mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CONSTITUENT COMMENTS ON SOBER LIVING HOME PROBLEMS
Dana Rohrabacher (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise again regarding the hearing held by the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice on September 28, 2018 on the issue of sober living homes. At that hearing, I had the privilege of testifying in support of my bill, H.R. 5724, to restore local oversight over sober living homes. As part of my testimony, I submitted to the Subcommittee letters from many of my constituents about problems with sober living homes caused by current federal law preventing appropriate local oversight. For the benefit of my colleagues and the American people, I include in the Record the seventh group of these constituent letters below: I am a proud Southern California native, educated in our fine public elementary schools, and hold degrees from the University of Southern California. After living in and working in most of the nation's major metropolitan cities, I was fortunate to find my slice of paradise in Huntington Beach 30 years ago. Living in the downtown area has been a wonderful place full of life, activity, and best of all a close-knit neighborhood family. In downtown, our homes, due to the very close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, are extremely close--it is akin to living in a sliver of land separated giant condominium complex. My house, the oldest in my neighborhood is unique for many reasons, one reason that has only recently become an unbearable issue is that all of our rooms are directly within 6-8' from the rooms of the SLH next door. Therefore, my teenage daughter's bedroom is within 6 to 8' of the SLH kitchen, eating area and side outdoor patio. In essence, we hear everything--conversations, fights, fits, paramedics speaking to the hospital when there is an overdose, slamming doors at all hours of the day and night, sexual positions and experiences of the ``clients,'' each and every way known to smoke, snort, inject, drink, any and all substances and the last time used (usually within that day). I could sum up the last 25 years of living in my neighborhood in one sentence--a wonderful place to live. Unfortunately, with the disaster that has been forced upon us by greed and inaction, I can no longer sum it up as wonderful, but quite the opposite. I will try to keep this as succinct as possible, but the only real way to keep it succinct is for all of you to come and live in my house for a day--it's as far away from wonderful now as I can reasonably imagine. So, I write this as a fed-up homeowner, parent who can no longer feel safe for my daughter, active community member who has no answers because our city leadership is hog-tied by bureaucracy, and as an elected school board trustee for the Huntington Beach City School District who sees the impact to our district. So, I see this issue from many differe
TRIBUTE TO FRED MAHER
David Young (Republican, IA) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today to recognize and congratulate Fred Maher of Council Bluffs, Iowa, for his selection by the Children's Square U.S.A. Board of Directors to receive a 2018 Jason Award. The Jason Award is given to individuals who exemplify the mission of Children's Square through their life skills and values in their personal lives, work, and community contributions. prgtoken Fred is a lifelong educator who has touched the lives of generations of students, teachers, and families throughout Council Bluffs. Fred retired from the Council Bluffs Community School District in 2012, after serving for 51 years in the district and 56 years in education. Fred is very active in his church and his community. He is admired by many for his kindness, compassion, and willingness to help others. He never said ``no'' to a student who needed him. As a teacher and school administrator, Fred said, ``I try to provide guidance and hope. I'll try to show a kid who thinks he's hopelessly behind that he can still make it. It's not hopeless, (and) he's not helpless, so don't give up.'' prgtoken , it is a profound honor to represent leaders like Fred Maher in the United States Congress. It is with great pride that I recognize and applaud him for his selection for the Jason Award given by Children's Square, U.S.A and for his commitment to his community, students, and school. I invite my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Fred on receiving this award, and I wish him continued success in all his endeavors.
HONORING AND REMEMBERING THE SERVICE OF THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN
Tom Reed (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today to honor the service of the Tuskegee Airmen. prgtoken As Veteran's Day approaches and America remembers the sacrifices of our military men and women, it is important that we recognize the trailblazers that paved the way for our armed forces as we know them today. prgtoken By the beginning of World War II, air combat had become an essential strategic asset in modern warfare. In a segregated military, African- Americans had been rejected from training as military aviators until Congress passed Appropriations Bill Public Law 18, providing funding for the training of African-American pilots. The brave men who answered their country's call to service would form the first all-black flying unit, commonly called the Tuskegee Airmen. prgtoken The Tuskegee Airmen served in the 99th Pursuit Squadron of the United States Air Force, their unit consisting of forty-seven officers and four hundred twenty-nine enlisted men. Later they were joined by more combat-ready graduates, the all-black 332nd Fighter Group. These pioneers led the way to desegregation in the military and their exemplary combat record helped lead America to victory in Europe. prgtoken We honor and celebrate these men for their invaluable service to their country, not only in the military, but also in our communities. prgtoken Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me in remembering the heroic Tuskegee Airmen that served our country.
