mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE LIVES AND SERVICE OF WALTER ``SKIP'' CAMPBELL AND ROY TRACHTENBERG
Theodore E. Deutch (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2019-5-3

. Madam , I am honored to rise today in recognition of the lives and service of two outstanding individuals: my constituents, Roy Trachtenberg and Walter ``Skip'' Campbell. prgtoken Skip Campbell was known as a monumental warrior for justice who made a significant mark on the world. Skip served his community in the Florida Senate from 1996 to 2006, before his election as Mayor of Coral Springs in 2014. His leadership was paramount in ensuring the success and wellbeing of our community. prgtoken A South Florida native, Roy Trachtenberg served as an administrator in the New York School system, where he devoted 35 years to helping students succeed. He moved back to Florida where he served as the Dean of Education for a community college trade school, where he developed a curriculum to upgrade the skills of workers displaced due to the 9/11 terrorist attack. prgtoken Through their public service, each honoree has touched countless lives and made a lasting impact on our South Florida community. In recognition of this service, the Coral Spring/Parkland ic Club have honored their memories by designating their annual service and leadership awards as the Roy Trachtenberg Service Award and the Skip Campbell Leadership Award. prgtoken Skip and Roy are truly deserving of this honor. I am glad to see their legacies of service preserved and used as a paradigm for those who follow them.
IN RECOGNITION OF KIM GARZA TURNER
Michael C. Burgess (Republican, TX) \u2014 2019-5-3

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the achievements of Kim Garza Turner, an outstanding North Texan. A dedicated advocate for civic participation, Kim selflessly serves her community in all that she does. prgtoken As a young student at the University of North Texas, Kim interned in my Washington, D.C. office in 2004. This opportunity, facilitated by UNT's North Texas in DC Internship Program, commenced Kim's longstanding career in public service. From the U.S. Capitol, Kim was chosen as the sole intern for the West Wing of the White House during President 's 2004 re-election. prgtoken After returning to Texas to continue her studies at UNT, she kept pursuing a career in politics. For more than a decade, I have relied on Kim as a leader, collaborator, and trusted advisor. She has a proven track record of success as a consultant and strategist. prgtoken In addition to her work in politics, Kim is active member of her North Texas community. She teaches Sunday school, volunteers as a member of the Junior League of Dallas, and recently completed her term on the Board of Trustees for the Dallas Historical Society. prgtoken This evening, Kim will receive the NTDC Program's Legacy Award in recognition of her many achievements. I am thankful that NTDC connected Kim with my office 15 years ago, and tonight I am glad to add my voice to this well-deserved praise. prgtoken From Capitol Hill to the White House and beyond, Kim has dedicated much of her life to serving her fellow North Texans and the American people. I congratulate my fellow UNT alum on this honor, and look ahead to many more years of excellence.
COMMEMORATING THE ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ELMIRA KIWANIS CLUB
Tom Reed (Republican, NY) \u2014 2019-5-3

. Madam , I rise today to commemorate the one hundredth anniversary of the Elmira Kiwanis Club. prgtoken The Kiwanis Club of Elmira is a branch of Kiwanis International, a global volunteer organization dedicated to bettering the world through their communities and the children in them. Over their century-long history, the Elmira Kiwanis have had more than ten thousand local residents join them in serving their community, providing over one million hours of community service. prgtoken In their mission to better their community, the Elmira Kiwanians have partnered with a variety of local organizations. They have lent their support to groups such as the YMCA, the Arctic League, Food Bank of the Southern Tier, the Red Cross, and the Salvation Army, providing service or financial support to help make their community a better place to live. Over the last one hundred years, the Kiwanis Club of Elmira has donated more than five hundred thousand dollars to community groups and organizations. prgtoken The Elmira Kiwanis Club has been dedicated to helping children both at home and abroad. Elmira students have felt their support as the Elmira Kiwanis Club has backed programs such as the Terrific Kids and B.U.G.S (Bringing up grades) programs. Elmira Kiwanians recognize the potential of graduating high school seniors by awarding scholarships. To support children abroad, members have joined with Kiwanis International projects to benefit UNICEF. prgtoken Most recently the Elmira Kiwanis Club established the Hometown Heroes Banner program, proudly recognizing military service of more than two hundred twenty-five local men and women who have served our country and fought for our freedoms. prgtoken One hundred years of service in the community is certainly a cause for celebration. I congratulate the Elmira Kiwanis Club on this impressive milestone and look forward to their continued success in the years to come. prgtoken Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of the Elmira Kiwanis Club.
HONORING THE LIFE OF APRIL BLANKENSHIP
Sam Graves (Republican, MO) \u2014 2019-5-3

