mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE LIFE OF MR. EDWARD D. BERGIN, JR.
Elizabeth H. Esty (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2017-8-18

I rise today to honor the life of Edward Bergin, Jr who passed away on August 12, 2017 at the age of 74. Mr. Bergin served an impressive five terms as mayor of Waterbury, Connecticut, and his strong and dedicated leadership guided the city through substantial economic change. Those of us in Connecticut will remember Mayor Bergin as a devoted public servant who exemplified what an elected official strives to be. He wanted to improve his community and help every person he represented. prgtoken Mayor Bergin was a fierce advocate for Waterbury, and his roots in a blue-collar Irish family made him keenly conscious of the challenges facing the city. He grew up with a strong appreciation for public service, as his father, Edward Bergin, Sr was elected to four terms as mayor of the city. The community knew Mayor Bergin for his commitment to Waterbury and his willingness to meet with and listen to people from all political perspectives. prgtoken As mayor, Bergin led a number of critical initiatives to preserve important parts of Waterbury's history, while also championing the city's revitalization. Mayor Bergin successfully fought to stop the demolition of the Palace Theater, which would later be restored, preserving an important part of the city's past. He also launched a large economic development project to tear down the Scovill manufacturing plant in the core of Waterbury to make room for the Brass Mill Center Mall. Mayor Bergin has a well-deserved reputation for astute management and organization of the government. prgtoken , Mayor Edward Bergin was a dedicated public servant who spent his career making Waterbury a better city. It is fitting and proper that we honor his legacy here today. All those who knew him will cherish his memory, and the citizens of Waterbury will long remember his contributions to the city
RECOGNIZING JOHN MORRIS
Henry Cuellar (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2017-8-18

I rise today to commemorate the retirement of Supervisory Special Agent John ``Jack'' Morris, a Unit Chief with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), who has proudly served the people of the United States in federal law enforcement for over twenty-nine years. prgtoken On August 8, 1988, after graduating from The New York State University College at Oneonta, Jack began a 29-year career with the legacy Immigration and Naturalization Service, and later HSI. As a Special Agent in New York City from 1988 until 2004, Jack earned the New York Law Enforcement Investigator of the Year Award in 2001 and the U.S. Attorney's Director's Award in 2002. In 2004, Jack was promoted to the position of Supervisory Special Agent in Newark, New Jersey, where he worked with distinction until accepting a position in 2010 at HSI Headquarters in Washington, DC. prgtoken Since moving to Washington, Jack has served in various HSI positions, including Program Manager, Section Chief, Special Assistant to the Director, and Chief of the Public Safety Unit. He was also a Congressional Detailee in my office where he worked on a variety of issues, including Immigration, Homeland Security, border issues, and constituent requests. prgtoken , I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize and honor Jack Morris for his many years of service to the United States of America.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF LAPD DETECTIVE SHA'QUANA HALL-POUNDERS
Karen Bass (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2017-8-18

I would like to honor the accomplishments and service of Los Angeles Police Department Detective Sha'Quana Hall- Pounders. One of the few Black women to reach the rank of Chief Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Sha'Quana Hall-Pounders delivered security and threat assessment briefings to senior Pentagon officials. As a law-enforcement officer, then-Special Agent Hall-Pounders served to protect senior White House officials at important events in our nation's capital and abroad. On returning to Los Angeles after her military service, Ms. Hall-Pounders joined the Los Angeles Police Department, where she has served on the LAPD Joint Terrorism Task Force. Residing in the Baldwin Vista neighborhood of my district, Ms. Hall- Pounders has sought out opportunities to make a difference in the lives of her fellow Angelenos. She has assisted senior citizens and first time voters with both registration and voter education. Along with her daughter, she regularly hosts tennis clinics for young men and women in the Crenshaw District. The pair also organize educational and recreational excursions for underserved and special-needs youth in Watts, aiming to help them see a world beyond the borders of their own neighborhoods. I appreciate her service to our country and to the communities of the 37th Congressional District of California, and I wish her continued success in her career as an LAPD officer and a leader in our community.
THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH MESA LAB
Jared Polis (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2017-8-18

in the foothills of the beautiful Boulder Flatirons stands a building that has been a beacon of exemplary research, groundbreaking discoveries, and an icon of the American spirit of research. I speak of course of the National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Lab, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017. prgtoken The breathtaking design was crafted by I.M. Pei, the legendary Chinese-American architect. Pei's previous work in the urban jungle is apparent in the looming concrete 5 story towers that comprise the Mesa Lab. The bush-hammering technique that is used throughout the building offers a roughness to the exterior while the pinkish aggregate mined in Lyons, CO helps the complex blend into the surrounding Flatirons. prgtoken The NCAR Mesa Lab is home to 330 world-class scientists. These pioneers work every day to fulfill the vision of NCAR's founder, Walter Orr Roberts. Blazing new trails in human understanding, atmospheric science, climate change research, solar astronomy and much more, the scientists at NCAR are an interwoven part of the Boulder community. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents I offer gratitude to have this facility and everything it stands for be a part of our family and acknowledge that though the research they have produced yields global benefit, we recognize that those benefits are only a small payment on the debt we owe for having such a fantastic asset as part of our home.
HONORING THE NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
Jason Smith (Republican, MO) \u2014 2017-8-22