TUSTIN POLICE CHIEF CHARLES CELANO RETIREMENT
Mimi Walters (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today in honor of Charles prgtoken Celano's retirement from the Tustin Police Department. prgtoken Over the twenty-seven years Chief Celano has served the City of Tustin, he has been an outstanding leader during his four years as Chief of Police. prgtoken During his tenure, Chief Celano oversaw the creation of the award- winning Neighborhood Improvement Task Force, and led the department through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies national accreditation process, making Tustin Police Department the eleventh in the State of California to hold such a distinction. prgtoken Chief Celano is one of the finest members of our Orange County community and I am confident he will find success in the next chapter of his life. prgtoken , please join me in congratulating Chief Celano on an outstanding career serving the City of Tustin. I wish him the absolute best.
CELEBRATING MR. ALPHONSO DEAL
Adriano Espaillat (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today to celebrate and commemorate Mr. Alphonso Deal on the 30th anniversary of his passing, which was earlier this year, on July 7th. prgtoken From his lifetime commitment to the Harlem community, Mr. Deal will be remembered for his significant efforts to increase access and participation for diverse communities. This included organizing a house crawl on Saturday afternoons to encourage people to live in Harlem all while showcasing the beauty in Harlem's history and architecture. He was a staunch believer in expanding opportunities for the wider community. To expand access for Latinos, Asians, and African Americans to take the New York State Court Officer's examination, Mr. Deal also asked the Tribune Society to hold a free test preparation course. prgtoken Mr. Deal was a dedicated public servant who served as a New York State court officer for decades until he was tragically murdered on July 7, 1988--heroically pursuing a ruthless criminal who robbed one man at gun point and shot two others. prgtoken Aside from his work for the New York State Supreme Court, Mr. Deal was a lifelong member of the NAACP, an active member of the Tribune Society, and a founding member of the New York State Commission on Minorities. ``E Pluribus Unum'' is our motto in the United States. The Latin term which translates to ``Out of many, one'' is center to the values we hold dear as a nation. Mr. Deal understood that diversity is this country's strength and fought to bring about impactful change in his field. We all come from different backgrounds but come together as one beautiful American people--regardless of our race or ethnicity. prgtoken It is my pleasure and distinct honor to celebrate the life of Mr. Alphonso Barclay Deal, whose tremendous work left a lasting impact on his community.
OATH CEREMONY ON NOVEMBER 2, 2018
Peter J. Visclosky (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2018-10-30

it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate twenty-five individuals who will take their oaths of citizenship on November 2, 2018. This memorable occasion will be held at the United States Courthouse and Federal Building in Hammond, Indiana. prgtoken America is a country founded by immigrants. From its beginning, settlers have come from countries around the world to the United States in search of better lives for their families. Oath ceremonies are a shining example of what is so great about the United States of America--that people from all over the world can come together and unite as members of a free, democratic nation. These individuals realize that nowhere else in the world offers a better opportunity for success than here in America. prgtoken On November 2, 2018, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, will take their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Tantawy Antar Ahmed Tantawy, Caroline Frederika Martin, Jose Mario Carrera Nava, Guadalupe Castellanos de Cordero, Gurneet Singh Bajwa, Lucy Chavez Reyes, Geertrui Deroos, Aldo Estrada, Emmanuel Ntita, Gonzalo Torres, Yunae Chung, Kaynaff Zafar Sheikh, Dianne Amanda Torres, Steve Guga Magwegwe Nkosi, Fernando Diaz, Kristina Krstanovski, Elba Suarez, Jenny Thompson, Ornella Ntamikevyo, Noreljaleel Mohamad Elshobaly, Lorena Amaya, Dulce Maria Nolasco, Alice Jiang, Niren R. Shah, and Sandip R. Patel. prgtoken Although each individual has sought to become a citizen of the United States for his or her own reasons, be it for education, occupation, or to offer their loved ones better lives, each is inspired by the fact that the United States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln described it, a country ``. . . of the people, by the people, and for the people.'' They realize that the United States is truly a free nation. By seeking American citizenship, they have made the decision that they want to live in a place where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution, they can practice religion as they choose, speak their minds without fear of punishment, and assemble in peaceful protest should they choose to do so. prgtoken , I respectfully ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating these individuals who will become citizens of the United States of America on November 2, 2018. They, too, are American citizens, guaranteed the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We, as a free and democratic nation, congratulate them and welcome them.
