mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING ELAINE GRINNELL
Derek Kilmer (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to one of my constituents, Elaine Grinnell, an elder in the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. She is being celebrated for her commitment and talent in sharing the stories of the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. prgtoken Elaine Grinnell is a leader at NatureBridge, where she has shared her stories with students since 1994. Her work and her dedication to sharing the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe's traditions were recognized with one of four First Peoples Fund's Community Spirit Awards in 2018. prgtoken Additionally, I am sincerely grateful for her work as Washington State's first certified teacher of the S'Klallam language and as a counselor to Native American students in the Port Angeles School District. Elaine Grinnell has truly made a difference in our region. prgtoken , Members of Congress, it is an honor to celebrate Elaine Grinnell.
LAO NEW YEAR
Judy Chu (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise today to commemorate Lao New Year, which will be celebrated between April 14, 2023, and April 16, 2023. Lao New Year is considered the national holiday of the country of Laos. Nationwide, Lao Americans organize festivals to bring their communities together in celebration of Lao New Year through the month of April and even early May. prgtoken Lao New Year has been celebrated for thousands of years and is historically rooted in, and unique to, Lao legends and traditions. During each of the three days that Lao New Year is observed, Lao people participate in various practices and ceremonies. The first two days of Lao New Year are dedicated to home and family. Day one tasks involve cleaning and organizing one's home. On day two, families will gather for a traditional ``baci'' ceremony, during which people wish one another peace, prosperity, and happiness while tying white threads around each other's wrists. Food and other goods are prepared on day three to take to the local temple as offerings to the monks. prgtoken The final day of Lao New Year is typically celebrated at the temple, where activities include classical dance performances, beauty pageants reflecting the legend of an ancient king and his seven daughters, food vending, as well as Lao goods and merchandise. The atmosphere at the temple celebrations is that of an overall uplifting of Lao Americans connecting to their culture and heritage. prgtoken Lao New Year unites Lao people through a rich history of traditions and celebrations that evoke shared feelings of release, renewal, and resolutions for the coming year. I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating this global celebration.
RECOGNIZING MR. DARREL FETTIG
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise today to recognize the contributions and service of Darrel Fettig with United Airlines. After forty-four years of service and nearly three decades of helping travelers visit our nation's capital, Darrel is retiring this week. prgtoken Darrel was born in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Matt and Agnes Fettig, one of nine children. He left Bismarck at 18 and went to ``airline'' school. prgtoken His first job was with a regional airline as a ramp agent in Peoria. In 1978, he went to work for the pre-paid desk for Continental Airlines in Denver, and then he moved to Salt Lake City. Darrel skied as much as he could in-between shifts and still has lasting friendships from the seven years he spent in Salt Lake City. prgtoken Darrel then came to DCA on a temporary position as a trainer for Continental Airlines. He liked D.C. so much he applied for and got a job as a customer service agent at DCA. Following his time at DCA, Darrel went to the city ticket office in Washington, D.C. for about 10 years, and he was recruited to join the Continental Airlines' Government Affairs team in 1995. Darrel's service spanned major events such as the September 11 attacks, a merger with United Airlines, and global repatriation flight efforts at the start of the 2020 COVID Pandemic. prgtoken Throughout his tenure, Darrel has assisted thousands of travelers in Washington, D.C. ensuring the best travel experience between Washington and home each week or assisting with travel changes and challenges--all with a smile and wonderful customer service. prgtoken Darrel met his husband Joe working for the airline and they have been together for nearly 30 years. prgtoken , please join me in thanking Darrel Fettig for his dedication to the greater travel community and wishing him a happy retirement.
RECOGNIZING TODD DeGARMO
Brad R. Wenstrup (Republican, OH) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise to recognize and congratulate my good friend Todd DeGarmo on his acceptance of the 2023 William Howard Taft Medal from the University of Cincinnati for notable achievement in the field of architecture. prgtoken A graduate of UC, Todd put his blood, sweat, and tears into a career in architecture that has spanned nearly 35 years. Todd has worked for and led STUDIOS Architecture, overseeing numerous projects and renovations during his tenure. prgtoken Todd founded the company's New York office in 1995 and, ten years later, was named the first CEO of STUDIOS. Under his stewardship, STUDIOS opened new offices in the United States and around the globe, including in Mumbai, India and Lyon, France. prgtoken I want to commend Todd for his career at STUDIOS and his many meritorious projects that earned him the 2023 William Howard Taft Medal. Todd deserves this.
RECOGNIZING RICH HADLEY
Cathy McMorris Rodgers (Republican, WA) \u2014 2023-4-13

