mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today to speak of a solemn topic, one of utmost importance for sure, and I want to thank my colleague and my friend, Kyrsten Sinema from Arizona, and for all the work that she is doing for the veterans' community and for hosting this Special Order. prgtoken , our Nation's veterans are our finest citizens, to whom we owe the most. Their sacrifice in defense of freedom allows us to stand here today in this chamber, a testament to our values and a symbol of hope. prgtoken All too often, we see our Nation's veterans struggle upon their return home. Issues with depression, substance abuse, and post- traumatic stress disorder serve as constant reminders of the price they paid to protect our way of life. prgtoken Tragically, we have seen a rising percentage of these heroes resorting to taking their own lives. This is beyond unacceptable and statistics paint a grim picture of this epidemic. prgtoken Between 2005 and 2015, , suicide rates for all veterans increased by 25 percent--25 percent between 2005 and 2015. Additionally, veterans account for nearly 15 percent of suicides in U.S. adults. prgtoken , we can do better, and we must do better. I am proud to stand here today with my colleagues in solidarity against veteran suicide. I am thankful for the establishment of the third Veterans Crisis Line call center to provide guidance, support, and critical resources to those in need. While steps are being taken to prevent veteran suicide, we still have a long way to go because one hero's death is one too many. prgtoken As Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema had pointed out, , September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, but this issue will continue to transcend any time frame. For those who sacrificed for us, we owe them and will continue to fight to eradicate this public health crisis of veteran suicide. prgtoken , I want to, once again, thank Congresswoman Sinema for hosting this Special Order.
RECOGNIZING BENJAMIN BRUNSVOLD, ANDREW DROBECK, AND BLAKE MEYERS
Greg Gianforte (Republican, MT) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today, during National Blood Cancer Awareness Month, to honor firefighters Benjamin Brunsvold, Andrew Drobeck, and Blake Meyers who helped the Missoula Fire Department team finish first in the Scott Firefighter Stairclimb. prgtoken The 2018 Scott Firefighter Stairclimb brought together 2,000 firefighters from over 330 fire departments to compete. The stairclimb, which raised a record $2.61 million in 2018, benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) and its efforts in the fight against different types of blood cancer. prgtoken The Scott Firefighter Stairclimb is the world's largest on-air stair climb competition. Held at the Columbia Center in Seattle, the competition features firefighters in full gear climbing 69 flights of stairs, or 788 feet. prgtoken I congratulate Brunsvold, Drobeck, and Meyers who were the three top finishers for the Missoula Fire Department, helping it claim top team honors for the seventh consecutive year. Brunsvold finished third in the individual competition; Drobeck, a six-time individual winner, placed fourth; and Meyers finished 26th. prgtoken I also commend the 77 Montana firefighters from 26 departments who took part in the 2018 challenge. With the support of their communities, they raised more than $97,500. Since 2009, Montana firefighters have raised more than $800,000 for LLS. prgtoken While I congratulate Montana's outstanding firefighters for their performance, the Scott Firefighter Stairclimb is about raising awareness about blood cancer and raising needed resources for research and patient services. prgtoken Josh Charles, a Bozeman firefighter and a Montana Ambassador for the Scott Firefighter Stairclimb, says, ``It's rewarding to know that fire departments across Montana have embraced the Scott Stairclimb, honoring the cause and the people affected by cancer who fight every day for normalcy. There's nothing better than when a patient or survivor says, `Thanks for helping me fight leukemia.' '' prgtoken , for their excellence in training and performance, service in protecting our communities, and dedication that exceeds the call of duty, I recognize Benjamin Brunsvold, Andrew Drobeck, and Blake Meyers for their spirit of Montana.
WELCOMING PASTOR ROSALINDA RIVERA
Dave Brat (Republican, VA) \u2014 2018-9-13

I am proud to welcome Pastor Rosalinda Rivera, and her friends, of Chesterfield County, Virginia, to the House Chamber today. prgtoken As an associate pastor at the New Life Outreach Church, the church her parents, Carmen and Victor Torres founded in 1972, she has helped reach those who are in search of a better way of life. prgtoken In addition to her role in the church, she is involved in many other organizations to serve those in need. Whether it is helping young people overcome the challenges of addiction at New Life for Youth, helping young mothers restore relationships with their children at Mercy Mom's House, or inspiring groups all over the U.S. with her writing and ministry, her service has been one spent devoted to the service of others. prgtoken She has turned the lives of countless people around, giving them faith, hope, and purpose. Her work is a testament to the Judeo- Christian tradition, which calls all people to love and care for others in the same way that God loves and cares for each of us. prgtoken Thank you, Rosalinda, and God bless you.
