year'' numerous times. prgtoken Mrs. White has shown great initiative and commitment to the many organizations she has served. For 27 years, she has held the position of District Supervisor for the Women of the Progressive and Faith Temple District. As a member of the Maranatha Church of God in Christ, she serves on the finance committee, and is an assistant to the secretary, a missionary, and a bible study teacher. Thankfully for us, Mrs. White has no plan to retire anytime soon, and she will continue to be a mentor to Mount Pleasant's students. We should all look to live our lives in a manner that follows her footsteps, and I believe she will inspire a younger generation of students to become educators. prgtoken I have requested the United States flag be flown over our Nation's Capitol to recognize Mae Lois Tudman White's extensive contributions to the Mount Pleasant community. May God bless Mother Mae in the new school year.
COMMEMORATING THE LIFE OF PEGGY LAMBERT
Tim Burchett (Republican, TN) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise to remember the life of my friend Peggy Lambert who passed away in May at 81 years old. prgtoken Peggy grew up in Maryville and graduated from Maryville High School. She then got B.S. in Nursing from the University of Tennessee and a B.S. in Nursing Administration from the Grady School of Nursing in Atlanta, Georgia. After she graduated, she worked as a traveling nurse in hospitals in New York and California. prgtoken Peggy was heavily involved in politics for decades. In the 1970s and 1980s Peggy used her impeccable hostess skills to throw parties and fundraising events for candidates in Alabama, and even hosted President and Mrs. Reagan at some of her events. prgtoken She returned to Maryville in 1985, where she quickly advanced in the state party. She faithfully served the state of Tennessee as State Committee Woman and National Vice Chair of the Party for multiple terms, and was a Blount County Commissioner for five years. prgtoken As much as she loved politics, Peggy loved the Lord and her family even more. In 2016, she retired from politics to focus more of her time on her husband, John, her kids and grandkids, and her beloved dog, Bella. prgtoken I want to offer my condolences to Peggy's brother, Bob, and his wife, Dottie, her sister, Cindy, her sons, John and Jason, her five grandchildren, and everyone else who knew her and loved her.
HONORING EAGLE SCOUT LOGAN CATALANOTTO
Kat Cammack (Republican, FL) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , on behalf of Florida's Third Congressional District, we honor Eagle Scout Logan Catalanotto, who achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout on July 18, 2022. As a member of Boy Scout Troop 72, Logan has dedicated over ten years of his life to serving in his local troop and making the greater Marion County community a better place to live, work, and play. prgtoken To earn the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, Logan completed 26 merit badges, requiring him to demonstrate knowledge of and expertise in various life skills, served in Troop leadership positions including Senior Patrol Leader and Quartermaster, and planned and executed an Eagle Scout Service Project. For his Project, Logan renovated the State Flag Display area in the Marion County Veterans Memorial Park. The renovation consisted of removing 52 flag poles and existing mulch, regrading the area, pouring a 4,000 sq. ft. concrete slab, where the flag poles were reinstalled. The project has made this area easier to maintain, provided more accessibility, as well as making it ADA accessible, and more visually appealing. With all of the various events and ceremonies that are held throughout the year, the park has become a more valuable asset to Marion County. prgtoken Congratulations to Mr. Catalanotto, his family, and his troop on this prestigious honor. We prgtoken look forward to seeing all of his accomplishments in the future.
