mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN RECOGNITION OF ARVIN-EDISON WATER STORAGE DISTRICT
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-5-1

I rise today to recognize the Arvin-Edison Water Storage District in celebration of its 75th Anniversary of providing much-needed water to communities across the southeastern San Joaquin Valley. prgtoken Organized in 1942, the Arvin-Edison Water Storage District (AEWSD) entered into its first agreement with the United States Bureau of Reclamation twenty years later in 1962. Today, the Water District consists is tasked with managing, treating, acquiring, and supplying water to 131,660 acres of agricultural land in Southeast Kern County, California. prgtoken Between 1964 and 1968, with support from the Bureau of Reclamation, the District constructed its primary water distribution facilities. Since then, AEWSD has continued to invest in its infrastructure to provide reliable water supply to its members. Among its various infrastructure projects, the District constructed its Tejon Spreading Basin in 1972, the North Canal Spreading Basin in 1999, and various new wells between 1996 and 1998. prgtoken The Arvin-Edison Water Storage District is comprised of approximately 132,000 acres of land, encompassing more than 113,000 acres of irrigated crops including vineyards, almonds, citrus, and carrots, to name a few. In 2016, the AEWSD supported over 1.1 billion dollars in agricultural products, nearly twenty percent of agricultural commandeers grown in Kern County. prgtoken Today, the Arvin-Edison Water Storage District is led by President Edwin Camp, Vice President Jeffrey G. Giumarra, and Secretary John C. Moore. The District's current Board of Directors also includes Ronald R. Lehr, Howard R. Frick, Dennis B. Johnson, Charles Fanucchi, Catalino M. Martinez, and Kevin E. Pascoe. prgtoken Among the District's operations staff are Engineer-Manager Jeevan S. Muhar, Deputy General Manager David A. Nixon, Director of Water Resources Steven C. Collup, and General Superintendent Christopher P. Krauter. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in congratulating the Arvin-Eqison Water Storage District on their 75th Anniversary and thank them for their years of providing reliable irrigation water to support agriculture in Kern County.
DOUGLAS COUNTY FAIR AND RODEO
Ken Buck (Republican, CO) \u2014 2018-5-1

I rise today to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Douglas County Fair and Rodeo. Since the First Annual Fair prgtoken in 1918, the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo has been a hallmark of our great state. With families from the Front Range and beyond, traveling to see Colorado's agriculture and livestock on full display. prgtoken The diligent work of the Douglas County Fair Foundation is what keeps this time-honored tradition going strong. With tens of thousands in attendance the achievement and hard work of the local volunteers is self-evident. The community benefits include immense support of local business, family entertainment and a focus on agricultural education for farmers and ranchers across the state. prgtoken On behalf of the 4th Congressional District of Colorado, I applaud the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo that honors our rich agricultural and ranching roots. We look forward to their continued success as they keep this strong western tradition alive it is an honor to celebrate the centennial celebration of the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo.
HONORING AND RECOGNIZING THE MAINE STATE ELKS ASSOCIATION IN CELEBRATION OF THE ELKS 150 YEARS OF SERVICE
Bruce Poliquin (Republican, ME) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America. prgtoken The Maine Elks Association is a strong, community-minded, and patriotic organization that supports our veterans and local communities in various ways. prgtoken Since the Elks incorporation in 1868, it has become one of America's oldest and largest fraternal organizations in the country. Its members have proved to be strong Americans, leaving a legacy of youth-oriented, charitable, and community service programs that are all encompassing. prgtoken Today, the legacy of the BPO Elks and other honorable citizens thrives in Maine under current Maine State President, David Anderson. The Maine State Elks Association is celebrating their fundraising efforts for the Maine State Elks project, Maine Children's Cancer Program, and the fact that they have raised over $4 million to date for the children of Maine. prgtoken We are so proud to have Elk members in the heart of our Great State of Maine, and I am honored to serve in the United States Congress on behalf of its members. As we celebrate the Elks, we look forward to many more years of tradition and community projects. prgtoken and distinguished colleagues, please join me in recognizing the 150th Anniversary of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and wishing its members the very best in the years to come.
