mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (Executive Session)
Pat Roberts (Republican, KS) \u2014 2019-11-5

about a month ago there was a headline in one of the publications that people pay attention to that read: ``Senate s Amp Up Pressure for an USMCA Vote.'' USMCA, by the way, is an acronym for the new trade agreement between Mexico, Canada, and the United States. I initially thought it was ``United States Marine Corps Always,'' but that is not the case. About nine of us came to the floor and pointed out this was imperative, and if we were going to have a new trade agreement to replace NAFTA, if we could at least get some price recovery and also make some progress with regard to Canada and Mexico--historically great trading partners--it might be a good thing to get the USMCA passed. That was a month ago. prgtoken We were assured, at that particular time, by folks over in the House of Representatives--our colleagues over there--that they would do everything in their power to see if we could get it done. It is not done. Still, it is not done. Still, farmers, ranchers, growers, and everybody connected with agriculture, and, for that matter, trade, certainly have been waiting and waiting. Times in farm country, as I think most people know, are pretty rough these days. So at least passing USMCA would be something everybody could agree to. prgtoken I rise in support of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement again--1 month later. It is time to move forward and pass this important legislation now. ``Now,'' that is my acronym for ``right away,'' ``yesterday.'' prgtoken As chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I want to talk about not only my producers in Kansas but all producers throughout these United States and across the country. Time and again, we have asked why there is a delay. Farmers tell me, time and again, they wonder what on Earth is going on back there. Well, that is obvious to everybody, with the ``i'' word being considered over in the House, but even with that, this is a situation where, if that were brought up to a vote, both the administration and House Members--both sides of the aisle--it would pass, more so especially since our Trade Ambassador, Robert Lighthizer, has been working with my colleagues across the aisle over there in an effort to settle labor issues and also environmental concerns. prgtoken I have been down that road before with the Honorable Kika de la Garza, the late Kika de la Garza, but a wonderful man who was chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. I was the ranking member and then became the chairman. We worked on NAFTA, writing that bill. We would revert to that bill, but after months and months, there was finally an agreement between Canada, Mexico, and the United States. We were ready to do this, and it had to go to the House of Representatives. Ambassador Lighthizer and Bob--he used to work for Bob Dole, a good friend of mine--had been working with over time on these two issues. He tells me he is pretty close to a deal--exce
IN HONOR OF MICHAEL BARTON WILSON
Brett Guthrie (Republican, KY) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life and service of Michael Barton Wilson of Glasgow, Kentucky. prgtoken Mr. Wilson served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and was part of the initial crew on the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. During his tour of duty in the Navy, Mr. Wilson was also stationed at Midway Island, and he later spearheaded a reunion of Midway Island residents from across the country in his retirement. He also served as the Commander of DAV Chapter 20 in Barren County, Kentucky, and he often helped his fellow veterans get the care they deserved. prgtoken I join with Mr. Wilson's family and the Barren County community in remembering his selfless dedication to serving his country, his fellow veterans, and anyone else in need
Defense Appropriations (Executive Session)
Lamar Alexander (Republican, TN) \u2014 2019-11-5

reserving the right to object. prgtoken I thank the distinguished Senator from Maryland for giving me this opportunity to present the right way to help historically Black colleges and universities, and I intend to do that when he is finished speaking about this and explain what we can do together. prgtoken Unfortunately, the bill he proposes is a shortcut the House took, which has no way to pass the Senate. It is based upon a budget gimmick and uses a method of funding that many Senators object to. It creates a new funding cliff within 23 months, and it is unnecessary because the Secretary of Education has written all of the heads of historically Black colleges and universities to say that there are sufficient funds until next September so there is no funding problem. prgtoken This gives me an opportunity--which I will do in a just a moment--to suggest the right way to do it. The right way to do it is to do permanent funding of historically Black colleges and universities in a package of bills I have introduced. That package includes other legislation--which I will discuss when my time comes--which include simplifying the FAFSA. prgtoken It is a bill Senator Jones and I have introduced which will help 20 million families, including almost every student at a historically Black college or minority-serving institution. The bill package also includes grants for prisoners and short-term Pell grants, and it simplifies the student aid letters. prgtoken This package is ready. It includes short-term Pell grants, as I mentioned. This package has been put together by a number of ic and Senators. It is ready to pass the Senate and ready for the President to sign it. It permanently funds Black colleges and universities instead of this shortcut. prgtoken In a moment, I will talk more about that, but in the meantime, I object.
