mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Memorial Day (Executive Session)
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-5-24

this weekend, we honor those who have fought on the frontlines in battle and made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the United States of America. These men and women represent America at its best--a nation that is restless and unwavering in combating tyranny, that facilitates peace, and defends human rights and individual liberty across the globe; a nation that is unafraid to call evil by its name and then works to eradicate it through force, if necessary, even at great cost to itself and its own people. prgtoken Today, in advance of the holiday weekend, I say thank you to the 200,000 military men and women who are stationed in my State, the State of Texas, and to the 1.7 million veterans who call Texas home. prgtoken Thank you for having served over the course of so many years in the face of so many dangers and at such great individual sacrifice. prgtoken Of course, many of their predecessors gave their lives defending this country on the bloody fields of Gettysburg, in the trenches of the Western Front, during the storming of the beaches at Normandy, and during the Shock and Awe in Baghdad. These are just some examples, each of them unique but none of which we should ever forget. prgtoken We must also thank the military families of those warriors. I pray they find peace on Monday, when many of them will place flowers on military grave sites and speak privately to their loved ones who have passed on. prgtoken In just a few days, I will have the chance to speak to young Texans who thought hard about their futures and the future of our country and decided they want to attend our U.S. military academies. These talented high school students are the cream of the crop. They have been accepted to our Nation's five prestigious military service academies, and they will be gathering together, on Monday, in San Antonio. prgtoken Even though I am not the one who has nominated all of them, we invite everyone who has been nominated--and their families--to come to this academy sendoff. This sendoff is something I look forward to each year because it is an inspiration to me. At a time when people talk about the next generation and America's future, they reassure me that our country still produces talented, patriotic young men and women who want to serve their country and want to preserve our freedom. Meeting these young people who are making such bold and selfless decisions speaks well of the character of our Nation's next generation. prgtoken Then I will be heading down to Georgetown, TX, which is just outside of Austin, to a community called Sun City, which has a large veteran population. There, I will join in celebrating Memorial Day in a place where patriotism is not a dirty word. In Sun City, it is not an act either. Loving one's country and honoring fallen soldiers is simply a given, and I know there will be a lot of American flags on full display. prgtoken In the few days leading up to Memorial Day, we sh
SENATE RESOLUTION 531--EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE DESIGNATION OF MAY 2018 AS ``NATIONAL BRAIN TUMOR AWARENESS MONTH''
Steve Daines (Republican, MT) \u2014 2018-5-24

I am glad to introduce a resolution to designate May 2018 ``National Brain Tumor Awareness Month.'' It is my hope that this resolution will show our support for the patients battling brain tumors, as well as their families, and friends who fight alongside them. It is estimated that 78,980 new cases of primary and non-malignant tumors in the brain and central nervous system will be diagnosed and 16,616 people in the United States will lose their battle with a primary brain tumor this year alone. This resolution will increase public awareness and honor those who have suffered, or are suffering from a brain tumor, while encouraging researchers to redouble their efforts in the search for a cure. I thank Senator Markey and our bipartisan colleagues for their support for this important cause.
RECOGNIZING NATIONAL BUILDING SAFETY MONTH
Lou Barletta (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-5-24

as National Building Safety Month comes to a close, I would like to recognize the men and women of the International Code Council who have dedicated their livelihoods to ensuring the safety of Americans both in their homes and workplaces. prgtoken Each year, in observance of Building Safety Month, Americans are asked to consider projects to improve building safety at home and in their communities, and to acknowledge the essential services provided to all of us by local and state building departments and federal agencies in protecting life and property. Building Safety Month, which is sponsored by the International Code Council, reminds the public of the important role safety codes and code officials play in creating and sustaining safe communities. ``Building Codes Save Lives,'' the theme for Building Safety Month 2018, encourages all Americans to raise awareness of the importance of building safety. The International Codes, the most widely adopted building safety and fire prevention codes in the nations, are used by most U.S. cities, counties, and by all 50 states. These modern building safety codes also include safeguards to protect the public from natural disasters, such as hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, wildland fires, and earthquakes. prgtoken Similarly, in the U.S. House of Representatives, we have made major strides in promoting pre-disaster mitigation. In particular, I am proud to say that my bill, H.R. 4460, the Disaster Recovery Reform Act, was included in H.R. 4, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, which passed the House on April 27, 2018. The measures in this bill will help our communities better prepare for and respond to disasters of all kind, in keeping with the mission of National Building Safety Month. prgtoken , please join me in thanking the International Code Council for their work to highlight National Building Safety Month.
HONORING KENDALL EVELYN MARCHANT'S EIGHTH GRADE GRADUATION AT THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL IN DALLAS, TEXAS
Kenny Marchant (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-5-24

