mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING KIMBERLY DUDECK'S CONTRIBUTIONS TO NORTHERN INDIANA
Rudy Yakym III (Republican, IN) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise to recognize and congratulate Kimberly Dudeck, who is retiring on June 27 after 43 years of providing care to Hoosiers in northern Indiana as a recreational therapist, including for the past 36 years at Memorial Hospital of South Bend's Inpatient Rehabilitation center. prgtoken Raised in South Bend, Kim has spent over four decades embodying compassionate care and addressing the mental, physical, and spiritual health needs of the patients she has prgtoken been tasked with looking after. In her vocation as a recreational therapist, Kim has cared for all kinds of patients, including stroke victims, those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, cardiac patients, amputees, trauma patients, people with spinal cord injuries and neurological disorders, and cancer patients. With every patient, Kim has provided tailored and individualized therapy and care that fits the person's specific needs and interests, and which helps them successfully re-enter their community after they have experienced a life altering event. prgtoken Part of what has made Kimberly such a special person to all those who know her is how she has consistently gone above and beyond to help others and how she has been an agent for positive change. This passion for helping others has included starting the therapy dog program on the rehabilitation unit, spearheading a neuro group for stroke survivors and their families, coordinating the annual rehab reunion for previous rehab patients, and serving on the Board of Directors for the Special Olympics. prgtoken So many people have benefited from Kim's care over the years, and she has undoubtedly made the greater South Bend community a better and kinder place to live. I and many other Hoosiers are extremely grateful to Kimberly Dudeck for her many years of caring for patients and doing diligent, dedicated work to help others recover and lead better, more fulfilling lives. I wish Kim and her family all the best going forward and a very well-deserved and happy retirement as she begins the next chapter of her life. God bless Kimberly Dudeck.
KOREAN AMERICAN DIVIDED FAMILIES NATIONAL REGISTRY ACT
Christopher H. Smith (Republican, NJ) \u2014 2024-6-25

. . I wish to add my voice of support for H.R. 7152, the Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act, introduced by Rep. Jennifer Wexton and Rep. Michelle Steel, good friends and colleagues of mine on the Congressional- Executive Commission on China. prgtoken This bill is a very tender-hearted one, for it recognizes the pain which still lingers so many decades after the Korean War Armistice, which divided family members in the North from those in the South. prgtoken By creating a registry of those who wish to be united with family members, this bill recognizes the depth of that pain, while offering hope that at some point in the future, a more permanent reunion may be possible. prgtoken It also harbors no illusions about the Kim regime in the Communist North, requiring that our State Department raise the reunion issue in any dialogue between the U.S. and the North, in consultation with our ally, the Republic of Korea, without allowing the North the ability to use this emotionally fraught issue as leverage in negotiations. prgtoken In other words, the aims of this bill are limited, and tempered by an understanding of the political dynamics on the peninsula, while taking a practical step towards eventual reunion of family members. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me in support, and I commend Reps. Wexton and Steel for this effort to help Korean-American families,
UNPAID LOCAL HEROES
Chuck Edwards (Republican, NC) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise today to point out how, once again, the administration is failing America. prgtoken When emergency strikes, who answers the call? Well, I can tell you in western North Carolina that it is usually the brave men and women who serve in our rural volunteer fire departments. It is these unpaid local heroes who save American lives and protect our property. prgtoken Volunteer fire departments are struggling to keep up. Recruitment is down, call volume is up, and there is little money to replace old equipment. Now, to add insult to injury, OSHA is proposing a rule that will effectively obliterate these critical organizations serving the majority of America. prgtoken This rule will add complex operating and reporting requirements, as well as costly and unrealistic equipment replacement requirements. The rule for these volunteer departments doesn't consider that they do not have the resources to continue to spend money on bureaucracy. Yet, this OSHA rule would be detrimental to American public safety and the volunteer fire model that serves us today. I urge the administration to reconsider its proposal.
