mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN HONOR OF LATINO HEALTH ACCESS
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-23

I rise today to recognize the work of Latino Health Access, a community organization that has been devoted to helping underserved communities in Santa Ana for the past 25 years. Over this time, Latino Health Access has become an important pillar of the community by working to fulfill their mission of providing culturally appropriate health programming and civic engagement resources. This work has been invaluable to the city of Santa Ana as many of the individuals served by their programs may otherwise not have had the ability to get the care they needed. prgtoken Latino Health Access' ``Promotores Program'' is a shining example of the level of community engagement for which they have become known. Santa Ana residents have built lasting meaningful relationships with staff and volunteers from Latino Health Access through this program. By making themselves available in supermarkets, churches, and other community areas, the Promotores have made the mission of creating healthier communities a reality. This allows Santa Ana residents to receive comprehensive health care ranging from senior care to weight management, and everything in between. prgtoken Futhermore, Latino Health Access has worked diligently to provide Santa Ana residents with the tools and training to become more active participants in their communities and local governments. They have given these underserved individuals a chance to advocate for the needs of their communities and ensure that their voices are heard. This work has led to tangible results as Latino Health Access has played a critical role in bringing the only park and community center to the 92701 ZIP Code; thereby highlighting the importance open spaces play in the overall health and mental well-being of a community. prgtoken As they approach their 25th Anniversary, I congratulate them on reaching this milestone and wish them the best of luck on the next 25 years and beyond.
IN RECOGNITION OF UC DAVIS MIND INSTITUTE 20TH ANNIVERSARY
Doris O. Matsui (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-23

I rise today to recognize the 20th Anniversary of the UC Davis MIND Institute. As faculty members and families gather here today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the MIND Institute for their clinical expertise and collaborative efforts to better understand neurodevelopmental disorders. prgtoken Since its founding by an influential parent group in 1998, the UC Davis MIND Institute has grown a multidisciplinary team of experts, achieving international recognition as an innovative leader in research and approaches to treating a broad range of disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, fragile X syndrome, ADHD22q11.2 deletion syndrome and Down syndrome. With more than 50 faculty from five UC Davis schools and colleges, the MIND Institute studies everything from environmental factors and cellular processes to community programs, all with the goal of improving the lives of people with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families. prgtoken Over the past 20 years, faculty members at the MIND Institute have made significant research discoveries advancing the scientific knowledge and etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. They have found biomarkers and identified genetic and environmental factors that increase the risk of autism and other disorders. They have also developed interventions and technologies to improve outcomes for children. Through the collaboration of families, educators, researchers, and the community, the MIND Institute has become a research powerhouse that has generated exceptional results with international implications. prgtoken , as faculty members and families of the UC Davis MIND Institute celebrate their twenty years of milestones, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring their dedication to the awareness, support, and research for neurodevelopmental disorders.
HONORING THE NAACP-HOUSTON BRANCH FOR 100 YEARS OF REMARKABLE SERVICE AND EXTRAORDINARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE CAUSE OF EQUALITY FOR ALL
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2018-10-23

I rise to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Houston Branch of the oldest, largest, most prgtoken historic and most influential civil rights organizations in the United States, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, known to all simply as the ``NAACP.'' prgtoken Founded in 1918, the Houston Branch of the NAACP has played a pivotal role in some of the most pivotal moments and landmark voting and civil rights cases, including Smith v. Allwright, 321 U.S. 649 (1944), which overturned a Texas statute that authorized the ic Party to set its internal rules, including the use of white primaries; and Sweatt v. Painter, 339 U.S. 629 (1950), which successfully challenged the doctrine of ``separate but equal'' in higher education and helped pave the way for the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education, 347 U.S. 483 (1954), four years later. prgtoken The NAACP-Houston Branch's tradition of service continues today under the dynamic leadership of its president, Dr. James Douglas, and Executive Director, Yolanda Smith. prgtoken First organized in 1905, the group was known as the Niagara Movement when members began meeting at a hotel situated on the Canadian side of the Niagara Falls. prgtoken Members of the group had to meet in Canada because American hotels in Niagara Falls were segregated. prgtoken Under the leadership of the Harvard-educated scholar, the great W.E.B. DuBois, the group would later be known as the National Negro Committee before finally adopting the name by which it has been known for the last 108 years--the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP--at its second conference in 1910. prgtoken The first official meeting was held on February 12, 1909, the centennial of the birth of President Abraham Lincoln. prgtoken The mission of the NAACP was clearly delineated in its charter: To promote equality of rights and to eradicate caste or race prejudice among the citizens of the United States; To advance the interest of colored citizens; to secure for them impartial suffrage; and To increase their opportunities for securing justice in the courts, education for the children, employment according to their ability, and complete equality before law. prgtoken , for more than a century, the NAACP has stayed true to its charter and championed the cause of justice and equality in America. prgtoken It has fought valiantly and tirelessly on behalf of African-Americans and others to secure their civil rights and liberties and the full measure of justice and equality for all. prgtoken At a time when African-Americans were treated as second-class citizens and the scourge of slavery was still rampant, the NAACP emerged to ensure that the rights, interests and voices of African- Americans did not go unheard. prgtoken During World War I, the NAACP successfully campaigned for African- Americans to be commiss
COMMENDING THE ALEXANDRIA HARMONIZERS' 70TH ANNIVERSARY
Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2018-10-23