TARLETON STATE RODEO TEAM
Roger Williams (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-9-13

today I want to take a moment to recognize the Tarleton State University Rodeo Team located in Stephenville, Texas. prgtoken Now, if you have never been to a Texas rodeo, I can promise you, it isn't like anything you have ever seen before. There is nothing quite like it and, frankly, there is nothing more Texan. prgtoken Day in and day out, the young men and women on the Tarleton State Rodeo Team are dedicated and give 100 percent, no matter what. In fact, this summer, because of their hard work, the men's team finished second at the College National Finals Rodeo. prgtoken However, this was not an isolated accomplishment. The Tarleton Rodeo Association has been part of a winning tradition since 1947. They have won seven national championship titles and 27 individual national championships. prgtoken , because of all of this, the Tarleton State Rodeo Team is the best in Texas and one of the best in the Nation. prgtoken I am proud to represent these champions in the 25th Congressional District, and I look forward to watching them continue to dominate the competition. prgtoken In God we trust.
HONORING HANA STITH
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Hana Stith. Hana was a fixture in the greater Fort Wayne area and played an integral role in unifying our community. prgtoken A truly dedicated citizen of Fort Wayne, Hana devoted her life to the service of others and to the preservation of history. As one of the first African American teachers hired by Fort Wayne Community Schools, Hana was a trailblazer. She took it upon herself to ensure a brighter future for those who would follow her. She refused to leave any child behind and took the time to give attention to students struggling with reading and math. prgtoken In addition to preparing children for the future, she worked to help ensure that her community did not forget the past. As a co-founder of the African/African American Historical Society of Allen County, she worked tirelessly to preserve the heritage of all citizens in the greater Fort Wayne community. prgtoken Her pioneering efforts with the Fair Housing Group, the Panel of American Women, and the Fort Wayne Board of Safety, reminds us all that one individual truly can make a difference in the lives of those around them. Throughout her entire life, she remained steadfast in her faith as a member of the Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church, director of the Commission on Christian Education, and a longtime Sunday School instructor. prgtoken Hana Stith spent her life aiding, educating, and inspiring others. Her impact on Fort Wayne will continue to be felt for generations to come.
HONORING FORMER CONGRESSMAN JACK EDWARDS
Rick W. Allen (Republican, GA) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today in honor of former Congressman Jack Edwards, who will celebrate his 90th birthday next Thursday. prgtoken Congressman Edwards' service to his beloved country started long before his 20 honorable years as a Representative for Alabama's First District. prgtoken As just a teenager, Jack left home and pursued something larger than himself and enlisted in the Marine Corps, where he later earned the rank of sergeant. prgtoken Years later, Jack brought his military background to the Halls of Congress with the first wave of Alabama s. prgtoken Jack worked alongside five U.S. Presidents during his time in office to ensure that our national defense was funded at the necessary levels, which ultimately brought an end to the Cold War and led to the dismantling of the Berlin Wall in 1989. prgtoken But as a fiscal conservative, he never shied away from speaking his mind about ineffective programs that simply needed to go. prgtoken Jack, you were a people's champion in these Halls, a wonderful mentor for me, and I can only hope to be remembered as you are. But more importantly, I am honored by your friendship and your continued support. I look forward to celebrating your 90th birthday with you next week.
