mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN RECOGNITION OF HELEN PRATHER
Rashida Tlaib (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , today I want to recognize and celebrate Ms. Helen Prather, a long-time resident of Detroit in Michigan's 13th Congressional District as she celebrates a milestone, her one hundred fifth birthday. prgtoken Born in 1917, Ms. Prather was one of ten siblings in her close-knit family. She grew up in the heart of Detroit near Grand River. In her youth and throughout her life, Ms. Prather was a tireless fighter for advancement and protection of civil rights. She was also especially proud of her long career in social services, from which she retired at the age of eighty-eight. prgtoken Ms. Prather has always valued her family life. She raised her children in Detroit alongside her dear husband Joseph, to whom she was happily married for more than sixty years until his death in 2005. Ms. Prather has been an anchoring presence in her family, remaining steadfast in her love for her multigenerational family, which includes her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchild. prgtoken Ms. Helen Prather is truly cherished by her family, friends, and neighbors. Please join me in wishing her a very happy birthday, surrounded by love and light.
COMMEMORATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE (VINS) IN QUECHEE, VERMONT
Peter Welch (Democrat, VT) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , I rise today to honor the outstanding work and enduring impact of the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) in Quechee, VT. I would also like to congratulate them as they celebrate their 50 Year Anniversary. Since their opening in October of 1972, VINS has served as a pillar of the community, educating Vermonters prgtoken on the beautiful wildlife in our state and what we can do to conserve it. The organization and its staff have shown a remarkable commitment to research, conservation and education. prgtoken The genesis of VINS can be traced back to David Laughlin, who spearheaded a study of the Ottauquechee River in central Vermont. The river was found to be badly polluted by waste and runoff. Joining Dr. Laughlin's efforts were his wife Sally Laughlin, Rick Farrar, and June McKnight. The group's efforts ultimately led to the first water quality litigation in the state of Vermont. The group built on the momentum from the victorious river cleanup, remaining vigilant in their commitment to preserving the river's future. Their brainstorming culminated into the idea to establish an environmental organization aimed at educating young children. Thus, came the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in 1972. prgtoken Since its founding, VINS' mission has stressed education as a critical tool in changing perspectives and maintaining a healthy environment. Early on, Sally Laughlin led the charge to establish a bird-banding project with the help of her experienced colleague, Rick Farrar. The bird banding program, educational activities, and the river clean-up, established VINS as a critical Vermont institution. prgtoken Today, VINS is defined by its environmental and education focus at the VINS Nature Center, with 35 exhibit and education raptors utilized in daily live education programs from a trained educator's hand; the Forest Canopy Walk and Outdoor Classroom; the ADA trail network; VINS School Programs, which reach 3,400 students and 600 teachers each year; the Adventure Playscape; and the Center for Wild Bird Rehabilitation. The rehabilitation center treats injured birds found throughout the state with the eventual goal of releasing them back into the wild. The center treated a record of 1,098 birds last year alone. Those birds which cannot be released safely are kept at VINS' Nature Center as ``ambassadors'' for their species to help educate curious visitors. prgtoken As Executive Director Charles Rattigan takes VINS into its next 50 years, the institute remains a sought-after destination for visitors and residents of Vermont and the Upper Valley. This year alone, over 69,000 visitors passed through its gates to learn about raptors, native species and the environments in which they live. Curious people of all ages learned how to actively care for our natural world, helping to fulfill VINS' crucial mission of motivating individuals and communities to care for their environment. I want to recognize V
HONORING MATTHEW SMITH
Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , I am pleased to rise today, and I ask my Colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Matthew Smith for more than 35 years of dedicated service to the United States House of Representatives. prgtoken Mr. Smith began his service with the Office of the Clerk in December 1986 as an Office Supply Clerk where he served in that position for 2 years. Matthew was subsequently promoted to the Records and Registration section, still within the Clerk's organization, where for the next 5 years he served in three different capacities which included the following positions, Processing Clerk, Microfilmer Clerk and Data Processing Clerk. prgtoken In July of 1995, Matthew transitioned to the Clerk's Legislative Resource Center where he served as General Clerk, an Assistant Registration and Compliance Clerk, and in his most recent capacity, as a Public Information Specialist, where he has served for the last 19 years. In his current position, Matthew provides excellent customer service to those patrons who visit and call requesting documents. Matthew is the longest tenured employee in the Clerk's House Document Room where he serves in the capacity as Public Information Specialist. Matthew's institutional knowledge is an important asset to the House Document Room team. Matt has become the resident expert on all House Document Room equipment, including the high production printer and Digibinder. Over the years, Matt's patience and outgoing demeanor have assisted in molding him into an excellent coach to the new employees on all relevant processes; and Matt has helped considerably by drafting and sharing step-by-step instructions on many of these processes. prgtoken Matthew is a dedicated husband and father. He frequently speaks fondly of his daughter who is the joy of his life. Matthew is very passionate about his own physical fitness, and he enjoys playing basketball; and over the years, Matthew has participated in several marathons. prgtoken Madam , I am pleased for this opportunity to acknowledge Matthew Smith for his outstanding service to the United States House of Representatives.