. Madam , I rise today along with my colleagues, Representatives Peter A. DeFazio, Virginia Foxx, Juan Vargas, Van Taylor, Adam Kinzinger, John R. Moolenaar, Rodney Davis, and Ted S. Yoho, DVM, in honor of the life of April Blankenship, beloved and integral staff member to this Body. April faithfully served as a shared financial administrator to Committees and personal offices; Leadership, prgtoken rank and file, and freshman; and both s and for almost 20 years before her passing at age 49 on April 15, 2019. Her diligence, work ethic, and candor were an asset to every office that was fortunate enough to work with her, and were only matched by her kindness toward all those with whom she interacted. prgtoken April was a faithful steward of taxpayer dollars, trusted advisor, detailed accountant, and wise counselor. As she wheeled her briefcase through the buildings every week, she brought warmth, humor, and a ready smile. Thanks to her sound advice and strong relationships, our offices have maintained compliance with the complex rules governing financial administration. To the institution, April was integral to the everyday operation and overall smooth functioning of the legislative body. To Members, April was both responsive and honest in her assessments, ensuring that their needs were met swiftly and reliably. To countless staff, April was the first and last point of contact on Capitol Hill--from instructing those just starting their careers to save appropriately and conduct themselves in a manner that would best represent those they serve to advising individuals leaving the Hill on retirement and compliance. She continued to function as a sounding board for staff as they progressed in their careers and served in other capacities. That she was asked to serve so many varying districts and Committees is a testament to her character--April was a public servant in the truest sense of the word. prgtoken Recollections of her role in our offices would be incomplete without acknowledging her husband Tim and their three sons--Dakota, Hunter, and Tucker. The boys were frequent, welcome additions during her office visits. We send our deepest condolences to her family for their loss. prgtoken It is with great sadness, but also with great gratitude that we honor the life of April Blankenship. It was a pleasure to have had the opportunity to know her and an honor to serve alongside her.
CONGRESSIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AWARDS
Vern Buchanan (Republican, FL) \u2014 2019-5-3

. Madam , I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinctive service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. prgtoken Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage and a dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. prgtoken Eight years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards, CLEA, to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments, or units for exceptional achievement. prgtoken This year, I will present congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing across-section of the district's law enforcement community: prgtoken Dedication and Professionalism Award: Detective Ben Lubrano, Lieutenant Arlene Tracy, Sergeant Ivan Nelson of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, Sergeant Brian Hall and Officer Michael Walker of Holmes Beach Police Department, Officer Patrick Mahoney of the Bradenton Police Department and Lieutenant Mark Morie of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. prgtoken Career Service Award: Sergeant John Negron of the Bradenton Police Department, Detective Anthony DeFrancisco of the Sarasota Police Department, Detective Derek Pollock of the Manatee County Sheriff's Department and Sergeant Todd Bergman and Corporal Kimber Benavidez of the Florida Highway Patrol. prgtoken Preservation of Life Award: Mr. Harry Mofield (civilian) nominated by Manatee County Sheriff's Office and Sergeant Rob Hendrickson of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. prgtoken Unit Citation Award: Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit: Lieutenant Chris Montalbano, Sergeant Scott Huber, Sergeant Rob Jovanovski, Detective Eric Griffin, Detective Lyle Kennedy, Detective Ralph Manzano, Detective Michele Pufnock, Detective Jason Smith, Detective Erica Dawson, Detective Mark Eve, Detective Chandler Hartman, Detective Dominic Makowiecki, Detective Kyle Pfender, Detective Adam Shaw, Detective Brian Keane, Detective Ronald Koenig, Crime Analyst Natalie Johnson-Mayer. prgtoken Bradenton Police Department Social Media Group: Captain Brian Thiers, Rose Hedberg, Emily Bibb, and Detective Frank Coleman. prgtoken Sarasota Police Department's SWAT Unit: Lieutenant Kenneth Rainey II, Lieutenant Michael Schwieterman, Sergeant Jeffery Ball, Sergeant Tyler Rossnagle, Sergeant Dwayne prgtoken Shellhammer, Officer Helios Blanco, Officer Kevin Campbell, Officer Sean Carter, Detective Patrick Comac, Officer Terry Crenshaw, Officer Nicholas Dominis, Detective Dustin Luciano, Detective Gary McDowell, Officer Jacob Nelson, Officer Michael Schultz, Officer Michael Skinner, Officer George Terris II, Officer Jonathan Misiewicz. prgtoken Sarasota Police Department's Cris
Recognition of the Majority Leader (Executive Session)
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2019-5-6

