mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
INTRODUCTION OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION REAL ESTATE LEASING AUTHORITY REVOCATION ACT
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-1-17

today, I introduce the Securities and Exchange Commission Real Estate Leasing Authority Revocation Act, which would revoke the real estate leasing authority of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and direct the Government Accountability Office to update its 2016 report on independent leasing authority in the federal government. The House passed this bill last Congress. prgtoken Since the SEC was granted leasing authority in 1990, before I came to Congress, the SEC has consistently stumbled through leasing mistakes at great expense to taxpayers. It is time for Congress to end this fiasco and return the leasing authority to the General Services Administration (GSA), the federal government's real estate arm, like other federal agencies. prgtoken When Congress exempted the SEC from GSA regulations and directives in 1990, it expressed its clear intent that ``the authority granted to the Commission to lease its own office space directly will be exercised vigorously by the Commission to achieve actual cost savings and to increase the Commission's productivity and efficiency.'' (H.R. Conf. Rep. 101-924.) Over the past 30 years, none of that has come to fruition. prgtoken The SEC did not even establish a Leasing Branch until April 2009, and did not put into place any leasing policies or procedures until August 2010. Before that, in May 2005, the SEC disclosed that it had identified unbudgeted costs of approximately $48 million attributable to misestimates and omissions of costs associated with the construction of its headquarters near Union Station. In 2007, after moving into its headquarters, the SEC shuffled its employees to different office spaces at a cost of over $3 million without any cost-benefit analysis or justifiable rationale. prgtoken In the summer of 2010, the SEC's Office of Administrative Services (OAS) conducted a deeply flawed and unsound analysis to justify the need for the SEC to lease 900,000 square feet of space at Constitution Center and to commit over $500 million over 10 years, overestimating the amount of space needed by over 300 percent. In addition to this gross overestimation of space, OAS failed to provide complete and accurate information and prepared a faulty and backdated Justification and Approval after it had already signed the lease. prgtoken As a former chair and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management, I was deeply involved in oversight of the SEC's real estate activities in the District of Columbia after the agency engaged in this improper sole- source procurement of nearly one million square feet of leased space. We held two hearings on this subject in 2011. At the first hearing, titled ``The Security and Exchange Commission's $500 Million Fleecing of America,'' SEC Inspector General H. David Kotz testified that employees ignored the SEC chair's explicit instructions and engaged in possible criminal viola
RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF DR. DANIEL HOLSENBECK
Darren Soto (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-1-17

I rise to recognize the outstanding life and legacy of Dr. Daniel Holsenbeck, age 80, who passed away on December 5, 2022. Dr. Holsenbeck, who was widely known as ``Dr. Dan'' was senior vice oresident emeritus at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he worked for over 35 years. Dr. Dan touched the lives of countless individuals and left a lasting impression on the Central Florida community. prgtoken Dr. Holsenbeck helped to foster deep relationships across the Central Florida community and across the State of Florida that propelled the university's rise in quality and reputation. He helped shape many of the big ideas that have transformed UCF into the place it is today, including championing the region's modeling and simulation industry and UCF's partnerships with the military. He was instrumental in securing state funding for UCF's main campus, the establishment of the College of Medicine, and the creation of the downtown Orlando UCF campus. As an instructor, he loved being in the classroom with students, helping to shape future public relations and government relations professionals. prgtoken Dr. Holsenbeck reported to five UCF presidents before retiring in December 2019. His impact on UCF and throughout Central Florida will be felt for generations. In 1985, he was hired as associate vice president of government relations. He was promoted to vice president in 1993 and senior vice president in 2014. He served as senior counsel to the president in 2018 and 2019 and then was honored with the title of senior vice president emeritus. prgtoken Dr. Holsenbeck is credited for establishing the UCF Legislative Scholars program, which has been described as the ``best program'' of its kind in Florida's State Capitol. Created 19 years ago, the program enables students to augment their academic learning by working full time in legislators' offices during the annual Florida legislative session. Since the program's inception, 220 scholars have learned the ``ins and outs'' of Florida's legislative and public policy-making arena, learning directly from legislative staff, governmental agencies, and lobbying groups while gaining valuable governmental experience. prgtoken Dr. Holsenbeck also served UCF presidents in numerous public relations and advisory capacities, including managing University Economic Development and Defense Transition Services. A former captain in the U.S. Naval Reserve, the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division named a Navy jet in his honor, in recognition of his dedication to growing the Modeling, Simulation and Training community. prgtoken Dr. Holsenbeck was director of basic enlisted mathematics for the U.S. Navy Nuclear Power School from 1967 through 1969. He served as the principal civilian advisor on college and university teaching and testing for the Chief of Naval Education and Training in Pensacola, Florida. In that capacity, he conducted teaching seminars for all NROTC
RECOGNIZING REPRESENTATIVE PANTELAKOS FOR 44 YEARS OF SERVICE TO NEW HAMPSHIRE
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2023-1-17

