mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING MICHAEL P. STACHEL AND DAVID WINDHOLZ FROM DOYLESTOWN, PA
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today to recognize two outstanding constituents from my district, Michael P. Stachel and David Windholz. Since the 1960s, these gentlemen have given their time and financial resources to organize fishing derby events for children, disabled individuals, and seniors throughout our community. They sponsor and prgtoken run these events at no cost to any of the attendees. The families, children, and the seniors from the local nursing homes and the Veterans home in my district gather to spend the day fishing from a well stocked local pond. prgtoken They enjoy free food and refreshments; they are furnished with complimentary fishing gear so they can enjoy a day outdoors with their friends and families. Mike Stachel and David Windholz ask nothing for themselves and provide a joyous and wholesome experience that creates memories that last forever. They have been doing this selflessly for over four decades. prgtoken We commend them for their community spirit and their commitment to the families, the children, the disabled, and the seniors of my district. We are proud to salute their efforts to continue to provide these wonderful events for so many generations of my district's residents.
CELEBRATING THE DAY OF RESTORATION
Paul A. Gosar (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today to recognize our ally, and a friend to our Nation, Azerbaijan, on its Day of Restoration. This day recognizes the emancipation and liberation of Azerbaijan from the authoritarian communist Soviet regime. The scourge of communism and leftist authoritarianism is not just something we face today, but people across Europe were subjected to this evil since the 1920's. Azerbaijan was taken over by leftists aligned with the communist block leading to generations of misery and oppression. prgtoken But all that changed. prgtoken I wish nothing but peace and prosperity for the Azeris. There has been conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over borders and other issues. It is my fervent prayer that the prgtoken people in that region know peace and turn to God for guidance. There are many factors that lead to military action, and I will not pretend to know the circumstances of every conflict, but I do know that war must be a last resort, and nations must do everything in their power to minimize death and destruction. prgtoken During these tense times of global uncertainty, I hope and pray that peace will prevail. While not failing to admit that flaws are present in the decisions of every nation, I am happy that the United States has maintained a strong relationship with Azerbaijan. May both of our nations never experience the bondage of an evil, foreign, totalitarian power ever again.
HONORING THE WORK OF DR. ROBERT FICKLIN
Bruce Westerman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Dr. Robert Ficklin, forestry professor at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, for receiving the Society of American Foresters (SAF) Fellows Award. The SAF Fellows Award is the highest recognition in the forestry profession. It is a testament to Dr. Ficklin's lifetime of service to the industry and the Society of American Foresters in particular. Dr. Ficklin is only the third forestry professor in the history of UAM to receive this esteemed honor. prgtoken Dr. Ficklin has made extraordinary contributions to the forestry industry at a local, state, and national level. His service and leadership over the last twenty years at UAM has left a lasting impact on his students. His former students now hold professional forestry and environmental management positions in state and federal agencies, as well as various academic positions. Dr. Ficklin was recognized for his impact in the UAM forestry program by being the first forestry faculty member to become a finalist in the Hornaday Outstanding Faculty Award. prgtoken In addition to his impact on students, Dr. Ficklin has been instrumental in research and innovation. His research on forest soils in the Ozark uplands, the Western Gulf Coastal Plain, and the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley have been presented nationally. His research has resulted in numerous publications, papers, reports, abstracts, and presentations that will be used for many years. prgtoken I am proud to recognize Dr. Ficklin today for his many accomplishments and to thank him for his commitment, dedication, and service to the forestry industry. Dr. Ficklin's contributions to the forestry sector will be felt for years to come. Arkansas is the gold standard when it comes to forestry, and that is in large part due to forestry leaders like Dr. Robert Ficklin.
IN RECOGNITION OF ROBERT ASHTON CARUTHERS, JR.