NUCLEAR ENERGY INNOVATION CAPABILITIES ACT OF 2017
Lamar Smith (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-9-13

I thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Weber) for yielding me time. prgtoken , S. 97, the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act, directs the Department of Energy to enable the American nuclear power industry to conduct civilian nuclear energy research and development that will advance our leadership in nuclear technology. prgtoken While we are considering the Senate version of this bill today, I would like to credit the author of the original legislation, Energy Subcommittee Chairman Randy Weber, his primary cosponsors, and Science, Space, and Technology Committee Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson for their years of leadership on this issue. prgtoken The originating Science, Space, and Technology Committee legislation was developed over 4 years of collaboration, including hearings, coordination with DOE and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and countless meetings with stakeholders. Every effort has been made to ensure this legislation will provide the resources necessary to more effectively and efficiently develop the next generation of nuclear power. prgtoken Advanced nuclear energy technology is the best way to make reliable, safe, and emission-free electricity available throughout the modern and developing world. The legislation authorizes the research facilities and infrastructure necessary to help development of new, advanced nuclear reactors here at home, maintaining American leadership in the global nuclear technology sector. prgtoken This technological edge allows us to better influence global nonproliferation standards and prevent civilian nuclear energy technology from being misused for weapons development overseas. S. 97 directs DOE to develop plans for long-term research and authorizes critical infrastructure at the DOE national labs. This includes leveraging DOE state-of-the-art super computers to accelerate the theoretical development of advanced reactors. prgtoken The bill also authorizes construction of a research reactor at a DOE site. This research reactor will provide access to the fast neutrons necessary to develop advanced nuclear reactors. By investing in research infrastructure, DOE can maximize the impact of Federal research dollars and facilitate the development of a wide variety of nuclear technologies. prgtoken Finally, S. 97 creates a reliable mechanism for the private sector to partner with DOE labs to build DOE-certified prototype reactors at DOE sites. While the Science, Space, and Technology Committee has heard from dozens of companies with innovative reactor designs, the ability to move new nuclear technology to the market has been stalled by government approval and licensing red tape. prgtoken S. 97 provides an alternative pathway for these nuclear entrepreneurs. The safe development of advanced nuclear technology at DOE sites will provide access to DOE resources and expertise, and fast track the commercial regulatory process by involving nuclear reactors at the ear
CELEBRATING CONGRESSMAN JACK EDWARDS ON HIS 90TH BIRTHDAY
Bradley Byrne (Republican, AL) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise to celebrate my friend and predecessor, Congressman Jack Edwards. Congressman Edwards proudly and ably served Alabama's First Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives from 1965 to 1985. prgtoken Congressman Edwards has served our country and Southwest Alabama in numerous ways over the course of his life, starting in our nation's military. After graduating from high school, Congressman Edwards enlisted in the Marine Corps and served during the Korean War. prgtoken After graduating college and law school and a short time teaching at the University of Alabama, he moved his family to the Mobile area in 1954 and opened his own law firm. Congressman Edwards quickly became an active member of the Mobile community. He served as general counsel for the Gulf, Mobile, and Ohio Railroad and was active on the Mobile City Planning Commission. prgtoken He was elected to Congress in 1964 as a . In Congress, he established himself as a very effective legislator, forming invaluable relationships with many of his colleagues thanks to his kind and friendly personality. Many of those relationships continue to this day. prgtoken One of his most notable accomplishments in Congress was his steadfast support for our nation's military. He used his position on the Appropriations Committee to advocate for the rebuilding and strengthening of the U.S. military. He also made transportation a top priority, and he played a key role in advancing the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway project and other projects that benefited Southwest Alabama and our state as a whole. prgtoken As a sign of his success and popularity as our Congressman, Jack Edwards was re-elected nine times, and he never faced any serious opposition. He established a proud tradition of having strong constituent services in his Congressional office, and helped countless residents navigate the federal bureaucracy. prgtoken After leaving Congress, Congressman Edwards returned to Mobile and held various roles in the local community, including his work as Chairman of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce and on the Mayor's Waterfront Advisory Committee. He deserves much of the credit for helping rebuild and revitalize Mobile, and it was his efforts that paved the way for the economic success we are experiencing today. prgtoken He also served on the Board of Trustees for the University of Alabama System from 1988 to 1999. He eventually held the position of President Pro Tempore of the board before his retirement. prgtoken Jack Edwards has long-served as a mentor to me, and I value our friendship. He was the one who first sparked my interest in public service and encouraged me to get involved in improving public education in Mobile County. As Congressman, I still am fortunate to benefit from his advice and guidance. My wife, Rebecca, and I consider him and his wife, Jolane, as dear friends. prgtoken On behalf of Alabama's First Congressional Distric
RECOGNIZING THE DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
John Katko (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today to recognize the week of September 17th through the 23rd as Constitution Week and acknowledge the Daughters of the American Revolution for their dedication to upholding the importance of the Constitution. This year marks the 231st anniversary of the framing of the Constitution of the United States of America and the 62nd observance of Constitution Week. Constitution Week began after the Daughters of the American Revolution petitioned President Eisenhower in 1955. They petitioned the President to annually set aside the week of September 17th through the 23rd as a week of observance of the Constitution. After being signed into law on August 2nd, 1956, Constitution Week has served as a time of emphasis on citizen's responsibilities to protect the Constitution, inform the public on the importance of the Constitution, and encourage the study the history that led to the framing of the Constitution in 1787. In Central New York, the members of the Owasco Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution have championed the ideals of the Constitution since their founding on April 28, 1897 in Auburn, New York. Since then, they have been exemplary in their commitment to education, community service, equality, and patriotism throughout the region. The Constitution is the foundation of our country and grants us all the freedoms that we enjoy today. As we celebrate this year's Constitution Week, I want to honor the Daughters of the American Revolution for playing such a pivotal role in creating this tradition and recognize the importance the Constitution as a defining part of our country's history.
