mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CONGRATULATIONS TO NEW COVENANT ACADEMY ON 40 YEARS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Billy Long (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor the work of New Covenant Academy, located in Springfield, Missouri. prgtoken New Covenant Academy was founded in 1979 by a group of parents and grandparents, who wanted to afford their children the right to a Christian education. This dedicated group could not have imagined that after 40 years in operation, the school would grow from 22 enrolled students during the first year, to 650 this academic year. It is fitting, that to celebrate their 40th Anniversary, New Covenant Academy will open a second campus, providing a new home to the 5th through 8th grade classes. prgtoken The mission statement of New Covenant Academy is simple, ``New Covenant Academy is a Christian college preparatory school committed to achieving Academic Excellence teaching Biblical Truth and developing Christ-like Character for students grades JRK through 12th grade in the greater Springfield area.'' This is what that small group of dedicated parents wanted and envisioned when they set out to open this school in 1979. prgtoken , New Covenant Academy has served the Springfield area for the past 40 years. Over that time, they have provided Christian education to many students, and making a lasting impact on the lives of all who walk through their doors. They have achieved their goal through hard work and faith. I am pleased to rise today, honoring a truly tremendous school.
TRIBUTE TO JANNES AND NEIL AUPPERLE
David Young (Republican, IA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to recognize and honor Jannes and Neil Aupperle of Anita, Iowa on the very special occasion of their 65th wedding anniversary. They were married on September 13, 1953 at the United Methodist Church in Anita. prgtoken Jannes and Neil's lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies Iowa values. As they reflect on their 65th anniversary, I hope it is filled with happy memories. May their commitment grow even stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, and honor one another for many years to come. prgtoken , I commend this great couple on their 65th year together and I wish them many more. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on this momentous occasion
EASTLAND TEXAS' OWN, CLIFTON A. HORN
Ted Poe (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-10-16

the small rural Texas town of Eastland is the home of Clifton A. Horn who was born there 92 years ago on October 24th. After graduating from high school in 1943, he worked in the shipyards building destroyer escorts for the U.S. Navy in Orange, Texas. In 1944, the Colonel, as he is known to all, was inducted into the Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet training to be a multiengine pilot. However, World War II ended before he was able to serve. prgtoken The Colonel returned to Texas to attend the University of Houston where he served as a judge on the Student Court, as president of his fraternity, and as a member of the student government. Colonel Horn worked to establish the ROTC program at the University of Houston and was in the first class of members who graduated from the program at the University of Houston. His portrait still hangs on the wall in the ROTC office. prgtoken While attending the University of Houston, Clifton was a volunteer that fought the fire caused by a fertilizer explosion on the S.S. Grandcamp, a French freighter. The explosion obliterated Texas City, killing nearly 600 people, and lifting ships directly out of the water. The Texas City Disaster of April 1947 was the largest non-nuclear explosion killing hundreds and destroying the docks. prgtoken After graduating from the University of Houston, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and called to active duty. The Colonel then served in the 7th Field Artillery of the Big Red One 1st Infantry, attended Basic Officers Course, and then served as a Company Commander in Korea's 142nd Quartermasters Battalion, then served as a Group Commander at Ft. Bragg. He served all over Germany, Europe, Japan and the United States. During this time, he also graduated from the United States Army War College. prgtoken Colonel Horn's decorated career continued as he served as an advisor to the Vietnamese Army during his first tour of Vietnam. During his second tour, he commanded a firebase as a battalion commander in the 1st Cavalry Division Airmobile. After his final tour in Vietnam, Colonel Horn was transferred to Washington, D.C. to serve in the Immediate Office of the Assistant to the Secretary of the Army. It was during this time that he was promoted to full Colonel. prgtoken In 1972, he was transferred to Germany as the Commander of the US Army Procurement Agency Europe. The Colonel retired in 1978 after honorably serving his nation for over 30 years. He can now be found most days on the golf course or playing gin or poker in the locker room of the Atascocita Country Club. Clifton's daughter-in-law, Tonia Horn, a United States Air Force Veteran, is a member of my Texas staff. For all of his world travels, the Colonel is happiest when surrounded by his wife of 62 years, three children, seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. prgtoken Happy golfing, Colonel Horn. Your bravery and courage has helped make our nation a safer place. prgtoken
SHERIFF DOMINIC MATTIVI TRIBUTE
Scott R. Tipton (Republican, CO) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor Sheriff Dominic Mattivi, Jr. for his 27 years of service to the Ouray County Sheriff's Department as he prepares for retirement. prgtoken Sheriff Mattivi began his career with the Ouray County Sheriff's Department as a Deputy Sheriff, and became Sheriff in 2001. With Ouray County at the beginning of the ``Million Dollar Highway,'' Sheriff Mattivi has been on the scene of many accidents and rescues over the years and has impacted many lives. Sheriff Mattivi's job has certainly not been easy, but throughout his career he has always risen to the occasion as a dedicated and professional lawman. His work and commitment to Ouray County has never wavered and he has become one of the most respected members of the community. prgtoken His service goes beyond working hours, and when he's not on the job Sheriff Mattivi can often be found volunteering in his community. He has spent 35 years with the Ouray Volunteer Fire Department, including 20 years with the Ouray County Extrication Team. Additionally, he has worked as a volunteer for the local Red Cross, taught CPR classes, trained lifeguards at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool and annually donated his efforts to ensure the firework displays were properly put together on the Fourth of July and New Year's Eve. The Ouray community has been truly fortunate to have Sheriff Mattivi looking out for its safety and working to make it the vibrant community that it is. prgtoken , Sheriff Mattivi has dutifully served the Ouray community and his dedication will be remembered. It is my privilege to recognize him for the important work he has done throughout his life and I wish him all the best in his retirement.
