mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN RECOGNITION OF SUSQUEHANNA REGIONAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-6-14

I rise today to congratulate Susquehanna Regional EMS/UPMC in north central Pennsylvania's prehospital team, on being selected as the 2024 Pennsylvania Agency of the Year by the Pennsylvania Emergency Health Services Council. prgtoken In their tireless efforts, Susquehanna Regional EMS responded to a staggering number of approximately 20,000 calls in 2023, including 911 emergencies and nonemergent interfacility transfers. Their commitment to community benefit support was equally impressive, with over 13,000 hours dedicated to events such as the Little League World Series, Williamsport's Fourth of July celebration, and Lycoming County Fair. prgtoken Susquehanna Regional EMS educates providers and the public with programs like UPMC's Minutes Matter and Stop the Bleed. Through a partnership with Susquehanna Health Foundation, 100 AEDs, 100 bleed- control kits, and 100 packages of Narcan have been donated to our community. prgtoken Every minute counts in a medical emergency. prgtoken Susquehanna Regional EMS' daily work has saved countless lives throughout Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District. On behalf of a grateful community, I thank them for their service to our community, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved award.
COMMEMORATING THE 100-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED STATES BORDER PATROL
Nicholas A. Langworthy (Republican, NY) \u2014 2024-6-14

I rise today to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the United States Border Patrol and to honor Border Patrol agents both past and present. Established in 1924, U.S. Border Patrol has worked diligently over the last century to protect our Nation from harms such as terrorism, illegal weapons, and drug trafficking, while facilitating lawful international travel and trade. prgtoken I specifically want to acknowledge the hard work and sacrifice of the dedicated Border Patrol agents serving at the United States Customs and Border Protection Buffalo Sector. Border security is paramount to national security, and while the Southern Border garners national headlines every day, at the Northern border, illegal crossings are also up, over one hundred and fourteen percent compared to last year. Every day, these servicemembers keep us and our Canadian neighbors safe, while fighting against the illegal trafficking of people and drugs, including fentanyl. prgtoken On Tuesday, May 28, 2024, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Buffalo Sector hosted a celebration of this historic anniversary, in memory of all those who have protected our Nation, and in appreciation of those who do so now. Western New York and the Southern Tier are home to many active and retired Border Patrol officers. I am incredibly proud of this culture of service that has been longstanding in our community. I am deeply grateful to the Buffalo Sector for their invaluable commitment to securing our Northern Border against threats from abroad. prgtoken The contributions of the United States Border Patrol to our Nation's security are highly commendable, and it is my honor to recognize their bravery. On behalf of the United States Congress and the constituents of New York's 23rd Congressional District, I ask this legislative body to join me in commending these Border Patrol agents--past and present-- for their service.
SERVICEMEMBER QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENT AND NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025
Marcus J. Molinaro (Republican, NY) \u2014 2024-6-14

. Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Rogers for his leadership and steadfast support for the men and women of our armed services. prgtoken Yesterday, I was proud to see three of my amendments pass the House and now appreciate the opportunity to speak about three more. prgtoken My first amendment requires critical oversight of the DOD's Education Activity Disability Emphasis program to ensure it operates to support the employment, retention, and career advancements of those living with intellectual, physical, and developmental disabilities. prgtoken Employment opportunities offer those with disabilities the experience to strengthen their soft skills and lead more independent lives. prgtoken Nearly 70 percent of working-aged people with disabilities are unemployed. Another amendment I have offered, included in the en bloc, will require a study on the effectiveness of the Exceptional Family Member program and outline how it currently supports individuals with disabilities. prgtoken Special needs families cannot be left in the dark and too often are left on the sidelines, so we must ensure that they have the necessary resources and programs to support their family members' special needs. prgtoken The third amendment I offer requires the DOD to provide consistent reporting on the implementation and effectiveness of naloxone distribution for our servicemembers. Opioid overdose and addiction remain a real risk for our transitioning servicemen and -women. We must together ensure they have access to effective reversal treatments in the event of an overdose to help save lives. prgtoken Ensuring our servicemembers have the resources to support their mental health, tackle substance use disorder, and support their families, especially those with children with disabilities, is essential to our mission of strengthening and enhancing their quality of life. prgtoken Mr. Chair, s for the support of my previous amendments as well as their consideration of these three, and I urge their adoption.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Tony Gonzales (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-6-14

during a series of votes on June 13, 2024, on amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (H.R. 8070), I intended to vote ``yes'' on the Rosendale Amendment No. 52, (Roll Call No. 262), but inadvertently voted ``no.'' prgtoken This amendment would prohibit TRICARE from covering, and the Department of Defense from furnishing, gender transition surgeries and gender hormone treatments for individuals that identify as transgender. prgtoken I strongly believe that our U.S. military should play no role in these activities.
SERVICEMEMBER QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENT AND NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025
Keith Self (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-6-14

