mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PROTEST BY TOMMIE SMITH, JOHN CARLOS, AND PETER NORMAN AT THE 1968 OLYMPIC GAMES IN MEXICO CITY
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the silent protest of Tommie Smith, John Carlos, and Peter Norman at the 1968 Summer Olympic Games in Mexico City. prgtoken , we know that if it were not for the active protest of patriots, the United States of America would not exist. prgtoken It was brave men throwing tea overboard into Boston Harbor, and protesting that taxation without representation is tyranny. prgtoken The right of the people to peacefully assemble and petition their government for a redress of grievances, or protest, is guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. prgtoken The 1968 Summer Olympics came on heels of much tragedy and social upheaval in the United States. prgtoken The American people were reeling from the assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy and there was growing discontent and opposition to the Vietnam War. prgtoken In the lead-up to the Olympics, Tommie Smith and John Carlos helped organize the Olympic Project for Human Rights (OPHR), a group that reflected Black pride and social consciousness. prgtoken The group saw the Olympic Games as an opportunity to agitate for better treatment of black athletes and black people around the world. prgtoken Its demands included hiring more black coaches and rescinding Olympic invitations to Rhodesia and South Africa, both of which practiced apartheid. prgtoken Although the OPHR initially proposed a boycott of the Olympics altogether, Tommie Smith and John Carlos decided to compete in the hopes they could use their achievements as a platform for broader change. prgtoken Ten days before the opening of the Summer Games, an unarmed group of protesters assembled in Mexico City's Three Cultures Square to plan the next move of the growing Mexican students' movement. prgtoken The Mexican government sent in bulldozers to disperse the thousands gathered, and troops fired into the crowd, slaughtering between four (the government's official count) and 3,000 students. prgtoken John Carlos and Tommie Smith finished first and third in the 200- meter dash final with times of 19.83 seconds and 20.10 seconds respectively, which at the time was a world record. prgtoken Many people remember these names from their protest with raised, black-gloved fists to represent their solidarity and support with black people and oppressed people around the world. prgtoken On the victory platform to receive their Gold and Bronze Medals, Tommie Smith and John Carlos also displayed other symbols of protest and strength: black-socked feet without shoes to bring attention to black poverty and beads to protest lynching. prgtoken Although, the images of Tommie Smith and John Carlos have been engrained into the hearts and minds of generations we cannot ignore the third person that stood on the podium. prgtoken Australian Peter Norman, the Silver Medalist, did not raise a fist covered by a black glove, but he too supported the protest in his own
RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF WILLIS CASEY
Mark DeSaulnier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor the life of Willis (Will) Casey. I join his family and friends in celebrating his life and service to our community. prgtoken Will was born in San Francisco on December 13, 1937 to parents Willis and Jane Casey. After graduating from Riordan High School, he received a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of San Francisco in 1959. He married Patricia M. Dwyer that same year and was happily married for 48 years until her death in 2007. prgtoken Will served his country in the U.S. Army for two years before joining the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) for 30 years. After his retirement from the SFPD in 1992, he brought his experience and dedication to the Pittsburg Police Department as Police Chief. During that time, Will developed the department's leadership and encouraged community policing. After several years with the department, Will was hired as the city manager of Pittsburg and later was elected to the Pittsburg City Council. When he retired from the City Council in 2017, Will had completed almost 60 years of public service. prgtoken Will passed away after a nine month battle with cancer on September 13, 2018. He is survived by his 4 children and their spouses, Shelia, Lorraine, Eileen (Doug), William (Allison), 10 grandchildren, and his sister Barbara. prgtoken Will will be remembered for his dedication to protecting and serving the community he loved. He will be sincerely missed.