over the weekend we were given yet another tragic reminder of the daily prgtoken threats that face our friends and allies in Israel. prgtoken While American families enjoyed a spring weekend, those who make their home in the border regions of the Jewish State were subjected to a barrage of hundreds of rockets and other projectiles launched from within Gaza. prgtoken The attacks were carried out by Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. They targeted civilian populations. They killed a worker at a cement factory, a truckdriver in a border village, a man in the yard of his own home, and a rabbi as he left his car to run for cover. prgtoken They caused countless Israeli citizens to scurry to bunkers for safety, unsure whether rockets would rain upon their farms, apartment buildings, schools, or hospitals. These attacks, we should remember, are targeted at Israel's innocent civilians. They are intended to kill, to maim, and to terrorize. prgtoken In the face of such brazen acts of terror, it is of course Israel's right to take swift and decisive action to defend its people. Frankly, it is an existential necessity. prgtoken And it is the responsibility of every peaceful nation to condemn the terrorist organizations behind them and to continue to expose those governments and private entities that provide illicit support for their actions. Foremost among them is Iran, which has become a critical lifeline for the terrorist activities of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. prgtoken I know my colleagues will join me in expressing sympathy for the families of the victims and for the communities left to rebuild the wreckage of these latest attacks. Furthermore, I hope this weekend's attacks could at least spur some action here in Congress, where Senate- passed legislation to renew and strengthen our partnership with Israel is still sitting over in the House, where it has not been permitted a vote. That thoroughly bipartisan legislation contains several provisions to strengthen our security ties to Israel and also to combat the scourge of anti-Semitism. prgtoken Behind these attacks lurks the same hatred that motivated the violence at Chabad of Poway last month and the Tree of Life synagogue last year--the same ugly bigotry that takes refuge within the BDS movement while masquerading as a legitimate political stance. It is the same tide of discrimination that an overwhelming majority of European Jews report is on the rise in their own communities, even as the Holocaust remains a vivid living memory. This disturbing trend has already taken its toll on communities of faith and on peaceful Jews in Israel and around the world, but when America does any less than our level best to confront it, we further undermine the cause of our friends and allies in this free Jewish State. prgtoken I hope this terrible violence can again spur my colleagues in the House to act on the bipartisan legislation that has been languishi
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
Steve Daines (Republican, MT) \u2014 2019-5-6

today I wish to honor the men and women of the USS Billings Commissioning Committee and their notable contributions to our State and Nation. The USS Billings Commissioning Committee is a group of volunteers from Montana's largest city, who have dedicated themselves to promoting awareness and fostering support for the future commissioning of the USS Billings and all those who will sail aboard her in defense of our Nation. prgtoken Upon commissioning, the USS Billings will be the first U.S. Navy warship to bear the city's namesake, a historic moment for our State. Montana has a proud heritage of military service. Some 3,500 Active Duty servicemembers currently serve at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, and another 4,500 citizen-soldiers serve in the National Guard and Reserve at various locations across the State. Beyond the borders of our landlocked home, more than 2,200 U.S. Navy sailors currently call Montana home, adding 134 new Montanans to their ranks in the past 12 months. Montana also proudly boasts the highest percentage of veterans per capita in the contiguous United States. prgtoken A Freedom Class littoral combat ship, the USS Billings will be among the fastest, most technologically advanced, and agile efficient ships in our naval fleet. The USS Billings will project power near the shoreline and conduct a wide range of missions, including mine countermeasures, antisubmarine warfare, and surface warfare missions. We wait with great anticipation as her August 3 commissioning quickly approaches. prgtoken In keeping with time-honored naval traditions, the USS Billings Commissioning Committee on behalf of the city of Billings is making preparations to host the commission ceremony and a series of celebrations. Determined to accomplish this ambitious goal, the committee has made great strides in rallying support across the State. The city has had the honor and privilege of hosting the crew of the USS Billings at the of the committee, and we look forward to their return in the weeks ahead. These efforts have made great strides in fostering a strong and enduring relationship between the city of Billings, the State of Montana, and the U.S. Navy. prgtoken In recognition of these and other notable accomplishments, I ask that the following names who have volunteered for the USS Billings Commissioning Committee be entered into the Record: Mayor Bill Cole, Chairman; Councilman Mike Yakawich, Co-Vice Chair; Commissioner Denis Pitman, Co-Vice Chair; Ron Spence, Committee Coordinator; Councilman Larry Brewster; Brent Brooks; Dan Brooks; Councilman Dick Clark; Sue Davidson; Katy Easton; Mike Jennings; Al Swanson; and Nancy Swanson.
Economic Growth (Executive Session)
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2019-5-6