I rise to honor my granddaughter, Kendall Evelyn Marchant, on her eighth grade graduation today at The Hockaday School in Dallas, Texas. For over a hundred years, The Hockaday School has been a world-renowned institution and is located in my congressional district. The school educates over 1,000 students from pre-K to 12th grade, with students coming from not only North Texas, but across the country and around the globe. prgtoken An important milestone in a student's academic journey at the school is the eighth grade graduation. This is particularly true for Kendall; she has accomplished much in her academic studies, most recently winning the eighth grade history award. Kendall has made her parents, Matthew and Lindsay Marchant, very delighted in her successes. Kendall has two sets of proud grandparents, Kenny and Donna Marchant of Coppell, Texas and Rod and Sherry Hill of Frisco, Texas. prgtoken Students celebrate the conclusion of their Middle School academic studies by arriving in traditional white dresses and listening to congratulatory remarks from the administration, faculty, and a chosen student speaker. This terrific event marks the celebration of the eighth grade class and prepares them to assume added responsibilities as Upper School students in the fall. It is also one last hurdle to clear before the start of a well-earned summer vacation. prgtoken Kendall has excelled both inside and outside of the classroom at Hockaday. She embodies the four cornerstones of the school: character, courtesy, scholarship, and athletics. In addition to her academic studies, she excels in drama, most recently being in the school play Annie, and she shines on the basketball court and softball field for her athletic teams. prgtoken I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring Kendall Marchant, and all the members and families of The Hockaday School Class of 2022, today on their eighth grade class graduation.
NATIONAL POPPY DAY
Mike Bost (Republican, IL) \u2014 2018-5-24

on May 25, we celebrate National Poppy Day. prgtoken After World War I, the poppy flourished in Europe. Scientists said the growth was because the soil in France and Belgium became enriched with lime from the rubble left by the war. From the dirt and mud grew beautiful red poppies. prgtoken The red poppy came to symbolize the blood shared during battle following the publication of a wartime poem, ``In Flanders Fields,'' by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae while serving on the front lines. prgtoken The poppy honors those who served and died for our country in all wars and prgtoken reminds the American people of the sacrifices made by our veterans while protecting our freedom. prgtoken To those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, we say thank you.
RECOGNIZING THE AMERICAN LEGION'S NATIONAL POPPY DAY
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-5-24

this weekend our Nation marks one of the most solemn occasions, Memorial Day. It is a time when we honor the sacrifices made by our fallen military members. prgtoken Tomorrow marks the American Legion National Poppy Day. Each year members of the American Legion distribute poppy flowers with the request that those receiving a flower making a donation to support our veterans, active servicemembers, and military families. prgtoken At the end of the First World War, the poppy flourished throughout Europe because of the lime in the rubble left over from the war. The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice that has been worn by Americans since World War I to honor those who served and died for our country in all wars. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by our veterans while protecting our freedoms. prgtoken , I will proudly wear a poppy tomorrow to honor our fallen servicemembers, and it is my hope that all Americans will do the same.
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2018-5-24

