mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF JERRY TURNER OF SPIRIT LAKE, IOWA
Pat Fallon (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to commemorate the life of Mr. Jerry Gene Turner of Spirit Lake, Iowa, who peacefully passed away on December 15, 2023. Mr. Turner was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. prgtoken Mr. Turner was born on October 2, 1940. in Bauxite, Arkansas to Cecil and Clara Turner. He initially attended Iowa State University and the University of Nebraska in Omaha before graduating from the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service in 1962 with a degree in Mortuary Science. Throughout college and after graduation, Mr. Turner worked at Cutler Funeral Home in Council Bluffs. In 1965, he acquired a funeral home, now the Turner Funeral Home, to provide mortuary services for residents of Spirit Lake. As a funeral director, Mr. Turner was a beacon of support and well known by those around him for his gentle, caring, and comforting nature during difficult moments. prgtoken Mr, Turner also served as Secretary of the Iowa Funeral Directors Association and was a past member of the Dickinson County Conservation Board. In this capacity, he spearheaded nature conservation efforts in Iowa's Great Lakes region. Mr. Turner was also a devout man of faith, and he served as a trustee, deacon, and Sunday school teacher at the churches he attended. His community involvement extended to his service with Gideons International, a men's organization devoted to strengthening and sharing the Christian faith with others. In his free time, Mr. Turner enjoyed fishing with his grandchildren and was an avid ham radio enthusiast. prgtoken I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our nation's Capitol in recognition of Mr. Turner's life and service to his community. He will be dearly missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF KAY PACE
Michael Guest (Republican, MS) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to honor the service of Mrs. Kay Pace of Madison County, Mississippi. Mrs. Kay Pace made history as the first and only female elected to the position of Madison County Tax Collector. Throughout her 36 years of serving Madison County, 22 of them were as Tax Collector. prgtoken Born and raised in Madison County, Kay has always sought to give back to her community. One of the biggest ways she gave back prgtoken as Tax Collector was to research and implement Mississippi's first fully automated online county tax sales and online payments. Leading the charge in Madison County, Kay opened the door for easier ways of paying taxes and supporting the local community. prgtoken Kay is a member of the former First Methodist Church of Canton, now called First Church of Canton. Kay was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Jackson where she sang in the choir. Church has been an important part of Kay's life and service to Madison County outside of her job as Tax Collector. prgtoken Another way of service has been through her leadership in the Madison County Women. Kay has served in various roles in the organization, including as President and as an officer. prgtoken While politics is an important role in her life, Kay also served the Jackson Symphony League as co-chair for Sub Debs. Additionally, she served in other clubs and organizations over the past 30 years throughout Madison, Jackson, and other local communities. She also has been a member of the Madison County League and Foundation. prgtoken While Madison County is her home and her lifelong place of service, Kay says her most important relationships are her family. Kay was married to the late W. K. Pace, Jr. for 40 years. Kay is the mother of four children and the proud grandmother of twelve grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Kay is retiring from her role as Tax Collector and is looking forward to spending more time with her family. I am thankful for all the service Kay Pace has given to Madison County through the years. I wish her well in retirement.
HONORING NEW JERSEY THESPIAN TROUPE 10385
Thomas H. Kean, Jr. (Republican, NJ) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to honor Thespian Troupe 10385 at Hillsborough High School for their commitment to serving New Jersey and their community. prgtoken This school raised 603 pounds of food for the Hillsborough Township Community Assistance Network Food Pantry as part of the Trick or Treat so Kids Can Eat program. With their dedication and persistence, New Jersey was able to collect 8,953.17 pounds of food with 11 schools and 255 Thespians participating. It is students like Thespian Troupe 10385 that exemplify the best of New Jersey, working towards a cause and giving back to the community. prgtoken I am incredibly proud of the students in this troupe and thank them for their service.