RECOGNIZING COLONEL GARRETT FISHER, UNITED STATES AIR FORCE
Ron Estes (Republican, KS) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise today to congratulate Colonel Garrett Fisher, who will assume command of the United States Air Force 15th Wing at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Fisher grew up in Burrton, Kansas, before accepting an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs in 1997 from former 4th District Congressman Todd Tiahrt He graduated in 2001 and was commissioned as a C-17 pilot. Since then, he has achieved over 4,000 flight hours in the T-37B, T-1A, T-6A, C-37A, and C-17A aircraft. prgtoken Throughout Colonel Fisher's career, he has demonstrated the importance of a strong character and work ethic, laudable core values, and commitment to his country. He has selflessly served across the United States and world, from Hawaii to Washington D.C. to Europe and the Middle East. Colonel Fisher's schooling has taken him across the country as well, furthering his education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, St. Louis University, the Air Force Research Institute, and most recently, the National War College. He is the recipient of several major awards and decorations, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and more. prgtoken I am grateful to Colonel Fisher for his service and sacrifices and look forward to seeing this Kansan excel as Commander of the 15th Wing. The 15th Wing has a long history in service to the United States, dating back to World War II and the war in the Pacific. Today, the 15th Wing is a critical component to projecting combat power across the United States Indo-Pacific Command. While this assignment comes with great responsibility, I am confident Colonel Fisher will gracefully step into this new role and make Kansas and our country proud. prgtoken Again, congratulations to Colonel Garrett Fisher as he assumes command of the 15th Wing.
NO AMERICAN CAN AFFORD THE COSTS AND RISKS OF AN OPEN BORDER
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-6-25

last month more than 170,000 illegal immigrants crossed at our southern border. prgtoken More than the populations of the Pennsylvania counties of Mifflin, Perry, Juniata, Fulton, and Bedford combined crossed last month. prgtoken Instead of securing our border and protecting our sovereignty, President has systematically destroyed the border security measures put in place by President . prgtoken By ending the remain in Mexico policy, by instituting procedures to allow for mass asylum, and allowing those with suspected connections to terrorism to enter into our country, President has put every American family at risk. prgtoken Pennsylvania families and no American can afford the costs and the risks of an open border. prgtoken It is time to pass legislation that fully funds our Border Patrol and equips them with the personnel, the tools, and the training that they need to confront the crisis that continues to this day at our southern border. We Cannot Protect Our Nation With Failed Leadership
RECOGNIZING MARLENE PIASECKI'S RETIREMENT FROM FAMILY SERVICE ASSOCIATION OF BUCKS COUNTY
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-6-25

. Mr , I rise today to recognize an extremely notable constituent within my district, Marlene Piasecki of Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania who is retiring from Family Service Association of Bucks County, a non-profit agency located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania after 23 years of dedicated service. prgtoken Marlene graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Masters in Social Work She has dedicated her life to social services. Holding several positions within Family Service from Director of Development to Chief Operating Officer to Interim Chief Executive Officer upon the sudden passing of their CEO, Audrey J Tucker, Marlene will be remembered for her mentorship, leadership and support of the staff members and the Bucks County community over these 23 years. prgtoken Today, I am proud to recognize Marlene Piasecki as an individual who has devoted her career to helping others and helping to meet the social service needs of Bucks County's residents. prgtoken We are all incredibly grateful for the positive impact Marlene has had through her long career, and we wish her much enjoyment in her retirement.