HONORING SALINA EDWARDS WITH CALIFORNIA'S THIRD DISTRICT WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor Salina Edwards as a woman of the year. She is an unflinchingly energetic and optimistic advocate for her community. A reliable source of determination and persistence, Ms. Edwards has always made it a priority to better the lives of those around her by asking the tough questions and delving into the minutia of an issue before determining the best possible course for the citizens she serves. After a distinguished fourteen-year career with the Glenn County Superior Court, she still had a desire to serve and decided to run for office. In addition to her role as Councilwoman, her wide range of duties and responsibilities for the city include the Waste Management Board, the Glenn County Local Agency Formation Commission, the Orland Library Commission, the Glenn County Transportation Committee, and the Glenn County Regional Transportation Committee. Ms. Edwards is a caring and mindful public servant devoted to every aspect of her community, when she isn't focused on fulfilling her duties as a Councilwoman, she can be found pitching in for the Orland Bee City Committee and the Orland Queen Bee City of North America. Her unfailing enthusiasm and dedicated spirit make her a highly visible presence in the community, whether volunteering for local Kiwanis club events or pitching in at the Orland Food Pantry. Ms. Edwards is devoted community servant whose positive impact cannot be overstated.
CONGRATULATING ERIK FENDER
Michelle Lujan Grisham (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to congratulate Erik Fender of San Ildefonso Pueblo in New Mexico for his role in the Pueblo Pottery Mug project and his success as a Native artist. prgtoken The Pueblo Pottery Mug project started as a collaboration between five Pueblo artists and the first Pueblo-owned Starbucks in New Mexico. The mugs were first sold in 2016 at the Starbucks store in Albuquerque. Each mug was hand-crafted by a different Pueblo artist to celebrate the opening of the new store and to symbolize the collaboration between New Mexico Pueblos and Starbucks. After quickly selling out of the unique mugs--selling over 6,000 mugs--the Shumakolowa gift shop collaborated with the artists to sell mugs at their location in the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. prgtoken Mr. Fender learned how to make pottery from his mother and grandmother, who are renowned potters in their own right. His work is profoundly influenced by the skills that they taught him. Hailing from a long lineage of potters and artists, Mr. Fender teaches his son the pottery traditions of his family. prgtoken Mr. Fender's work is known for experimenting with and using different designs and techniques, including traditional and contemporary styles on polychrome, black-on-black, and black-on-red carving. He adds his own personal touch when he makes his clay, texturing it and adding stones for a unique finish. prgtoken , I applaud Erik Fender for being a part of the Pueblo Pottery Mug project. This project has given the community, as well as visitors to New Mexico, an opportunity to appreciate usable pieces of art that are inspired by Native culture and traditions. I look forward to seeing this project continue to flourish and support talented Native artists from Pueblos throughout New Mexico.