my heart is heavy as I rise today to honor prgtoken the life of my dear friend, Rich Hadley, who passed away on March 19, 2023. My prayers are with Rich's wife Rita, his family, and all who loved him as we mourn his passing. prgtoken Rich was a trusted friend and pillar of our community. For 21 years, he led Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI), the Inland Northwest's largest chamber of commerce. During his tenure, Rich demonstrated an unwavering commitment to growing jobs and business opportunities, not only in Spokane, but all across Eastern Washington and the Inland Northwest region. prgtoken His leadership at GSI was defined by a passion to make Spokane a better place, and he succeeded, leaving behind a legacy that will carry on for years to come. Rich's visionary leadership helped champion Spokane's University District and Washington State University's Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine. prgtoken As a former U.S. Navy air intelligence officer during the Vietnam War, Rich cared deeply for our men and women in uniform and our nation's veterans. He worked tirelessly to forge a strong relationship between the business community and officials at Fairchild Air Force Base, and he played a critical role in making Fairchild the integral part of Spokane's community it is today. prgtoken , Rich Hadley was a man of integrity and high principle. His humility and his impact on Eastern Washington and his country will long be remembered. Above all, he lived an amazing life that deserves to be celebrated. In honor of his legacy, passion, and contributions that inspired so many, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Rich Hadley. May God grant him eternal peace in His kingdom.
RECOGNIZING APRIL AS PARKINSON'S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH
Garret Graves (Republican, LA) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise today to recognize April as Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month. Parkinson's disease is a chronic, progressive neurological disease and is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States. Over one million people in the United States live with Parkinson's disease without a cure or treatment to slow or halt the progression of the disease. April is when we come together to not only bring awareness to the patients living with Parkinson's disease but support the volunteers, researchers, caregivers, and medical professionals working to improve the quality of life of individuals living with Parkinson's disease and their families. I am proud to support the folks from all over Louisiana who will gather in Baton Rouge this Saturday, April 15th, to raise awareness at Moving Day: A Walk for Parkinson's. Together, we can find a cure to end Parkinson's disease.
HONORING THE LIFE OF JAN SMITH
Darin LaHood (Republican, IL) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise to honor the life and legacy of Jeannette ``Jan'' Smith of Peoria, Illinois, who passed away on March 11, 2023 at the age of 88. prgtoken A native of Peoria, Illinois, Jan Smith attended Bradley University where she was actively involved as a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, as well as a member of the Dean's List. She graduated summa cum laude from Bradley University in 1975. prgtoken Jan's commitment to her community led her to become a teacher in Peoria area schools. In 1980, she left her teaching career and founded the Family Resources Center, which provided free-loan resources that taught about the sanctity of life. Her dedication to education and for the respect of life led her to serve at the Family Resources Center for over 35 years. For her tireless service, she received a papal honor in the form of the Pro Ecclesiae et Pontifice Medal as well as the Pere Marquette Award from the Diocese of Peoria. prgtoken I want to offer my condolences to the Smith family and the people of Peoria on the loss of a great woman. Jan's leadership, commitment, and dedication has made a lasting impact on the Central Illinois community that will last for generations.
HONORING THE LIFE OF MR. CURTIS MONROE
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise today to honor Curtis Ryan Monroe, who died Sunday, March 26, 2023, at ninety-two years old. He was a retired baseball coach and former chair of the history department at Itawamba Community College. He was born in Decatur, Mississippi, on December 5, 1930, to James Clark and Annie Neva Roberts Monroe, and was the youngest of seven children. He attended Decatur High School where he was a multi-sport athlete, then attended East Central Community College, followed by Mississippi State University, where he obtained both a bachelor and master's degree as well as being a Presidential Scholar for two years. prgtoken It was in Starkville that he met Sally Ashford, who would later become his wife on June 12, 1959, at the Starkville Presbyterian Church. While wooing Miss Ashford, he gave his future father-in-law free baseball tickets to see him suit up for the Diamond Dogs. prgtoken After obtaining his master's degree from State in 1954, he was about to be drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates, but the Army beat them to it. He completed basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and played on the base's baseball team. Curt was transferred to Fort Gordon near Augusta, Georgia. He was next stationed in Germany near the Czech border as a member of the 2nd Battalion of the 6th Armored Cavalry Regiment. prgtoken He returned to the States in 1956. His first job was teaching history and coaching baseball and girls' basketball at Union High School. In 1961, Curt drove to Fulton and interviewed with then-IJC President John Crubaugh. Curt was offered the job of head baseball coach and history teacher. He accepted and, for the next sixty-two years, he and Sally made Fulton their home, raising their two daughters, Amy and Emilie Nan, on campus. Curt served as a teacher, a lifeguard and dorm parent. He also served as an assistant football coach at Itawamba Agricultural High School for many years. prgtoken Curt participated in Boy Scouts attaining the rank of Life Scout. Before Curtis could earn his Eagle badge, his scoutmaster left to serve in the war and the troop disbanded. Curt served as the head baseball coach at ICC until 1989 and continued to teach his legendary Western Civilization course until 1994. He wanted to be remembered for his teaching more than playing baseball. Upon retirement, he and Sally spent their time between Fulton and Starkville and their house in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. He and Sally enjoyed being with their five grandchildren, often entertaining them for weeks at a time during the summers in Gatlinburg. prgtoken Curt was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2003 and the MSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007. He was a member of the M Club for many years. He was also a Master Mason, 32nd degree Scottish Rite, a Shriner, and a member of the American Legion Post 51 in Fulton. He was a longtime member of Fulton United Methodist Church serving on various committees and was a member of the Charlie Mae Su
200TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TOWN OF BUSTI, CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY, NEW YORK
Nicholas A. Langworthy (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-4-13