CONGRATULATING TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS ON WINNING 2024 COLLEGE BASEBALL WORLD SERIES
John W. Rose (Republican, TN) \u2014 2024-6-25

yesterday marked 2 years since the Supreme Court decision that restored the right to life for so many individuals. Since the Dobbs v. Jackson decision, an estimated 200,902 unborn children's lives have been protected. This is a tremendous achievement. prgtoken Despite these major milestones in the fight to protect the lives of the unborn, across this country continue their efforts to allow for limitless abortions and their disgusting desire to make America one of the most pro-abortion countries in the entire world. prgtoken It is no secret. They are saying the quiet part out loud. prgtoken , plan to abolish the Senate filibuster and pass legislation to ban States from having laws that protect unborn children and mandate all-trimester abortion in every State up until the moment a baby is born. This is unconscionable. prgtoken Thankfully, Tennesseans agreed and took decisive action to protect children. Since the Volunteer State's pro- prgtoken life protections went into place, more than 12,000 lives have been protected annually. That is more than 24,000 new Tennesseans who are a gift to this world and that otherwise would not have been given a chance just a little over 2 years ago. prgtoken As a Christian, a father of two boys, and a husband, I always stand up for what is right and try to be a voice for the voiceless. At a time in our world's history where there are so many evils, I can't think of many that are worse than the horror of abortion. prgtoken That is why I am proud to have fought alongside countless others to overturn Roe v. Wade, pass pro-life legislation in this House, and fight back against the White House's desire to allow for on-demand, taxpayer-funded abortion this is certainly a cause worthy of fighting for.
RECOGNIZING LANCE CORPORAL B.A. FRAZIER
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise to congratulate Lance Corporal B.A. Frazier on being named the South Carolina Highway Patrol Statewide 2023 Trooper of the Year by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS). prgtoken This award is presented each year to a South Carolina law enforcement officer whose valorous acts go above and beyond the call of duty. prgtoken Last year, after a late-night traffic stop for a speeding ticket, Lance Corporal Frazier was wounded when the driver opened fire before driving off. However, even with his injuries, he was heroically able to get a detailed description of the vehicle, which helped the eventual apprehension of the suspect shortly after. prgtoken Upon receipt of his Trooper of the Year recognition, Commander of the SC Highway Patrol, Colonel Christopher Williamson said, ``Lance Corporal Frazier exemplifies the Highway Patrol's core values of selfless service, integrity, and responsibility, even in the moments after he was shot on duty. His resilience in his recovery and determination to return to duty after this incident reflects the true spirit of a dedicated public servant. We very much appreciate the SC Sheriff's Association for recognizing Frazier with this honor.'' prgtoken Lance Corporal Frazier is a Navy veteran who has been with Highway Patrol Troop 7 since 2018. He currently serves in Post A, which covers Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, and Hampton counties. prgtoken Additionally, I would like to recognize Destany Hodgkins for being the Blythewood Telecommunications Center nominee for the 2023 Statewide Telecommunications Operator of the Year Award by the SCDPS. prgtoken I am grateful to Lance Corporal Frazier and all those in the South Carolina Highway Patrol for their service in protecting the families of the Second District and the Palmetto State.