IN RECOGNITION OF CURTIS PAUL RAMSEY
Michael C. Burgess (Republican, TX) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , I rise today to honor the memory of Curtis Paul Ramsey. A lifelong educator, Ramsey, spent every chance he had sharing his wisdom with others. prgtoken On November 24, 1926, Curtis was born in Denton, Texas. In his early years, he became a member of Boy Scout Troop 65. He then earned the ranking Eagle Scout and later attended the Troops 100th celebration in 2018. Curtis also was a member of the First United Methodist Church. He spent his time teaching adult Sunday school and serving as a youth counselor. prgtoken Ramsey graduated from Denton Senior High School. He attended North Texas State College, now known as the University of North Texas (UNT), where he was elected the 1950 Senior Class President. He earned a bachelor's degree in Biology and Psychology, and completed a master's degree in Curriculum and Guidance at the same campus. His pursuit of education didn't stop as he then earned his Ph.D. in Education at George Peabody College for Teachers in Nashville. During his time at Peabody, Curtis conducted research with the hopes of improving educational outcomes. prgtoken Curtis served in World War II as a company clerk in Japan, later returning with a great appreciation for the Japanese people, their art and their culture. prgtoken His passion for education followed once he returned to the states. After the Brown vs. Board of Education decision, a Peabody Grant allowed Curtis to aid de-segregated school districts. Dr. Ramsey served as Chairman of the Elementary Education Department at Kent State University and in the Bridgeport and Stamford schools while advocating for Cleveland area schools. He then served as the Dean of the College of Education at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut. His passion took him overseas as he taught at the Bir Zeit University as a Distinguished Visiting Professor in Education and Psychology. prgtoken Upon his return to Denton, he taught at Texas Women's University while serving on Denton's ISD School Board. His passion for education was demonstrated on the state and national level as he served on the Leadership TASB (Texas Association of School Boards) and with the Texas Legislative Taskforce lobbying in D.C. prgtoken Curtis treated the students of Denton ISD as his own. He was a beloved father to Rebecca Ramsey Lindrose, Cynthia Ramsey Despot, Dawn Ramsey, and Victoria Ramsey, and a devoted husband to Virginia Mary Ramsey. He was a proud grandfather of four grandchildren and a great- grandfather to six great-grandchildren. prgtoken Curtis Ramsey's positive impact spread beyond the city of Denton and Denton ISD. Everywhere he went, he shared himself personally and professionally. He was a father, a husband, a grandfather, a friend, a son, a Denton native, and most of all, a respected and dedicated educator.
IN SPECIAL RECOGNITION OF ANDREW KALMAR'S RETIREMENT
Robert E. Latta (Republican, OH) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate Andrew Kalmar's retirement as Wood County Administrator and recognize his outstanding career. Andrew has been administrator for twenty-two years and has proven himself to be a leader for both his department and county. prgtoken Andrew, originally from Troy, Ohio, graduated from Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. He also received a Master of Public Administration degree. Andrew began his career with the Wood County Commissioners in January 2000 after serving as the director of the Wood County Park District. prgtoken Over the span of Andrew's tenure as administrator, Wood County has built a strong financial position, experienced economic growth and development, made improvements to county facilities, and increased efficiency of departmental operations. Also, Andrew played a key role in the construction of the Alvin L. Perkins Atrium at the Wood County Courthouse and office complex. During the last two years, Andrew has been instrumental in guiding Wood County through the COVID-19 pandemic while still maintaining productivity throughout all aspects of county work. Andrew's character and leadership have contributed to the success of Wood County, making it a remarkable place to live and work. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Andrew Kalmar in recognition of his service to Wood County. On behalf of the people of the Fifth District of Ohio, I wish Andrew all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his many years of service.