. Mr. Chair, today, I rise in support of my amendment, which requires the Secretary of Defense to review and report on the personnel records of military chaplains who suffered retaliation for seeking a religious accommodation for the COVID-19 vaccine. prgtoken By way of background, the Department of Defense's COVID-19 vaccine mandate violated servicemembers' and chaplains' religious liberty and caused substantial harm to their careers. prgtoken The DOD's handling of the chaplains' religious accommodation requests was an utter disgrace, involving blanket dismissals instead of dismissals considered on an individual basis. My amendment seeks to account for the injustices suffered by the military chaplains. prgtoken The primary duty of chaplains is to provide spiritual guidance to our servicemembers. To do so, like every American, they must be free to follow their conscience without facing retribution from the government they swore to defend. prgtoken This amendment is an important first step to ensuring that those who serve our country can do so without sacrificing their freedoms, to quote the Declaration of Independence, ``endowed by their Creator.'' prgtoken Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment as part of this en bloc package.
HONORING MS. CURLENE JENNINGS BENNETT
Nicole Malliotakis (Republican, NY) \u2014 2024-6-14

I rise to include in the Record the following Proclamation honoring Ms. Curlene Jennings Bennett: prgtoken Whereas Staten Island Sea View Hospital opened in 1913 specifically to treat patients with Tuberculosis and, at its peak, Sea View Hospital saw nearly 2,000 patients and was one of only four municipal hospitals in New York City that did not discriminate against Black nurses; prgtoken Whereas Curlene Jennings Bennett arrived to work at Staten Island Sea View Hospital in 1957 as a registered nurse and worked in the adult pavilions of the hospital; prgtoken Whereas Curlene Jennings Bennett received her training at Bellevue School of Nursing; prgtoken Whereas the Black Angels were courageous, dedicated, and bold in answering the call to come to Sea View and risk their lives caring for the grievously sick and ``indigent consumptives'' of New York City, who had been banished to this woefully understaffed sanatorium; prgtoken Whereas The Black Angels' years of expertise played a significant role in the first ever human trials of isoniazid, the first drug to cure tuberculosis. Since its discovery in 1952, tens of millions of lives have been saved; prgtoken Whereas the Black Angels were activists and active members of the NAACP, neighborhood churches, and community groups, and became founding members of the Lincoln Hospital Alumni Association, the Urban League Guild, and the Women's Civic and Political Union. They were fierce advocates for the integration of Black nurses into the U.S. military and American Nurses Association, and in New York City they worked toward desegregating the hospital system; prgtoken Whereas following her tenure at Sea View Hospital, Curlene Jennings Bennett went to Africa where she lived for four years and helped to establish well-baby clinics and teach nutrition. Upon her return to the United States, she continued to serve her community as a public health and school nurse; and prgtoken Whereas the people of Staten Island are grateful for the years of service by Curlene Jennings Bennett and all the Black Angels who selflessly served on the front lines at Sea View Hospital to treat tuberculosis patients.
ISSUES OF THE DAY
Glenn Grothman (Republican, WI) \u2014 2024-6-14

the first issue I would like to take up this afternoon that has not received anywhere near the discussion it demands in this Chamber concerns the month of June. As everyone knows, June is Dairy Month in the United States of America. prgtoken The number one dairy product which most milk goes for in this country is cheese, and the number one cheese-producing State in the country is Wisconsin. The number one district for dairy farms happens to be the Sixth Congressional District of Wisconsin. prgtoken In any event, there are many things that good cheese is used in, and Wisconsin cheese is the best. This was proven once again in the 35th biennial World Champion Cheese Contest, which is the most respected and honored technical cheese and butter competition in the world. prgtoken Earlier this year, Wisconsin cheesemakers demonstrated their exceptional craftmanship earning 117 cheese awards, more awards than the combined total of the subsequent six highest-earning countries. prgtoken Wisconsin's cheesemaking heritage goes back more than 180 years. The State is home to 1,200 licensed cheesemakers who produce more than 600 varieties. Sometime if you come to Wisconsin, spend an evening driving around the countryside, and you will see many cheesemakers open and working past midnight. prgtoken Today, please pick up some delicious Wisconsin cheese, and enjoy it no matter which type you prefer. Whether you are purchasing it from the Cascade Cheese Company, Cedar Valley, Gibbsville, Grande Cheese, Henning's Cheese, Baker Cheese, Laack Brothers Cheese, Masters Gallery, LaClare, Sargento, Sartori, Pine River, Union Star, Willow Creek, or Widmer's cheese out of Theresa, they are all great. prgtoken Again, whether you buy provolone, mozzarella, Colby, or sharp cheddar, they are all tremendous. I would like to one more time thank the wonderful cheesemakers in Wisconsin for making Wisconsin America's Dairyland. prgtoken The second issue that we have to discuss today, and it has been discussed just about every week, but we still don't discuss it enough, is the number one issue facing America today, and that is the people flowing across the southern border. prgtoken Our office has been in contact with the Border Patrol. They do not see any change in the people coming across the border. I want to remind people in the last month for which we have statistics--and the press should be waiting for the next month's numbers to come out--in April, we were at 205,000 migrants remaining in the interior, and that is before you count another 30,000 paroled from Cuba, Haiti, and Central America. That is an all-time record for that month. With it, as always, comes about 9,000 unaccompanied minors. If we found an unaccompanied 12-year-old wandering around the streets at night, we would think that was a scandal, but every month we let another 8 or 9,000 unaccompanied minors come into this country. prgtoken I call upon the press corps to finally repor
CELEBRATING THE SUCCESSFUL AND IMPACTFUL CAREER OF AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT BROOKS KEEL
Rick W. Allen (Republican, GA) \u2014 2024-6-14

