mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE SERVICE OF DONALD E. SCHNOOR
Jim Costa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-12

I rise today to honor the service of Donald E. Schnoor. Mr. Schnoor is a Korean War veteran who served the United States of America honorably. prgtoken Donald E. Schnoor was born in Chowchilla on December 19, 1934. Twenty years later, he would be part of the famed First Cavalry Division fighting in Korea. prgtoken Don attended local schools. In June 1952, shortly after graduating from Chowchilla High, he enlisted for three years in the U.S. Army. After basic training at Fort Ord, he was selected to train as a musician with the Army Band Training Unit. Upon completion of band training, he was assigned to play the trombone with the 6th Army band at Fort Mason in San Francisco. The band played for troops leaving and arriving by ship to and from the Far East, primarily Korea. Numerous Hollywood and local professional celebrities performed with the band. Wanting to see a bit of the world, Don subsequently volunteered for duty with Army occupation troops in Japan. prgtoken Upon arrival in Japan, Don was informed that although he had been trained as a musician the Army considered him an infantryman first and a trombone player second. Upon reaching Inchon, Korea, Don joined the 5th Regiment of the legendary First Cavalry Division along the frontlines southeast of Seoul near Yong Dong Po. He was assigned duty as part of a fire team for a 75 MM recoilless rifle mounted on a \3/4\ ton 4x4 utility truck. prgtoken Don served in Korea until the truce was signed in 1954 and then joined the rest of the First Cavalry Division in Hokkaido, Japan. prgtoken Later that year, the 5th Regiment moved south to Sendai, Japan, where Don joined the First Cavalry Band and Orchestra. Shortly after joining the band, Don was recommended to audition for the U.S.O. Orchestra, and after tough competition, was accepted. He spent the remainder of his overseas service traveling in Japan playing for U.S.O. shows for American servicemen. Don was one of three trombonists and enjoyed the duty. prgtoken Don returned to the U.S. in the late spring of 1955 and was discharged as a sergeant at Fort Ord. For his service, he was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. prgtoken After military service to his country, Don returned to Chowchilla and began a career in farming that has continued for fifty-six years. He and his wife, Peggy, have three daughters, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. prgtoken Don is a Life Member of Chowchilla VFW Post 9896, the American Legion Post of Madera, the Madera Elks, and the First United Methodist Church of Madera. prgtoken Don said, ``I am truly proud to have had the opportunity to serve my country.'' prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the service of Donald E. Schnoor for his dedication to his family and his country.
TRIBUTE TO REV. DR. ADRIAN M. BROOKS, SR.
Larry Bucshon (Republican, IN) \u2014 2018-10-16

I want to congratulate Rev. Dr. Adrian M. Brooks, Sr. for his remarkable twenty-five years of service to Memorial Baptist Church and the Greater Evansville, Indiana community. prgtoken Rev. Brooks has demonstrated visionary pastoral leadership since coming to Memorial in 1993. Today, ``The People's Church,'' as it is known, has over 4,500 members and offers over fifty progressive ministries that impact Southwest Indiana families each day. prgtoken One of Rev. Brooks' greatest achievements was when he helped the Memorial Baptist Church organize the Memorial Community Development Corporation in 1994. With a mission to change the educational, social, cultural prgtoken and physical dynamics of Evansville's center city, the non-profit organization lifts-up the underserved with critical programming and connective opportunities in areas of affordable housing and home ownership, medical services, youth and young adult employment, business financing, job creation . . . all while contributing to city's economic development and community enrichment. It has empowered people and revitalized neighborhoods in tangible testimony to the power of collaboration. prgtoken With deep appreciation, I congratulate Rev. Brooks on his 25-year pastorate at Memorial Baptist Church and commend him on a lasting legacy of devoted service to the people of Evansville.