I rise today to commemorate the two hundredth anniversary of the Town of Busti in Chautauqua County, New York. prgtoken The Town of Busti, like most of Chautauqua County, has an expansive agriculture history. Busti was the site for the first test cows in the state and where the first field of alfalfa was grown. In addition, the Underground Railroad had one of its most active routes through this region and Busti was an important stop on this route. prgtoken Whether they are lifelong residents or new in town, the citizens of Busti can look with pride upon the accomplishments of the pioneers who contributed to this area. A community of seven thousand five hundred and twenty-one, the neighbors in this town look out for prgtoken each other to ensure the community continues to thrive. prgtoken Two hundred years as a community and a town is certainly a cause for celebration. I congratulate the Town of Busti for withstanding the tests of time and look forward to many more years of Busti providing a welcoming community for our friends, neighbors and visitors. prgtoken Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to celebrate the Town of Busti's two hundredth anniversary.
COMMENDING THE STAFF AND STUDENTS AT CANYON RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
Michael K. Simpson (Republican, ID) \u2014 2023-4-17

I am honored to rise today alongside my esteemed colleagues, Senator Mike Crapo and Senator James E. Risch, to commend the students and staff of Canyon Ridge High School for their outstanding achievement in being named a National Banner School by Special Olympics. This recognition is a testament to the school's unwavering dedication to fostering a welcoming environment where all students, regardless of ability, are valued. prgtoken Canyon Ridge High School has demonstrated a commitment to excellence by meeting and surpassing the ten standards necessary to receive this prestigious award. Through the implementation of a three-component model, which includes Special Olympics Unified Sports, strong youth leadership, and whole school engagement, Canyon Ridge High School has truly set a high bar for education. prgtoken The school's commitment to Unified Sports, where students with and without intellectual disabilities play on the same team, is exceptional. From soccer in the fall, to basketball and bowling in the winter, and track and pickleball in the spring, these sports serve as a shining example of bringing people together. prgtoken Furthermore, Canyon Ridge High School's Student Council has shown outstanding leadership by planning the 2022 Junior Prom, decorating the school for every holiday, planning assemblies, service projects, and other school-wide activities. The ``Take the Lead'' class, which allows students of all abilities to create a senior-like ``passion project,'' is yet another example of the school's commitment to fostering leadership and empowerment among its students. prgtoken Finally, Canyon Ridge High School's whole school engagement efforts ensure that every student is part of the school's culture. From the ``Pennies for Possibilities'' service project to the school-wide assemblies that recognize the Unified Sports players and the ``HAWK'' Awards, all students are given the opportunity to feel valued and respected. prgtoken , I join my colleagues in commending the students and staff at Canyon Ridge High School for their tireless efforts in achieving this tremendous honor. They have truly set the standard for empowering education, and we are proud to recognize their achievement today.
CHINESE INVOLVEMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN AMERICA
Virginia Foxx (Republican, NC) \u2014 2023-4-17

I thank Congressman Bean for his leadership on the Education and the Workforce Committee and also his leadership in leading this Special Order tonight. prgtoken It is a very important issue to the people of the United States, and I am very proud of him for taking the leadership and putting this Special Order together. prgtoken , we are engaged in a new era of warfare with our foreign adversaries who are vying for influence and control not only over America but especially over America's postsecondary education system. prgtoken Losing on this 21st century battleground has serious consequences for free thought, economic competitiveness, and national security. prgtoken Foreign adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party have used power and monetary influence to infiltrate colleges and universities to grow their sphere of influence in American society. prgtoken , make no mistake: When we talk about China and its exertion of force and its exertion of power, we are not talking about the Chinese people. We are talking about the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP. prgtoken So let us be clear on that tonight so that nobody mistakes who we see as the enemy. It is the Chinese Communist Party. prgtoken At face value, foreign contributions coming into universities might seem harmless, but the reality is foreign money often comes with strings attached. We know with the CCP, there are always strings attached. prgtoken Every dollar that institutions accept from undisclosed foreign entities that do not share our Nation's values sends them deeper into a dangerous entanglement that undermines our Republic. prgtoken For years, this influence scheme has been going on, yet neither the Chinese Communist Party nor institutions of higher education have faced repercussions for their actions. prgtoken Indeed, during the administration, it discovered $6.5 billion in previously unreported foreign money to universities from adversarial countries. prgtoken For the first time, real progress was being made to hold institutions accountable for undisclosed contributions. prgtoken But mysteriously, when the administration came into office, all progress toward discovering these contributions stopped. prgtoken The Department of Education is shirking its duty to enforce the law and has abandoned robust scrutiny of undisclosed foreign gifts and contracts that violate section 117 of the Higher Education Act of 1965. prgtoken , we have known since 1965 that the potential for damage done to our institutions through foreign contributions was possible. prgtoken Section 117 is the single most important enforcement tool at the administration's disposal to protect against the threats posed by our foreign adversaries attempting to steal research and buy off students and faculty on our Nation's campuses. prgtoken s have sent multiple letters to Secretary Cardona demanding answers about this foreign money. Yet, this administration continues i
RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF GRAY BOBO
Ralph Norman (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-4-17