CAROL AND DON CAMERON
Ed Perlmutter (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today to recognize and applaud Carol and Don Cameron for receiving the Golden Mayor's Award for Excellence. prgtoken Carol and Don Cameron are models of good citizenship and community advocacy. They are passionate voices for conservation, sustainability, and biking. Their home has become a meeting place for those who share their legendary neighborhood garden. Carol graduated from the Air Force Academy and was a pilot for United Airlines, and today she chairs the Golden Optimists Bicycle Recycling Program. Don, who was previously an engineer and a teacher, serves on the Golden Planning Commission and works to bring more affordable housing to Golden. prgtoken I congratulate Carol and Don Cameron for receiving this well-deserved honor by Mayor Marjorie Sloan. I thank them for their contributions to our community.
CELEBRATING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE YWCA GREATER LOS ANGELES
Lucille Roybal-Allard (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today to recognize the YWCA Greater Los Angeles (YWCA GLA) as it celebrates its 125th anniversary. prgtoken In September 1894, the YWCA GLA opened its doors to serve the needs of women and their families. The organization's mission was to create pathways for growth, for eliminating racism, and for empowering women. Its educational offerings included classes in cooking, languages, stenography, and elocution. From those modest beginnings, the YWCA GLA has grown into a local colossus, and has provided an astonishing array of services to generations of Southern Californians. prgtoken From Downtown L.A. to Watts, from Boyle Heights to the San Fernando Valley, the YWCA GLA has given help and hope to local residents. It has been an active force for racial justice, HIV/AIDS education, infant learning, and the prevention of sexual assault and sex trafficking. Young people have been able to access affordable housing thanks to YWCA GLA residence buildings. Even amid the heartbreaking relocation of Japanese Americans by the U.S. government in World War II, the YWCA GLA was offering help to those in need, assisting Japanese American women and girls at ten relocation sites. prgtoken Today, the YWCA GLA continues to inspire us with its determination to better our communities. It impacts more than 100,000 individuals each year through services including affordable child care, after-school youth programs, economic empowerment, job training and housing, senior engagement, and sexual assault crisis services. In addition, the YWCA GLA engages in advocacy, working with community members to communicate loud, clear, effective messages on important legislation. prgtoken One of its largest programs, YWCA GLA Job Corps Services, provides a second chance in life to young students who are at risk, are previously homeless, or are emancipated foster children. Job Corps Services has been an amazing resource for helping these youth become self-sufficient and gainfully employed members of our society. The program, which has been co-ed since 1977, assists them with housing, medical costs, meals, life skills, and educational services including job training and online degrees. prgtoken The YWCA GLA's activities span many locations across the Los Angeles area, including its seven-story Urban Campus in Downtown L.A which was funded in part by an $82 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. I was privileged to sign a beam of the building at its topping- off ceremony. Dedicated just six years ago, this campus features a state-of-the-art library, residential units, modernized health facilities, indoor lounges, classrooms, an amphitheater, and more. With locations like this Urban Campus, the YWCA GLA will stay at the forefront of the fight to make sure L.A. residents are safe, smart, and well-prepared for the wonders and challenges that the 21st century will continue to bring. prgtoken As the YWCA GLA celebrates its 125th anniversar
HONORING THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF McALLEN
Vicente Gonzalez (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today to recognize the First Presbyterian Church of McAllen. For 110 years, First Presbyterian has brought members of the community together in song, faith and service. prgtoken The First Presbyterian Church of McAllen had humble beginnings, starting with just 13 people in a lumber field in 1908. As time went on, the church grew, overcoming every obstacle that came its way. Today, the church has a congregation of over 300 people. prgtoken Among its achievements is the establishment of Su Casa De Esperanza-- a nonprofit which helps families both before and after childbirth to ensure the health and happiness of the child and parents. First Presbyterian also launched a Presbyterian Disaster Assistance hosting site for newly arrived asylum seekers, providing them with food, clothing, and a warm welcome to the United States. prgtoken , it is my honor to represent the hard-working individuals of the First Presbyterian Church of McAllen. Church leadership and its congregants are a shining example of what the 15th District of Texas has to offer