HONORING CHIEF RONALD JON SIARNICKI ON HIS RETIREMENT AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION
Steny H. Hoyer (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to honor a tremendous firefighter, invaluable leader, great Marylander, and dear friend: Chief Ronald Jon Siarnicki. After 22 years of faithful service as the Executive Director of the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation, Ron recently retired. We ought to pay tribute to Ron and his commitment to serving his community and his country. prgtoken I've known Ron and worked with him ever since we met decades ago over lunch at a drug store counter below my law office. Even then, it was clear that Ron was a man of strong character, good humor, and selfless devotion to serving others. Indeed, service was a family tradition. Both Ron's father and grandfather were volunteer firefighters. Ron followed in their footsteps, becoming a volunteer firefighter with the Monessen Volunteer Fire Department, Hose House No. 2, in western Pennsylvania as a young man. prgtoken In 1978, Ron brought his talents to the Prince George's County Fire/ EMS Department. Over the following 24 years, he rose through the ranks to become Chief of the Department, overseeing all fire, rescue, and emergency medical services in the county. In that time, he also became a revered leader in our community. Prince Georgians knew they could rely on Ron to protect the safety and prosperity of their community. Firefighters and first responders trusted that Ron would always do everything possible to provide them the resources, tools, and direction necessary to do their crucial work as safely and effectively as possible. Ron also served on the county's Joint Fire and Police Pension Board for four years. Additionally, starting in 1997, Ron served as a faculty member for the Fire Service Curriculum at the University of Maryland University College (UMUC)--where he had previously earned both a BS in Fire Science Management and a master's degree from the School of Management and Technology. prgtoken Ron's leadership and career in fire services extended beyond Maryland. In 2001, he became the Executive Director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. For 22 years, he managed the foundation's day-to-day operations, supported the families of our fallen firefighters, and fought for policy reforms to keep our firefighters and first responders safe. As a co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I was pleased to work closely with him on that mission. As Executive Director, Ron also oversaw the construction of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park and the renovation of the Fallen Firefighters Memorial Chapel in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Year after year, I've had the great--and solemn--privilege of standing with Ron in Emmitsburg during the annual National Firefighters Memorial Weekend to honor the courageous men and women who gave their lives to protect others. prgtoken Ron has received many awards and accolades from a variety of organizations for his contributions to the fire services, including the Fire Engineering Lifetime Ach
THANKING NORMAN GUGLIOTTA FOR HIS SERVICE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise to thank Norman Gugliotta, a District of Columbia resident who is retiring today after 18 years of outstanding service to the House of Representatives in several administrative and support roles. prgtoken Norman started as a contractor with the House Child Care Center in 2005 and then worked for various offices of the Chief Administrative Officer, including Payroll & Benefits, Accounting, First Call and the Office of Financial Counseling, where he has been a Financial Counselor since 2007. He provided financial guidance and services to House offices, helping to ensure that their expenditures adhered to applicable House rules and accounting standards. prgtoken With his knowledge, experience and courteousness, Norman was an invaluable asset to the House and respected by his coworkers and colleagues. Norman is a big fan of the ``Star Wars'' movie franchise. He has participated in conventions, Awesome & Comic Cons, parades and charitable endeavors, including visits to children's hospitals while in Star Wars costumes. In retirement, Norman plans to travel with his partner to help coordinate events for the 501st Legion Star Wars Group and Washington Nationals Star Wars Day. prgtoken I ask the House to join me in thanking Norman for his distinguished service to the House and the nation it serves. I wish him all the best as he begins this new chapter in his life.
RECOGNIZING AARON RUVINSKY'S 100TH BIRTHDAY
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to honor Mr. Aaron Ruvinsky of Merrimack, New Hampshire on his 100th birthday. A World War II veteran, successful newspaper journalist, active neighborhood volunteer, and loving family man, Aaron's century of American life speaks to his tireless devotion to his loved ones, community, and country. On this special day, I want to commend Aaron on his distinguished lifetime that exemplifies service and dedication, and is an inspiration to others. prgtoken Over the last 100 years, Aaron Ruvinsky has grown alongside the United States. During the Great Depression, he worked in a machine shop and studied physics at Brooklyn College. After enlisting in the Army Air Corps during the Second World War, Aaron enrolled in meteorological school, crafting weather reports for the safe passage of Allied planes through Canada and Alaska. Once the war ended and Aaron earned a journalism degree from New York University, he began his decades-long career in the paper business. Although limited by discrimination against Jewish Americans in New York, Aaron worked as a Washington reporter and editor until his retirement. For years Aaron volunteered with Meals on Wheels and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in D.C becoming actively involved in community affairs. While in Washington, he spent his days swimming, playing tennis, and enjoying time with his grandchildren. In 2018, Aaron moved up to New Hampshire to make a new home with his family in the Granite State. Unable to remain idle, Aaron continues to lead a productive life, swimming weekly, reading the newspaper daily, and enjoying big bowls of ice cream. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to wish Aaron Ruvinsky a happy 100th birthday. Aaron has lived an exemplary life and has made our state and country proud. I look forward to seeing what his next chapter holds and wish him many more happy, healthy years.