SALVADORAN ARCHIBISHOP OSCAR ROMERO: A SAINT FOR ALL OF US
James P. McGovern (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2018-10-16

on Sunday, October 14, the Vatican officially canonized Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar Romero, who was assassinated on March 24, 1980, on the eve of El Salvador's 12-year civil war. prgtoken In a ceremony presided over by Pope Francis, the first pope from Latin America, Romero will become a saint alongside Pope Paul VI, Italian priests Francesco Spinelli and Vincenzo Romano, German nun Maria Caterina Kasper, and Spanish nun Nazaria Ignazia. The canonizations will take place at the Vatican during the 2018 Synod of Bishops, a meeting of bishops from around the world that this year will address the topic of young people, who were much beloved by Archbishop Romero. prgtoken In attendance will be many Salvadorans and Latin Americans, including a delegation from the United States who are current beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), an immigration status, which President has stripped from over 260,000 Salvadorans currently residing legally in the United States because it's simply too dangerous for them to return home. prgtoken In May 2015, I had the privilege of attending the beatification of Romero in San Salvador. Surrounded by many high religious and government officials, especially from Latin America, I was most moved by the hundreds of thousands of ordinary Salvadorans, many who had traveled for days from rural areas to attend this special mass. While they likely would have preferred to see him canonized in his home country, they can only be overjoyed that the name and message of ``Saint Romero of the Americas'' will now be shared with the world. prgtoken As a Catholic, I am proud of my Church for finally recognizing this man of God who lived his faith. As a politician, I continue to be inspired by Romero's example--his total commitment to the poor and his unwavering commitment to the dignity of every human being. prgtoken Romero was shot through the heart by a sniper while celebrating mass in the chapel of the Hospital of Divine Providence, a church-run hospital in San Salvador specializing in cancer and care of the terminally ill, which still operates today and maintains as a shrine the humble dwelling where Romero resided on their grounds. prgtoken He was murdered the day after he called on the Salvadoran military to stop killing innocent civilians at the beginning of El Salvador's civil war. The U.N. Truth Commission, created as part of the negotiations that ended that war, determined that Roberto D'Aubuisson, a former army major and founder of the right-wing ARENA political party, coordinated a death squad and ordered the assassination. prgtoken Romero's calls to end the violence afflicting his nation and his solidarity with El Salvador's poor appealed to me as a college student in the late 1970s. I still remember learning about his murder and believing that this terrible crime would result in the termination of U.S. aid to a government and military that persecuted social justice activis
COMMEMORATING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY
Brenda L. Lawrence (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to recognize Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, on the occasion of its 150th--or sesquicentennial--celebration. Located in the heart of Detroit, Wayne State University is ranked among our nation's best research institutions, educates over 27,000 students among 13 schools and colleges, and is the eighth-largest employer in the city of Detroit. prgtoken In addition to educating and training leaders in research, the arts, law, and medicine, Wayne State University has for over 150 years, consistently served the people of Detroit, the great state of Michigan and our nation. Wayne State University began, and has remained, in Detroit--a city that has seen the highest heights and the deepest depths, and is now reinventing the very definition of the great American city. prgtoken Through the tireless work and effort of its first university president, Dr. Edward W. prgtoken Jenks, to the current president Dr. M. Roy Wilson, Wayne State University is the embodiment of public service and access to education. Under the direction of Dr. Wilson, Wayne State University has dramatically increased its overall six-year graduation rate, with African American graduation rates double what they were just a few years ago. Today, Wayne State University attracts, and is composed of, many of the best and brightest students and researchers, with an excellent team of administration, faculty, and staff professionals. They remain firmly rooted in the community while preparing their diverse student body to impact locally and globally making the university a thriving hub of innovation and academia. prgtoken Wayne State University has also cemented its status as a leading research institution and a champion for women and children in our nation. In fact, Wayne State University is the only site outside of Bethesda, Maryland, that houses a branch of the National Institutes of Health. Thanks to the Perinatology Research Branch, over 20,000 women, children, and families have received access to world-class prenatal health care that they might not have otherwise been able to access. prgtoken Through the Integrative Biosciences Center (IBio), the University is reimagining the way science approaches urban health issues. IBio was named the 2017 Renovated Laboratory of the Year by R&D Magazine and Laboratory Design. This 127,000-square-foot, $90 million facility is dedicated to studying and eliminating the many health disparities that plague residents of Detroit and communities across the country. IBio includes faculty with expertise in environmental sciences, bio and systems engineering, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, and bio- behavioral health. Opened this fall, the Mike Ilitch School of Business, further expands the Wayne State campus into The District Detroit while adding academic programs in the business of sports and entertainment. prgtoken The mission of Wayne State University is to create and advance knowledge
COMMENDING TIMOTHY FESKO FOR HIS LIFETIME OF PUBLIC SERVICE
Peter J. Visclosky (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2018-10-16