today I wish to recognize and honor Dennis and Barbara Rainey. The Raineys are residents of Little Rock in my home State of Arkansas. They are cofounders of FamilyLife, a Christian ministry committed to helping marriages and families. prgtoken Dennis and Barbara have been married since 1972. They have six children and a growing number of grandchildren. Their ministry, which is focused on strengthening marriage and the family, has grown into a nationally recognized brand that includes marriage conferences and cruises, books, devotionals, and public speaking engagements. FamilyLife reaches an estimated 60,000 people each year with its ``Weekend To Remember'' events for couples. prgtoken Dennis can be heard daily as host of the nationally syndicated radio program ``FamilyLife Today'' on more than 1,100 radio stations/outlets in nearly all 50 States. Together, they have authored or coauthored more than 35 books, and Barbara recently launched a new home decor line and teaching resource to help families and especially women express their faith in their homes. FamilyLife has grown into a dynamic ministry that has reached more than 109 countries across the world. prgtoken Dennis and Barbara truly live out their faith every day in their roles as teachers, speakers, parents, grandparents, mentors, friends, and neighbors. They have been pivotal members of the faith community in Little Rock, as well as throughout our State and the country. prgtoken My wife, Cathy, and I have been blessed by and treasured the friendship and mentorship of Dennis and Barbara since the start of their ministry. prgtoken We are very proud of the important, affirming work that they have been doing for decades. Taking this opportunity to celebrate Dennis and Barbara and their legacy shows just how much of an impact they have had on their community and beyond over many years. prgtoken We are grateful for them and wish them well in the years ahead. May God bless the Raineys and the work they have left to do in service of His Kingdom. Our marriages and families are certainly better for it.
CONGRESSIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 1995 REFORM ACT
Roy Blunt (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-5-24

. Thank you, . prgtoken I would like to turn to my colleague, Senator Klobuchar. We have worked together on this bill. We are pleased to be able to bring it to the Senate floor today. We are pleased that all of our colleagues had time to see it, that it went through the process on both sides without objection, and that now it has been voted on by the Senate. prgtoken Senator Klobuchar.
RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MICHIGAN INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY
Tim Walberg (Republican, MI) \u2014 2018-5-24

I rise today to recognize Michigan International Speedway as they celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2018. prgtoken Located in my district in the heart of the beautiful Irish Hills, Michigan prgtoken International Speedway is one of the Nation's premier racing facilities. Throughout the season, MIS will be commemorating this milestone by showcasing many of the memorable moments and drivers in the track's history. prgtoken I look forward to joining everyone to kick off their first NASCAR race of the year, which is just weeks away. In addition to NASCAR, MIS offers year-round entertainment and festivals, making it a leading tourist attraction for people near and far. prgtoken Through their extensive charity work and programs like the Spirit of America Blood Drive, MIS is actively involved in improving the community and impacting lives. prgtoken , Michigan International Speedway is a staple of our community and the world of racing. We are fortunate to have them in the Seventh District. prgtoken Here is to 50 more years of lasting memories for fans and drivers alike.
HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN
Steve Chabot (Republican, OH) \u2014 2018-5-24

I rise today to honor the Republic of Azerbaijan which celebrates the 100th anniversary of its independence on May 28--next Monday. prgtoken On May 28, 1918 the Republic of Azerbaijan declared independence. Tragically, independence was short lived as the Bolsheviks invaded Azerbaijan and the country was eventually absorbed into the Soviet Union. The Azeri people never lost their desire to be free from their Soviet occupiers, however. With the fall prgtoken of the U.S.S.R Azerbaijan once again declared its independence in 1991. The United States recognized Azerbaijan's independence on both occasions. prgtoken Azerbaijan has proven to be a key security partner of the United States, providing unwavering support for the NATO mission in Afghanistan dating back to 2002. Azerbaijan also established diplomatic relations with our close ally Israel over 25 years ago and has a small but thriving Jewish community. prgtoken Azerbaijan is also a leader in the energy sector. Azerbaijan is spearheading the Southern Gas Corridor which will bring natural gas from the Caspian Sea to our allies in Europe. This diversification of energy supplies will lessen Europe's reliance on Russia. Azerbaijan also provides Israel with 40 percent of its imported energy. prgtoken Azerbaijan is a true friend of the United States and I once again commend the Republic of Azerbaijan on the 100th anniversary of its independence.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Clay Higgins (Republican, LA) \u2014 2018-5-24