RECOGNIZING THE OUTSTANDING SERVICE OF MR. CHARLES SHAW
Alcee L. Hastings (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2018-10-30

it is my great honor to rise today and recognize the achievements of Mr. Charles ``Chuck'' Shaw, an educator, public servant, community leader, and distinguished resident of Palm Beach County, Florida. Mr. Shaw has dedicated 55 years of service to his community and has played a pivotal role in the success it enjoys today. For his outstanding work, the Kiwanis Club of Westside, West Palm Beach will be presenting Mr. Shaw with a Lifetime Achievement Award. prgtoken Mr. Shaw is originally from Martinsburg, West Virginia, but moved to Florida with his family when he was five years old. He graduated from Forest Hill High School in 1966 and later earned both a bachelor's and master's degree in Education from Florida Atlantic University. prgtoken In 1970, Mr. Shaw began his career in education as a teacher at Berkshire Elementary School, where he served for six years before becoming Assistant Principal at North Grade Elementary and then Principal of Westward Elementary. He also served as Principal of Northboro Elementary, Okeeheelee Middle School, and the new Greenacres--Liberty Park Elementary school, where he was the first person ever to serve as Principal. Mr. Shaw was later appointed at the district level as Area Superintendent, Department Head, and Director of Governmental Relations. During his tenure in these important positions, he lobbied at the state and federal levels for adult and community education. prgtoken Mr. Shaw's dedication to youth development extended beyond school administration. He served for 25 years as the President of the Palm Beach County Youth Football League, the Palm Springs Athletic Association, and the Lake Worth Bronco and Pony League. For his contributions, he was nominated and inducted into the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame. In 1988, Mr. Shaw was elected to the City Council for the Town of Greenacres, Florida. He served 22 years and was appointed to serve as Deputy Mayor. Mr. Shaw also served on the board of Trustees Florida Education Investment Trust, the Florida Labor Relations Board, and the Palm Beach County Safety Patrol Board. In 2012, he was elected to the Palm Beach County School Board and re- elected in 2016; he currently serves as Chairman. prgtoken , I am honored to recognize and thank Mr. Charles ``Chuck'' Shaw for his dedication to the education, mentoring, and personal development for the youth of Palm Beach County. I wish him many more years of continued success.
HONORING H. CLAY DAULTON, III
Jim Costa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-30

I rise today to honor H. Clay Daulton, a longtime farmer of the San Joaquin Valley, who has been recognized as the 2018 Agriculturist of the Year by the Madera County Farm Bureau. prgtoken Born in Madera, California to a cattle ranching family in 1943, Mr. Daulton graduated from Madera High School, where he raised steers part of the 4-H Club. After earning his degree in Farm Management from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, he began his extensive career in agriculture and ranching. prgtoken In 1975, Mr. Daulton joined the California Agricultural Leadership Program, where he studied the agricultural, political, and economic systems in the United States and South America. At that same time, Mr. Daulton was a member and vice chairman of the Madera County Central Committee. prgtoken Mr. Daulton later brought together his understanding of politics and knowledge of agriculture to serve as an advocate for farmers and ranchers. Mr. Daulton served on the board of both the California and National Cattlemen's Associations, advocating for policies that favor the dairy and cattle industries at the state, national, and global levels. In 1987, Mr. Daulton was appointed by the U.S. Trade Representative and Agriculture Secretary to serve on the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee, where he advocated for the U.S. cattle industry during the NAFTA and General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade negotiations. prgtoken Mr. Daulton is part of the fifth-generation of his family that has owned the same Madera ranch since 1853. He currently owns and operates Daulton Ranch with his wife of 29 years, Nancy. In addition to his advocacy at the national and global level, he has been and remains active in the community. He has served as president of the Madera Rotary Club, Madera County Farm Bureau, and currently is on the board of the Fresno State Agricultural Foundation. prgtoken In addition to his roles as a skilled farmer, rancher, and advocate, Mr. Daulton holds a private pilot's license and as the owner of Daulton Ranch, keeps himself busy managing the family operation. prgtoken , I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the exceptional life of H. Clay Daulton. I ask that you join me in wishing Mr. and Mrs. Daulton and their family continued success and prosperity.