I rise today in honor of former New Hampshire State Representative Laura Pantelakos and her 44 years of service to the Granite State. Since first taking office in 1978, Laura has been a tireless advocate for change in the city of Portsmouth and across the State of New Hampshire. Her compassion and willingness to engage with her constituents earned her the support of Rockingham County in election after election, and her commitment to bipartisan solutions helped usher in several decades of prolonged economic success for the region. prgtoken During her time in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, Laura witnessed tremendous change over the past four decades. In 2008, Laura was named Dean of the New Hampshire House of Representatives in recognition of her service as the longest-tenured member of that body; a distinction she proudly held until her retirement. Her tenacity and sharp legislative insight also saw her rise to the rank of Assistant Minority Leader, where she rallied her party to major legislative victories while always looking for opportunities to reach across the aisle. During her time in the House, Laura dedicated herself to leaving a positive imprint on our state, reforming our criminal justice system, and always looking out for children and families. Laura's penchant for helping others led her to dedicate her time to a number of causes outside of the State House, including her role as Chair of the Fire Commission for the City of Portsmouth and her involvement with the Seacoast African American Cultural Center. Laura was also a central figure in the Portsmouth City Delegation, now known as the Legislative Subcommittee, where her ten years of leadership saw major gains for the city. prgtoken Laura's leadership was always guided by her deep love for her children, grandchildren, and the constituents she proudly served for close to half of her life. As Laura begins a well-deserved retirement, I look forward to seeing what her next chapter has in store and know that she will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders to carry on her legacy of service over self. On behalf of the residents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Laura for embodying New Hampshire's highest values and wish her all the best in the years to come.
HONORING THE LIFE OF DR. STEPHEN BERMAN
Diana DeGette (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2023-1-20

I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Stephen Berman. prgtoken Dr. Berman dedicated his life to improving the health and well-being of people around the world. prgtoken After earning his medical degree from Temple University, Steve moved to Colorado to complete his residency at the University of Colorado. prgtoken Little did anyone know that this first-year resident, fresh out of medical school, would go on to be one of the university's most influential professors, the Director of the Center for Global Health and a world-renowned leader in the field of public health. prgtoken Dr. Berman was one of the most highly regarded members of his profession. He received numerous awards and recognitions for his work. He wrote multiple textbooks and authored hundreds of peer-reviewed research articles over the course of his career. prgtoken He was the President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a special advisor to the World Health Organization, to the U.S. Agency for International Development, and to numerous countries around the world. prgtoken But what made Steve truly special is how much he cared for his patients, and how dedicated he was to both serving his community and giving back. prgtoken He was determined--with a tireless devotion and every ounce of his being--to make the world a better place, not just for the patients he was treating, or the officials he was advising, but for everyone, everywhere. prgtoken Steve made a point to form friendships and professional relationships with elected officials across the political spectrum and at every level of government with a singular goal: to make sure that our health care laws ensure access to treatment for every child, no matter their race, economic status or country of origin. prgtoken Like so many in our community, I was heartbroken to hear of Steve's passing this week. Our community lost a true leader and many of us lost a dear friend. prgtoken His legacy will continue to live on, not only with the thousands of people he treated throughout his life, but with the untold millions he impacted with his work along the way. prgtoken During this difficult time, my heart goes out to his family--his wife Elaine, who was his true partner in all he accomplished, his sons Ben and Jim, and his brothers Jim and Ed. He will be missed.
HONORING THE LIFE OF DR. WILLIE JAMES EPPS
Ted Lieu (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-1-20

