mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CELEBRATING THE LIFE, SPIRIT, AND LEADERSHIP OF THE LATE JULIE CHERRY
Troy A. Carter (Democrat, LA) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam speaker, I rise to remember the life, spirit, friendship, and leadership of Julie Cherry. prgtoken Julie Tregre Cherry, age 62, passed away October 25, 2022, in Baton Rouge, far too soon. Julie served most recently as the Secretary- Treasurer to the Louisiana American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) and was a former President of the East Baton Rouge Federation of Teachers. Julie was a dedicated public servant and fierce fighter for equity and justice. She advocated for laws, regulations, and policies beneficial to working families in the Louisiana Legislature and served on various boards and commissions, including the Louisiana Educational Television Authority, Baton Rouge Fire and Police Civil Service Board, and Governor's Workers' Compensation Advisory Council. In 2014, she received national recognition with the Presbrey Champion of Labor Award from the Workers' Injury Law and Advocacy Group and in 2012, the Dragon Slayer Award from Louisiana Workers' Advocates. prgtoken Just this year, Julie graduated from the Southern University Law Center with a Juris Doctorate and was looking forward to the next chapter in her professional life helping underserved and under- resourced people in Louisiana. Also, as a life-long music minister, Julie was heavily involved in the local Catholic community, especially the parishes of St. Jean Vianney and Most Blessed Sacrament. She remained a long-time educator and passionate student. prgtoken Julie is survived by her devoted partner, Richard le Bouef, and children Elaine Blacharski (Tony), Aaron Cherry (Elisabeth), Luke Cherry (Nicole), and Jacob Cherry (Juliette) as well as beloved grandchildren Reed, Penelope, Aaron Jr James, Arthur, and Louis. She is also survived by mother Jeanne Tregre, sisters Marie Rourke (Mike), Patricia DeWeese (Danny), and Jeanne ``Cathy'' Kelly (Larry), and an extended family of nieces and nephews. Julie was preceded in death by her father, Bruce Tregre, Sr.; brothers Bruce Jr. ``Spike'' and Michael Tregre; former husband, Daniel Cherry; and nephew, Jordy Rourke. prgtoken I'm sending prayers to Julie's family, friends, students, colleagues, and church community. prgtoken She will be sorely missed. prgtoken I take comfort knowing she is with her Savior in heaven.
CONGRATULATING LAWRENCE HIGGINBOTTOM BEING NAMED ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Steve Cohen (Democrat, TN) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Lawrence Higginbottom of Memphis Animal Services, who has been named Animal Control Officer of the Year by the National Animal Care and Control Association. Part of his job--a part he has a reputation for handling well--is reuniting animals with their owners, a priority with progressive animal shelters like Memphis Animal Services that operate on a ``community-centered'' model, The shelter recently received a $50,000 grant from an animal welfare group to hire a pet-reunification specialist. According to a story in The Daily Memphian, Mr. Higginbottom recently picked up a dog in Memphis that had been on the loose for five years. Because the dog had received an under-skin microchip, Mr. Higginbottom quickly found the owners by phone--650 miles away in Austin, Texas. The family arrived to pick up Cheerio the next day. Because most dogs are lost less than half a mile from their owners' homes, Mr. Higginbottom often finds himself knocking on nearby neighbors' doors with the lost pet on a leash. When the shelter held a dog-owner reunification competition among animal control officers this past summer, Mr. Higginbottom won it. As a proud and longtime member of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, it is inspiring to know that Memphis has such a caring and thoughtful animal control officer. I congratulate Mr. Higginbottom for this well-deserved national recognition.
CELEBRATING DAVIDSON COUNTY'S BICENTENNIAL
Ted Budd (Republican, NC) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Davidson County for celebrating its 200th anniversary. prgtoken Geographically located in central North Carolina, Davidson County's residents have had an immense impact on the state's development throughout the years. Nestled in the Yadkin River Valley, it was established in 1822 when historic Rowan County was divided along the banks of the Yadkin. The new county was named after Revolutionary War Brigadier General William Lee Davidson, a patriot who was killed at the Battle of Cowan's Ford fighting for our nation's independence. In the centuries both before and since, the land has been the home of other American icons, from legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone to NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Childress. prgtoken The people of Davidson County are fortunate to have a proud history of agriculture and textiles that formed the bedrock of their economy. Known as the ``Barbeque Capital of the World'', Davidson hosts the annual Lexington Barbeque Festival which attracts as many as 200,000 visitors to the area each year. The County is also now home to robust sectors in modern manufacturing and is well-positioned for future success. Communities like Davidson County are what makes the Old North State the best place to live, work, and raise a family. prgtoken Madam , please join me in congratulating the people of Davidson County on their bicentennial anniversary. It is my sincere hope that the county will continue to prosper over the next two centuries and beyond.