RECOGNIZING KERMIT WOMACK, A LEGEND IN ARKANSAS BROADCASTING
Steve Womack (Republican, AR) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise today to recognize a legend in Arkansas broadcasting who has decided to retire after more than 70 years of outstanding service to the industry, and the last nearly 45 years as the owner and operator of KURM Radio in Rogers, Arkansas. prgtoken , he is not just a career broadcaster, he is my father, Kermit Womack, or ``The Colonel,'' as we all know him. prgtoken Kermit grew up in rural Arkansas just outside the small town of Danville. It should be noted that on that little farm in the Ranger community, he didn't enjoy the modern conveniences of life: no electricity, no indoor plumbing, no car. prgtoken He picked cotton for mere dollars a day to earn money to buy school clothes. My dad knew what it was like to be poor. prgtoken Dad was a great speaker. Through the FFA organization, he competed in public speaking. It was that gift that gave him an opportunity to go to college, and it was in college that he joined the Army ROTC program. prgtoken Commissioned in 1957, the year I was born, my dad began a 36-year career in the National Guard. He also worked at the local radio station in Russellville to help support his family. prgtoken His broadcast career took him to Lexington, Missouri, for 5 years, then to Moberly, Missouri, for 11 years. It was there at KWIX/KRES in Moberly that he became the broadcast voice of the local junior college basketball team. prgtoken The Moberly Greyhounds, under Cotton Fitzsimmons, won two national titles during that time, both in 1966 and `67, with Kermit providing the description for the fans unable to make the trip. As sales manager, he practiced and he perfected the kind of radio that reflected the interests of his area. prgtoken In 1973, Kermit returned to Arkansas and became the general manager of the station where it all began: KXRJ, now KARV. There he brought true community involvement radio to that region. He was even the play- by-play voice for my high school football games. I cherish those recordings. prgtoken Soon Kermit began to yearn for his own station and in 1979, we founded KURM Radio in Rogers, Arkansas. On November 9, 1979, at noon, KURM took the air for the first time. prgtoken , in the last nearly 45 years, KURM has been the regional voice of northwest Arkansas, southwest Missouri, and northeast Oklahoma with its booming AM signal. In the early years, he added FM service as well. prgtoken Local talk shows like a free want-ad program ``Dial-A-Trade,'' his personal talk show ``Party Line,'' and his unique style of broadcasting covering local events, daily news, weather, and sports, with a special emphasis on production agriculture, has been so vital to our local economy. You would hear him, live weekly, broadcasting from the local cattle auction. prgtoken KURM was unique. No other station did what KURM did, but it was hard work and required dedicated people to perform such a unique service. prgtoken , times have changed. The habits of consumers have changed. As ti
HONORING TWO PENNSYLVANIANS FOR THEIR SERVICE
Mike Kelly (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise today to honor a local World War II veteran in my district. prgtoken At 108 years old, Al Klugiewicz of Erie, Pennsylvania, embodies the spirit of America. I had a chance to meet with Al last week during the district work period. He is truly an inspiration. In fact, he is also the 13th oldest living man in the United States. prgtoken I sat and visited with him while he was in a hospital bed, and believe me, he is still sharp. He was talking to me about all the Presidents he served under. prgtoken He said: You know what, Rep? I was a member of the cavalry. prgtoken I said: That is interesting, Al. Why the cavalry? prgtoken He said: Because I got tired of walking. I would rather ride a horse. prgtoken He talked to me about his horse. He said the horse's name was Napoleon, and the horse was a great horse. In fact, he said he got to ride that horse when FDR had his second inauguration. prgtoken You look at this man and see him lying there in a bed but remembering the names of Presidents from decades ago. His dedication to his country was evident. He talked about Normandy and what happened on those beaches in those days. prgtoken Now, I had the honor of being there a couple of weeks ago when we commemorated the 80th anniversary of Normandy. I wish all Americans could have been there to see the number of people, the French people, who were just so over-the-top thankful and grateful for what our country did for them in World War II. prgtoken I like to think that somehow those types of things raise in us a political awareness, a love for our country that is always the first responder to anything that goes wrong in the country. prgtoken This man, Al Klugiewicz, 108 years old, spoke of America with great love and tenderness. He talked about his family. He talked about building a house, his own house. He built it himself. prgtoken He talked about going to work for GE in Erie when he got back from the war for 43 cents an hour. He talked endlessly about the colleagues he had and about the times he had, but more than anything else, he talked about his gratitude for being an American. He talked about the love he has for this country, for this Nation, and for the people he served so well. prgtoken Now, at 108 years old, Al is not planning on having many more birthdays. When I finally left him, I said: Listen, I want you to know, I will be praying for you. prgtoken He said: You know what, Congressman, I want you to know I will be praying for you, and I will be praying for our country because she is in great need of prayer right now. prgtoken That is a man who is 108 years old. His love of country, his service to country, his sacrifice to country, that is the type of person we want all of us to be. prgtoken , on a more somber note, I also have a friend who passed away. His name is Tim Schell. We just talked about Al Klugiewicz being 108. Tim passed away at the age of 72. prgtoken Tim Schell was an incredible person. He gave his enti