I rise today to honor the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Sarah Barton Murphy Chapter, as they celebrate their 62nd Anniversary in Farmington, Missouri. prgtoken The chapter is an incredible asset to the community, especially as they commemorate the 130th Anniversary of U.S. Constitution Week, September 17 through 23, 2017. prgtoken To help preserve our American heritage through this national observance, the Sarah Barton Murphy Chapter encourages 5th grade students in St. Francois County to participate in ``Ring Bells for Freedom.'' They promote county library displays and books on Colonial founders to help residents retrace the American story. prgtoken The Chapter asks all residents of St. Francois County to study our nation's birth through the events that led to the drafting of the Constitution and its signing on September 17, 1787. prgtoken The Sarah Barton Murphy Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution works tirelessly to keep their communities aware of America's amazing heritage. I am honored to recognize the chapter today before the United States House of Representatives.
IN RECOGNITION OF ROBERT CUNNINGHAM JR. FOR HIS OUTSTANDING CAREER WITH THE DEARBORN FIRE DEPARTMENT
Debbie Dingell (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2017-8-22

I rise today to recognize Robert Cunningham Jr. for his distinguished career with the Dearborn Fire Department. For the past 25 years, Mr. Cunningham has served the City of Dearborn and its residents with distinction. prgtoken As the Battalion Chief for the Dearborn Fire Department, Mr. Cunningham oversees the operation of several fire stations and fire companies that serve the City of Dearborn as well as nearby Melvindale. As a key member of the 140-man department, Mr. Cunningham helped coordinate the response to fires and other emergencies, and served as a liaison between the department and the communities in which it operates. Throughout his career, Mr. Cunningham established a reputation as a dedicated and welcoming presence in the community, and is well known among his peers for his leadership and expertise. He has received multiple commendations for his service, including a Certificate of Special Recognition for going above and beyond the call of service, as well as multiple Meritorious Company Commendations and Fire Chief Unit Life Saving Awards for his actions in the line of duty. prgtoken Mr. Cunningham's work with the Dearborn Fire Department played a key role in protecting the health and safety of the residents of Dearborn and surrounding communities. As a leader in the department, Mr. Cunningham helped the firefighters handle an increasing number of calls for service throughout his tenure, including 15,000 in 2016 alone. His courageous actions throughout his career helped save lives while safeguarding his fellow firefighters and emergency responders. Mr. Cunningham's career and actions embody the values of public service, and he will be missed as he retires from his current position. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Robert Cunningham Jr. for his career with the Dearborn Fire Department. Mr. Cunningham's work has helped save lives and make Dearborn a safe place to live and work.
CELEBRATING THE 150TH ANNIVERSAY OF SUGAR NOTCH
Lou Barletta (Republican, PA) \u2014 2017-8-25

it is a great honor for me to join the residents of Sugar Notch, Pennsylvania in celebrating the borough's 150th Anniversary. prgtoken The last 150 years have proven transformative for the borough, demonstrating its vitality and strong sense of community. Originally a part of Hanover Township, Sugar Notch first began to develop its independent identity when its early pioneers constructed log homes and harvested maple syrup from local forests. On April 3rd of 1867, Sugar Notch officially became a borough, home to 53 households and a large boarding house. From there, it carved out its place in Luzerne County and in the Commonwealth's history. The construction of railroads helped bring a thriving coal industry to the borough. Several small businesses and schools quickly followed, and, by 1870, Sugar Notch's original population had more than doubled. prgtoken Over the years, the Sugar Notch community grew and thrived. It contributed not just to Pennsylvania, but also to the entire nation, sending many soldiers to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. In 1948, the borough displayed its dedication to its servicemembers by erecting a memorial bearing the names of local war heroes. It was the first memorial in the U.S. to honor the late President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and the unveiling of the memorial drew more than 4,000 attendees, as well as former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. prgtoken This year, the borough of Sugar Notch celebrates its 150th Anniversary, recognizing its long record of history and service. The event will be marked by a reenactment of the dedication of the FDR Memorial, and the publication of a commemorative booklet that will no doubt pass on the borough's story to future generations. I am honored to represent Sugar Notch, Pennsylvania and take great pride in the borough's history, success, and sense of community. prgtoken , please join me in recognizing the borough of Sugar Notch's 150th Anniversary.
RECOGNIZING TRINE UNIVERSITY
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2017-8-25