HONORING THE LIFE OF U.S. ARMY 1SG (RETIRED) HENRY DONNELL ALLEN, JR.
Doug Lamborn (Republican, CO) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life of U.S. Army 1SG (Retired) Henry Donnell Allen, Jr beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, first responder, and community activist. prgtoken Henry was born in Osceola, Arkansas, on July 16, 1955, to the late Henry Donnell Allen, Sr and Melvina Lumpkin Allen. prgtoken Henry served 24 years in the United States Army's 3rd Armed Calvary Regiment as a Calvary Reconnaissance Scout. Henry's love for his country was unparalleled. prgtoken He met and married Caron Allen in August 1994. prgtoken Henry and Caron joined Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church of Colorado Springs in 1996. He faithfully served the church as a Deacon and as Director of Security. The congregation knows Deacon Allen as a ``man of integrity'' who was always willing to offer his assistance and a friendly smile to others. prgtoken After retiring from the U.S. Army, Henry joined the El Paso County Sheriff's Office (EPSO), serving first as a security technician and then as a deputy sheriff. He retired in 2011. prgtoken A longtime member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Henry became very active in 1998, first serving as Chairman of the Armed Services and Veterans' Affairs Committee and then Chairman of Legal Redress for the local branch and the State Conference. He was elected as President of the Colorado Springs NAACP in 2013 and served until February 2016. prgtoken Henry founded a local branch of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) in February 2016. Under Henry's leadership, the SCLC Conference brought a commitment to the Pikes Peak region to bring about the promise of ``one nation, under God, indivisible,'' together with the commitment to activate the ``strength to love'' within the community of humankind. prgtoken Henry strived to be a voice for those who had none. His leadership was instrumental in the effort to rename a 10-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 24 in honor of the Buffalo Soldiers, an African American regiment that served primarily on the Western frontier after the Civil War. prgtoken He served on the D-49 School Board. Ensuring that children had access to quality education and character-building opportunities was a priority for Henry. prgtoken Additionally, Henry was a leader within the local Party. His patriotic spirit and commitment to service inspired complete strangers to get involved with the political process. prgtoken Throughout his 67 years on this earth, Henry followed in the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr epitomizing the words found in Micah 6:8. ``He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?'' prgtoken Henry was a champion for justice. As a member of law enforcement and a veteran, Henry advocated for both his brothers and sisters in uniform, as well as those who were treated unfairly in his com
HONORING MR. PAUL BLOW
Kat Cammack (Republican, FL) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , on behalf of Florida's Third Congressional District, we honor Mr. Paul Blow for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal for his services to the U.S. Merchant Marines during World War II. prgtoken The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Congress and is given to honor those whose dedication, heroism, and public service have created a lasting impact on American history. prgtoken The United States will always be grateful to the thousands of Merchant Marines for the gallant support of our nation during times of both peace and conflict.
HONORING THE LEGACY AND EXCELLENCE OF WALLACE HARDWARE
Diana Harshbarger (Republican, TN) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise to recognize one of the most outstanding companies in the state of Tennessee, Wallace Hardware, which is celebrating 100 years in business in Morristown, Tennessee. As a regional distributor of hardlines, lumber, and building material products, Wallace Hardware has remained committed to customer service and dealer relationships, always based on honesty and integrity. prgtoken With humble beginnings, rapid growth and ever-expanding customer service that began in 1921, W.B. Whittaker and S.M. Holtsinger partnered with D.M. Wallace to start a wholesale hardware business that was chartered in 1922. During this time, salesmen traveled by horseback, collecting orders, and mailing them to the home office. Then, merchandise was picked, packed, and delivered either by wagon, rail, or truck. In 1944 the thriving business changed its name to Wallace Hardware Company and in 1955, after the death of D.M. Wallace, the reigns were passed to his brother, J.G. Wallace, who led the company until January 1959. Then, D.M. Wallace's son, John D. Wallace, was named President and Chief Executive Officer. prgtoken With thirty-fold growth and a coverage area expanding far beyond the Lakeway region to encompass eleven states, the company thrived under the leadership of John D. Wallace until 2002 when he was succeeded by Stanley Snowden until 2008, followed by Doyle Wallace, John's son. Doyle joined the family business as a nine-year-old boy, working in the warehouse on Saturdays and during the summers, and after graduation from Carson-Newman College in 1975 with his bachelor's degree in business administration, he moved to Memphis to join the staff of the newly acquired farm equipment division of the company, King Wallace, Inc. Doyle then moved in 1977 to Chattanooga to join another sister farm equipment company, Southeastern-Wallace, returning in 1984 to become the PRO Program Director at Wallace Hardware. Over the next few years, he worked as a buyer and manager of the company's industrial division. prgtoken Wallace Hardware's service, price, breadth of product, friendliness, and reputation as a customer-oriented distributor have provided a competitive edge, all the while maintaining the company's goal of being ``large enough to supply you, small enough to know you.'' prgtoken Madam , today I rise to recognize Wallace Hardware on the celebration of its 100th Anniversary and to applaud this company's ongoing legacy of integrity and commitment to excellence. I wish Wallace Hardware much continued success in all its future endeavors.