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today in recognition of Mr. Robert Ashton Caruthers, Jr. in honor of his 60th birthday on November 3, 2022, and his service for the Bowling Green Fire Department. prgtoken Robert, or Robby, is a native of Hanover County, Virginia, but has lived in Caroline County, Virginia, since 2000. prgtoken Robby is a dedicated husband and father. He and his wife, Dr. Ada Caruthers, have two children, Katie and Ashton. He is a beloved member of his family and community, and they are grateful for his unwavering contributions and selfless service. prgtoken Robby is a diligent farmer who is the second largest sweet corn producer in Virginia. He farms 1,100 acres of grain and 400 acres of vegetables. He is on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Farm Bureau and the Agricultural Advisory Board for the Caroline County Agricultural Fair. And he donates to the Virginia State Fair and advocates for ``Farm Use'' license plates and non-insurable crops policies. prgtoken Robby is a leader of his community. He is an honorary member of the Bowling Green Fire Department because he helps raise $60,000 annually for the department through the Sportsman's Dinner Auction. He avidly supports the Future Farmers of America and the Caroline County Little League. He helped start some food banks in Caroline County, and donated produce to local churches. He helped write the Virginia Bottle Bill to reduce litter on Virginia's roads, and he volunteers to clear snow off the roads during the winter. prgtoken Robby is also passionate about preserving local history. He is a lifelong contributor to the Port Royal Historical Society and is a Hanover Tavern Foundation Sponsor. Furthermore, he maintains two historic properties in Caroline County. prgtoken Madam , I ask you to join me in recognizing the accomplishments and 60th birthday of Mr. Robert Ashton Caruthers, Jr. A U.S. flag has been flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. May God bless him and his family.
RECOGNIZING MR. DAVID PAUL HORAN'S 80 YEARS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE AND LEGAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Carlos A. Gimenez (Republican, FL) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Key West native Mr. David Paul Horan for his community leadership and notable achievements in admiralty and maritime law. prgtoken David Horan has spent almost 50 years serving on various community boards and commissions in the Florida Keys. Since 1973, he has served as a Director of the Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce. Other leadership roles have included serving on the Key West Military Affairs Committee, the Florida Keys National Marine Advisory Sanctuary Counsel, and the Special Environmental Counsel for Monroe County. In 2001, Mr. Horan was inducted into the Key West Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame, Key West's highest community service award. prgtoken In addition to his work serving the community, David is an accomplished lawyer. Admitted to the Florida Bar in 1972, David specializes in complex federal and state litigation. Much of his career has been dedicated to protecting local interests against excessive regulation. One pro-bono case of David's, Young v. DCA, was monumental: the Florida Supreme Court's opinion reversed almost twenty years of decisions on the ``burden of proof'' issue, significantly restricting the state of Florida's authority to overturn local governmental decisions. David has also represented many commercial fishermen in addition to salvors of historic shipwrecks, generally centuries-old Spanish galleons sunk along Florida's coast. prgtoken Another of David's notable legal victories came in his successful oral argument in the prgtoken 1982 Supreme Court case Florida Dept. of State v. Treasure Salvors, Inc, which concerned the ownership of salvage from the 1622 Spanish Galleon Nuestra Senora de Atocha. The Supreme Court rejected the State's claim to the property and upheld the transfer of artifacts to Treasure Salvors. prgtoken What an honor it is to recognize David Horan for his phenomenal career in law and life of service to the Florida Keys and Floridians across the state. I wish David, his wife, five children, and many grandchildren all the best as he begins a ninth decade of a very full life.
HONORING JOHN GALER
Rodney Davis (Republican, IL) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate my good friend John Galer. On October 8th, Mr. Galer was named the chairman of the National Newspaper Association. prgtoken John owns The Journal-News and several other publications in Central Illinois. As the publisher of 10 newspapers in the area, John clearly has had a highly successful career and is a respected leader in the newspaper community. prgtoken The Galer family came to The Journal in 1945 when John's grandfather, Del, took over production management duties. John's father, Phillip Galer, purchased The Journal's first offset press in 1968. He and John helped expand the business during the 1970s and 1980s. In 2004, John and his wife, Susan, bought the Montgomery County News, also in Hillsboro, and merged that publication and staff into The Journal operation. The Journal-News, a 6,000-circulation, twice weekly, has been well received throughout the community and is a community advocate. prgtoken John received the Illinois Press Association Distinguished Service Award in 2017. He also gives his time to numerous civic, foundation and charity organizations. Mr. Galer also is a member of Image Hillsboro, a nonprofit seeking to revitalize the town through economic and community initiatives. prgtoken I have no doubt John will continue to thrive in his new leadership position as the chairman of the National Newspaper Association, and I wish nothing but the best for my friend. The National Newspaper Association is in good hands under John's new leadership.