IN RECOGNITION OF SANGER MASONIC LODGE
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to recognize Sanger Masonic Lodge for one-hundred and twenty-five years of service in their community. prgtoken Sanger Masonic Lodge was established soon after the founding of the City of Sanger in California. Supported by the expansion of the nation's railroad system, Sanger quickly transformed into a thriving community and attracted a wide variety of industries and individuals. As the city grew, so did the need for social functions. Many of Sanger's male citizens were members of Masonic lodges in other parts of country and quickly realized there were enough Masons in the city to consider forming their own lodge. Their charter was issued on October 11, 1893, officially authorizing the group to become Sanger Masonic Lodge, No. 316 under the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of California. While they met in various locations in the early years, Sanger Masonic Lodge found its permanent home in 1932 in the city's historic Downtown. They have remained a vital part of Sanger's success ever since. prgtoken Seventy-one active members strong, Sanger Masonic Lodge supports numerous community-service initiatives. They have donated tens of thousands of dollars to organizations including Sanger High School, the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, and various non-profits. Sanger Masonic Lodge also invests their time in homeless outreach efforts and provides yard services to senior citizens free of charge. Sanger Masonic Lodge has additionally demonstrated a commitment to our active- duty service members. They have cooked meals for units departing for combat zones and financially supported military Christmas parties. prgtoken Sanger Masonic Lodge is also known for their Child ID programs throughout the County of Fresno. These programs allow parents the opportunity to create a kit of identifying materials for their child, free of charge. The kit contains items including a fingerprint card, physical description, and DNA sample to provide critical information for law enforcement if a child goes missing. Fifteen years since their creation, Child ID programs have been used by over fifteen-thousand families. prgtoken After more than a century in existence, Sanger Masonic Lodge has become a foundational institution for the City of Sanger. Their passion for their community is demonstrated through the countless hours of service and fundraising they have freely given. While the city and nation have drastically changed since 1893, Sanger Masonic Lodge has remained a consistent endorser for the community. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Sanger Masonic Lodge for one- hundred and twenty-five years of service and wishing them further success in their future.
CONSTITUENT COMMENTS ON SOBER LIVING HOME PROBLEMS
Dana Rohrabacher (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise again regarding the hearing held by the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice on September 28, 2018 on the issue of sober living homes. At that hearing, I had the privilege of testifying in support of my bill, H.R. 5724, to restore local oversight over sober living homes. As part of my testimony, I submitted to the Subcommittee letters from many of my constituents about problems with sober living homes caused by current federal law preventing appropriate local oversight. For the benefit of my colleagues and the American people, I include in the Record the fourth group of these constituent letters below: A sober living home was across the street from me and my family for one year. Three more were around the block from me and those residents did not have parking. Our street was filled with parked cars going directly into these sober living homes. In addition, our streets were constantly littered with trash, needles & cigarette buds. Since friends of SLHs are not allowed to go within a certain distance to the SLH property, young male adults would sit under my basketball hoop smoking cigarettes in front of my then 12 and 10-year-old kids, waiting for the occupants to come outside. The police were called on at least 3 occasions with problems with the house across from me, and numerous occasions with the homes around the block. I have witnessed 3 clients of SLHs being taken away on stretchers in ambulances, with police involvement. Young adults who relapse or are kicked out of SLHs run amok through our residential streets breaking into cars and houses, buying and selling drugs in our neighborhoods filled with children. The amount of SLHs in Costa Mesa are a major problem, just ask our CMPD and businesses throughout our city. Our CM City Council wants to reduce the amount of SLHs in residential neighborhoods based on complaints from residents and businesses. Every city should have a say in this and be able to vote on local ordinances. Thank you in advance for considering this bill. Keith Frainie, Costa Mesa, California.
RECOGNIZING JAMES MALONEY
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to recognize an educator in Bucks County, Pennsylvania who recently became a finalist in a national education grant contest. prgtoken James Maloney, a teacher at Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, becomes one step closer to the $100,000 education grant that is sponsored to fund meaningful projects in local schools and communities. If selected, James plans on creating a ``living classroom'' that enables students to grow plants and cultivate produce. This is particularly beneficial for food pantries, which will benefit from the vegetables grown. It will also serve as a hands-on learning experience for students with special needs to gain valuable life skills. prgtoken I applaud James for his dedication to his students and our community. I wish him all the best in his quest for this important grant.
HONORING MAYOR GEORGE PRADEL
Peter J. Roskam (Republican, IL) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor the late A. George Pradel, who dedicated his life to the betterment of his hometown, Naperville, Illinois, most notably as mayor for two decades. prgtoken A lifelong Napervillian, Mr. Pradel began his life in public service by joining the military where he completed a three-year tour with the United States Marine Corps. After his time in the Marine Corps, he went on to serve as a police officer in his hometown. As an officer in Naperville he took it upon himself to educate students about the role of police in the community. He took a unique approach in doing so by helping develop ``Safety Town,'' a miniature town on Aurora Ave. that teaches children about self-awareness, and staying safe in the community. His cheerful demeanor and eagerness to work with kids earned him the nickname ``Officer Friendly.'' prgtoken As Officer Friendly continued to grow as an icon in Naperville, the community turned to him once again when it needed a leader, and in 1995 George Pradel was elected Mayor. As Mayor of Naperville, Mr. Pradel continued along the path that led him to office. He spoke at schools and events, he cut ribbons, and he was seen throughout the community, always with a smile. prgtoken Under Mayor Pradel's leadership Naperville transformed from a growing suburban town to an award-winning city. He helped Naperville attract businesses from around the world, he encouraged the continued excellence in Naperville schools, and he always supported local law enforcement efforts to keep his hometown safe. prgtoken , Naperville lost a great American in Mayor Pradel. I offer my greatest condolences to the Pradel family, and thank A. George Pradel for his lifetime of dedication to the city of Naperville and to our country.