CELEBRATING THE CITY OF WALNUT'S 65TH ANNIVERSARY OF INCORPORATION
Linda T. Sánchez (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to recognize the 65th anniversary of the City of Walnut. prgtoken Walnut is beloved for its historic charm and traditions such as the Walnut Family Festival and Winter Jam. On January 20, 2024, the City of Walnut celebrates 65 years since its incorporation. prgtoken A long-time ranching community, the Walnut area was primarily used for cattle and sheep grazing as well as growing wheat, grapes, and fruit trees. prgtoken Walnut has since grown into a diverse, successful city that I am proud to represent as part of California's 38th congressional district. prgtoken From the iconic windmill in Suzanne Park to the wildlife sanctuary at Mt. SAC to the beautiful groves of walnut trees to its wonderful Senior Center, the City of Walnut has much to offer residents and visitors alike. prgtoken Happy Birthday, City of Walnut.
REMEMBERING ELMORE NICKLEBERRY
Steve Cohen (Democrat, TN) \u2014 2024-1-5

I rise today to pay profound respect to Elmore Nickleberry, one of the last two surviving 1968 Memphis Sanitation worker strikers, who passed on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at 92 years old. Mr. Nickleberry and 1,300 other sanitation workers led the wildcat strike after two of their colleagues were crushed in a garbage truck compactor and their nearly unbearable working conditions shocked the nation. Their story so inspired the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr then planning his Poor People's March on Washington, that he joined their cause and was ultimately assassinated on a Memphis motel balcony on April 4 of that year. The efforts of the strikers, with their iconic ``I AM A MAN'' placards, and of people of good will in Memphis, led to remarkable progress in race relations and labor equity, and forever changed my city for the better. The strike and its aftermath were a defining moment for Memphis and for the country. Mr. Nickleberry stayed on in the city's sanitation department until his retirement three years ago, attending a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the strike in 2018. He and the sanitation workers were inducted into the U.S. Department of Labor's Labor Hall of Fame in 2011. His remarkable legacy will be studied as an important milestone in our nation's history.
RECOGNIZING ASSISTANT UNITED STATES ATTORNEY JOSE ANGEL MORENO
Henry Cuellar (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2024-1-5

today I rise to acknowledge the exemplary career of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Jose Angel Moreno, a distinguished 32-year veteran of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas. prgtoken Immigrating to Laredo at the age of 7, AUSA Moreno's journey to legal prominence began with his education at local schools in the area. Following his graduation from Martin High School, he served two years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps. prgtoken Returning to Laredo, he continued his education by graduating from Laredo Junior College (now Laredo College) and Laredo State University (now TAMIU). AUSA Moreno went on to obtain his J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law in Austin. prgtoken AUSA Moreno has been an integral part of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas since he joined in 1991, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to justice. Over the course of his tenure, he has prosecuted multi-defendant cases spanning every division in the district. His expertise extends across a broad spectrum of federal crimes, including immigration, narcotics, firearms, violent crime, fraud, and public corruption. Notably, AUSA Moreno achieved a significant milestone in 1993 when he secured the first drug kingpin prosecution in the district. prgtoken His extensive experience showcases not only his legal acumen but also his dedication to public service. AUSA Jose Angel Moreno stands as a testament to the pursuit of justice and the embodiment of the highest ideals of the legal profession. I commend him for his remarkable career and service to the Southern prgtoken District of Texas, and I wish him the best in his well-earned retirement.
HONORING CAPTAIN CLAUDE A. ROWE
Shri Thanedar (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2024-1-5

I include in the Record the following proclamation. prgtoken Whereas Claude Rowe was born to Jamaican immigrant parents and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and was accepted as one of the first Black Americans into the prestigious Cast Technical High School where he excelled in engineering. prgtoken Whereas Claude Rowe interrupted his aeronautical studies at the University of Michigan at the outbreak of World War Two to serve his country as a pilot. prgtoken Whereas Claude Rowe, discovering that no black Americans were permitted to be pilots, took advantage of his dual American and Canadian citizenship and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force where he was the only black man in his unit who was trained to be a pilot. prgtoken Whereas Claude Rowe, still desiring to become an American Military pilot, heard about the Tuskegee training program for young black fighter pilots, applied and was selected. prgtoken Whereas Claude Rowe, along with approximately 900 selected Tuskegee airman who follow the vision to outwork every fighter group and to work for the good of the group rather than for personal glory, accomplished an incredible feat as fighter escorts: they never lost a bomber entrusted to their care. The Tuskegee airman became the most requested and preferred escort bomber pilots. Because when the red tail painted planes arrived, victory was guaranteed. prgtoken Whereas Claude A. Rowe, the only Tuskegee airman to earn two sets of wings stands as a shining example of a man who overcame prejudice and discrimination in the 1940s to leave us a legacy that resulted in the desegregation of our armed forces and the confirmation of American ideal that all men are created equal. prgtoken Whereas, Claude Rowe, will always be loved and respected and esteemed highly by his wife of 55 years, his 8 children and other friends, family and community members for his devotion to them and to civil rights and to America.