HONORING JAMES J. TEDESCO, III
Bill Pascrell, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2018-10-16

I would like to call to your attention the many outstanding achievements of Mr. James J. Tedesco, III. With this Extension of Remarks, I recognize the many contributions he has made to the people of the Ninth Congressional District. prgtoken Expressing the influence of James J. Tedesco, III on our community is an honor. As a fellow official, and an admirer, it gives me great pleasure to add my personal appreciation and commendation. prgtoken James was born on February 5, 1953 in Paramus, New Jersey. Following an example set by his father, James would dedicate his life to public service. In 1976, he would join the Paramus Fire Department, where he was a volunteer firefighter and twice elected Fire Chief. In 2000, James would begin his political career presiding over a successful bid for the Paramus Borough Council. This political ascendancy would ultimately result in his subsequent election to the position of Mayor, a position he would hold for two terms, before being elected the Bergen County Executive. prgtoken From the day James was sworn in as Bergen County Executive in 2015, he has committed to improving the nearly ten-thousand acres within the Bergen County Parks System and expanding services to veterans and their families. Under Mr. Tedesco's leadership, Bergen County has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as the best in the state to combat homelessness amongst veterans. I am very proud to hear of such remarkable leadership for those that sacrifice the most for our country. prgtoken Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III has been equally instrumental in advancing a number of other incredibly important initiatives. In 2015, Mr. Tedesco restored critical funding to Bergen County Community College and stands as a longtime advocate. Additionally, James is a strong proponent of the Stigma Free Initiative, which seeks to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness and encourage mental health treatment. prgtoken The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to working with and recognizing the efforts of dedicated individuals like Bergen County Executive, James J. Tedesco, III. I am proud to call James a friend. prgtoken , I ask that you join our colleagues, family, friends and the residents of Bergen County in recognizing Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco's outstanding character and service to his community.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MICKEY KAITANGIAN
Jim Costa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor and pay tribute to the life of Mickey Kaitangian, who passed from this life on August 28, 2018 at the age of 83. Mickey was a beloved fixture of the Fresno community, known for volunteering his time and serving others. From his service to our country to his 29 years as a firefighter, Mickey's generous spirit touched the lives of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. prgtoken Born May 27, 1935 in Fresno, California, Mickey Kaitangian and his brother grew up in poverty-stricken Southeast Fresno. Young Mickey would wander to Fire Station 4 down the street from his home and befriend the firemen on their breaks, where he kindled his deep love for firefighting. prgtoken Before beginning his firefighting career, Mickey enlisted in the United States Navy. He worked as a mechanic for the Douglas A-1 Skyraider, serving on the USS Ranger (CV-61) aircraft carrier during the WestPac Far East Cruise. prgtoken In 1964, at the age of 29, Mickey joined the Fresno Fire Department. For 29 years, Mickey served on the frontlines. His colleagues remember Mickey as, ``the first to go into the fire and the last to come out.'' Even after long hours of hard work, Mickey always made time for his wife Betty, and their sons Kelly and Raymond. prgtoken Mickey lived life to the fullest. He volunteered for pit crews of famous race car drivers, including Mario Andretti and A. J. Foyt in 1969. He also tried his hand at Semi-Pro baseball. prgtoken After his retirement in 1994, Mickey continued to serve as an ambassador for the Fresno Fire Department by representing them at local charity events. He so generously gave his time to a number of local charities, including donating toys to patients at the local children's hospital and teaching school children about fire safety. prgtoken Mickey's life of dedicated service for the community and country he loved so much should serve as an example to us all. He is survived by his beloved wife Betty, sons Kelly and Raymond, and six grandchildren. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me on this day in a moment of silence in memory of the life and service of Mickey Kaitangian. The contributions that he gave throughout his life will continue to have a lasting impression on the fabric of our Valley. His presence in our community will be greatly missed. It is my honor to join his family and many friends in celebrating his life.
HONORING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SACRAMENTO GROUNDWATER AUTHORITY
Ami Bera (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to recognize the Sacramento Groundwater Authority on celebrating their 20th anniversary and their continued commitment to managing water resources in the Sacramento region. prgtoken The Sacramento Groundwater Authority (SGA) was formed in 1998 to manage the groundwater basin located north of the American River and is made up of the major water agencies and water users in the region. One of the first groundwater management agencies of its kind, SGA's work has been instrumental to implementing the Water Forum Agreement of 2000 which aims to provide a reliable and safe water supply for Sacramento through 2030. SGA is committed to balancing the use of groundwater and surface water to meet regional needs, while reducing water diversions from the American River to protect the natural resources of the Sacramento community during times of dry water years. prgtoken Over the last 20 years, SGA has coordinated with other authorities in the region to protect groundwater quality. Their achievements include developing and implementing a Groundwater Management Plan, and creating the Water Accounting Framework, which developed conjunctive use and groundwater banking programs that enhance the sustainability of the basin. prgtoken I extend my sincere congratulations to the Sacramento Groundwater Authority for the great service it provides to Sacramento County and the State of California as they celebrate 20 years of operation. I wish them well in their continued efforts to provide quality water resource management for our region.