HONORING MAYOR TOM BRADY OF BULLHEAD CITY, AZ
Paul A. Gosar (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to honor Mayor Tom Brady of Bullhead City, Arizona. Mayor Brady will be retiring after eight years of service to this beautiful city located along the border of Arizona, Nevada, and California. Mayor Brady has made this spectacular, picturesque city along the Colorado River a major tourist destination, leading to economic flourishing while creating a positive, safe environment that entices those looking for a great place to raise a family. prgtoken Mayor Brady has spent his entire life in service to his country and neighbors. He served on the 173rd Airborne Brigade, where he earned a Bronze Star Medal. His leadership skills allowed for a natural transition to positions of prestige within the community, first as Justice of the Peace in Bullhead City for 10 years and then as Mohave County Parks Director for 19 years. prgtoken Mayor Brady has not limited the use of his personal gifts to his profession. He has volunteered in a wide range of activities, from work as a board member of the Salvation Army and the Colorado River Boys and Girls Club to activism within the America Legion. prgtoken I would like to thank Mayor Brady's wife, Karen, for her willingness to share the talents of her husband with the residents of Bullhead City. I wish her and Mayor Brady the best of retirement and more fruitful future endeavors.
CONGRATULATING THE FATIMA LADY COMETS
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Fatima Lady Comets on their victory in the Class 3 Softball State Championship. prgtoken These young women had a stellar season, ranked number 1 with a 33-3 record. In their championship game they overcame a 10-run deficit to claim their title. The Lady Comets should be commended for all their hard work throughout the past year and for brining home the state championship to their school and community. prgtoken Please join me in recognizing the Lady Comets for a job well done.
HONORING REVEREND EVERT LOCKLEAR
Dan Bishop (Republican, NC) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , today I rise to honor the life of Reverend Evert Locklear of Maxton, North Carolina. Evert was the oldest known Lumbee elder when he passed away on October 8th, at the age of 103. Evert will be remembered as a pillar of the Lumbee tribe, a dedicated pastor, and a World War II veteran. prgtoken In 1943, Evert answered the call to serve our nation in the United States Navy. Not long after joining the Navy, Evert was deployed to Pearl Harbor on the USS Kay Perchwell. Following that stint, Evert spent the duration of the war stationed in the Philippines where his unit specialized in automotive repair. In August 1945, he returned home to his family in North Carolina. prgtoken Back home in North Carolina, Evert was among the Lumbee Tribe members who famously opposed the Ku Klux Klan in what is now known as the Battle of Hayes Pond. He also served his community as the beloved pastor at Community Holiness Church of Rennert for 15 years. Evert loved fixing cars and trucks, working as an auto body repairman until age 95. His dedication to the Lumbee Tribe and his community will always be admired and remembered. prgtoken Evert leaves behind 12 children and many grandchildren and great- grandchildren to cherish his memory. I will be praying for the Lumbee and for Evert's family as they reflect on his impactful life and remarkable legacy.
REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF EUGENE BURTON GIFFORD, JR.