6TH ANNIVERSARY OF FilVetREP
Dan Newhouse (Republican, WA) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project's 6th anniversary and all their work to raise awareness and support for Filipino-American World War II soldiers. prgtoken FilVetREP is a volunteer initiative with the mission to obtain national recognition for all Filipino-American World War II soldiers for their service in the Philippines from July 1941 to December 1946. The initiative worked to successfully secure legislation that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to soldiers and survivors, which I proudly cosponsored and voted for during my first term in Congress. prgtoken After nearly 75 years, Filipino-American soldiers who served finally received their much-deserved recognition with the passage of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015. prgtoken FilVetREP has since conducted over 80 ceremonies across the United States and in the Philippines to award veterans and their families the Congressional Gold Medal. prgtoken From a grateful Nation, I thank all of the Filipino-American soldiers for their service, and thank FilVetREP for their work to support and recognize our veterans. I extend my congratulations on the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project's 6th anniversary and wish them many more decades of servant leadership.
RECOGNIZING WESTLANDS WATER DISTRICT
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the achievements of the Westlands Water District on their 70th Anniversary. prgtoken Located on the west side of Fresno and Kings Counties, the Westlands Water District is home to some of the most fertile and productive farmland on the planet. On September 8, 1952, per the request of farmers on the westside of the San Joaquin Valley, the Fresno County Board of Supervisors officially announced the creation of the Westlands Water District. Initially, the district encompassed approximately 400,000 acres of land. After merging with West Plains Water District in 1965 and purchasing Broadview Water District in 2007, the district reached its current size of approximately 615,000 acres. On average, the district and its farmers provide for over 35,000 jobs and generate over $4.7 billion in economic activity each year. prgtoken One distinct aspect of the Westlands Water District is that it remains one of the only water districts in the world that distributes irrigation water exclusively through a highly efficient system of pressurized pipe. With approximately 1,100 miles of buried pipe throughout the district, they are able to track every drop of surface water delivered in the district--from the moment the water enters the system to the moment it reaches the field. Additionally, the district and its farmers have invested millions of dollars each year in its water infrastructure system so the system can continue serving all of the district's water users for future generations. prgtoken For seven decades, even while battling droughts, unpredictable climates, and changing regulations, the farmers within the Westlands Water District have been leaders in implementing cutting-edge water conservation technologies and efficient irrigation practices through their hard work, innovative technologies, and commitment to continuous improvements. The district and its farmers have been, and will continue to be, an essential part of developing a robust water infrastructure throughout the Central Valley. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring the achievements of the Westlands Water District on their 70th Anniversary.
HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF KEITH SWARTZENTRUBER
Darin LaHood (Republican, IL) \u2014 2022-10-21

. Madam , I would like to congratulate Keith Swartzentruber, the executive director of Snyder Village, who is retiring after 34 wonderful years of service across Central Illinois. prgtoken Keith Swartzentruber joined the staff as an administrator of Snyder Village when it opened its doors in 1988 and has held the position of executive director at Snyder Village for the last 17 years. Under his leadership, Snyder Village has grown from a modest organization offering a health center and six independent living cottages to the full-life plan community that it is today. Currently, over 400 residents call Snyder Village home, and roughly 240 staff members make up the Snyder Village team. Spanning over 48 acres, Snyder Village now encompasses a skilled nursing health center, assisted living, home care services, inpatient and outpatient therapy, and a retirement community with 40 apartments and 170 cottages. prgtoken As a true servant leader, Keith encourages and supports staff to embody the Snyder Village mission statement: to provide for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of others in a loving, dignified, and Christian atmosphere. Keith exemplifies the high level of care and service which has made Snyder Village the remarkable place it is. He can often be found visiting with residents and staff members, ensuring they feel valued and cared for. His leadership and service have been recognized by his peers and the community through several awards, including the Life Services Network Leadership Recognition Award. prgtoken Our community has been fortunate to benefit from the service and leadership of Keith Swartzentruber. I extend my sincere congratulations to Keith on his 34 years of service at Snyder Village. I wish him much success as he continues to lead a life of service to the Metamora community and central Illinois.