HONORING CARL CHILTON'S 95TH BIRTHDAY
Filemon Vela (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to celebrate the 95th birthday of Brownsville champion Carl Chilton. Born in 1923, Mr. Chilton was one of four in the 1940 graduating class of Port Isabel High School. prgtoken Upon graduating from high school, Mr. Chilton attended the Texas College of Arts and Industries at Kingsville--today known as Texas A&M University--Kingsville. His undergraduate career was shortened; in 1942 he enlisted in the Army Air Corps to serve our country in World War II. He earned his wings and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1944. Texas and the United States are forever grateful for his service and leadership throughout his 13 missions in France and other parts of the world as a member of the 410th Bomb Group. prgtoken After serving in the military, Mr. Chilton enrolled in the University of Texas at Austin, where he graduated with an accounting degree. Following graduation, he served as a professor at Brownsville Junior College, where he taught introductory business. Upon completion of the CPA exam, he founded, with partner Bill Long, the accounting firm of Long & Chilton in 1951. Despite a slow start, the firm successfully expanded over the years and attracted the best talent under his leadership. The prestigious Texas Society of CPAs acknowledged his exceptional work in the field by electing him president of the organization in 1979. prgtoken Mr. Chilton's exemplary dedication and hard work ensured that he left the largest accounting firm in the Valley in good hands at the time of his retirement in 1988. The now-merged offices in Brownsville, Harlingen and McAllen continue to thrive in the South Texas community. prgtoken A man of family and service, Mr. Chilton never ceased to engage with the community in ways that deeply benefitted South Texas. He has been a loyal member of the Rotary Club for 53 years, served as president and chairman of the Brownsville Public Utilities Board, and was president of the Valley Zoological Society. He is also an active member of the First United Methodist Church, where he met and married the late Ruth Lewis Chilton. prgtoken In addition, Mr. Chilton led the development of the nationally recognized Brownsville Tennis Center. As president of the Brownsville Tennis Club, he played an instrumental role in its founding and continued growth. Thanks to his work, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) chose the Brownsville Tennis Center as winner of the Facility of the Year Award in 2001. His exceptional work pioneered a movement encouraging fitness and recreation in the region. prgtoken The highlights of his post-retirement community engagement are many. He wrote books about the City of Brownsville and how to find success in the accounting world. His published work includes: ``Successful Small Client Accounting Practice,'' ``The Successful Professional Client Accounting Practice: A Complete Guide to Profit Opportunities and Techniques,'' ``70 Years of Airport History in
HONORING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHAPEL GROVE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST IN WINDSOR, VIRGINIA
Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to honor the 150th anniversary of Chapel Grove United Church of Christ in Windsor, Virginia. prgtoken In 1868, founding members of Chapel Grove United Church of Christ left Antioch, the Baptist church of their former slave owners where they had been forced to worship in the balcony. Led by their ``Spiritual Leader,'' Isom Lawrence, the congregation began meeting under a bush arbor once a month for service. The origins of the church starting under a bush arbor is significant. For centuries, African slaves traditionally gathered in these sites for religious services. Worshippers of Chapel Grove traveled from near and far, and the journey was often a full day affair. prgtoken In 1899, Reverend Jetson Copeland and the congregation purchased property alongside present day Blackwater Road. After 17 years of construction, the church finally opened its doors in 1916. Even after several series of remodeling and expansion, the original sanctuary remains part of the church's foundation and reminds us of years of fellowship and service. prgtoken Originally called Chapel Grove Christian Church, this historic church has been renamed several times through the years. After merging with the Congregational Church, it was named Chapel Grove Congregational Christian Church. In 1957, after merging with the United Church of Christ, it procured its current name of Chapel Grove United Church of Christ. Today, the church is part of the Eastern Virginia District of the Southern Conference of the United Church of Christ. This association represents 35 local black churches and 45 local white churches and continues to teach the word of God around the nation. prgtoken While Chapel Grove is primarily a place of worship, the church provides civic, health, cultural and educational programs that benefit the community. A few programs that I would like to highlight are ``Ident-a-Kid'', Celebrate Recovery and Career Day. prgtoken Additionally, Chapel Grove has sponsored college scholarships, a community daycare service called ``Happy Hearts'' and a weekend backpack stuffing program for students at Georgie D. Tyler Middle School. These programs are made possible by collaborating with local governments, including Isle of Wight Sheriff's Department. prgtoken Clearly, Chapel Grove United Church of Christ's congregation takes the call to community engagement seriously and that engagement is evident in their role in community sponsored events. Parishioners were influential in the Town of Windsor's Centennial Celebration and helped establish the Schoolhouse Museum in Smithfield, Virginia. Moreover, members of Chapel Grove participate in ``Souper Saturday,'' an annual community soup lunch charged with raising money to provide financial assistance for wintertime heating. prgtoken , as Chapel Grove United Church of Christ celebrates this historic milestone, its congregation can take pride in an inspiring 150 years of fellowship, worship an