RECOGNIZING VERMONT'S MAPLE INDUSTRY
Patrick J. Leahy (Democrat, VT) \u2014 2019-11-5

Vermont sets the gold standard for the maple industry, and maple is integral to our State's economy and to our State's identity. The Vermont families and businesses that keep this sector vibrant and viable are also an essential part of the fabric of our State. I am proud to recognize one of those businesses today. Nestled along the western slopes of Vermont's highest peak, Mount Mansfield, Runamok Maple is one of the roughly 1500 sugar producers in Vermont that produce nearly half of the Nation's maple syrup. Owned and operated by Laura and Eric Sorkin, Runamok Maple exemplifies the innovation and entrepreneurship that is revitalizing communities across Vermont. prgtoken Maple sugaring is a tradition carried forward and refined by each new generation of Vermonters. The Sorkins themselves benefited from the mentorship of nearby sugar producers before launching their own business a decade ago. In 2016, recognizing an opportunity, they pumped money and energy into a diversification effort that included a retail line of flavor-infused and barrel-aged syrups, all packaged and branded for the direct sales market. Two years later, I was proud to support funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission that in turn allowed Fairfax, VT, to expand wastewater infrastructure to Runamok's new manufacturing home, an old facility that once manufactured Scrabble game tiles. The improvements enabled Runamok's expansion from 45 to 100 employees and revitalized a part of the historic town. prgtoken Through their products, writings, and creativity, the Sorkins and their outstanding staff are not only producing world-class value-added products, they are changing how people think about maple syrup. Long gone are the days when it was considered a mere condiment for pancakes. I was not surprised, then, to see Runamok Maple featured in a recent Washington Post article about the many possibilities of Vermont's sweetest export. prgtoken In recognition of the families across our State who continue to keep this bedrock Vermont sector thriving, I ask prgtoken unanimous consent to have that article printed in the Record.
HONORING THE LIFE OF WORLD WAR II VETERAN WILLIE J. ADAMS
Norma J. Torres (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life of World War II veteran Willie J. Adams and his tireless dedication to community and country. prgtoken Willie served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. An original Montford Point Marine, Willie was one of 20,000 African American men who helped defeat Hitler and desegregate the Marines. He was honorably discharged in 1946 but he lived by the motto, ``Once a Marine, always a Marine,'' and was a committed lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8852. prgtoken Willie was a model of honor and duty to his community when he returned home. As a Rapides Parish school bus driver, he mentored countless students and was a father figure to many. Willie was a dedicated Christian who served both in Church and at large in the community. He often participated in senior citizen events throughout the area, and in his free time, could be found outdoors fishing or hunting. The anchor of his family, he was married for over 60 years to his wife Josephine Adams, with whom he raised two daughters. prgtoken While spending his last days at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Willie made sure that every member of the VFW was able to visit and play games. In recognition of his accomplishments and character, Willie was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal on November 9, 2019. prgtoken For his exemplary life of service, Madam , it is my honor to recognize Willie J. Adams. His decades of commitment and contributions to his community and country are worthy of admiration, and his memory will live on through the countless lives he impacted. May he rest in peace
IN RECOGNITION OF THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF BETHEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Frank Pallone, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the 150th anniversary of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Since its founding, Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church has provided outstanding spiritual guidance and outreach to the community. prgtoken Organized in 1869, Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church was one of the first churches established in Asbury Park, initially gathering in a tent for services and later at a site deeded to the church by James A. Bradley, founder of Asbury Park. In 1949, the church found its permanent home on Cookman Avenue. prgtoken Throughout its long history, Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church has been graced with pastoral leadership committed to cultivating a welcoming place for the community to learn, pray and connect with others. Its pastors have also endeavored to ensure a viable future for the church, maintaining and updating the church building with renovations, including adaptations for people with special needs, classrooms and air conditioning. Currently led by Rev. Dr. Danielle L. Hunter, the church's first female pastor, Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church has expanded its spiritual outreach, offering prayer meetings, an intercessory prayer line and added worship services. prgtoken Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church also dedicates itself to social action and community service. Through its food pantry and prgtoken clothing closet, lunch program, tutoring and many other services of its ministries, the church carries on the mission of faith, uplifting all those who seek solace and assistance. prgtoken Madam , once again, please join me in celebrating the 150th anniversary of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church continues to serve as a place of worship and inspiration and its dedicated service to its congregants and the greater Asbury Park community is truly deserving of this body's recognition.