IN RECOGNITION OF MS. ASCHLEY SCHILLER, PROFESSIONAL STAFF, HOUSE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
John Abney Culberson (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today to honor Aschley Schiller, a member of the professional staff of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on the Departments of Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, who plans to pursue other opportunities after eight outstanding years of Federal government service. Aschley started her Federal career in 2010 as a Presidential Management Fellow after receiving a bachelor's degree in history from Texas A&M University in 2008 and a Master's degree in public policy from the University of Michigan's Gerald Ford School of Public Policy in 2010. The Presidential Management Fellows program is a highly selective, prestigious two-year training and development program for recent graduates with advanced degrees. As a Presidential Management Fellow, she worked for the Small Business Administration to improve its acquisition processes and for the Office of Management and Budget analyzing proposed business loan subsidy rates and agency activities for inclusion in the yearly President's budget request. prgtoken After completing her fellowship, Aschley worked as a strategic advisor to the Chief Financial Officer of the Small Business Administration. There, she evaluated government-wide budget and procurement policy changes and reviewed agency budgets, programs and performance. prgtoken Aschley came to the House Appropriations Committee in 2013 where she worked as an analyst for the Surveys and Investigations office conducting oversight of military construction and veterans affairs programs. She conducted reviews of several multi-billion dollar programs to identify weaknesses and recommending changes in program funding levels, policies and reporting requirements. In addition, Aschley helped improve the operations of the Surveys and Investigations office by reducing the time required to issue reports and improving communications with subcommittee staff. I met Aschley in 2015 when she became a professional staff member of the Commerce, Justice, Science House Appropriations Subcommittee. Since that time she has done an outstanding job supporting the Subcommittee, the Federal government and the American people. Aschley is expert in the operations of the Departments of Commerce and Justice. She has provided me with analysis of their activities and budget requests, prepared me for hearings with agency heads and Cabinet secretaries, advised me on how to respond to funding and reorganizations proposals, and provided constant oversight of agency activities. Aschley has written several Appropriations bills, advised me how to respond to amendments during Full Committee meetings and House Floor consideration, and she has negotiated several Appropriations bills with the Senate and the Minority party. Aschley should be proud that her intelligent and hard work for the House Appropriations prgtoken Committee has improved our nation's ability to forecast the weather, study the ocean, support the nation'
DIANA E. MURPHY UNITED STATES COURTHOUSE
Fred Upton (Republican, MI) \u2014 2018-9-13

safe drinking water for our families is something that we all should agree on, and this bill delivers on that promise. It makes certain that communities like Parchment, in my district, are able to deal with the PFAS contamination issue. prgtoken In Parchment, thanks to the proactive efforts of the State of Michigan, we discovered PFAS in the water, and we immediately sprang into action to solve the problem in the short term--local, State, and Federal folks all working in tandem to fix the problem. Specifically, the bill does that by increasing authorization for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. It critically works to modernize our aging water infrastructure by providing more resources. prgtoken Drinking water quality remains high across the country, but improvements can and must be made now. This bipartisan bill is yet a very important step forward. I look forward to supporting it and would urge all of my colleagues on both sides to do the same. prgtoken I want to thank Chairman Shuster for getting this bill to the floor, and I look forward to ultimately getting it to the President for his signature.