WELCOMING THE HONORABLE MICHAEL A. RULLI TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Michael R. Turner (Republican, OH) \u2014 2024-6-25

I thank Congresswoman Kaptur for yielding. prgtoken , I congratulate the newest member of the Ohio delegation, Congressman Mike Rulli. prgtoken In addition to his dedication to public service at the local, State, and now Federal levels, Congressman Rulli brings to this Chamber first- hand knowledge and practical experience as a successful family-run small business owner. prgtoken Mike and his family know the challenges that come with running a small business. They realize that small businesses are the job creators, an economic life blood of communities in Ohio and across the country. prgtoken It is that real-world experience that will greatly benefit this institution as we debate key policies that affect every American household and business. prgtoken Following in his predecessor's footsteps, Mike's business acumen and heart for service will represent Ohio's Sixth District well. prgtoken On behalf of the growing Mike caucus and the entire Ohio delegation, I welcome Congressman Rulli; his wife, Kelly; and their family to the 118th Congress.
END JEW HATRED NATIONAL CAMPAIGN
Nick LaLota (Republican, NY) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise today in recognition of the need to end antisemitism in this generation. I strongly condemn antisemitism in all its forms and I will continue to stand firmly and proudly to end discrimination against, and persecution of, the Jewish community. prgtoken Three years ago on Yom Hashoah, Israel's Holocaust Remembrance Day, members of the Jewish community in New York and New Jersey came together to form the End Jew Hatred National Campaign, aimed at creating a day of empowerment leading into Jewish American Heritage Month and recognizing the Jewish community's contributions to American history. I am proud of the work they have accomplished so far. prgtoken For millennia, the Jewish people have sustained their shared religious, cultural, and ethnic identity and traditions in the face of enslavement, persecution, genocide, segregation, and discrimination, and all manner of adversity. Despite their adversities, Jewish Americans have made indelible contributions to New York and the United States' culture, history, and social fabric, strengthening the country and helping shape all areas of American life. prgtoken While we have made significant strides to end the discrimination of Jews, the Jewish community has continued to be subjected to antisemitism and hate, including discrimination in the workplace, at school, and in public spaces. The horrific tragedy of October 7th, and the war that has carried on since has led to a massive uptick of antisemitism. This antisemitism and hate has manifested itself as both discrimination and violence targeting Jews for their identity and seeking to deny their shared identity, including their connection to their ancestral homeland. prgtoken This can go on no more. We must stand as a unified front and combat antisemitism wherever it rears its ugly head. As long as I am serving in Congress, I will always support our Jewish community and work in a bipartisan manner to end antisemitism once and for all. On behalf of the First Congressional District of New York, I thank the End Jew Hatred National Campaign for their work and reaffirm my commitment to ending antisemitism and honoring our Jewish community.
RECOGNIZING THE BALD EAGLE AREA HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL TEAM
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-6-25

I rise today and am incredibly proud to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Bald Eagle Area High School baseball team. prgtoken On June 13 at Penn State's Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, this team recaptured the PIAA crown after defeating Tri-Valley 11-3. BEA completed its season with an impressive 25-2 record. prgtoken Before the State tournament, BEA was ranked as the Commonwealth's top high school baseball team, regardless of classification. prgtoken After a rough first inning, BEA, led by star pitcher Weston McClain, shifted the momentum in their favor. Third baseman Carson Nagle was able to capitalize on the momentum shift with two hits, two runs, and an RBI. prgtoken , as a graduate of Bald Eagle Area High School, I congratulate the team and Coach Gardner on their hard work and impressive season. The team exceeded lofty expectations while proudly representing the 15th District of Pennsylvania. prgtoken Congratulations, again, on this outstanding season. Go Eagles.