RECOGNIZING DR. LAWRENCE S. FELDMAN
Donna E. Shalala (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I rise in honor of Dr. Lawrence Feldman. A Miami-Dade County School Board Member, Dr. Feldman has been awarded the Green Garner Award, the highest urban education honor in the United States, by the Council of the Great City Schools. prgtoken Dr. Feldman has served Miami-Dade County Public Schools for 46 years, as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and region director. He has served on the School Board of Miami-Dade County Public Schools for over ten years, and he recently finished his tenure as the Board's Chair. His experience working with culturally and economically diverse communities throughout Miami-Dade County is unrivaled. prgtoken Throughout his career with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Dr. Feldman has consistently prioritized the wellbeing of students. He has been involved in numerous school safety initiatives, including the implementation of Sandy Hook Promise's ``See Something, Say Something'' and ``Start with Hello'' gun violence prevention programs. He has promoted awareness of brain and head injuries amongst student athletes, and led the creation of stronger programs to identity and help victims of human trafficking and slavery at schools. prgtoken Dr. Feldman is the recipient of numerous awards for his educational work and public service, including the Minority Chamber of Commerce Public Official of the Year Award. He has been selected as Keynote for multiple education organizations and conferences, and has led trainings and presentations across the country. prgtoken I'm proud to know Larry as a great friend and extraordinary educational leader. He has been an exemplary public servant throughout his career, and I'm thrilled that he has been recognized for the Green Garner Award.
IN RECOGNITION OF RIPPLE GLASS
Emanuel Cleaver (Democrat, MO) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and celebrate the tenth anniversary of Ripple Glass. For a decade, Ripple Glass has led the way in efficient glass recycling and served as champions in the implementation of their streamlined framework in cities throughout the Midwest. I am proud to have such an innovative and environmentally conscious company in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District. prgtoken Upon discovering that Kansas Citians threw away nearly 150 million pounds of perfectly good glass, including 10 million empty bottles from Kansas City's very own Boulevard Brewing Company, the individuals at Boulevard Brewing realized that something must be done to prevent glass from making its way to the landfill. Area businesses use nearly 200 million pounds of recycled glass every year, but local recycling was not occurring due to a lack of nearby facilities to process intake. Tired of contributing to a mounting problem, the individuals at Boulevard Brewing Company, with the support of local companies and community organizations, sought a solution and founded Ripple Glass in 2009. prgtoken Ripple established a collection system and state-of-the-art processing plant that operated efficiently. The company began by placing its trademark purple collection bins in sixty locations across the Kansas City metropolitan area, where glass would be collected before being transported to the processing plant to be cleaned, dried, sized, sorted, and screened. This processing plant provides furnace- ready cullet-crushed, recycled glass to local companies in the region that utilize the converted, recycled glass for fiberglass insulation. This process saves enormous amounts of energy and dramatically lowers emissions. Ripple Glass also exports recycled amber glass to be turned back into glass bottles, including those used by Boulevard Brewing. prgtoken The prominent purple Ripple Glass bins can be found across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The glass collected from these bins all comes back to the Kansas City facility for processing, helping over eighty other communities keep glass out of landfills--truly exemplifying the `ripple effect'. prgtoken Moreover, Ripple Glass has recently launched a collection service for bars, restaurants, and other commercial institutions, allowing them to further pursue their mission to provide a comprehensive glass recycling system in Kansas City and beyond. By tapping into the local marketplace, Ripple Glass has found a way to close the loop, protect the environment, support area businesses, and even make homes more energy efficient. Prior to Ripple Glass operations in Kansas City, approximately 80,000 tons of container glass were consumed each year with only five percent being recycled. Now, through Ripple Glass' initiatives, nearly twenty percent of the community's glass is recycled and almost 200,000 tons of glass is diverted out of landfills across the region. prgtoken Madam , p
IN RECOGNITION OF THOMAS WILSON, DEARBORN'S 2019 VETERAN OF THE YEAR
Debbie Dingell (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Thomas Wilson on being named Dearborn's 2019 Veteran of the Year. His contributions to his community and the nation are worthy of commendation. prgtoken Mr. Wilson enlisted in the U.S. Army in December 1970. After completing basic training in Fort Knox, Kentucky and Advanced Individual Training at the Signal Corps School in Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, Mr. Wilson was sent to Fort Huachuca in Arizona for his first active duty assignment in strategic army communications. In 1972, Mr. Wilson was selected for a Military Assistance Advisory Group assignment in Brunssum, Holland, where he was assigned to Armed Forces Central NATO during the Cold War. After leaving the army in 1974, Mr. Wilson returned home and received his technical school education from RETS Electronic Schools in 1976. Upon graduation, Mr. Wilson began his career as a product engineer and started a family with his wife, Judy. prgtoken The Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council Veteran of the Year award is given to an exemplary veteran who dutifully serves the Dearborn community with honor, leadership, compassion, and commitment--all of which describe Mr. Wilson. For the past forty years, Mr. Wilson has become a pillar of the Dearborn community, striving to improve the lives of all its members. Since joining American Legion Post #364 in Dearborn, Mr. Wilson has devoted countless hours to serving the community's veterans and advocating for their causes. His leadership has been recognized amongst his peers, as Mr. Wilson has previously served as senior vice commander and commander at American Veterans Post 4 and commander for Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council. Mr. Wilson's commitment to American Legion has been paramount to the veterans of our community, and his dedicated work has made meaningful contributions to Dearborn as a whole. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Thomas Wilson, Dearborn's 2019 Veteran of the Year. His decades of commitment to Dearborn--especially its veterans--has made a real difference in our community. We thank him for his service in the U.S. Army and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.