IN HONOR OF WINSTON EYE AND VISION CENTER'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY
Tim Burchett (Republican, TN) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , I rise to celebrate Winston Eye and Vision Center for its 80 years of business serving the wonderful people of the Knoxville community. prgtoken In 1942, Dr. Harold J. Winston moved to Knoxville to start an optometry practice and create a good life for himself, his new wife, and the children they planned to have together. Decades later, the center enabled him to work alongside two of his sons, Jerry and Barry Winston, who followed in their father's footsteps and joined his practice after receiving their doctorates in optometry. prgtoken The practice expanded to three generations in 2011 when Harold's grandson, Dr. Samuel A. Winston, joined the practice. A few short months later, in December 2011, Dr. Harold Winston passed away, but his legacy and practice are carried on by his sons and grandson who continue to run the business that brought him such great joy during his life. prgtoken Congratulations to the Winston family, employees, and everyone involved in helping Winston Eye and Vision Center serve members of our great community for the past 80 years.
CONGRATULATIONS TO AUSTIN RHODES
Rick W. Allen (Republican, GA) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Austin Rhodes for thirty years in broadcasting at WGAC-AM 580 in Augusta. prgtoken I have been fortunate to have been a guest on Austin's radio program during my time in Congress and it is a pleasure to recognize him and his hard work in this chamber. prgtoken For three decades, Austin's program has brought news and commentary to countless listeners across Georgia and his hard work and dedication have enabled him to cement a lasting legacy in talk radio. prgtoken Congratulations to Austin and his entire team over at WGAC on thirty years of the Austin Rhodes Show.
HONORING THE SACRIFICES OF CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION PERSONNEL
John Katko (Republican, NY) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , the mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is broad and diverse. The more than 60,000 men and women of CBP protect our borders at and between our ports of entry. They protect Americans against terrorists and the instruments of terror. They enforce our laws and help boost our economic security and prosperity by facilitating trade and travel. While the roles they play each day may differ, the men and women of CBP share one common goal: to keep our country a safe, secure, and resilient place where the American way of life can thrive. They provide selfless service to our country, and they do so with honor and distinction under an ever-present and evolving threat. I wish to pay tribute to the agents, officers and employees who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our Nation by honoring 37 courageous men and women of CBP who have died in the line of duty. Today we commemorate these brave men and women, celebrate their lives, and offer their families and loved ones our continued support. They have earned the respect and appreciation of a grateful nation. I include in the Record a list of these agents and officers: Wolf Valmond, CBP Officer Trainee; End of Watch: December 15, 2019. Juan Ollervidez III, CBP Agriculture Specialist; End of Watch: December 16, 2020. Denis Jasper Wells, Facility Operations Specialist; End of Watch: December 17, 2020. Andrew R. Bouchard, CBP Officer; End of Watch: December 19, 2020. Troy A. Adkins, CBP Officer; End of Watch: December 31, 2020. Byron Shields, CBP Officer; End of Watch: January 20, 2021. Beverly Good, Director of Field Operations; End of Watch: January 28, 2021. Robert Allan Mayer Jr Special Agent; End of Watch: January 30, 2021. Rudy Morales Jr Maintenance Mechanic; End of Watch: February 5, 2021. Cesar Sibonga, CBP Officer; End of Watch: February 7, 2021. Genaro Guerrero, CBP Officer; End of Watch: February 15, 2021. Carlos C. Mendoza, CBP Officer; End of Watch: February 24, 2021. Crispin San Jose, CBP Officer; End of Watch: March 9, 2021. Alejandro Flores-Banuelos, Border Patrol Agent; End of Watch: March 15, 2021. Christopher Shane Simpkins, Border Patrol Agent; End of Watch: April 12, 2021. Freddie Vasquez, Border Patrol Agent; End of Watch: May 8, 2021. Juan M. Urrutia, Border Patrol Agent; End of Watch: May 28, 2021. Ruben Facio, CBP Officer; End of Watch: July 17, 2021. Edgardo Acosta-Feliciano, Border Patrol Agent; End of Watch: July 31, 2021. Daniel P. Cox, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent; End of Watch: July 31, 2021. Ricardo Zarate, Border Patrol Agent; End of Watch: August 16, 2021. Yokemia L. Conyers, CBP Officer; End of Watch: August 18, 2021. Monica J. Riola, CBP Officer
RECOGNIZING THE 165TH ANNIVERSARY OF ``THE OLD CATHEDRAL,'' SS. PETER & PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH, IN ALTON, ILLINOIS
Mike Bost (Republican, IL) \u2014 2022-7-1

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the 165th anniversary of ``The Old Cathedral,'' SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, in Alton, Illinois. The church, completed in 1857, remains a beautiful example of Gothic architecture in the Metro East region. On January 9, 1857, the Diocese Episcopal See was transferred to Alton from Quincy, and the Most Reverend Henry Damien Junker became Alton's first bishop. The Most Reverend Peter Baltes succeeded him in 1870, followed by the third and final Bishop of Alton, the Most Reverend James Ryan, in 1886. Below the church are the tombs of the first two bishops of the Diocese of Alton. During its life as the Diocese Cathedral, our country was torn apart at the seams by Civil War, was reunited, and then grew into a global power. We celebrated the St. Louis World's Fair, saw our dirt roads paved over, and had our lives changed by revolutionary inventions. In 2015, the SS. Peter & Paul Parish had a beautiful carillon installed in the bell tower to beckon all to come and worship. Madam , please join me in recognizing the 165th anniversary of ``The Old Cathedral,'' SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, and celebrating its many contributions to Alton and the surrounding communities.