it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to recognize Timothy Fesko, former Indiana State Representative, who was recently appointed by Governor Eric Holcomb as the new chairman of the Gary/Chicago International Airport Authority. Tim's remarkable career and his years of selfless public service to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond are truly admirable and worthy of the highest commendation. prgtoken Timothy Fesko graduated from Indiana University in 1965, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business and economics. In the private sector, Tim has had a very successful career as a business agent in real estate and insurance with the Don Powers Agency. In 1990, Mr. Fesko's desire to serve his community led him to run for office, and he was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives. Representative Fesko would serve in this capacity until stepping down in 1998. prgtoken Tim Fesko is a man of vision. For example, he saw the value of extending and improving the South Shore Commuter Line long before others. He also works hard throughout Northwest Indiana and across the state. Mr. Fesko has served as chairman of the Lake County Advancement Center for many years, and he was appointed by former Governor Mitch Daniels to serve on the Indiana Gaming Commission, a position he held for one term. Mr. Fesko continues to use his expertise and knowledge for the betterment of Northwest Indiana, and I wish him well on his newly appointed position as chairman of the Gary/Chicago International Airport Authority. prgtoken Throughout his career, Timothy Fesko has generously served his community by giving of his time and efforts to various organizations and civic activities that work to improve the quality of life for Northwest Indiana residents, including the Northwest Indiana Forum, Boy Scouts of America, Rotary Club of Munster, Tradewinds Rehabilitation Center, YMCA, Indiana Society of Chicago, Campagna Academy, and Crisis Center, Incorporated, to name a few. For his exceptional devotion to these earnest causes, Tim was awarded the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 2000 by Governor Frank O'Bannon, and in 2008 by Governor Mitch Daniels. prgtoken Tim's dedication to his community and state is exceeded only by his devotion to his wonderful family. He and his amazing wife, Frankie, have three children, Heather, Don, and Tim, and six beloved grandchildren, who are carrying on his family legacy. prgtoken I am proud that Tim Fesko is my friend, and I cannot thank him enough for all that he has done for me over the years. I am even more grateful for what he has done for so many for so long, strangers and friends alike. His is a life we should all seek to emulate. prgtoken , I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Timothy Fesko for his lifetime of service. I would also like to wish him well on his newly appointed position with the Gary/Chicago Internation
IN MEMORY OF STEVEN ALLEN CHIPMAN
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor the memory of Steven Chipman of Ellington, CT. Steven died this past March and we in Eastern Connecticut are at a loss. He was a patriot, protector, and family man. prgtoken Steven Allen Chipman was born and raised in Rockville, CT. A graduate of Rockville High School and Manchester Community College, Steven joined the Connecticut National Guard in 1986 and served until 1992. He also enjoyed a 23-year career with the Vernon Police Department, before opening his own firm, Innovative Investigators, LLC. prgtoken Although Steven wore many hats in his short life, I think ``protector'' would be the most fitting descriptor for this man who gave so much. He was a defender of his hometown and country and a loving father. He also had a gentle way with all people. His childhood friends describe him as the sort of person who looks out for the little guy. Steven was also incredibly patient--a quality he instilled in his children, Hunter and Jake, who very much consider their father a superhero. prgtoken Steven was a beloved member of his community, and he will be missed greatly by all of those who benefited from his loyalty and service, especially the residents of our hometown of Vernon I ask my colleagues to please join me in honoring Steven Chipman and expressing our deepest sympathies for his family and friends, and the eastern Connecticut region who lost a valued public servant.
HONORING RONALD WESLEY EICK, JR.
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor Ronald Wesley Eick, Jr. on being selected as the Napa County Teacher of the Year and nominated as Napa County's nominee for California State Teacher of the Year. prgtoken Mr. Eick was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois along with his two younger siblings. He earned his Associate of Applied Science in General Education from Moraine Valley Community College. Mr. Eick served in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, California. After being honorably discharged, he stayed in Northern California. He received his Associate of Applied Science in Electronics from the Community College of the Air Force and a Bachelor of the Arts in Mathematics and Education from Western Governors University. Mr. Eick also holds a Master's Degree in Educational Technology from Touro University. prgtoken Mr. Eick has been a mathematics teacher at American Canyon High School for the last nine years. Each day he strives to have every student in his classes understand the math he is teaching. He begins each day recognizing that students ``don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.'' Mr. Eick tries to show his students how much he cares about their understanding of math and their well-being, frequently acting as a mentor, advisor and role model. He strives to show his students how to have strong character and live generously. prgtoken Mr. Eick is also the founder and advisor for Mu Alpha Theta, mentor and trainer for New Teacher Induction, advisor for Gay-Straight Alliance, assistant coach for the Robotics Club, leader in Math 2 Professional Learning Community and a site team member for Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID). prgtoken , Mr. Eick is an experienced and passionate educator who supports his students both inside and outside the classroom. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him here today.