I rise today to recognize the outstanding service of Gray Bobo. Gray is a junior at Indian Land High School and currently serves as the President of the South Carolina Society of the Children of the American Revolution, the oldest patriotic youth organization in the Nation. Children of the American Revolution was founded in 1895 and trains civic-minded citizens, develops strong leaders, and promotes a love of our great Nation. As part of his role in the society, Gray participates in community service projects and learns about his American heritage. He also organized a state project called ``Hanging on the Edge of Freedom'' which supports learning about lesser-known battles and conflicts that took place in South Carolina during the American Revolutionary War. prgtoken Many of these lesser-known battles rallied support for the Patriot cause and served as important steppingstones to the Patriot victories that secured our Nation's independence. The courageous men who fought in these battles deserve to be remembered and recognized. Gray has been committed to raising awareness of Hanging Rock Battlefield Park with supporting its interpretive exhibits, leading efforts to clean up the grounds of existing graffiti, blazing hiking trails, and sharing the stories of the men who fought in battle. prgtoken Gray's leadership in the Children of the American Revolution organization and his dedication to this project has taught countless others about our rich history and the role South Carolina played in the American Revolution. He rightly believes one of the best ways we can maintain our freedom is by telling the stories of the conflicts, skirmishes, and battles in which our brave patriots first fought for independence. Gray is on track to raise $25,000 for the project, including a $10,000 competitive grant from the SC 250 commission. prgtoken On behalf of the 5th District of South Carolina, it is my most sincere pleasure to recognize Gray for his outstanding leadership and service to our state. I wish him the best of luck throughout his future endeavors, as I know he will continue to find great success in all that he does.
Cloture Motion (Executive Session)
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2023-4-17

. The following Senators are necessarily absent: the Senator from Wyoming (Mr. Barrasso), the Senator from Arkansas (Mr. Cotton), the Senator from South Carolina (Mr. Graham), the Senator from Idaho (Mr. Risch), the Senator from Alaska (Mr. Sullivan), and the Senator from Indiana (Mr. Young). prgtoken Further, if present and voting, the Senator from Idaho (Mr. Risch) would prgtoken have voted ``nay'' and the Senator from Indiana (Mr. Young) would have voted ``yea.''
HONORING THE BRAVERY AND SERVICE OF PRIVATE FIRST CLASS JOHN J. KING
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2023-4-17

I rise today to honor the service and recognize the bravery of prgtoken United States Army Private First Class John J. King. prgtoken John ``JJ'' King was born on March 22, 1920 in Troy, New York to Jennie and Herbert King. In 1940, at the age of 20, he enlisted in the United States Army. As a member of the Army's 36th Infantry Division during the Second World War, Private King was trained as a Rifleman and participated in campaigns across Europe, including the Naples-Foggia, Rhineland, Rome-Arno, Sicily, and Southern France campaigns. After five years of active-duty service, Private King was honorably discharged in 1945 and returned home to Troy. prgtoken For his courageous service in combat, Private King was highly decorated. His recognitions include the American Defense Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal with a Bronze Arrowhead, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Purple Heart. prgtoken Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Mr. King spent eight years working at the Allegheny Ludlum Steel Company. During that time, he continued his service to his community as an active member with both the Disabled American Veterans and the Civil Air Patrol. Mr. King was a devoted husband, son, and father; he regularly attended services at his local church and loved spending time with his wife, Josephine, and their three daughters. Sadly, in September of 1959, at the age of just 39, Mr. King passed away following a long decline in health. He was survived by his three children, five siblings, and his beloved wife. prgtoken Throughout his life, Mr. King showed exceptional dedication to his country, his community, and his family. On behalf of New York's 21st District, it is my honor to recognize the sacrifices and celebrate the courage of Private First Class John ``JJ'' King.