IN RECOGNITION OF LUKE BEACH ON HIS OFFER OF APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY
Robert E. Latta (Republican, OH) \u2014 2018-5-3

it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Luke Beach of Haskins, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. prgtoken Luke's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of their lives. prgtoken Luke brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Otsego High School in Tontogany, Ohio, Luke was a member of the National Honor Society, Future Farmers of America, and the high school debate team. prgtoken Throughout high school, Luke served as captain of both the varsity basketball and varsity golf teams. Luke also ran his own business, Beach Lawn Care, volunteered with Honor Flight of Northwest Ohio and volunteered at Otsego youth sports camp. I am confident that Luke will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Luke Beach on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Luke will excel during his career at West Point, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING THE 113TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE
Lou Barletta (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-5-3

it is a great honor for me to join the brave men and women of Troop N, headquartered in my hometown of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, in recognizing the 113th anniversary of the Pennsylvania State Police. prgtoken Created by an act of legislation signed into law by Governor Samuel Pennypacker on May 2, 1905, the Pennsylvania State Police was the first uniformed police organization of its kind in the country. During the Great Anthracite Strike of 1902, violence disrupted the peace and safety of seven counties, causing a nationwide coal shortage that forced President Teddy Roosevelt to intervene. In the aftermath of strike, it was decided that peace and order should be maintained by responsible officers employed by the public. prgtoken The State Police quickly became vital in Pennsylvania, controlling mob violence, patrolling farms, protecting wildlife, and tracking down criminals, and later served as a model for other police forces across the country. Originally limited to 228 men, the Pennsylvania State Police Department now includes nearly 5,000 sworn officers and 2,000 civilian members, and is dedicated to criminal investigations, traffic enforcement, and other public safety services across the Commonwealth. prgtoken These brave men and women put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our families and communities safe. This risk is not without sacrifice. Since its founding, 98 officers have died in the line of duty while serving the Pennsylvania State Police. Let us take a moment to honor them, and to thank them for their sacrifice to maintain the safety of our communities. prgtoken As we reflect on the past 113 years of this police force, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in its service, I also want to thank the selfless and courageous officers who are currently serving. With National Police Week fast approaching, it is only right that we recognize all that our nation's law enforcement officers do to keep us safe. The protection they provide is something no one should take for granted, and I am forever grateful for their service. prgtoken , please join me in recognizing the 113th anniversary of the Pennsylvania State Police.
RECOGNIZING KERN CARPENTER ON INTRODUCTION TO DADE COUNTY FARM BUREAU HALL OF HONOR
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (Republican, FL) \u2014 2018-5-3

I would like to congratulate Director Kern Carpenter of the Miami-Dade County Farm Bureau, on his induction to the Farm Bureau Hall of Honor. prgtoken A third generation farmer with a rich history in tomato production; Mr. Carpenter and his family have dedicated their lives to preserving the beauty and prestige of Florida's agriculture. prgtoken At a young age, Kern lost his father to cancer and not long after; the farm he loved. However, Kern never lost sight of his family's heritage and worked hard to one day run his very own farm. prgtoken In 1983, Kern successfully renewed his family's farming legacy and opened Kern Carpenter Farms. prgtoken Today, that passion and drive Kern possessed at such a young age, continues to impact so many farmers and serves as an inspiration throughout our South Florida community. prgtoken , it is individuals like Kern that encompass the American spirit we all hold so dear. I wish him the very best in his future endeavors, and congratulate him on this much deserved honor. prgtoken Congratulations my friend (Felicidales amigo).
RECOGNIZING THE 100TH BIRTHDAY OF TRESSIE ELIZABETH BUTT HUMPHREY
Jason Smith (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to honor the remarkable 100th birthday of Tressie Elizabeth Butt Humphrey. Tressie was born to Henry Clay Butt and Zelma Josephine Slownesky Butt on May 3, 1918. prgtoken A 1936 graduate of Steelville High School, she married the late Luther Theodore Humphrey with whom she shares two children, Loretta Mae and Selma Jean, as well as six grandchildren, eighteen great- grandchildren, and nineteen great-great-grandchildren. Tressie is a former teacher of the Slowensky one-room school house, a lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Star of Missouri, and the owner of a Missouri Century Farm. prgtoken Tressie has achieved a great milestone in her life by celebrating her 100th birthday. She is a woman of character and is greatly beloved by all who know her. She has displayed exceptional leadership, contributing greatly to our society throughout her years. For all of these reasons and many more, it is my pleasure to recognize Tressie before the United States House of Representatives.
