mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN RECOGNITION OF THE FIFTH ANNIVERSARY OF BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL AND ALL THE AMAZING CONTRIBUTIONS THAT CAROLE KING HAS MADE TO NEW YORK AND OUR COUNTRY
Carolyn B. Maloney (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2019-1-8

. Madam , I rise today to recognize my dear friend Carole King, arguably the most prodigious singer-songwriter of our century, for the fifth anniversary of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical which is based on her life and career. prgtoken Beautiful: The Carole King Musical opened on Broadway on January 12, 2014. After its first season the show won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album as well as two Tony awards. In 2015 it opened on London's West End, garnering 2 Olivier Awards. The show is now entering its sixth year. prgtoken Carole King launched her extraordinary musical career as a songwriter at the young age of seventeen with the song ``Will You Love Me Tomorrow,'' co-written alongside her then-husband Gerry Goffin. She continued to cowrite dozens of subsequent chart-topping songs until she wrote her first solo song, ``Baby Sittin,'' in 1967. She made her breakthrough as a musical artist in her own right when she released her album Tapestry in 1971, which stayed on the charts for over six years and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. prgtoken To date, King has composed more than 100 hit singles and amassed numerous prestigious musical awards, including four Grammy Awards. She was the first woman to receive the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, which she was honored with in 2013. She has also been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame as well as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and was a Kennedy Center Honoree in 2015. prgtoken In addition to her prolific musical career, King has also dedicated her exceptional abilities towards environmental activism and ensuring the conservation of American wildlife, parks, and wild places. King is a long-time resident of Idaho and began working with the Alliance for the Wild Rockies in 1990, testifying on Capitol Hill against legislation that would harm Idahoan natural spaces. She has also been a stalwart and outspoken advocate of the Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act (NREPA), a bill I have introduced in every Congress since the 103rd Congress. King testified in favor of NREPA in 2009 before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary contributions of Carole King, whose environmentalism and musical talents have bettered New York and our nation and inspired a Broadway musical.
PANDEMIC AND ALL-HAZARDS PREPAREDNESS AND ADVANCING INNOVATION ACT OF 2019
Anna G. Eshoo (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-1-8

I rise in support of this bipartisan legislation, the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act. I've worked on this legislation with my partner Representative Susan Brooks for almost a year and it reflects months of negotiations and compromise reached by the House and Senate. This bill also includes important updates to the Over-the-Counter Monograph program at the Food and Drug Administration. I am proud to reintroduce this bill in the 116th Congress and pleased the House is taking it up so quickly. prgtoken The Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act we're considering today is critical to our national security. The legislation updates the original Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act I authored with then-Representativelichard Burr in 2006, by directing federal agencies to respond to new and emerging threats, and strengthen our nation's existing preparedness and response programs. This legislation reauthorizes critical programs that ensure our nation is prepared to respond to naturally occurring and manmade disasters. These threats are real and our country must be prepared to adequately respond to them. This reauthorization meets the challenges that we face today and those we anticipate facing in the future. The policies in this bill are almost identical to those passed under suspension by the House in September 2018 with small changes made at the request of the Senate. The House passed an identical bill at the end of the 115th Congress by a vote of 367 to 9. prgtoken This bill also includes overdue updates to the Over-the-Counter Monograph program which will streamline the process by which over-the- counter products are regulated and approved by FDA and will improve patient safety. It establishes a new user fee program that will enable FDA to act faster to address safety issues associated with over-the- counter drugs and bring innovative over-the-counter drugs to market. prgtoken It's imperative that after the House passes this legislation today that the Senate take it up quickly and send it to the President's desk as soon as possible. PAHPA expired on September 30th and reauthorizing these programs is critical to our national security. prgtoken I'm proud of this legislation and I urge my colleagues to support the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act.
HONORING COURTNEY CALLEJAS
Jared Huffman (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-1-8