I rise today to celebrate the successful and impactful career of Augusta University President Brooks Keel, who is retiring after more than 14 memorable years in the university system of Georgia. prgtoken Dr. Keel arrived at Augusta University during a defining moment for the future of the institution in July 2015, and his tenure has been defined by his steadfast leadership and commitment to the success of the university and its students. prgtoken As President, Dr. Keel ushered in 8 straight years of enrollment growth and a 48 percent increase in the University's economic impact on the State of Georgia. prgtoken I consider myself blessed to call Dr. Keel a dear friend, and while it saddens us to see this chapter end, I join the community in congratulating him on an extraordinary career and expressing our deepest gratitude for his unwavering dedication. prgtoken As Dr. Keel and Tammie embark on a well-deserved retirement, we will continue to follow his example and build on the foundation he established for a brighter future. prgtoken In the words of Dr. Keel, go Jags.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF AUSTIN MURPHY
Guy Reschenthaler (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-6-14

I rise to celebrate the life and legacy of former U.S. Representative, Austin ``AJ'' Murphy, Jr who passed away at the age of 96 on April 13, 2024. prgtoken Congressman Murphy was a native of Monongahela, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Charleroi High School in 1945. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Duquesne University in 1949 and received a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 1952. prgtoken Throughout his life, the congressman demonstrated a strong commitment to the people of southwestern Pennsylvania. He served our nation as a corporal in the United States Marine Corps during World War II and later continued serving in the United States Marine Corps Reserve from 1948 to 1951. prgtoken After returning from World War II, Congressman Murphy still felt called to give back to his community. He served as a member of the Speers Borough Council and an assistant district attorney for Washington County, Pennsylvania. In 1958, he won a seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, where he served for 12 years. He was later elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate and assumed that office in 1971. prgtoken Following his tenure in burg, Congressman Murphy ascended to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1976 and tirelessly fought for our community until his retirement in 1995. He spent his time in the House working on social security, education, and labor issues. He chaired the Subcommittee on Labor Standards and sponsored the Fair Labor Standards Amendments of 1989, which was signed into law by President George H.W. on November 17, 1989. prgtoken In addition to his political career, the congressman also volunteered as a Boy Scout Troop Leader and participated in many civic organizations. He was a lifelong member of the American Legion with 78 years of continuous service and was commander of Post 51 in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. prgtoken Congressman Murphy cherished his loved ones, and his memory will live on through his seven children, 16 grandchildren, 16 great- grandchildren, and his sister. His life will undoubtedly serve as an example of love, devotion to one's family, and selfless service. prgtoken , Congressman Murphy dedicated his life to the people of southwestern Pennsylvania. His legacy is the epitome of a life well- lived. On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 14th Congressional District, I wish his family healing during this difficult time.
ISSUES OF THE DAY
Mariannette Miller-Meeks (Republican, IA) \u2014 2024-6-14

, Representative Grothman, for yielding me the time. prgtoken , I rise today in honor of Women Veterans Recognition Day, which is the anniversary of President Truman's signing of the Women's Armed Forces Integration Act, which allowed, for the first time, women to serve as regular members of the military. prgtoken While only about one in six Americans serving in the Armed Forces are women, they are responsible for some of the most important accomplishments in military history. Whether it is the Hello Girls from World War I who connected the U.S. military's communications in imperative ways, the thousands of volunteer nurses who saved lives in the Vietnam war, or the hundreds of thousands of women currently in active service, women in the military are playing an active role in ensuring the safety of our Nation, and I was one of those as a 24-year Army veteran. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating all the brave women who have put their lives on the line for this incredible Nation we call home. Honoring Ronald Knoche
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE VALDOSTA STATE MEN'S TENNIS TEAM
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2024-6-14