RECOGNIZING TAMRA RYAN
Mike Coffman (Republican, CO) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to recognize Tamra Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of The Women's Bean Project, a nationally-recognized social enterprise based in Denver, Colorado. Tamra Ryan is being honored at the First Annual Women Who Soar Awards by the Chamber of Commerce in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, on May 3, 2018. Her leadership, entrepreneurial-spirit, and social awareness in battling unemployment and poverty among women in the state of Colorado can serve as an inspiration to us all. prgtoken The mission of The Women's Bean Project is to change women's lives by providing opportunities to self-sufficiency through social enterprise. The Women's Bean Project is involved in providing products and services that work to reduce women's unemployment and poverty, and can be found amongst many of the nation's largest retailers in nearly 1,000 stores, as well as online. prgtoken In addition to her role with The Women's Bean Project, Tamra Ryan is, a former board member of Social Venture Partners-Denver, chair of the Board of Directors for the Social Enterprise Alliance, and is on the advisory board for the Barton Institute for Philanthropy and Social Enterprise at the University of Denver. In 2017, Tamra was recognized for her efforts by being named one of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Colorado, as well as being a keynote speaker at TEDxMilehigh. Tamra is the author of The Third Law, a book that highlights the societal obstacles that marginalized women must overcome in order to change their lives. prgtoken , a great nation cannot exist without exemplary citizens who sacrifice a great deal to improve the lives of those around them, and Tamra Ryan is just that, a reflection of the best in America.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF SISTER KATHLEEN HEALY
Nancy Pelosi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to pay tribute to Sister Kathleen Healy, who passed away on April 21, 2018 at the Sisters of the Presentation Motherhouse in San Francisco. Sister Kathleen was a woman of great faith, and lived her faith by performing works of loving service to all of those in need. She was a great source of spiritual inspiration for me, my family and our community. prgtoken A native San Franciscan, Sister Kathleen was born into a loving Irish family who instilled in her their strong Catholic Faith and commitment to social justice. As a Sister of the Presentation for seventy-five years, Sister Kathleen was a compassionate champion for immigrant rights, and a voice of conscience for alleviating poverty and suffering in our immigrant communities, particularly among those who are elderly and disabled. prgtoken Sister Kathleen was a founding member of The Lantern, a ministry project serving the immigrant community of San Francisco through hospitality, education and advocacy. In 1974, she began her ministry with Saint Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in San Francisco where she served for over 30 years. In 2006, working with Saint Anthony Foundation, she visited the poor in residential hotels in the Tenderloin and provided social services in the Dining Room, where my family and I volunteer every year during Thanksgiving. prgtoken In 1946, Sister Kathleen began 28 years as a Catholic school teacher in San Francisco, San Jose and Los Angeles, and served as principal at Saint Agnes School in San Francisco from 1962-1968. prgtoken Sister Kathleen served with Father Peter Sammon, Director of Family Life for the Archdiocese of San Francisco, from 1979 to 1983. During this time, she became one of the original organizers of the Sanctuary Movement, founding the San Francisco Organizing Project and joining several delegations to El Salvador and Guatemala to support their peoples' struggle for justice. prgtoken Sister Kathleen prepared for her ministry by earning a Bachelor's and a Master's Degree in Education through the University of San Francisco, a Master's Degree in Theology through Immaculate Heart College in Los Angeles, and a Doctorate in Ministry from the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley. prgtoken Sister Kathleen's life was a blessing. She was predeceased by her parents, William and Hanna Healy, and her devoted sisters, Sister Nancy Healy, Sister Doreen Healy, Sister Maryann Healy, and Mrs. Honora Lowe. She is survived her beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins along with their families. May it be a comfort to her family and her loving Presentation Sisters that so many share in their grief at the loss of this remarkable saintly woman.
HONORING DARIOUSH AND SHAHPAR KHALEDI
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to honor Darioush and Shahpar Khaledi for their leadership in raising the role of arts and culture in California's Napa Valley. Mr. and Ms. Khaledi have made many contributions to our community, particularly through their steadfast commitment to the arts. prgtoken Mr. Khaledi was born and raised in Iran, where his fascination with wine began at an early age, due to his father's winemaking and the cultural history of winemaking of Shiraz, Iran. After building what was at one point the largest family-owned grocery business in California, Mr. and Ms. Khaledi founded Darioush Winery in 1997. Mr. Khaledi considers Darioush Winery to be the realization of his American Dream. His goal was to produce wines that celebrate both individualism and craftsmanship. For Ms. Khaledi it was essential that clients and guests be treated as family, which she considers to be more than a cultural tradition, but a way of life. Her welcoming philosophy has defined the Darioush experience and is derived from Tarof, the Persian art of social etiquette--in essence how to make your guests feel more at home ``than home itself.'' prgtoken In addition to running their world-class winery, Mr. and Ms. Khaledi are active patrons of the arts and engaged community members. Mr. Khaledi is the Founding Chair on the Board of Directors for Festival Napa Valley, an organization that puts on an annual performing arts festival and also offers year-round programming. Mr. Khaledi is also a Board Member for organizations including Napa Valley Vintners, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Food Marketing Institute, Unified Grocers and the St. Helena Hospital Foundation. prgtoken , Mr. and Ms. Khaledi are the kind of community members we should all strive to emulate. Their dedication to the arts in the Napa Valley has been crucial for the growth of our arts community. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor Darioush and Shahpar Khaledi here today.