due to a medical issue with a family member I was unable to be present for votes in the U.S. House of Represenatives from May 21 through May 24, 2018. prgtoken Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 207; YEA on Roll Call No. 208; YEA on Roll Call No. 209; YEA on Roll Call No. 210; YEA on Roll Call No. 211; YEA on Roll Call No. 212; NAY on Roll Call No. 213; YEA on Roll Call No. 214; YEA on Roll Call No. 215; YEA on Roll Call No. 216; YEA on Roll Call No. 217; YEA on Roll Call No. 218; NAY on Roll Call No. 219; NAY on Roll Call No. 220; NAY on Roll Call No. 221; NAY on Roll Call No. 222; YEA on Roll Call No. 223; YEA on Roll Call No. 224; YEA on Roll Call No. 225; YEA on Roll Call No. 226; YEA on Roll Call No. 227; NAY on Roll Call No. 228; YEA on Roll Call No. 229; and YEA on Roll Call No. 230.
RECOGNIZING THE ST. JOSEPH-OGDEN GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD TEAM
John Shimkus (Republican, IL) \u2014 2018-5-24

I rise to recognize the St. Joseph-Ogden High School girls track and field team, who are the 2018 Illinois High School Association Class 1A state champions. prgtoken St. Joseph-Ogden won the title with a score of 43, easily outpacing the second place finisher by seven points. St. Joseph-Ogden benefited from having two event winners, Atleigh Hamilton, who won the long jump event with a mark of 18 feet two inches and the 4x200 Meter Relay team, composed of Abbey Mizer, Maclayne Taylor, Hailey Birt, and Atleigh Hamilton, who won with a time of 1:43.89. Also making important contributions to the overall victory were the 4x100 Meter Relay team of Abbey Mizer, Maclayne Taylor, Hailey Birt, and Atleigh Hamilton with a second place finish; the 4x400 Meter Relay team of Maclayne Taylor, Rylee Sjuts, Zea Maroon, and Atleigh Hamilton, which also finished second; and the 4x800 Meter Relay team of Rylee Sjuts, Zea Maroon, Hannah Rajlich, and Sam Mabry, which took third place. prgtoken , today it is an honor for me to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the St. Joseph-Ogden High School girls track and field team in winning the 2018 championship, and I wish the team and their coach, Kelly Steffen, all the best in the future.
ORDERS FOR FRIDAY, MAY 25, 2018, THROUGH MONDAY JUNE 4, 2018
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2018-5-24

I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it adjourn, to then convene for pro forma sessions only, with no business being conducted, on the following dates and times, and that following each pro forma session, the Senate adjourn until the next pro forma session: Friday, May 25, at 11 a.m.; Tuesday, May 29, at 9 a.m.; Thursday, May 31, at 11:30 a.m. I further ask that when the Senate adjourns on Thursday, May 31, it next convene at 3 p.m Monday, June 4; that following the prayer and pledge, the morning hour be deemed expired, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later in the day, and morning business be closed; further, that following leader remarks, the Senate proceed to executive session and resume consideration of the Wier nomination; finally, that notwithstanding the provisions of rule XXII, the cloture motions filed during today's session ripen at 5:30 p.m Monday, June 4.
TRIBUTE TO ED GRIMES
Kevin McCarthy (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-5-24