IN RECOGNITION OF THE UNITED WAY OF GREATER KANSAS CITY'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY
Emanuel Cleaver (Democrat, MO) \u2014 2018-10-16

I rise today to commemorate the United Way of Greater Kansas City, a leader and innovator of public health and wellness in the Greater Kansas City community, for their one hundred years of service. In 1887, the first ``United Way,'' formerly known as the ``Charity Organizations Society,'' was founded in Denver to plan, coordinate, and fundraise for twenty-two local prgtoken nonprofit agencies. Focused on providing war relief and support for the military during World War I, the United Way of Greater Kansas City began in 1918 as a nonprofit in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District. One hundred years later, it is now one of the largest organizations in Kansas City. It has a service area spanning five locations, and all are dedicated to providing services that benefit disadvantaged families and individuals throughout the Kansas City area. prgtoken For one hundred years, United Way of Greater Kansas City has demonstrated a desire to help individuals by uniting companies, local business owners, and neighborhood leaders to address the needs of a continuously growing population. Currently, United Way is focused on raising funds for programs and organizations driven to help individuals and families in need. The funds raised by United Way ensure that local agencies and organizations can help individuals meet their full potential academically, socially, and financially by participating in training and classes designed to help them acquire new skills and support networks. Community projects funded by the organization helped introduce literacy programs such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which sends books to children of all ages at no cost. Other partnerships and contributions by United Way include Project Rise, which offers paid internships to young students, free tax services with H&R Block, and support for HIV/AIDS agencies. prgtoken In 1926, United Way of Greater Kansas City raised over one million dollars in donations for the first time in the organization's history. Since then, they have continued to host donation and volunteer campaigns to raise additional funds for an array of causes. These funds are distributed to support organizations and agencies providing aid to the people of Kansas City in times of hardship. Primary examples include assisting local agencies during the Great Depression and after the devastating ``Plaza Flood'' of 1977. Moreover, the organization is now focused on improving human capital and cultivating economic innovation through education and enrichment programs. United Way of Greater Kansas City has established themselves as a pillar in our community. prgtoken It is my steadfast belief that the philanthropy of this organization has benefitted my constituents tremendously. Their noteworthy contributions to the city reveal an organization founded on empathy. United Way of Greater Kansas City guides individuals to the right person, program, or place when assistance is required
RECOGNIZING MALNUTRITION AWARENESS WEEK 2018
Joyce Beatty (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2018-10-19

I rise to observe Malnutrition Awareness Week which was September 24 through 28, 2018. prgtoken Access to proper nutrition is critical for all Americans, especially our seniors. Every 60 seconds, ten hospitalized patients with malnutrition go undiagnosed, and many of these patients are older adults. The malnutrition awareness outreach effort is a step in the right direction to defeat this problem that plagues vulnerable populations. prgtoken Malnutrition Awareness Week is a multi-organizational, multi-pronged effort created by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition to: educate healthcare professionals to identify and treat malnutrition earlier; educate consumers and patients about the need to discuss their nutrition status with healthcare professionals; and increase awareness of nutrition's role in patient recovery. prgtoken The Malnutrition Awareness Week campaign also highlights the need to focus on common-sense solutions that can close the care gap, thereby helping to reduce premature morbidity and mortality as well as hospitalizations, re-admissions and other variables that may increase the cost of care. We can begin by measuring the scope of the problem and by adding metrics for older adult malnutrition to national dietary guidelines. I believe increasing awareness will help our nation educate families and help seniors live healthier lives for years to come.
CONGRATULATING DAN ROACH ON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE ILLINOIS STATE POLICE
Cheri Bustos (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2018-10-19

I rise today to recognize Dan Roach, who is retiring from the Illinois State Police. Mr. Roach has a diverse background in police work, and has been an asset to the community. prgtoken Mr. Roach has served as an Illinois State Police law enforcement professional for 26 years, including over 21 years of investigations, patrol, and administrative leadership experience, retiring as Captain. Mr. Roach served as the Deputy Chief of the Schaumburg Police Department for the last 4 years, where he oversaw the Patrol Division, the Investigations Division, and the Special Operations Division. Mr. Roach has accrued extensive experience in team-building, and interpersonal and management skills such as employee development, problem-solving, and networking with diverse groups of people at all levels. I commend Mr. Roach on an outstanding career of public service and wish him prgtoken the best as he begins to enjoy a well-earned retirement. prgtoken It is because of dedicated leaders such as Mr. Dan Roach that I am especially proud to serve Illinois I would like to again formally congratulate Mr. Dan Roach for an exceptional career and thank him for all of his contributions and service to the community.