I rise today to recognize Trine University. prgtoken A recent article by ABC 21 in Fort Wayne recognized the accomplishments of the University. prgtoken There has been a school of engineering at Angola's Trine University since 1902 and if you think a small-town college can't leave its mark on the world, think again. prgtoken Within the walls of the university's Brock Center stands the Hall of Innovation, a hall of fame, really, honoring over two hundred Trine alums who have more than 900 patents to their credit and many of their inventions we can't imagine doing without. Robert Dietz, Class of '52, invented the ground fault circuit interrupter, that electrical outlet you find in bathrooms that keep you from being electrocuted. Ralph Freathy invented the record changer, the device that lets you stack records eight or ten high for continuous music. Robert Molitor, Class of '42, invented the modern golf ball and Charles Montagna, Class of '49, invented the loop the loop racetrack for Hot Wheels cars . . . many of us remember that. Speaking of cars, Daniel Wisner, Class of '54, invented cruise control. ``A good solution made by a good engineer that has lasted the test of time,'' says Innovation One director Jason Blume. ``The engineers that have walked these halls and this campus in northeast Indiana, they're worldwide in impacting the world in every way that we can.'' prgtoken The Hall of Fame isn't restricted to men. Judy Scheftic, Class of '84, developed a method for purifying metals and Angie Mannon, Class of '87, figured out a better way to cool automotive turbochargers and superchargers. 208 brilliant alums are honored here, another 23 will be added during homecoming week prgtoken next month and many more after that no doubt. An impressive contribution to life on planet earth, made quietly and continuously in a bright little corner of 21 Country. ``If we look in the future this space is gonna be too small to have all the impact and innovation,'' says Blume. ``I don't know what we'll see in the next hundred years.''
CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF STEEL WAREHOUSE
Jackie Walorski (Republican, IN) \u2014 2017-8-25

I rise today to congratulate Steel Warehouse Company and join them in celebrating 70 years of success. prgtoken Three generations ago, the Lerman family set up a small shop, which quickly expanded its capabilities and began serving South Bend, Indiana, and the surrounding communities. Now 70 years later, with more than 600 employees, Steel Warehouse has established a global industrial network to deliver high-quality materials to their customers. This family-owned business sets a high bar within the steel industry, and I am so grateful for the outstanding innovation and quality of service Steel Warehouse provides. prgtoken A leader in its field, Steel Warehouse uses the incredible strength of large, powerful machinery while harnessing the brainpower of its highly skilled engineers, operators, and technicians. The company's commitment to steady growth has enabled it to expand far beyond its headquarters in South Bend. In fact, with fourteen locations, Steel Warehouse employs workers across the U.S Mexico and Brazil, and utilizes a growing relationship with steel mills throughout the Midwest and around the world to purchase the best supply for its customers. prgtoken Not only have this company's capabilities increased immensely with new technology and growing markets in the Midwest, the Lerman family's unique adaptability and dynamic ingenuity has created a business model built on creativity and problem-solving. As the State of Indiana continues to lead the nation in steel production, Steel Warehouse is an extraordinary example for businesses across Indiana and the United States. prgtoken It is a privilege and an honor to represent Steel Warehouse, the Lerman family, and the hardworking employees who have played such a positive role in northern Indiana's growing economy for decades. Mr on behalf of Indiana's 2nd District, I want to thank Steel Warehouse for an incredible 70 years, and I look forward to the continued growth and expansion that lies ahead.
HONORING MAJOR GENERAL DANIEL L. YORK FOR 36 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE UNITED STATES ARMY
Doug Lamborn (Republican, CO) \u2014 2017-8-25

I rise today to honor Major General Daniel L. York for his thirty-six years of distinguished service to a grateful nation. His tremendous leadership and commitment to excellence reflect the highest standards of our nation's military. MG York's steadfast devotion to our Creator and the Christian faith during his many years in the United States Army have surely left an enduring testimony with his family, friends and all who shared in his military career. I am very proud to be his friend and brother in Christ and I wish him many blessings in retirement. prgtoken Major General York most recently served as the North American Aerospace Defense Command and United States Northern Command Special Assistant to the Commander for Reserve Matters. As an Army Reservist, he has over thirty years of service commanding at the company, battalion, brigade, and division level. He earned the coveted Ranger Tab, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Jungle Expert Badge, Rappel Master, and Expert Infantryman Badge. prgtoken Major General York graduated from West Point with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering and a Masters of Divinity from Bethel (West) Seminary and a Masters of Strategic Studies degree from the U.S. Army War College. prgtoken As a civilian leader in his community, Major General York serves as the Director of First Cause, an International Leadership Development NGO he created in 2000, active in six countries. He is also a Senior Advisor for Thayer Leader Development Group at West Point. In 2012 he founded VetREST a non-profit created to help Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress (PTS). He serves as the Board Chairman for VetREST and is helping the organization establish chapters nationwide. Major General York also started and pastored three churches and speaks both nationally and internationally on leadership and related topics. prgtoken Major General York is married to the former Kathleen Hardy and they have three children and three grandchildren.
IN RECOGNITION OF TAD DAVIS' TENURE OF SERVICE TO THE TOWN OF SPRING LAKE AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2017-8-25