today I rise to honor the late Ed Grimes, who served as Mayor and chief executive of the City of Tehachapi for six years. He passed away on May 21, 2018 at the age of 75 after a lifetime of service to his community. prgtoken Mayor Grimes started his storied career in public service on the Tehachapi Unified School District as a member of the School Board, serving a career of 20 years, twelve of which were spent as the board chairman. He would later campaign successfully for a seat on the Tehachapi City Council in 2003, and was first elected as Tehachapi's Mayor in 2006. Over his career in public service, Mayor Grimes served ten years on the Tehachapi City Council and served three terms as mayor during the years of 2006 through 2008, 2010 through 2012, and 2016 through 2018. A man with a true heart for his city, Mayor Grimes refused a paycheck during his tenure as an elected city official, instead donating his salary to fund scholarships for Tehachapi high school students preparing to go to college. prgtoken Ed, affectionately known at home as ``Mr. Tehachapi,'' called Tehachapi his home for 68 years of his life. A lifelong football fan with a heart for the youth of the community he served, Mayor Grimes dedicated his free time to fundraising for Tehachapi High School's Warriors football team, raising over $50,000 for high school athletics over a period of nearly two decades. His passion for youth athletics was not limited to the sidelines; Mayor Grimes could often be heard narrating Tehachapi High School football games over the stadium public address system, a hobby that earned him the nickname of ``The Voice of the Warriors.'' prgtoken Mayor Grimes will be remembered for his kindness, leadership, and passion for life. His life of service illustrates the best of public service, and he will be remembered as a man who truly loved the city he called home. It didn't matter if we were discussing the local economy, family or simply football, time spent with Mayor Grimes was always time well spent. I will miss Mayor Grimes' words of wisdom, his humble manner, and his laugh that was so infectious that you could not help but join him. I extend my deepest condolences to his wife Ruthie, his children and grandchildren, and the entire Tehachapi community as we all mourn the loss of this local icon.
Tribute to Vaughan Wehr (Executive Calendar)
Deb Fischer (Republican, NE) \u2014 2018-5-24

I rise today to pay tribute to my longtime scheduler and dear friend, Vaughan Wehr. After 5\1/2\ years in Washington, Vaughan is returning home to her sprawling, tight-knit family in Omaha. prgtoken Vaughan started with me as an aide in my legislative office in Lincoln. It was an easy decision to ask her to come to Washington as an original member of my team. She did a good job, she worked hard, and she was a joy to have around. She started out in the Senate, where so many do, answering phones and greeting constituents. That is hard work, but Vaughan always did it with a smile on her face. prgtoken It didn't take long for her to take on more responsibility, first as a deputy scheduler and later as a scheduler for nearly 4 years. Throughout that time, Vaughan always did her job with a special blend of diligence and humor. She has earned a reputation in the Senate as a top scheduler and the life of any party. prgtoken It is no exaggeration to say that Vaughan has been the beating heart of my office. She has made a mark here by doing her job with love and laughter every single day. prgtoken My husband, Bruce, and I are very thankful for her service, and most importantly, we are thankful for her friendship. She is one of a kind. We wish her the very best as she returns home to Nebraska. prgtoken .
HONORING MRS. EVELYN HICKS
Robert B. Aderholt (Republican, AL) \u2014 2018-5-24

today I would like to honor Mrs. Evelyn Hicks of Winston County, Alabama. Mrs. Hicks is retiring from managing her local school cafeteria at Lynn School in Lynn, Alabama which is located in the Fourth Congressional District that I represent. I am honored to recognize Mrs. Hicks for her dedication to ensuring our children have nutritious and edible food. It should also be noted that she was honored on May 23, 2018 at Lynn School with a reception for her many years of service. prgtoken Mrs. Evelyn Hicks was born in my home county of Winston to Truman and Alice Baughn. She is a graduate of Lynn School and has been a member of Concord Missionary Baptist Church for 57 years. She has been married to Roy Hicks for 52 years. They have two daughters and four grandchildren. Mrs. Hicks also served on the Winston County Board of Education from 2000 to 2004. prgtoken Mrs. Hicks also played a major role in providing my office with ``on the ground'' feedback into how school lunch restrictions were having a negative effect on her job of feeding children. Because of Mrs. Hicks's assistance, we have been able to roll back many of the harmful restrictions and provide solutions that give prgtoken kids healthy food, while at the same time providing food they will actually eat and enjoy. prgtoken Mrs. Evelyn Hicks has been, in every sense, a devoted and passionate advocate for the children she has helped feed throughout her many years through school nutrition. I am proud to call Mrs. Hicks a friend and a fellow Alabamian, and she is truly deserving of this recognition from the United States House of Representatives. prgtoken I wish her all the very best for the future in all that she is involved with.