I rise today to congratulate the Valdosta State men's tennis team on their recent national championship. prgtoken The Blazers tennis team had an impressive season. They finished the year with an overall record of 26-3. In conference play, the team finished 8-1 and were named the Gulf South Conference champions. prgtoken At the Division II National Championships Festival in Orlando, Florida, Valdosta State battled for the chance to earn their third national title in school history. prgtoken After beating Flagler College 4-3 in the final match, the Blazers earned the title of national champions as well as the number one team ranked in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association. prgtoken Boruch Skierkier, Rodrigo Carvalho, Takeshi Taco, and Luca Mack also earned Intercollegiate Tennis Association Division II All-American honors. prgtoken , I congratulate the Head Coach John Hansen and the entire men's tennis team on an outstanding season and a national championship.
TRIBUTE TO GAIL McGOVERN
Rick Scott (Republican, FL) \u2014 2024-6-17

I stand to recognize and congratulate Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross, on her retirement. Gail has been the President and CEO of the American Red Cross since 2008. She holds a bachelor of arts degree from Johns Hopkins University and an MBA from Columbia University. prgtoken Under Gail's leadership, the American Red Cross has helped countless Americans and Floridians in their moments of need. Since 2015, Gail and the American Red Cross have provided help and support for six hurricanes that impacted Florida: Hurricane Hermine in 2016, Hurricane Irma in 2017, Hurricane Michael in 2018, Hurricane Sally in 2020, Hurricane Ian in 2022, and Hurricane Idalia in 2023. In addition, the American Red Cross helped out brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria in 2017. prgtoken Prior to joining the American Red Cross, Gail was a faculty member at the Harvard Business School, president of Fidelity Personal Investments, and executive vice president at AT&T's Consumers Markets Division. prgtoken One of the best things about the State of Florida is that when Floridians are in need, there is always a helping hand available; Gail, the American Red Cross, and their many committed volunteers are a prime example of that. It is my honor to congratulate Gail on her many achievements and on her retirement.
CLOTURE MOTION
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2024-6-17

. The following Senators are necessarily absent: the Senator from Arkansas (Mr. Cotton), the Senator from North Dakota (Mr. Cramer), the Senator from North Dakota (Mr. Hoeven), the Senator from Wyoming (Ms. Lummis), and the Senator from Idaho (Mr. Risch). prgtoken Further, if present and voting: the Senator from North Dakota (Mr. Hoeven) would have voted ``nay'' and the Senator from Wyoming (Ms. Lummis) would have voted ``nay.''
40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LAWRENCE ANDERSON PIE SOCIAL
John Barrasso (Republican, WY) \u2014 2024-6-17

I rise today to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Lawrence Anderson Memorial Pie Social. prgtoken Named in honor of the event's founder, the Lawrence Anderson Memorial Pie Social serves as the unofficial kick-off for Laramie County and statewide candidates. The pie social is held biennially on the last Sunday in June in Pine Bluffs, WY. prgtoken The pie social started in 1984 when Lawrence recognized the need for community members to connect directly with those who seek to represent them. He developed this cornerstone event as a forum for fellowship with friends and neighbors. As the Pine Bluffs Post notes, folks from `` . . . Eastern Laramie County eagerly look forward to the premier social event of the campaign season.'' prgtoken We all know the best way to celebrate our common goals is to share a meal. Lawrence took this principle to the next level, asking all who attend to bring a homemade pie. Lawrence was the kind of leader who used the lessons he learned growing up on his family's homestead to solve community issues. He was never afraid to do the work himself and was, as the Pine Bluffs Post notes, ``Known for years as one of the hardest workers in the Party. Lawrence Anderson earned the nickname `Mayor of North Burns' which he held with pride.'' prgtoken Lawrence, his late wife Joanne, and the entire Anderson family, leave a legacy of service to Eastern Laramie County. I served with Rodney Pete Anderson, when he represented Wyoming House District 10 in the legislature. Leonard Anderson, Lawrence's brother, served as the mayor of Pine Bluffs. prgtoken Although Lawrence left us in 2018, his quiet brand of leadership remains. We are all better for learning from his humble and patient spirit. He embodied the Wyoming Code of the West. From farming to serving on the boards for Community Action of Laramie County and Laramie County School District 2, Lawrence did what had to be done, was tough, but fair and always rode for the brand. prgtoken Lawrence leaves behind a large family. His children are Mark Anderson and wife Judy; Craig Anderson and wife Gail; and Sharon Anderson-- grandchildren are Jolie Sawyer; Kelly Janes and husband David; Brett Anderson and wife Lori; Ryan Anderson and wife Alli; Jeremy Anderson and wife Rachel; Robert Anderson; and Taya Anderson; along with numerous great-grandchildren. prgtoken In honor of the 40th anniversary of this iconic Wyoming event, I applaud the Laramie County community, this year's coordinator Mike Heath and the other leaders who have worked to continue this tradition. We are all fortunate to continue in the footsteps of Lawrence Anderson.