. Madam , I rise today to pay tribute to Courtney Callejas. After joining my team as an intern in my first term in office, she departs this week, more than four years later, as a trusted legislative assistant covering a wide range of important issues. prgtoken Courtney is a native of the second congressional district of California, the most beautiful district in the country, and her fondness for the people and places of the North Bay have served her very well in her work. She graduated from Sonoma State University in 2012, and after attaining a Master of Science in International Relations degree from Kingston University in London, she returned to her hometown of Petaluma for a job with the family-owned Straus Family Creamery, a leading organic dairy in our region. Her work ethic and enthusiasm brought her success in that role, but then--fortunately--her desire to get involved in public policy brought her east to Washington, D.C. prgtoken Over the course of the next several years, Courtney has worked her way up and done a little of everything in the office: managing interns and greeting constituents, strengthening my constituent correspondence program, and, ultimately, becoming a legislative assistant. In the 115th Congress, Courtney staffed the creation of our new Congressional Freethought Caucus and has been integral to our efforts to bring accountability to the administration, especially in the realms of campaign finance and foreign policy. Her intellectual curiosity, desire to help others, and dedication to public service were clear from the beginning, and her time living and working in the North Bay have given her important personal insights into the district's interests and needs. prgtoken Madam , as Courtney moves on to the staff of Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton of her adopted state of Virginia, we will miss her generous spirit, hometown pride, and infectious laugh, and we wish her the best of luck in her new adventure.
STRENGTHENING AMERICA'S SECURITY IN THE MIDDLE EAST ACT OF 2019--Motion to Proceed (Continued)
Chris Van Hollen (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2019-1-8

we are now in day 18 of an unnecessary and shameful government shutdown. I am proud to be joined on the floor by my colleague and partner, the senior Senator from Maryland, Ben Cardin, Senator Tim Kaine and Senator Warner from Virginia, and many of my colleagues, to say loud and clear that the first order of business in this Senate should be to reopen the Federal Government because every day that goes by, more and more Americans are losing access to important government services, 800,000 hard-working Federal employees are going without pay and facing mounting monthly bills, 400,000-plus are working without pay to help protect our country, and over 300,000 are forcibly furloughed. Small businesses that do contract work for the government are getting clobbered, as are the employees who work for them. prgtoken We have it within our power to vote tonight to end this shutdown by voting on the two bills that passed the House of Representatives last Thursday. They made it their first order of business, and so should we. I have copies of those bills. prgtoken I have a copy of H.J. Res. 1 right here in my hand. It would reopen the Homeland Security Department at current levels until February 8, allowing us an opportunity to discuss with the President the best and most effective approach to border security. It is identical to what this Senate passed on a bipartisan basis just before Christmas. prgtoken The second bill that passed the House--and I have that right here at my desk as well--would reopen the other eight Departments of the Federal Government for the remainder of the fiscal year and, importantly, at levels that were supported in this Senate on a bipartisan basis either through votes on this Senate floor or in the Senate Appropriations Committee. prgtoken Both of these bills--H.J. Res. 1 and H.R. 21--are on the Senate calendar. We could bring them up, and we could vote tonight to end the government shutdown. Then we could have a discussion with the President on the best way to secure our borders. Let's stop holding the entire Nation and 800,000 hard-working Federal employees hostage in a disagreement they have nothing to do with. prgtoken President did say that he was going to be proud to shut down the government, and he did it. Every day that goes by in this Senate without a vote on the House bills to reopen the government makes this Senate more and more complicit in the shutdown. No Senator--no Senator--should be contracting out their constitutional responsibilities and their votes to the President of the United States. Let's not be an accomplice to this shutdown. Let's bring up the vote, bring up the bill, vote on it now--no business-as-usual tonight--and let's, first of all, do the people's business and reopen the government. Let's do it now. prgtoken I am proud to now give time to Senator Cardin, my friend, the senior Senator from Maryland.
REMEMBERING THE VICTIMS OF THE I-75 COLLISION NEAR GAINESVILLE, FL
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2019-1-8