it is no secret that our economy has broken some pretty amazing records lately. Last week's job report surpassed all estimates and expectations, with a whopping 263,000 jobs created in April alone. The first quarter saw 3.2 percent growth, which is the best in 4 years. prgtoken I still recall, back during the previous administration, when we were told that 2 percent growth was the new normal and that we could never grow our economy the way we have seen in recent months. Obviously, 2 percent growth is not the new normal for the American economy. We all ought to be relieved and comforted by that fact. prgtoken The unemployment rate has dropped to 3.6 percent--the lowest level in nearly half a century. Everybody who is able-bodied and willing to work and willing to be trained for jobs that pay well I believe has an opportunity to do so these days. There is no doubt that this is an incredible time for our economy, and I am confident that the pro-growth policies that we have brought to the table during this administration and during a majority in the House and the Senate will continue to bring real benefits to families across the country. But we have also broken another record, one that has a much more negative impact, and that is especially in my State of Texas.
Economic Growth (Executive Session)
Chuck Grassley (Republican, IA) \u2014 2019-5-6

last week, the Department of Labor released its monthly scorecard for the U.S. workforce. prgtoken The unemployment rate fell to 3.6 percent, which is the lowest rate since December 1969--a new 50-year low. Moreover, an additional 263,000 jobs were created. Job gains have averaged a robust 218,000 over the past 12 months. Additionally, for the ninth straight month, year-over- year nominal wage gains have equaled or exceeded 3 percent. prgtoken It is good to see this administration's tax reform and pro-growth policies continuing to improve the daily lives of all Americans. prgtoken . prgtoken .
Tribute to Mike Enzi (Executive Session)
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2019-5-6

over the weekend, our friend the distinguished Senator from Wyoming, Mr. Enzi, announced that he wouldn't seek reelection. It is no secret that Senator Enzi and I approach legislation from two very different standpoints, but I have always found him to be thoughtful and decent--qualities that have made him a good Senator and a respected voice for the people of Wyoming. prgtoken When Senator Enzi was elected, he was this Chamber's only accountant by trade. Perhaps it is destiny, then, that he will end his tenure at the top of the Budget Committee. Despite his prominent perch and decades in Washington's corridors of power, Senator Enzi still retains the accountant's distaste for the flashy. He eschewed the limelight and the television cameras--something the two of us have in common. If Senator Enzi will forgive me that joke, I would like to wish him and his family the best in all his future endeavors--that is, of course, after he concludes his final year and a half in Washington as one of Wyoming's longest serving Senators.
REMEMBERING DAMON J. KEITH
Debbie Stabenow (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2019-5-6

today I wish to pay tribute to the Honorable Damon J. Keith, a civil rights icon and one of the greatest jurists in our Nation's history. prgtoken Judge Keith was born on July 4, 1922, in Detroit, to parents who had relocated from Atlanta so his father could work for $5 a day in a Ford Motor Company plant to create a better future for their family. prgtoken Judge Keith's father encouraged him to attend college, and he went on to graduate from West Virginia State College, a historically Black college and university, in 1943. Upon graduation, he served his country in a segregated Army unit during World War II. prgtoken After his military service, he received his J.D. from Howard University Law School in 1949, passed the Michigan bar in 1950, married Dr. Rachel Boone in 1953, and received his master of laws degree from Wayne State University School of Law in 1956. prgtoken It was during his time at Howard when Judge Keith found a mentor in future Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. prgtoken Justice Marshall told Judge Keith to ``use the law as a means for social change.'' That is precisely what Judge Keith did throughout the Civil Rights movement, standing up for justice and equal rights for all citizens. prgtoken He spent more than 20 years in private practice in Detroit. He served as a cochair of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission with John Feikens in 1964 and helped heal the community during and after the Detroit Uprising of 1967. prgtoken That same year, President Lyndon B. Johnson nominated him to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Judge Keith, a grandson of slaves, would go on to serve more than 50 years on the Federal bench, becoming the longest serving Black judge in the nation. prgtoken Judge Keith gained national prominence for his ruling against President Nixon's Attorney General John N. Mitchell in the United States v. Sinclair case. Judge Keith's decision was later upheld by the Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Court. It is now seen as a landmark decision upholding our Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable searches and seizures. prgtoken In 1971, Judge Keith ordered that Pontiac, MI, develop a new school bus policy to help integrate its schools. Shortly before the order took effect, five Ku Klux Klansmen firebombed 10 Pontiac school buses and threatened Judge Keith's life. prgtoken But Judge Keith persisted, ruling in 1975 that the town of Hamtramck must provide new, affordable housing for 500 African Americans after they were displaced by federally supported urban renewal projects. He served as chief judge from 1975 through 1977. prgtoken While serving on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, Judge Keith ruled against another President, this time President 's secret deportation hearings after 9/11. prgtoken Writing for a unanimous panel of judges, he coined the memorable phrase ``democracies die behind