RECOGNIZING DIRT COFFEE
Jason Crow (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2022-10-25

. Madam , I rise today to recognize DIRT Coffee in Littleton, Colorado for creating an inclusive work environment for neurodiverse Coloradans and those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDDs). prgtoken DIRT, which stands for Divergent, Inclusive, Representation, Transform, is committed to disability justice and transforming hiring practices to include more equitable opportunities in the workplace for neurodivergent individuals. Currently, DIRT Coffee works to hire, train, and empower neurodivergent individuals through their Inclusive Workforce Employer Program. prgtoken After recognizing that neurodivergent people are underrepresented in the workforce and lack equitable opportunities for an integrated workforce experience, DIRT launched their coffee truck in 2013 to target the hearts and minds of the community. They quickly became a leader in providing inclusive employment opportunities for neurodivergent Coloradans, and in 2018, DIRT opened its first location in Littleton--providing internships and long-term employment for neurodivergent individuals. prgtoken In 2021, DIRT provided more than 1,000 hours of job training to over 30 neurodivergent prgtoken individuals, bringing the total people helped to over 140 across the community. DIRT doesn't stop there, they have also provided more than $50,000 in scholarships to families who need it the most. In 2022, DIRT opened its second location in Denver to try to expand its reach and community impact. prgtoken DIRT Coffee aims to create a more equitable and inclusive workforce. It goes without saying that they've had not only a tremendous impact on the lives of neurodivergent individuals who they have employed, but also our community as a whole. DIRT works tirelessly to cultivate a culture of acceptance, and I am proud to recognize and thank them for being an inspiration to us all.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF WILLIE MIMS
Mark DeSaulnier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-10-25

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the service of Willie Mims. prgtoken Throughout his life, Willie has shown his commitment to educating, serving, and empowering residents of East County. He was raised in what is now Bay Point, California and graduated from Pacifica High School in 1963. It was around this time that Willie began engaging in local politics, advocating for the Rumsford Fair Housing Act which aimed to combat racial discrimination in housing. Willie also worked as a stevedore at the Concord Naval Weapons Station from 1965 to 1970. He went on to obtain his Associate Arts Degree from Diablo Valley College and his Bachelor of Arts and M.A. in English & Creative Writing from San Francisco State University. Willie obtained his teaching credentials in 1978 and went on to have a long career in teaching with the Vallejo City Unified School District. Willie worked as a teacher at John Finney High School, formerly known as Peoples High School, for over 25 years. After retiring in 2009, Willie continued to advocate on behalf of Contra Costa students and families, still regularly attending school board meetings. prgtoken Willie has worked tirelessly to support families and promote equity within the East Bay. He is a former mentor of S.I.M.B.A. (Safe in My Brother's Arms), a youth program for boys 8 to 16, former board member of the East County Boy's and Girl's Club, and served as a volunteer historian for the Parents Connected Organization. Additionally, he is an original member of Pittsburg's Black Political Association and part of Executive Committee of the East County Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He was also instrumental in the creation of the Antioch School District's African American Male Initiative which sought to address racial disparities in education. Willie received the Dr. Martin Luther King Freedom Fighter Award in 2008 in recognition of his efforts to promote racial justice and equity. Willie's community and the greater Bay Area have significantly benefited thanks to Willie's dedication and hard work. prgtoken Willie is a true leader in our community and we are grateful for the positive impact that his work has had across the county. Please join me in recognizing Willie for his many years of devoted service.
IN RECOGNITION OF THE FLOATING HOSPITAL
Carolyn B. Maloney (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2022-10-25

. Madam , I rise to recognize The Floating Hospital for its incredible work to provide healthcare services to medically underserved people living in New York City's Twelfth Congressional District, which I have the privilege to represent. prgtoken Founded in 1866, The Floating Hospital was one of the first healthcare charities in New York City and was originally dedicated to caring for the sick children of families living in tenement homes. Today, The Floating Hospital remains committed to the mission of providing healthcare to those in need and provides primary medical, dental, specialty, behavioral health, infectious disease, and reproductive health services to families living in shelters and domestic violence safe houses throughout the city, as well as the medically underserved community of Northwest Queens. prgtoken Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked with The Floating Hospital to ensure that the public housing communities of Astoria, Ravenswood, and Queensbridge Houses in Northwest Queens have access to the healthcare that they need. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, in 2012, The Floating Hospital received a $920,833 federal grant to operate a community health center at Queensbridge Houses, which is the largest public housing development in the nation. Since then, The Floating Hospital has provided lifesaving care to the residents of Queensbridge Houses, including tests for COVID-19. prgtoken Earlier this year, I also partnered with The Floating Hospital to bring a temporary medical care unit to public housing residents living at Astoria Houses. Since April, staff from The Floating Hospital have provided COVID-19 tests and vaccines to hundreds of residents, which were greatly needed given how few COVID-19 testing and vaccine sites were located within a walkable distance of Astoria Houses. prgtoken Healthcare is and should always be a human right, and The Floating Hospital is helping to make that a reality for so many New Yorkers. I commend The Floating Hospital for its work in my district, under the leadership of the great Sean Granahan, and look forward to following their work to provide this critical resource those who need it. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the amazing work being done by The Floating Hospital and to wish them all the best success as they continue to expand health care options to the most underserved New Yorkers.