I would like to commend the Alexandria Harmonizers, one of the premiere men's a cappella choruses in the nation, as they celebrate their 70th anniversary this year. prgtoken The Alexandria Harmonizers have been based in Alexandria since their founding in 1948. The nonprofit organization specializes in four-part harmony, one of a cappella's most challenging forms, and regularly performs with 80 to 100 men on stage. The Alexandria Harmonizers have won four International Championship gold medals and numerous other awards while performing at notable venues such as the White House, United States Supreme Court, United States Capitol, Kennedy Center, and Carnegie Hall. prgtoken The Alexandria Harmonizers regularly contribute to local Alexandria and Northern Virginia communities through a variety of activities, such as free public concerts, community music events, free singing valentines, and performances at senior centers and retirement homes. A prime testament to this involvement is the Alexandria Harmonizers' youth harmony festival, which introduces local high school students to the joys of a cappella singing. prgtoken On a global scale, the Alexandria Harmonizers have served as international ambassadors through varying performances across Europe and Asia. For example, to mark the 70th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, the Alexandria Harmonizers travelled to Normandy, France and sang at a series of commemorative events. The group's poise while representing the United States abroad truly demonstrates their patriotism and dedication to the American people. prgtoken Through their commitment to artistic quality, the Alexandria Harmonizers continue to fulfill their mission of ``entertaining, educating, and enriching lives through excellence in a cappella harmony''. I commend the Alexandria Harmonizers for their devout service to Virginia, the United States, and the world.
RECOGNIZING BEVERLY FIELDS
Theodore E. Deutch (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2018-10-23

I rise today to recognize my constituent, Ms. Beverly Fields, who celebrated her 100th birthday on October 21. prgtoken The daughter of a Romanian father and Russian mother, Beverly has truly lived the American Dream. She was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York with her three siblings. Beverly attended P.S. 156 and was elected class president because, in her words, ``she went to school every day.'' prgtoken After graduating, she went straight to work for a manufacturing company, and over the course of 20 years, she rose to the position of Manager. Despite the hard work she put in, she always made sure to find time for traveling and dancing. She was a regular patron of the Roseland Ballroom, and has visited Israel, Spain, St. Thomas, and St. Martin. prgtoken Since retiring, Beverly's civic commitment has come full circle, as she is currently the President of the Resident Council at Park Summit senior living community. Like many of us, Beverly loves music, especially Jazz and concert symphonies. Her favorite artist is Frank Sinatra and her favorite song is Autumn Leaves. prgtoken Beverly's most admirable trait, however, is her ability to always find ways to keep herself active and engaged. From playing cards and bingo, to reading adventure books and writing poems, to watching the travelogue and hanging out with her friends, Beverly's endless joy and companionship are attributes we should all strive to emulate. prgtoken , today I call on my colleagues to join me in celebrating Ms. Beverly Fields and her contribution to our community. Happy birthday, Beverly.
REMEMBERING MR. CAMERON MARTINEZ
Michelle Lujan Grisham (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2018-10-23