HONORING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SANTA CRUZ SYMPHONY
Jimmy Panetta (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today on behalf of an organization that displays the unique artistic virtue of my district. The Santa Cruz Symphony has served my district on the central coast of California by promoting, fostering, and furthering musical cultural enrichment, appreciation, and innovation. This year the Santa Cruz Symphony is celebrating its sixtieth anniversary. Since its founding in 1958, the Santa Cruz Symphony has fostered the musical arts by organizing thousands of concerts, community events and productions over the years. prgtoken The Santa Cruz Symphony has helped children in Santa Cruz County with their youth education program. Since 1996, this program has engaged elementary school students throughout the county by coordinating year- long classical music listening programs, providing musicians who attend classrooms to prgtoken discuss and demonstrate their instruments, and hosting free youth concerts for over 4,000 4th and 5th graders. With a deep commitment to education, The Santa Cruz Symphony has also established the Mueller Scholarship Fund which provides financial assistance to aspiring young musicians. prgtoken The Santa Cruz Symphony has a greatly talented array of musicians and composers and has hosted many notable concerts. The Symphony takes great pride in working with and being conducted by Maestro Daniel Stewart's remarkable musical genius and artistic talent. During their 60th anniversary season, the symphony's most recent production, Celebration, has generated much acclaim. By featuring renowned soloists like Yuja Wang and promoting the works of living composers, The Santa Cruz Symphony continues to add to the musical richness of our community by delivering outstanding performances. prgtoken , it is my pleasure to recognize the dedication and cultural enrichment the Santa Cruz Symphony has provided to the Central Coast, Santa Cruz, and the entire State of California. I ask my distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing the Santa Cruz Symphony as an indispensable cultural asset of our community.
REMEMBERING JANICE CORBETT
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to honor the memory of Janice Corbett, a fixture of the UC Davis community who will truly be missed. prgtoken Janice was the living embodiment of Aggie Pride. She graduated from UC Davis in 1994, having been an active member of the campus community from the moment she arrived as a freshman. From serving on the Picnic Day Board and the Dean's Student Advisory Committee to working for the student government, prgtoken ASUCD, she was truly committed to her fellow students. prgtoken Janice's commitment did not end there, however. In 2003, she began working for the Cal Aggie Alumni Association, helping to connect alumni of her beloved alma mater across the country and the world. In 2013, she got her dream job: ASUCD Business Officer. It was a role that she saw as the center of everything UC Davis, and she was a champion for students in that role, bringing her incredible passion for mentoring students to the heart of her work. prgtoken Across campus and the entire Davis community, she was seen as a great colleague, but an even better friend, affectionately known as ``Mama Warrior'' during her battle with cancer. Her Aggie spirit was always evident, but perhaps more important was the example she set, inspiring countless others to live a life in service others. prgtoken Janice loved her family, including her husband, Larry, and sons, Anthony and Dominic, as well as her many dear friends. I know that they, along with the entire UC Davis community, join me in celebrating her memory.
IN HONOR OF LUPUS AWARENESS MONTH 2018
Ann M. Kuster (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to recognize Lupus Awareness Month. An autoimmune disease, Lupus impacts more than one million Americans and many in communities across our Granite State. Those living with Lupus often experience significant symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive issues and physical challenges. prgtoken While Lupus affects millions of individuals worldwide and there are 16,000 new diagnoses each year, two-thirds of Americans are unaware of it. Through Lupus Awareness Month each May, advocates will ``Go purple for Lupus'' with local and national events to encourage understanding, research and support of the disease. I will continue to champion and support public health efforts in Congress. I encourage my colleagues to honor individuals living with Lupus through annual awareness programming each May and throughout the year.
CONGRATULATING DR. PAUL OLSEN ON HIS RETIREMENT
Cheri Bustos (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2018-5-3

I rise today to recognize Dr. Paul Olsen, who is retiring from Augustana College. Dr. Olsen has become a pillar in the Rock Island community, and he will be greatly missed. prgtoken Dr. Olsen has spent 50 plus years coaching cross country and track and field at Augustana College. He has coached a total of 234 NCAA Division III All-American runners and, 26 times, these athletes have been crowned national champions. Dr. Olsen was inducted into the Illinois Track and Field Coaches Association ``Hall of Fame'' in 2004 and went into the Augustana ``Tribe of Vikings Hall of Fame'' in 2006. Dr. Olsen is a professor in the English Department at Augustana, and is one of the most popular teachers in the entire school. prgtoken It is because of dedicated and selfless leaders such as Dr. Paul Olsen that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District I would like to again formally congratulate Dr. Paul Olsen on his well-earned retirement, and thank him for all of his contributions and service to our community.