HONORING THE LIFE OF BEVERLY A. ROBERTS
Dusty Johnson (Republican, SD) \u2014 2022-8-23

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and honor the life of Beverly A. Roberts, of Pierre, South Dakota. Bev was an amazing woman who led an incredible life. Bev was a friend to thousands, myself included. She was funny, hard-working, and incredibly loyal. Every time I saw Bev, she had a word of encouragement and a piece of advice. She wasn't just that way with the politicians, though. She knew plenty of governors and plenty of cowhands, and she treated them all with kindness and decency. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the Roberts family and to everyone who knew this wonderful woman. She will be sorely missed. prgtoken Madam , I include in the Record the following obituary for Beverly Roberts: Beverly A. Roberts, 87, of Pierre, SD, died Tuesday, July 12, 2022, at Edgewood in Pierre. Inurnment will take place at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 22nd at the Presho Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, July 22nd at First United Methodist Church in Pierre. Beverly was born on March 27, 1935, to Ward and Frances (Weber) Dittman. She attended grade school and high school in Presho. She graduated from Presho High School in 1952. On December 7, 1952, Beverly married Clinton Roberts in Presho, and they were married for 64 years. They had four children, Debra, Schelle, Clayton and Kristi. Clint and Bev's youngest daughter Kristi died in 1999. There are six grandchildren in the family and nine greatgrandchildren. Family was always a priority for Beverly. They made their home near Presho where they farmed and ranched. Beverly devoted much time to driving the children to town for school, swimming lessons, and school events. She assisted Clint in moving tractors and other farm equipment, often having to drive at the spur of the moment for machinery parts. Leisure time on the farm usually included stock dam fishing or hunting. Beverly was a gracious hostess during multiple opening day pheasant hunts. Her other skills included starting and running a retail business and troubleshooting computers in the SD Dept. of Transportation and Office of the Attorney General. She was a member of the Presho and Pierre United Methodist Churches, Presho Jaycettes, Lyman County s, and the Capitol Club. She was a key campaign strategist in Clint's political campaigns for the SD state legislature, US House of Representatives, and SD governor, contributing to his political successes. Her retirement years were spent enjoying family life in Fort Pierre, SD, living on the river. Since Clint's death in 2017, Beverly lived at Parkwood and most currently at Edgewood Assisted Living in Pierre. Beverly is survived by her children Debra Brakke (Verne), Schelle Wenner, and Clay Roberts (Pam), and grand
HONORING WORLD WAR II VETERAN PAUL LANDSBERG ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY
Elissa Slotkin (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2022-8-26

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the 100th birthday of a decorated World War II veteran and community servant, Mr. Paul Landsberg of Rochester Hills, Michigan. prgtoken Paul was born on August 31, 1922 in Detroit. His family moved to Pennsylvania when he was young but returned in time for him to attend the University of Detroit and the University of Michigan, where he was a member of the wrestling team. prgtoken Like many brave young men of his generation, he put his collegiate studies on hold in 1943 to join the Navy, where he volunteered for submarine service. After completing boot camp at Great Lakes Naval Base, he was selected to participate in a fire control training program, which preceded his 16-week submariner training. Paul shipped out on the USS Blower, but after departing from New London, Connecticut, the Blower was damaged when it collided with a ship and had to return home for repairs. The Blower was damaged a second time going through the Panama Canal, playing, leapfrog with 2 other submarines. During this trip, the submarine's braking system for the diesel engines failed to operate, creating a vacuum inside the sub. A quick-thinking motor machinist on board opened the engine air induction, flooding the sub with enough water to stop the engines. Paul recalls that when the reverse current relay kicked down, it could have easily killed all 108 aboard. The incident caused significant damage to the 8-cylinder dinky and caused Paul to lose his hearing, but he continued on in his dedication to be of service to his Nation. Paul and his crew trained for a month in Pearl Harbor, then left for Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands. From there the Blower sailed to Australia, and when the war ended, the sub and its crew patrolled IndoChina before serving occupational forces in Japan. In the course of its service, the crew brought 2 Japanese subs back to Pearl Harbor for analysis by the Navy. Paul was awarded the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal, as well as several unit level commendations, before being honorably discharged in March, 1946. prgtoken Paul returned to Detroit, Michigan where he worked at Montgomery Ward for several years before leaving to become a draftsman. He eventually started his own heating, cooling and ventilation company, PLS Mechanical. He proudly hung up his hat and retired in 2001, after three decades of serving the community in business. prgtoken Of all his accomplishments, one of the most significant was his marriage to IdaRuth Chernoff, whom he loved deeply for 67 years. Together they raised their four children around metropolitan Detroit. As he approaches the century mark, Paul remains a regular figure around Rochester Hills on his bike, and still drives himself to his great grandchildren's soccer, baseball and wrestling events. He is looking forward to attending the graduation ceremony of his great grandson from