TRIBUTE TO THE HONOR FLIGHT OF GREATER LAFAYETTE AND ITS FOUNDERS PAM MOW AND DANA VANN
Todd Rokita (Republican, IN) \u2014 2018-10-16

on Tuesday, October 16, 2018, The Honor Flight of Greater Lafayette will host its twenty-second and final trip escorting America's Hoosier veterans to Washington, DC, to visit memorials dedicated to honor their service. I rise today to recognize this exceptional organization and the two remarkable women who have dedicated their hearts to its success. prgtoken Organization founders Pam Mow and Dana Vann are Gold Star Mothers. Dana's son Senior Airman John Morton, Jr lost his life in Italy while serving in the Air Force on September 3, 2002. He was 22 years old. On April 12, 2007, Pam Mow lost her son Army Corporal Cody Putnam when he died in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was 22 years old. These women have already sacrificed so much, yet for the past seven years, they have chosen to honor the lives and service of veterans through the Honor Flight of Greater Lafayette. prgtoken The first honor flight from Lafayette, Indiana, took place on April 16, 2012. Since that time over 1,800 veterans have departed the Purdue University Airport to arrive in Washington, D.C where they and their guardians were able to visit the war memorials and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery. Veterans have told me that viewing the monuments, which honor their service, is a very moving experience. Additionally, they really enjoyed receiving letters of appreciation from relatives, friends, and school children at ``Mail Call'' and being greeted by hundreds of patriotic, flag-waving Americans on the tarmac when their plane returned to Lafayette. One veteran expressed to me, ``It was the best day of my life.'' prgtoken These once in a lifetime Hoosier veteran experiences are because of the dedication, leadership, and work of Pam Mow and Dana Vann. I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for their service to veterans and the community-at-large. It is truly an honor to congratulate them for the twenty-two successful trips of The Honor Flight of Greater Lafayette. May God bless Pam and Dana as they go forward with their lives.
COST ESTIMATE ON H.R. 6265, THE PRECHECK IS PRECHECK ACT OF 2018
Michael T. McCaul (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-10-16

the following cost estimate for H.R. 6265, the PreCheck is Precheck Act of 2018 prepared by the Congressional Budget Office was not available to the Committee at the time of filing of the legislative report. U.S. Congress, Congressional Budget Office, Washington, DC, October 11, 2018. Hon. Michael McCaul, Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear : The Congressional Budget Office has prepared the enclosed cost estimate for H.R. 6265, the PreCheck is PreCheck Act of 2018. If you wish further details on this estimate, we will be pleased to provide them. The CBO staff contact is Megan Carrol. Sincerely, Keith Hall, Director. Enclosure. H.R. 6265--PreCheck is PreCheck Act of 2018 As passed by the House of Representatives on September 4, 2018 The federal government--primarily through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)--administers several risk-based programs that facilitate, through advanced vetting of applicants, expedited screening of participating passengers at security checkpoints. H.R. 6265 would require TSA to ensure that only travelers who are members of such programs are permitted to use expedited security-screening lanes (often called PreCheck lanes) at TSA-regulated airports. The act would require the agency to increase enrollment in such programs and to conduct a pilot program related to the use of modified screening procedures for passengers deemed to pose low security risks. The legislation also would specify other administrative and reporting requirements. Using information from TSA, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 6265 would not significantly affect the federal budget. The agency is already implementing activities that are similar to those envisioned under H.R. 6265. As a result, CBO expects that any change in the agency's spending--which would be subject to appropriation--would be insignificant. Enacting H.R. 6265 would not affect direct spending or revenues; therefore, pay-as-you-go procedures do not apply. CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 6265 would not increase net direct spending or on-budget deficits in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2029. H.R. 6265 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act. The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Megan Carroll. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Assistant Director for Budget Analysis.