from New Hampshire, as well as the Senator from Virginia and my other colleagues who are gathered here. prgtoken My trek each week to this desk starts in Illinois. It means that for a number of years, I have gone through the airports of the Midwest-- primarily in Illinois and Missouri--more than most. In fact, I probably know O'Hare Airport and every corner of it better than anyone who doesn't work there on a regular basis, and I know the people who work there, too, at all different levels. prgtoken Starting in 2001, we brought in TSA as a means of making certain that we would be safe boarding airplanes, that people would not bring guns or weapons or bombs onto planes. These men and women, of course, get on our nerves once in a while as we have to open a valise or piece of baggage and take off our shoes, and perhaps we forgot there was a water bottle onboard. It is a little frustrating, and I know I have had that feeling, but I often think to myself: They are doing their job, and thank goodness they are. If it weren't for the men and women of TSA carefully screening passengers every single day, we would not be as safe, nor would our families be as safe, on these airplanes. prgtoken At 10 this morning, I went out to O'Hare. Instead of heading to the gate to catch a plane, I had a press conference and brought four of these TSA agents in to explain what has happened to them and what will happen this coming weekend because, you see, this is showdown weekend for these employees. President 's shutdown of the Federal Government will mean that for the first time this coming weekend, these employees of the Transportation Security Agency are not going to receive a paycheck. They show up for work every day. They have to. They are known as essential personnel, which means our government has decided we can't really function as a nation without them. Yet our government has decided--at least in the White House--that as important as they may be, as essential as they may be, starting this weekend they will work without pay. prgtoken I had not met them personally before, but I asked each of them to explain, what is this going to mean to you and your family--not getting a paycheck. prgtoken They really brought home to me what workers across America--not just Federal employees but workers across America--face every payday. They each said to me, with only one exception: Senator, we live paycheck to paycheck. If we don't receive our paychecks, we have to make some basic decisions. prgtoken One young woman, who had worked for 16 years for TSA, said to me: I live 39 miles away from O'Hare, roundtrip 78 miles every single day, and I make it because I need this job, and I need gasoline for my car to get here. It costs me a lot of money each and every day and every week. I don't know what I am going to do without the paycheck. prgtoken Another one talked about the fact that they are dealing with exp
IN RECOGNITION OF THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF HARRY GRODSKY & CO., INC.
Richard E. Neal (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2019-1-8

. Madam , I would like to take this opportunity to recognize and congratulate Harry Grodsky & Co Inc. on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. Established in 1918, Harry Grodsky & Co Inc. is one of the largest and most experienced mechanical contractors in America. For four generations, the family-owned firm has remained focused on solving complex problems, and has built a robust reputation based on exemplary professionalism and customer care. prgtoken For 100 years, Grodsky has prioritized family and safety in every aspect of its work. The group has continued to build strong relationships with repeat customers, suppliers, and subcontractors on the way to becoming an integral part of the economy of western Massachusetts and beyond. Across the board, Grodsky has proven its commitment to quality and integrity with every project. The firm has played an active role throughout New England over the years and the communities of the region have undoubtedly benefitted from major projects carried out by Grodsky, including those at top hospitals, universities, and large financial and manufacturing facilities. prgtoken Once again Madam , over the course of its history, Harry Grodsky & Co Inc. has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and integrity. Those traits are hallmarks of the group's long and admirable tradition of service in western Massachusetts and beyond, and are certainly worthy of recognition. On the occasion of Harry Grodsky & Co Inc.'s 100th anniversary, I wish the Grodsky family and the dedicated individuals who work with them, all the best and much continued prosperity.
HONORING THE CAREER OF COLONEL STEPHEN McCARTNEY
James R. Langevin (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2019-1-8

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the career of Stephen McCartney, Chief of Police of the City of Warwick, Rhode Island, my hometown. Chief McCartney retired on December 21, 2018, concluding decades of unwavering dedication to his community and to his country. prgtoken In 1969, the same year that he graduated from Providence College with a degree in history, Chief McCartney joined the United States Marine Corps. Over his thirty years of service in the armed forces, he fought in Vietnam and in the Gulf War, and he even assisted in training Rwandan law enforcement as the country rebuilt from unspeakable tragedy. He held every infantry position from the platoon up to the regimental level before transitioning to reserve service, and he received numerous military distinctions, including the Naval and Marine Corps Medal for heroism. prgtoken Soon after his return from Vietnam, Chief McCartney joined the Providence Police Department, serving for nearly 26 years in many roles. He directed the department's first mounted unit, spent several years as the director of training, and commanded the Neighborhood Response Unit. After 15 years with the patrol bureau, he moved to the detective bureau--eventually overseeing more than 150 major investigations as its director. prgtoken Chief McCartney transitioned to the Warwick Police Department in 1999, where he served nearly 20 years as the Chief of Police with distinction, honor, and dedication. His tenure was marked by his humility, his professionalism, and his commitment not only to the safety of the community, but also to each officer under his command. Countless individuals within the department have considered him a mentor, and countless others both inside and outside of the department have considered him a true friend, myself included. Warwick has been tremendously fortunate to have had such an exemplary public servant. prgtoken Although his leadership will certainly be missed at the department, I am sure he will continue to find ways to make a difference, and I wish him well.
BIRTHDAY WISHES TO PETTIS NORMAN
Eddie Bernice Johnson (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2019-1-8