I rise today to honor Cameron Martinez, who tragically lost his life earlier this month. Cameron is remembered by all who knew him for his kindness, generosity, and enormous personality. He was a remarkable young man and a loving brother, son, and friend. I am proud to have personally known him and honor him and his memory. prgtoken Cameron was a rising star in our community. A native of Alcalde, New Mexico, he graduated this year from Espanola Valley High School, where he was a top student and athlete. He was especially well known for his love of basketball, and his passion for the game earned him the nickname ``Space Jam Cam.'' His teammates and coaches had great admiration for his work ethic and selflessness on and off the court. prgtoken Cameron was also a gifted student who was committed to advancing his education and career. After graduating from high school, he served his country working in the Information Technology Department at Los Alamos, one of our premier National Laboratories. In this role, he collaborated with a team of professionals working on some of our most pressing national security matters, including evolving cybersecurity threats. The sky was the limit for Cameron, and our nation lost a highly capable and driven future leader. Cameron was also an aspiring entrepreneur who was working on a clothing line. prgtoken I had the pleasure of getting to know Cameron in recent months and can personally attest to his warmth, work ethic, and determination to bring positive change to the State of New Mexico. With a simple gesture like a hug, Cameron could make you feel like you were the most important person in his life. I was one of the people lucky enough to receive such a hug. prgtoken , I want to express my deepest condolences to Cameron's parents, Valerie and Urban, as well as the rest of his loved ones and the entire Espanola community. Cameron was taken from us far too young, but we will always remember him as a bright, young star in New Mexico who positively affected so many people's lives. He will be dearly missed.
HONORING HEIDI WHEELER WITH CALIFORNIA'S THIRD DISTRICT WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-23

I rise today to honor Heidi Wheeler as a woman of the year. She is a hardworking and dedicated advocate for seniors in Yolo County. In her 22-year career at St. John's Retirement Village, Ms. Wheeler has helped provide care to seniors with kindness and compassion. She has grown professionally, seeking further education, and taking on multiple leadership roles. She is now the Skilled Nursing Administrator responsible for the Stollwood Convalescent Hospital within St. John's Village where she cares for some of her community's most vulnerable. Both her professional life and personal time have been dedicated to improving the lives of seniors throughout Yolo County. She lends her time, talent, and expertise to Woodland's Commission on Aging where she recommends and coordinates programs and services for seniors. Through her work on the commission she helps promote a better quality of life for aging individuals ensuring that critical support services are available. She is also a part of Leading Age, a network of nonprofit leaders committed to supporting and empowering seniors in their community. Through this organization, she helps fight for quality senior living and care. Ms. Wheeler is a passionate advocate on behalf of seniors, working to ensure a full and rewarding life for all people in her community.
CONGRATULATING THE PEKIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON 125 YEARS OF SERVICE
Cheri Bustos (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2018-10-23

I rise today to recognize the Pekin Chamber of Commerce on its 125th Anniversary. The Chamber has joyfully served the Pekin community since 1893. prgtoken In October of 1893, what is now the Pekin Chamber of Commerce was formed by five businessmen who originally named their new organization the Citizen's Improvement Association of Pekin. The organization set out with the goal of ``advancing the business interest and promoting the commercial growth of the City of Pekin.'' Although the organization went through several name changes, before settling on the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce, their mission remained the same. Today, the Pekin Chamber of Commerce continues to serve businesses and consumers in the region as they work to grow and strengthen the local economy. I commend them on their 125th Anniversary for all of the work they have done for the residents of Pekin and look forward to seeing their continued efforts. prgtoken It is because of groups such as the Pekin Chamber of Commerce that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Mr I would like to again formally congratulate the Pekin Chamber of Commerce on its 125th Anniversary and thank them for their service to the community. prgtoken In October the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce will be finishing 125 years of leading Pekin businesses.
TRIBUTE TO HONOR THE LIFE OF BARBARA HAYMS WEISS
Anna G. Eshoo (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-26

I rise today to honor the life of a remarkable woman, Barbara Hayms Weiss, who was born on March 15, 1931 in Chicago and passed away on July 21, 2018, in Palo Alto, California. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Paul. prgtoken Barbara and Paul lived in Los Altos Hills and Palo Alto where they raised three children. They supported Jewish causes, arts organizations, and , especially women candidates. prgtoken Barbara earned her B.A. in Sociology from San Jose State University in 1976 at the age of 45. She then completed her M.S.W. with a focus on gerontology in 1981 from U.C. Berkeley. She worked at Little House in Menlo Park and joined Paul's auto dealership, Key Chevrolet, as a Dealer-Academy trained potential successor, and helped run the agency until they sold the business in 1988. Barbara was also Board President of the Jewish Community Center of Palo Alto. prgtoken Barbara and Paul moved from their large home in Los Altos Hills to a condominium in Palo Alto, where they continued, via their Donor Advised Fund at the San Francisco Jewish Federation, to support causes that were important to them. They enjoyed frequent trips to Santa Fe, New Mexico for the Opera and SWAIA Indian Market, where they collected stunningly beautiful Pueblo pottery. prgtoken According to Barbara's son Mark, his parents ``just wanted America to continue to give opportunities that they got and wanted to back the right people to accomplish that.'' prgtoken Barbara leaves her son Mark Weiss of Palo Alto and his wife Terry Acebo Davis; Linda Weiss Moulding of San Carlos and her husband Mark Moulding, Rick and Nancy Weiss of Los Altos Hills, and her grandchildren Aaron and Jon Lipinski of San Carlos. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Barbara Weiss, a patriot, a mother and a highly accomplished woman. I will always miss her, as will all those who were privileged to know her and admire the values she lived out so faithfully over a lifetime.
70 YEARS OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WITH SRI LANKA
Dina Titus (Democrat, NV) \u2014 2018-10-26