Remembering Herb Kohl (Executive Session)
Tammy Baldwin (Democrat, WI) \u2014 2024-1-8

I rise today to honor the life of former U.S. Senator Herb Kohl. prgtoken Herb was a successful businessman, a generous philanthropist, a dedicated public servant, and my role model. He was a model boss, public servant, and Senator--always putting people first. But, if you knew Herb, you knew how humble he was. In fact, after he was first sworn in, one of his colleagues whom he respected in this body said to him: You are going to be a model Senator. I have heard him tell this story a number of times. He decided to look up the definition of ``model,'' and he quipped back by saying: ``Model, my friends, is a small replica of the real thing,'' making light of his rather modest stature and deflecting credit for his leadership. That scenario embodies a lot of who Herb was. He was modest, funny, and at his core, an unrelenting advocate for the people of the State of Wisconsin. prgtoken Senator Kohl served in this body for 24 years, but he served the people of Wisconsin and our country throughout his entire life. In the Senate, he didn't care how long a fight would take, how long the odds were, or who he was up against; if it would help the people of Wisconsin, it was worthy of him to engage in that fight. His mantra throughout his service was ``Nobody's Senator But Yours,'' and his record in Washington reflected that commitment to a tee. prgtoken In Congress, he worked quietly, diligently, and with focus. Herb fought to get Wisconsin's dairy farmers fair prices for their products, and he worked to invest in and save Wisconsin's family farms. He championed vital food assistance programs that children and working families rely on and worked to expand access to affordable childcare, elder care, and healthcare for millions of Americans. Herb knew that taking care of our great outdoors and our environment was key not only to our Wisconsin way of life but also to our economy. Working with both environmentalists and prgtoken business interests, Herb secured resources to clean up drinking water sources and combat invasive species and pollution in our Great Lakes. He championed initiatives to help workers get the skills they needed to be competitive in today's economy and keep Wisconsin's manufacturing jobs in Wisconsin. prgtoken Senator Kohl was never afraid to stand up to special interests on behalf of his constituents. He diligently led the oversight of mergers and acquisitions to protect competition and consumers in everything from agriculture to rail, to telecommunications, to healthcare, working with and s to lower the everyday cost of essentials like prescription drugs and gasoline. prgtoken At the end of the day, it was always about the people of Wisconsin. That is why it should come as no surprise that his office was rightly regarded as the best constituent services shop in Congress. As he said in his farewell to the Senate in 2012, every Wisconsinite had an ally and an advocate
Immigration (Executive Session)
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2024-1-8

you know as well as I do what is happening in our home State of Illinois when it comes to the migrants that are being bussed from Texas, primarily, into our State--the impact it has had in the State and in the city of Chicago, in particular. These migrants are arriving in the city without any consultation or warning and are being dumped in places near the city, totally unprepared to face the cruelty of the winter that we are facing in Chicago. prgtoken I am amazed at the number of people who have shown extraordinary caring and have stepped forward to try to help. I thank Catholic Charities, Salvation Army--there are so many groups. There is a New Life Center, Matthew DeMateo--extraordinary, just a miracle worker. He manages to find a way to put a roof over the heads of those migrants that come to our city and give them a fighting chance to have a decent life. So many more just like him prepare to step up and provide shelter, provide basic clothing, food, accessibility to schools, and more. prgtoken I really want to commend the mayor as well. Brandon Johnson has taken an approach toward this which I think is humane and consistent with the traditions of America. He shows a caring heart time and again, and I respect him so much for it. prgtoken Recently, the city of Chicago tried to put some order into this disorderly process, identifying times and places where the buses could stop so that people could be received properly, cared for, and go about their lives as best they could. prgtoken But, unfortunately, there has only been one example of cooperation by the State of Texas. There are plenty of examples the other way--people who are sent to airports in Rockford where they are dumped out of airplanes on the tarmac with no place to turn; people who are put in suburban towns and rural areas, which even if they wanted to help, would be so limited to what they could do. prgtoken We understand the politics of the situation better than most. We do politics for a living. But there are a lot of people who are helpless and victims of this situation who need to be taken into consideration. prgtoken The city of Chicago gave the Texas Governor a safe, convenient, accessible option to drop the migrants off at a warm shelter for orderly processing, but only one bus from Texas has attempted to register with the city. The Texas Governor has chosen cruelty and chaos over orderly and humane processing. prgtoken I don't understand the politics of that moment. These people are as vulnerable as any people on earth. They are doing the best they can for themselves, and they are in a situation where they need a helping hand in many instances. prgtoken Last week, my colleagues in the Senate were working on a negotiated border compromise to deal with the policy and law on the border. I support that completely. I don't know what the final product will be, and I am hoping to support the bill. This process is long, long overd