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life of Eugene Burton, Jr. Gene was born on July 9, 1934, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Claudia Johnie Gifford and Eugene Burton Gifford, Sr. At age five, his family relocated to Booneville, and he spent his childhood as a bright student at Thrasher School where he played basketball, served as treasurer of his senior class and received state and national awards in forestry for 4-H and FFA. prgtoken After graduating Thrasher High School in 1954, Gene attended Northeast Mississippi Junior College where he had the distinct honor of being elected Student Body President his freshman and sophomore years. Gene continued his education at The University of Mississippi where he received a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration and a lifelong love for the Ole Miss Rebels. prgtoken A dedicated student, Gene dual-enrolled in Ole Miss Law School during his senior year. He served as an associate editor of the Mississippi Law Journal before graduating law school in 1960. He met the love of his life, Betty Potts, on a blind date at the Catfish Hotel. The couple was married on December 23, 1960, and began their lives together in Booneville. prgtoken An advocate for education, Gene served as the Director in the Mississippi School Board Association and a member of the State Ethics Commission. He also dedicated many years of his life giving back to Thrasher High School, and in 2007, received the Super Rebel Award for over half a century of contributions to the school. prgtoken A devout Christian, Gene was a member of Gaston Baptist church for 70 years, where he served as Chairman of the Finance Committee for 26 years and moderator for 36 years. He also served on the Building Committee during the construction of the Baptist Student Union at Northeast Mississippi Community College. prgtoken Those closest to Gene appreciate his quiet strength, integrity, intellect, enormous heart, sense of humor, avid storytelling, dedication to his work and sincere love for his family. prgtoken He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Harold Eugene Gifford and Dr. William ``Bill'' Burton Gifford and sister, Carole Gifford Spencer. prgtoken Gene is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty Potts Gifford; his children Sharon Gifford Cheek (Jeff) of Booneville, Tracey Gifford Smith (Tim) of Corinth, and Ginger Gifford Kizer (Brandon) of Oxford. He was the loving grandfather of Lauren Cheek Watts (Jordan), Megen Grace Carpenter, Gracie Cheek Pratt (Brooks), Savannah Grace Smith, Annalyn Faith Carpenter, Houston Gifford Cheek, Victoria Smith Fox (Tucker), Olivia Hope Carpenter, Nyles Gifford Smith, Lillian Faye Kizer and great-grandfather of Vivian Grace Pratt.
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF COACH SAMMY DANTONE, JR.
Michael Guest (Republican, MS) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , it is my privilege to recognize the life of Coach Sammy Dantone Jr. He committed his life to the service of his fellow man through a long and distinguished career, and I rise today to recognize him as a dedicated American leader whose example will continue to inspire many who wish to make the world around them a better place for their neighbors, friends, and family. prgtoken Coach Dantone had a distinguished career, coaching at Greenwood High School, Pillow Academy, Brandon Academy, Jackson Academy, Madison County Schools, and Brandon High School. prgtoken As a football coach across the state of Mississippi, he helped many young people grow into leaders and meet their potential in life through his example. He inspired countless young men and women to give it their all, and he did it with consideration and compassion. Coach Dantone was a remarkable person who will be cherished by those who had the pleasure of playing for him or working alongside the legendary Mississippi coach. prgtoken It is my honor to recognize Coach Sammy Dantone Jr. on the floor of the House of Representatives for the many contributions he made to create a brighter future for our state and our nation, and I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in recognizing Coach Dantone for his service and commitment to Mississippi and to the United States of America.
HONORING SARATOGA TOWN SUPERVISOR THOMAS N. WOOD III
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to honor lifelong Saratoga resident and Town Supervisor, Thomas ``Tom'' Wood. Tom has dedicated his life to making Saratoga an exceptional community, and I am proud to thank him for his service. prgtoken Tom was raised in Saratoga and attended Schuylerville Central School. He went on to attend Cornell University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Education in 1967. After graduating from Cornell, he dedicated his teaching career to educating the next generation of agricultural leaders. He first taught at Saratoga BOCES and then went on to teach Agriculture and Technology courses at SUNY Delhi and Salem Central School. In 1993, Tom became the Assistant Principal of Salem Central High School and then worked as the Elementary School Principal from 1996 to 2002. prgtoken In addition to teaching, Tom found many ways to mentor the next generation. He led the Schuylerville Boy Scouts and coached various Little League teams. Tom was incredibly devoted to serving and bettering his community. He was the Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals for the Town of Saratoga for over two decades. He also worked hard to preserve and promote the important history of Saratoga as the historian for the Town of Saratoga, the Villages of Victory, and Schuylerville. prgtoken In 2004, Tom became the Saratoga Town Supervisor and has served in this role ever since. In his role as Town Supervisor, Tom has prioritized open and honest communication between himself and the community to ensure the Saratoga Town government remains transparent and accountable. Thanks to Tom's strong leadership, Saratoga is a community with a deep connection to its important historical significance and deep understanding of its agricultural roots. prgtoken Tom's commitment to bettering Saratoga for all who call it home is inspirational. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Tom's leadership and thank him for his decades of service to the Town of Saratoga.
HONORING THE JENKS WAR MEMORIAL NEVER FORGET GARDEN
Kevin Hern (Republican, OK) \u2014 2022-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to commemorate the centennial commission of prgtoken the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that stands for the countless ultimate sacrifices of our military men and women in pursuit of preserving our American freedoms. prgtoken I am proud to highlight the people of Jenks, Oklahoma as they honor our great veterans in their local veterans park with the installation of a beautiful garden that stands as a powerful memorial to our heroes that we may not know, but must never forget. prgtoken I grieve for the many heroes that have been lost and celebrate their courage and dedication to fight in defense of the constitutional freedoms and liberties we celebrate today. May God give the unknown but unforgotten rest, and may God bless America.