HONORING BRAD BYLER
Sam Graves (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-10-16

I proudly pause to recognize Brad Byler. Brad is a very special young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 1692, and earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. prgtoken Brad has been very active with his troop, participating in many scout activities. Over the many years Brad has been involved with scouting, he has not only earned numerous merit badges, but also the respect of his family, peers, and community. Most notably, Brad has contributed to his community through his Eagle Scout project. prgtoken , I proudly ask you to join me in commending Brad for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MULLIN FAMILY
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2018-10-16

congratulations to Paul and Mary Kate Mullin on the birth of their daughter, Kathryn Esther Mullin, on September 30, 2018 at 9:30 p.m. in Indianapolis, Indiana. The newest addition to a long line of Hoosiers, her maternal grandparents are Patrick Mulligan, a farmer, and Marilyn Marra, a retired school principal. Marilyn now resides in Fishers, Indiana with her husband Ronan. Patrick still resides in Kentland with his wife Tansey Mulligan. Kathryn's father, Paul Owen Mullin, is a partner at the venerable litigation-boutique firm prgtoken Lewis And Wilkins in Indianapolis. Indianapolis Monthly characterized Paul last month as a long-time supporter of the city's art community. Kathryn's paternal grandparents are Pat and Val Mullin, retired, and residents of Nashville, Indiana. Pat had a career in sales and Val was a high school English teacher. Kathryn's maternal great-grandfather, Charles Richard Paul, 96 years old, originally from Evansville, is still an active stockbroker and will be teaching Kathryn the importance of trading with puts and calls starting in a few years. Although she does not realize it yet, Kathryn's best friend is Noor, the family dog. I congratulate the entire Mullin family on the birth of Kathryn and wish her a long, happy life.
HONORING JOHN CATSIMATIDIS
Gus M. Bilirakis (Republican, FL) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor the extraordinary contributions of John Catsimatidis to our nation. John's story showcases the very best of what immigrants can accomplish in our great nation through hard work, ingenuity, and perseverance. prgtoken John was born on the Greek island of Nisyros and came to this country when he was just a few months old. He grew up in East Harlem, and attended New York University to pursue a degree in electrical engineering. Beginning with partial ownership of a friend's supermarket, he grew his business into a proud pillar of American industry. In addition to Gristedes supermarket, John Catsimatidis's Red Apple Group is primarily an energy company with holdings in oil refining, real estate, aviation, and medical and industrial technology. His businesses, which post annual sales of approximately $5 billion, employ more than 8,000 people. John's business success came directly from the integration of his own ingenuity with American opportunity, and adds to a long legacy of immigrants who have pushed our nation to greater heights. prgtoken John and his family have also been exceptional in their commitment to philanthropy. The Catsimatidis Foundation has been instrumental in supporting numerous worthy causes including the Police Athletic League, the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, the Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund, AHEPA and countless others. His family's generosity will ensure that many thousands will find relief from their suffering and future generations will have access to resources that will allow them to pursue their dreams. prgtoken As a benefactor of John's philanthropy, the Order of AHEPA, has promoted the ancient Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism. AHEPA was instrumental in welcoming the early Greek immigrants as they disembarked at Ellis Island, and eased their assimilation into the American culture by teaching English and finding employment opportunities for these new arrivals. prgtoken The Delphi Chapter No. 25 of AHEPA was founded in Manhattan, New York. It has had many notable and prominent members in its history, including many Phil-Hellenes who embraced AHEPA's ideals and values. On March 11, 1931 the then New York State Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt became a member of the Order of AHEPA and joined the Delphi Chapter No. 25 in New York City. The Delphi 25 Chapter continues on today the tradition of AHEPA's ideals and values of promoting education and Hellenism through many efforts of public service and philanthropy. prgtoken I join the AHEPA in honoring John Catsimatidis for his numerous achievements and philanthropic efforts in service to the Greek-American community and humanity at large. I thank him for his outstanding service to our country. Worthy. Worthy. Worthy. (Axios. Axios. Axios.)
HONORING THE SERVICE AND LEGACY OF THE HONORABLE ARLAN MEEKHOF
Bill Huizenga (Republican, MI) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to recognize Mr. Arlan Meekhof and his admirable career in public service to the West Michigan Community. prgtoken A lifelong resident of West Michigan, Arlan has earned the admiration of his colleagues and the respect of Ottawa County residents by consistently acting with decency and integrity. An accomplished legislator, Senator Meekhof has cemented a legacy of public service and servant leadership throughout the state of Michigan. prgtoken First elected to the Olive Township Board of Trustees in 1996, Senator Meekhof has continued to serve the people of West Michigan for over two decades. In 2007, he began his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives and was elected assistant leader by his colleagues in January 2009. In November of 2010 he was elected to the State Senate in the 30th State Senate District, representing Ottawa County and the City of Grandville and Sparta Township in Kent County. Following his 2014 reelection to the State Senate, he was unanimously elected to be Senate Majority leader--displaying the respect Senator Meekhof has cultivated during his career. prgtoken In his eight years serving in the Michigan Senate, he has been a commendable leader that ensured on-time and balanced budgets. His leadership contributed and played a key role to the elimination of a billion dollar state deficit. During his time in both the House and Senate, he promoted efficient and effective government reforms that played a significant role in transforming Michigan into a destination for families, businesses and the next generation of leaders. prgtoken Today, October 16, 2018, we honor and recognize Senator Arlan Meekhof for his two-decades long career. The efforts and success of Senator Arlan Meekhof in service to his community should be celebrated. I thank him for a lifetime of hard work and service.