IN HONOR OF JOE PIERUCCI UPON HIS RETIREMENT AS CHIEF OF POLICE FOR THE CITY OF FOSTER CITY
Jackie Speier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I rise to honor Joe Pierucci upon his retirement as Chief of Police for Foster City. Chief Pierucci will be leaving after 33 years in law enforcement, including the last 11 years in Foster City. prgtoken Chief Pierucci grew up in Foster City and began his career in nearby San Mateo in 1986. In San Mateo, he worked as a detective, field training officer, and school resource officer before moving up to Patrol Sergeant. He then assumed responsibility for several of San Mateo's important community policing activities including the highly successful San Mateo Police Athletics League, neighborhood watch and crime prevention programs. prgtoken In 2009, Joe Pierucci returned to his hometown of Foster City when he became a lieutenant and began supervising patrol teams. He's a warm, amiable person and his personality fit well with a community in which residents embrace their law enforcement officers and enjoy an outdoor quality of life that is organized around community events, community sports leagues, the water and parks. Into this mix came Joe Pierucci with gusto and a smile as wide as a city lagoon. prgtoken He quickly rose to the rank of Captain and eventually managed field operations and administrative functions. He served as President of the San Mateo County Law Enforcement Commanders Association and continued his prgtoken training in law enforcement management. In 2016, thanks in part he noted to great mentoring in both San Mateo and Foster City, he was elevated to become Chief of Police. prgtoken Chief Pierucci is a member of the Foster City Lions Club and volunteered with the city's Little League and Youth Softball Association. His son Mike continued his father's career of service as a Blackhawk Helicopter Crew-Chief. His daughter, Tori, is finishing her criminal justice degree and hopes to be the 3rd generation of Pierucci's serving in local law enforcement. The Chief is a newlywed and his wife, Angela, will now have much more time with Joe. It's unlikely that such an energetic guy will find a home on a couch, and we wish this couple many years of great travels and new adventures. prgtoken As the Chief notes, he began his life in Foster City as a resident when the area previously known as Brewer Island was largely sand and sea shells. Today, the city is home to such powerhouse companies as Gilead Sciences, Visa International and others that, although less well known, are building tomorrow's economy every day that they open their doors. Tens of thousands of residents, public servants and thoughtful visitors have made Foster City the amazing community that it is. prgtoken We wish Joe Pierucci well in the years ahead and know that his wise counsel will be missed but never forgotten by those he served and called friends throughout his many years on the streets of Foster City. Today is his birthday, and rarely before has it held so much meaning. He is not aging out, but he is moving on. We know him as the
RECOGNIZING THE CITY OF RICHMOND FOR REDUCING BARRIERS TO VOTING IN VIRGINIA'S 2019 ELECTIONS
A. Donald McEachin (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2019-11-5

. Madam , I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the City of Richmond for its efforts to remove barriers to voter participation in Virginia's 2019 elections. Mayor Levar Stoney and his administration are partnering with the Greater Richmond Transit Corporation (GRTC) for the second year in a row to provide free rides to the polls for Richmond residents on Election Day. Additionally, the City of Richmond is giving its employees the day off on Tuesday, November 5, 2019. Both measures will address potential impediments to voting and will help encourage participation in both state and local elections. prgtoken Access to transportation has historically been an obstacle for underserved and marginalized communities to exercise their rights on Election Day. To address these concerns, GRTC will provide free transportation to nearly every polling location in the City of Richmond. In doing so, more individuals will be able to access polling stations, enabling many more Richmonders to vote. prgtoken The ability to take time off from work has also been a barrier to the ballot box. To help tackle this issue, the City of Richmond will close its offices on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 to make it easier for city employees to vote. prgtoken Since my time in the Virginia General Assembly, I have fought for voters' rights; the right to vote is sacred and should be protected. That is why I introduced the Election Day Holiday Act, which would make Election Day a federal holiday. At a time when our elections are under attack from outside and within our country, it is more important than ever that we remove barriers to the ballot box. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mayor Stoney, the Stoney administration, and GRTC for improving access and removing barriers to voting for Richmond residents.