I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of Dr. Willie James Epps, who passed away on December 27, 2022. A Former Director of the East St. Louis Campus of Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville (SIUE), he was a nationally recognized expert in early childhood education. Born on January 26, 1946, Dr. Epps was raised on a farm in Tchula, Mississippi, the poorest town in the nation's poorest county. His parents, Jonas and Nancy Ellis Epps, though literate and landowners, had never gone to college but insisted their children pursue higher education. Dr. Epps attended racially segregated schools, graduating in 1963 from Tchula Attendance Center, which the town's white leadership denied designation as a high school. Majoring in elementary education, he graduated from Mississippi Valley State University in 1966, having worked part-time as a custodian. prgtoken He then moved to Biloxi, Mississippi, where he taught sixth grade at Perkins Elementary School, the city's only primary school for Blacks, comprised of 400 young children and 30 teachers. At Perkins, he met Barbara Bacon, a 1966 graduate of Alcorn State University, who taught fourth and fifth grade. The two married at King Solomon Baptist Church in Natchez, Mississippi, on August 12, 1967. prgtoken While earning a master's degree in elementary education at the University of Southern Mississippi, Dr. Epps served as Lexington Elementary School's principal in Lexington, Mississippi, before being promoted to assistant superintendent of the Holmes County School System. In 1970, he joined the faculty of Alcorn State University for a couple of years, before heading off to Kansas State University to pursue a Ph.D which he was awarded in 1974. prgtoken In the mid- to late-1970s, Dr. Epps worked at the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in Washington, D.C and as a faculty member at both Mississippi Valley State University and the University of South Alabama. After being recruited to the St. Louis region in 1980, he was associated with SIUE for more than two decades. Dr. Epps initially was director of the National Science Awareness Demonstration Program and later was named director of the University's Head Start Program in St. Clair County. On behalf of the University, he applied for and received about $15 million annually from state, federal, and private grants. prgtoken Dr. Epps assumed leadership of the East St. Louis Campus in 1994, retiring in 2001. During his administration he presided over tremendous growth, including the creation of SIUE East St. Louis Charter School, and securing $27 million for a new facility. Dr. Epps served as vice president of the Greater East St. Louis Community Fund, vice chair of the Logan College of Chiropractic Board of Trustees, and a member of the Education Commission of the States' Policy and Priorities Committee. He was a member of West Side Missionary Baptist Church. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, In
HONORING TRAVIS STANLEY
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-1-20

I rise today to honor Travis Stanley for his outstanding contributions to our community upon his retirement as President and CEO of the Napa County Chamber of Commerce. prgtoken Mr. Stanley grew up in Michigan and attended Florida Southern College on a basketball scholarship where, he earned a B.S. Degree in journalism. After college, Mr. Stanley started a career in basketball where he worked as the Assistant Director of Public Relations for the Orlando Magic. After working with the Magic for 5 years, he then worked as Director of Public Relations for the Sacramento Kings for another 5 years before accepting a job with the Golden State Warriors. Mr. Stanley worked for the Warriors for 14 years and held multiple important positions including Senior Executive Vice President of Marketing. prgtoken Mr. Stanley was named President and CEO of the Napa County Chamber of Commerce in 2014. He took on the role at a crucial time as he was instrumental in helping lead Napa's businesses through the Napa earthquake, the 2017 wildfires, the Coronavirus pandemic, and the LNU Lightning Complex fires. Mr. Stanley navigated these challenges and helped bring new members into the chamber with an approach that encouraged members to engage, connect, and collaborate. prgtoken Outside of his professional duties, Mr. Stanley served as the Executive Leadership Chair of the 2015 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Napa Light the Night Walk. prgtoken Mr. Stanley currently lives in Napa with his wife Irene and 2 children, Nina and Elijah. prgtoken , I thank Mr. Stanley for his commitment to helping our Napa community. His efforts have made Napa a more prosperous city.
HONORING JULIE JACOBSON
James P. McGovern (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2023-1-20

I rise today to celebrate Julie Jacobson's lifetime of devoted service to Central Massachusetts. Thanks to her leadership, the people of Worcester and Auburn, Massachusetts have seen incredible improvements in our communities. prgtoken After graduating from Worcester's College of the Holy Cross, Ms. Jacobson began her career in service at the Massachusetts State House working alongside State Representative Thomas P. White. It was with State Representative White where she discovered her passion and talent for public service. prgtoken In 1985, Ms. Jacobson began working for the City of Worcester, quickly ascending to the role of Director of Economic Development. During her 15-year tenure, she oversaw more than 200 major development projects, all targeted toward the success of Worcester business and improving the lives of all who live and work here. An incredible leader, Ms. Jacobson coordinated programs across the private sector with help from small business grant programs to drive economic growth in our city. prgtoken , Ms. Jacobson's impact on the Worcester community cannot be understated. In 2001, Ms. Jacobson began to lead the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce's Economic Development and Public Policy program. Quickly, she was chosen to lead the Regional Chamber of Commerce as Interim President and CEO. Under her guidance, she steered the second largest chamber of commerce in New England to roaring success. prgtoken Ms. Jacobson then went to serve the Worcester community at large, holding three critical offices: CEO of Worcester's Redevelopment Authority, Chief Development Officer, and Assistant City Manager. She uplifted communities through neighborhood development, urban renewal, and investments in transportation infrastructure. prgtoken Ms. Jacobson's most critical work, though, combined her visionary leadership with her passion for local communities. In 2011, she began her 12-year tenure as Town Manager in Auburn, revitalizing the town's government, streamlining services, and improving her community. Under her leadership, she steered Auburn toward improved sustainability and more transparent governance. prgtoken , Ms. Jacobson's commitment to solid and effective governance should serve as an example for local leaders across the country. Few have dedicated their expertise so consistently to the communities in which they live. On behalf of the United States Congress and all the people of Central Massachusetts whose lives she touched, it is my great privilege to thank and recognize Ms. Jacobson for her service.
CONGRATULATING WILLIE O'REE, NHL TRAILBLAZER
Tom Emmer (Republican, MN) \u2014 2023-1-20