RECOGNIZING DR. KEVIN McCARTHY, PRESIDENT OF RENTON TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Adam Smith (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2022-7-5

. Madam , I rise to congratulate Dr. Kevin McCarthy on his retirement from Renton Technical College. He has served many years as an educator and as a leader in our community. prgtoken Kevin has continually demonstrated his commitment to education. He brought his talents to the Pacific Northwest where he served as vice president of instruction at the Lake Washington Institute of Technology, dean of the Health Sciences, Education & Wellness Institute at Bellevue College, and associate vice president of instruction at Blue Mountain Community College prior to joining Renton Technical College. prgtoken Kevin is well known throughout the community as the president of Renton Technical College. He has served as a strong and passionate leader in this role since 2015. Kevin has always emphasized the importance of inclusion and prioritized equitable access to education during his time as president. His focus on equity goes beyond the classroom. Kevin serves the community as part of the Puget Sound Coalition for College & Career Readiness and as a member of the Renton Mayor's Inclusion Task Force. prgtoken Madam , I sincerely thank and commend Dr. Kevin McCarthy for the tireless work he's done to educate and support learners in the Puget Sound region. I congratulate him and wish him a happy retirement.
HONORING DOCTOR JOEL STUART BLOOM AS A DISTINGUISHED EDUCATOR IN NEW JERSEY
Donald M. Payne, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2022-7-5

. Madam , I rise today in recognition of Dr. Joel Stuart Bloom upon his retirement as the eighth President of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). prgtoken As a premier public university, NJIT plays a crucial role in shaping the economic trajectory of our state. It is also a school with the highest student mobility and, therefore, exemplifies the American Dream. I recall attending President Bloom's inauguration in 2012 when I served as the President of Newark's Municipal Council. At the ceremony, I voiced my optimism that the university would flourish under President Bloom's vision and forward-thinking ideas. prgtoken As he now steps down and begins the next chapter of his life, I can confidently express my pride in President Bloom's leadership. Under his leadership, the school accomplished numerous significant feats, including a two-fold increase in enrollment, the expansion of research, the improvement of minority students' access to STEM education, and the formation of numerous commercial and industry partnerships. His notable contributions will leave a long-lasting imprint for generations to come. prgtoken Madam , I respectfully ask that you join me in expressing gratitude to President Bloom for his esteemed commitment to the growth and development of NJIT, the city of Newark, and our great Nation.
INTRODUCTION OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COURTS AND PUBLIC DEFENDER SERVICE VOLUNTARY SEPARATION INCENTIVE PAYMENTS ACT
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2022-7-5

. Madam , today, I introduce the District of Columbia Courts and Public Defender Service Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments Act. This bill, which passed the House in the 114th Congress, would make a small but important change to the authorities of the District of Columbia Courts (D.C. Courts) and the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia (PDS), giving them the same authority federal agencies and federal courts already have to offer voluntary separation incentive payments, or buyouts, to their employees. prgtoken Congress has provided this authority to the D.C. Courts and PDS on an annual basis in the last several appropriations bills. However, my bill is necessary to make this authority permanent. This authority would allow the D.C. Courts and PDS to respond to future administrative and budgetary needs, and would provide the flexibility to extend buyout offers to their employees. prgtoken The U.S. Government Accountability Office has opined that voluntary separation incentive payments may be made only where statutorily authorized. Federal agencies and federal courts already have permanent statutory authority to offer buyouts, and there is no reason why the D.C. Courts and PDS, which are both federally funded entities, should not have the same permanent authority to manage their workforce as budget conditions and needs change. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.