I rise today to recognize Tad Davis for his years of service to our community upon his appointment as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment at the Department of Defense. prgtoken Mr. Davis has admirably and faithfully served citizens across North Carolina's 8th Congressional District for decades. I had the privilege of working hand-in-hand with Mr. Davis when he was Garrison Commander of Fort Bragg, the epicenter of the universe and the nation's largest military installation. During those years, he was a fantastic steward of Fort Bragg's resources and helped lead the charge for much-needed modernization and expansion at the base. prgtoken Over the last two years, Mr. Davis has served as the Town Manager of the town of Spring Lake, North Carolina. During his tenure, Mr. Davis assisted the Board of Alderman and Mayor Chris Rey in reestablishing sound financial management procedures, led the Town's preparation for and response to several natural disasters, most notably Hurricane Matthew, and worked closely with a multitude of state and local organizations, local businesses, Fort Bragg/Pope Army Air Field, non- profits, churches and the citizens of Spring, Lake to make the town truly a great place to live, work, play and worship. prgtoken Tad is also known as a pillar of the community. Despite the long hours he put in as Town Manager, he was still heavily engaged with a host of local community organizations, including the Fayetteville Technical Community College Foundation Board of Directors; the Regional Land Use Advisory Commission Board of Directors, the Sustainable Sandhills Board of Directors, FAMPO, the Cape Fear Regional Theater, the Fayetteville Symphony, the Sandhills Family Heritage Association, the Arts Council, Cumberland County Schools, the Sons of the American Revolution, AUSA, MOAA, and American Legion Post 230. prgtoken Tad Davis has amassed an outstanding military and professional career serving people without seeking personal acclaim or recognition--I think it's only fitting that we honor Mr. Davis from the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today. Tad's leadership will be missed in Cumberland County and the 8th District, but our country will benefit from his new role at the Pentagon under Secretary of Defense James Mattis. prgtoken , please join me today in recognizing the nomination of Tad Davis for his years of service to Spring Lake and our community, and his appointment to the Pentagon.
DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC., DR. PAULETTE C. WALKER
Kathy Castor (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2017-8-25

I rise today to recognize the outstanding work of a visionary and a dedicated leader of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc Dr. Paulette C. Walker. Dr. Walker has dedicated her life to improving the lives of others through education and public service. Today, I am grateful to recognize her selfless dedication and honor her valuable contributions to our community. prgtoken Dr. Walker served as the 25th National President of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. A Detroit native she is now a proud Floridian calling the Tampa Bay area home since February 1990. Dr. Walker has served Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. on the local, regional and national levels for more than 45 years. prgtoken Dr. Walker was initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. through the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter in 1966 and earned her bachelor's degree in mathematics education from Michigan State University, master's degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Michigan, and her doctorate of education in administration and supervision also from UM. prgtoken Dr. Walker's research was on curriculum and instruction as well as administration and supervision with a focus on urban schools. She has also served as a classroom teacher, middle school and high school counselor, director of counseling, assistant principal and district- wide supervisor of state and federal projects. Her education, experience and expertise even combined to help her co-author a book, ``We Can Have Better Urban Schools.'' prgtoken In July 2011, she retired as the Director of Undergraduate Programs and Internship in the College of Education at the University of South Florida. prgtoken Throughout her career, Dr. Walker received numerous awards from several professional, civic and religious organizations. These flowed from her hard work and belief that every person has a special gift that should be shared with the world. She is the recipient of the Hank Nuwer Anti-Hazing Hero Award; Ronald McNair Scholars Research Mentor Award; Ronald McNair Scholars Role Model Mentor Award; Outstanding Undergraduate Advisor Award from the University of South Florida; Certificate of Merit, Institutional Award, American College Testing Program and National Academic Advising Association; and the President's Affirmative Act Award, University of South Florida. prgtoken Dr. Walker is an active member of Mt. Olive AME Church in Tampa, Florida where she serves on the Trustee Board. Her other professional and community affiliations include: Board of Supervisors for Coahoma County; Member of the Council of Presidents--The National Pan-Hellenic Council; PACE Center for Girls Advisory Board; Moffitt Cancer Center African American Advisory Board; Mt. Olive Tampa Community Development Center, Mt. Pleasant Charter School Advisory Board. The State of Florida has recognized how valuable her counsel can be and appointed her to the Governor's Commission on African American Affairs. Also, at the s