I rise today in recognition of Willie O'Ree, who today celebrates the 65th anniversary of his first game in the National Hockey League. On January 18, 1958, Willie O'Ree became the first Black player in NHL history when he stepped on the ice as a winger for the Boston Bruins. prgtoken Willie went on to play more than 24 seasons in the NHL and minor leagues, overcoming bigotry and prejudice from fellow players and fans alike. On and off the ice, Willie became a champion for diversity in the sport. Following his retirement from the game, he became the NHL's Diversity Ambassador. In that role, he established the Hockey is for Everyone initiative to offer disadvantaged and marginalized children the chance to play hockey, create community, and develop important life skills. prgtoken In the 117th Congress, we joined Representatives Mike Quigley, Brian Higgins, John Katko, and Ayanna Pressley as co-leads of the Willie O'Ree Congressional Gold Medal Act. We are proud to say that last year, the bill passed, and Willie was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. prgtoken I congratulate Willie on this amazing milestone and thank him for everything he has done for the sport.
COMMENDING LAURA STAGNO ON HER WORK FOR ALABAMA DISTRICT ONE
Jerry L. Carl (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-1-20

I rise today to honor Laura Stagno for her service to Alabama's First Congressional District. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Laura previously worked for the USDA and then for Representative Mac Thornberry before joining my Washington office during the 117th Congress as a Legislative Assistant. In this role, she did an excellent job and proved herself to be one of the sharpest minds on the Hill. Her strong knowledge of natural resources, energy, healthcare, agriculture, education, and labor and her outstanding work ethic earned her a promotion to Legislative Director in January of 2022. In this role she continued the work in her policy portfolio and meeting with constituents across our district, while she also managed 2 Legislative Assistants and a Legislative Correspondent. Laura has been a huge asset to Alabama's First Congressional District and will be greatly missed. I wish her the best in all her future endeavors.
HONORING THE LIFE OF JAY POWELL
Michael C. Burgess (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-1-20

I rise today to honor the life and exemplary public service of Assistant Police Chief Jay Powell of the Lewisville, Texas Police Department. Chief Powell passed away unexpectedly from cardiac arrest on January 6, 2023, at the age of 52. prgtoken A life-long resident of Denton, Texas, Powell graduated from Denton High School and earned both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Accounting from the University of North Texas, graduating in 1993. Powell began his 29-year career with the Lewisville Police Department in 1994, starting as a patrol officer and rose through the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain. He was promoted to Assistant Chief in 2014. His previous assignments included Field Training Officer, Hostage Negotiator, Recognition Program Manager, and SWAT Team Member. prgtoken Powell was also a graduate of the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration's ``School of Police Supervision'' and ``Management College'' as well as a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's ``National Academy'' in 2016. As Assistant Police Chief, he competently oversaw the Support Bureau, supervising officers in Training, Traffic, Personnel, Criminal Investigations, Special Operations, Communications, SWAT, Warrants, Narcotics, and Budget Resources. prgtoken Assistant Chief Powell will truly be missed, and I extend the House's profound condolences to his wife Rhonda, his parents Pat and Becky Powell, as well as to his fellow officers and colleagues in the Lewisville Police Department. He was a consummate law enforcement professional and fostered crucial community relationships. I am proud and grateful to have had someone with the character and servant heart of Chief Jay Powell serving the City of Lewisville and the North Texas community.
HONORING THE MEMORY OF HAROLD SKELTON
Barry Moore (Republican, AL) \u2014 2023-1-20

today, I rise to recognize the life and legacy of Harold Skelton, who sadly passed away on Friday, December 12, 2022, at the age of 80. prgtoken Mr. Skelton was born on February 18, 1942, in Evansville, Indiana. He served 22 years in the U.S. Army, including two tours in Vietnam as a Chinook pilot, and retired as a CW4. Later, Harold served as an instructor pilot and ground simulator instructor at Fort Rucker. Mr. Skelton's remarkable work and involvement ranged from many organizations including the American Legion Post 73, VFW, DAV, Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association, VVA, Civitan, Mason's, and Shriner's. His devotion and sacrifice to our Nation will be remembered with his incredible service. prgtoken Harold Skelton dedicated his life to bringing joy to his friends, family, and everybody else around him. He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Donna Skelton, two children, and five grandchildren. prgtoken Harold Skelton was a joyous and loved citizen of Alabama's Second Congressional District that left lifelong impressions on many people. He will be deeply missed by many friends, family members, and all those he made smile.