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate the birthday of a dear friend and a true East Texas treasure, Pettis Norman. prgtoken Pettis Norman, once known as one of the premier athletes in the National Football League and a long-time Dallas Cowboy, is recognized as a successful businessman with a keen sense of civic responsibility and boundless energy. With more than forty years of business experience, this former Cowboys star has achieved record success on and off the field. Norman was active in changing the segregationist climate within the Cowboys and later the city of Dallas, helping organized marches during the civil rights movement influencing the changing of the team's roommate assignments and breaking social barriers. prgtoken During his collegiate and professional careers, Pettis was a stellar athlete. He was voted a First Team, Currier All-American in 1962, while attending Johnson C. Smith University as a physical education student. Upon graduating, Pettis joined the National Football League and won three championships as a starting tight end for the Dallas Cowboys and San Diego Chargers over nine seasons. prgtoken In addition to his professional sports endeavors, Pettis pursued a career in banking with South Oak Cliff State Bank in Dallas. Pettis was initially hired to work in Public Relations, but quickly rose to the position of Assistant Vice President in Business Development. Shortly thereafter, he was promoted to Vice President, becoming the first-ever African-American Banking Officer in the region. prgtoken Pettis furthered his business interests by also venturing into real estate and restaurant franchising over the course of three decades. To date, Pettis has created four companies under the umbrella known as PNI Industries. He also created The Dallas Together Forum, consisting of approximately 20 CEOs from Fortune 500 companies, to address the pressing issues of minorities and female participation in the ``bounties of our nation''. The Dallas Together Forum became a successful model that had been replicated across the nation. prgtoken Pettis Norman is well-regarded and is highly respected within the Dallas community. I would like to recognize him on his birthday, and I thank him for his leadership to this community and to the city of Dallas, Texas.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DURING THE GARY FRONTIERS SERVICE CLUB'S 40TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL BREAKFAST
Peter J. Visclosky (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2019-1-8

. Madam , as we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and reflect on his life and work, we are reminded of the challenges that democracy poses to us and the delicate nature of liberty. Dr. King's life and, unfortunately, his untimely death, remind us that we must continually work to secure and protect our freedoms. In his courage to act, his willingness to meet challenges, and his ability to achieve, Dr. King embodied all that is good and true in the battle for liberty. prgtoken The spirit of Dr. King lives on in the citizens of communities throughout our nation. It lives on in the people whose actions reflect the spirit of resolve and achievement that will help move our country into the future. I am honored to rise today to recognize several individuals from Indiana's First Congressional District who will be recognized during the 40th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast on Saturday, January 19, 2019, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana. The Gary Frontiers Service Club, which was founded in 1952, sponsors this annual breakfast. prgtoken The Gary Frontiers Service Club will pay tribute to local individuals who have for decades selflessly contributed to improving the quality of life for the people of Gary. This year, Dr. Janet Seabrook, M.D MBA, will be honored with the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award. Additionally, Sharon Chambers, Wendell Clayton , Sr Nellie Moore, and Monroe Smith will be recognized as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marchers at this year's breakfast. prgtoken Though very different in nature, the achievements of each of these individuals reflect many of the same attributes that Dr. King possessed, as well as the values he advocated. Like Dr. King, these individuals saw challenges and faced them with unwavering strength and determination. Each one of the honored guests' greatness has been found in their willingness to serve with ``a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.'' They set goals and work selflessly to make them a reality. prgtoken Madam , I invite you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these honorees, as well as the Gary Frontiers Service Club officers, President Oliver Gilliam, who also served as the MLK Breakfast Chairman, Vice President Charles Jackson, Secretary Linnal Ford, Financial Secretary Melvin Ward, and Treasurer Floyd Donaldson, and all members of the service club for their initiative, determination, and dedication to serving the people of Northwest Indiana
INCENTIVIZING FAIRNESS IN SUBCONTRACTING ACT
Nydia M. Velázquez (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2019-1-8

the balance of my time. prgtoken , I am pleased to introduce this piece of legislation which protects our small contractors by updating the subcontracting goaling regime through increased flexibility and accountability. prgtoken Establishing incentives to count low-tier subcontracting awards and a dispute process for subcontractors to utilize in the event of nonpayment ensures a healthy Federal procurement marketplace. Today's legislation spreads the economic power of Federal procurement to more companies and the communities where they are located. prgtoken I want to thank the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Kelly) for cosponsoring this critical legislation and for all his work on this issue while serving on the Small Business Committee, and I would like to also take this opportunity to thank the ranking member. prgtoken , I urge Members to support this bill, and .