I rise today to recognize that October marks 70 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Sri Lanka. prgtoken I am proud to serve as Co-Chair of the Sri Lanka Caucus. U.S. development and humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka, totaling roughly $2 billion, has improved livelihoods and living conditions across Sri Lanka through substantial investments in agriculture, economic development, education, health care, energy, and humanitarian activities. prgtoken The 2015 presidential election in Sri Lanka paved the way for renewed engagement in support of Sri Lanka's commitments to reform and reconciliation. In December 2016, Sri Lanka was selected to develop a Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact. In August 2017, we celebrated the creation of the Sri Lanka America Association of Las Vegas to foster solidarity within the Sri Lankan community in Southern Nevada. In February 2018, Sri Lanka and the United States signed a bilateral agreement to have the Peace Corps re-establish programs in Sri Lanka. The United States is Sri Lanka's largest export market; and as a partner legislature of the House Democracy Partnership, Sri Lanka's Parliament has engaged in training and exchange programs with the United States. prgtoken It is my hope that the U.S. will continue to support Sri Lanka on a path of reform and development and continue to reinforce our shared goals of regional security and stability, good governance, and commitment to democratic values. In doing so, our relationship will continue to flourish.
CONGRATULATING CHARLES DAVID WOODBURN
Steny H. Hoyer (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2018-10-26

I rise to congratulate Charles David Woodburn, Jr. on his retirement on November 2 after thirty-four years of distinguished service to this House. prgtoken Charles David ``Dave'' Woodburn, Jr. was first hired by former Clerk of the House Donn Anderson in September 1984 as a Sales Clerk in the Office Supply Store. He moved through the ranks of Special Order Clerk, Purchasing Department, to Inventory Control Specialist from 1984-2002. When the Chief Administrative Office underwent a reorganization, Dave joined the furniture organization. prgtoken Dave has always been recognized as a diligent and hard worker, with a strong work ethic. In the furniture organization he held many positions, including Supervisor and Manager for Receiving and Warehousing. Eventually, he was asked to serve as the Director of the Logistics and Distribution Department. This department was expanded to include Receiving and Warehousing, Logistics and Distribution, and Workflow Management. In addition to these duties, since 2008, Dave has played an integral role in the Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) team with the U.S. House of Representatives. His official title is Capability Manager, responsible for providing logistical support and furniture needs for all House emergency preparedness activities. prgtoken One notable contribution that Dave made to the House was his participation in the October 17, 2001 ``Response Project'' related to the anthrax incident on Capitol Hill. All Members, Committees, and Staff were able to be relocated to an alternate location, and Dave and his team were responsible for all logistical aspects of this project. He was commended for his contribution to this effort while ensuring that the business of the House went forward unhindered. Dave and his team have also been at the forefront of the Cannon Renewal Project since 2013. He received the CAO Knowledge Award, presented by Chief Administrative Officer Jay Eagan in 2007, for his extensive knowledge of the House and its operations. prgtoken Dave plans to spend his retirement years with his still very active parents, his wife of fourteen years, Marie, and his six children and ten grandchildren. He has said how much he is looking forward to returning to his hometown of Leonardtown, in Maryland's Fifth District, where he was born and raised, after a long and storied career with the House of Representatives. Just as important as the work he performed over the years, Dave passed along his extensive logistics and furniture experience to his staff and coworkers as a mentor. prgtoken On behalf of the entire House, I congratulate Dave for his many years of dedication and outstanding contributions to this institution. I wish him many wonderful years of fulfillment with family and community in his retirement.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Josh Gottheimer (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2018-10-26

unfortunately, I was absent from floor votes on September 12, 2018, due to a loss in my immediate family. I was unable to cast my vote on roll call No. 394 through No. 396. prgtoken Had I been present to vote on roll call No. 394, I would have voted `YEA'. prgtoken Had I been present to vote on roll call No. 395, I would have voted `YEA'. prgtoken Had I been present to vote on roll call No. 396, I would have voted `YEA'.