mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING SADIE M. MACCHIA
Lee M. Zeldin (Republican, NY) \u2014 2017-9-18

I rise today to honor Sadie Macchia, who celebrated her 100th bitihday on July 6th, prgtoken Born on July 6, 1917, in the Bronx, New York, Sadie came into this world with a remarkably low birth weight, and was the surviving child of a set of twins, the other of whom was born prematurely and sadly passed away shortly afterward. Sadie was so small that her mother used a shoebox as a cradle, and could not even properly wear a bonnet. With such a low birthweight, her chances for survival seemed slim. Yet, with incredible strength, this miracle baby pulled through infancy and is still here with us today, 100 years later. prgtoken As an adult, Sadie spent many years working as a seamstress in the Bronx while living in her own apartment above her brother, Dominick, and his wife, Angelina. In those days, Sadie was renowned for her hospitality and insatiable laughter, always happy to have friends and family over to share a meal, reminisce over old photos, or simply spend time with those dearest to her. A kind and generous soul, she is truly loved by all who know her. prgtoken To commemorate her 100th birthday, two of her brothers, Guy and Nick, threw her a birthday party where she was able to celebrate with her extended fmnily. The look on her face to see so many loved ones gathered together to celebrate her birthday was said to be that of pure joy. prgtoken This miracle baby fought all the odds and is now one of America's great centennials. It is a privilege to honor Sadie Macchia, who has brought joy and laughter into the hearts of so many others.
HONORING BARBARA GRIMM-MARSHALL AND KARI GRIMM-ANDERSON FOR THEIR DEDICATED COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Kevin McCarthy (Republican, CA) \u2014 2017-9-18

I rise today and am joined by my colleague from California, Mr. Valadao, to recognize two outstanding leaders in our community: Barbara Grimm-Marshall and Kari Grimm-Anderson. Throughout the years, Barbara and Kari have been deeply involved in our community and it comes as no surprise they have each been named by the Kern County Fair as 2017 Person of the Year. prgtoken Every year, the Kern County Fair attracts families from all over the Central Valley to partake in the unique festivities ranging from the Great American Duck Race to the highly-competitive 4-H livestock showcases. However, we also take time to acknowledge and pay tribute to individuals who have improved our community with the Person of the Year award. prgtoken While Barbara and Kari may be known for their leadership roles with the world's largest carrot operation through their family-owned farm, Grimmway Enterprises, Inc they have each played an integral part in the betterment of our community. Notably, in 1998, Grimmway Enterprises created a college scholarship program for the children of their employees that has provided access to higher education through more than 300 college scholarships. prgtoken Through their philanthropic endeavors, Barbara and Kari have been instrumental in helping students in rural regions of the Central Valley prepare for college, while also working to address the increasing prevalence of childhood diabetes and obesity through various programs and outreach efforts. prgtoken Barbara founded and currently serves as the CEO of the Grimm Family Education Foundation and has worked tirelessly to establish rural charter schools throughout Kern County to ensure students have access to a world-class education. In August 2011, the Foundation opened the Grimmway Academy in Arvin, California, enrolling more than 280 students Kindergarten through third grade. Today, the Academy has two campuses, one in Arvin and the other in Shafter, with total enrollment surpassing 1,200 students for the 2017-2018 school year. Additionally, the Foundation recently opened the Buena Vista Edible Schoolyard, dedicated to exposing students to the many facets of agricultural and environmental stewardship in the region. prgtoken Kari is widely known for her insight and contributions to a number of civically-minded groups, including the Board of Directors for the Junior League of Bakersfield and the Board of Regents at Concordia University, Irvine. Similarly, Barbara has dedicated her time serving on various boards, such as the Lori Brock Children's Museum, St. John's Lutheran Church, the California State University prgtoken Foundation, the Regents of Concordia University, and the Board of Directors of Tejon Ranch, among others. prgtoken The selfless efforts of Barbara and Kari have impacted so many and both have set an exceptional example for all of us to follow as we work to improve our community. Through investing in education to providing resou
CONGRATULATING THE MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF STUDENT FINANCIAL AID PERSONNEL
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2017-9-18

I rise today to congratulate the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel (MASFAP) on their 50th Anniversary on November 7, 2017. The Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid was founded on April 3, 1967, starting with a steering committee of only five members. Today, MASFAP has grown to 83 schools and over 790 members. This anniversary will provide an opportunity to recognize their continued partnerships and highlight the need for affordable post-secondary education. prgtoken Since its founding, the MASFAP has and continues to be a dynamic association dedicated to serving and advocating for practitioners, users, and providers of student financial aid programs. Many students depend on financial aid programs to assist them through their post- secondary education, providing many students with the means to continue their education. Missouri is home to many institutions of post- secondary education that serve students from Missouri and abroad. Obtaining a higher education opens doors for students, develops their individual skills and knowledge, and makes them invaluable resources to our communities, state, and nation. prgtoken MASFAP is ready and willing to assist students who need help or information. The financial aid programs provided to students assist with tuition, fees, housing, food, books and supplies, transportation and personal expenses. Additionally, millions of dollars in grants, scholarships, and student loans allow students to continue pursuing their professional goals. prgtoken Every day, student financial aid administrators throughout Missouri do their best to assist students in identifying the resources and options they have regarding the cost of their education. These administrators work at removing barriers so students can be successful in choosing the appropriate assistance program. The dedication these administrators show to the students and their future is appreciated. prgtoken I ask you to join me in recognizing the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel on their 50th Anniversary Celebration
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018
James M. Inhofe (Republican, OK) \u2014 2017-9-18

as chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, I would like to make a statement for the record regarding an item of special interest inserted into the committee report on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 related to the Department of Defense's use of its intellectual property rights of certain medical products. prgtoken The committee report includes language that purports to direct the Department of Defense to exercise its rights under the Bayh-Dole Act ``to authorize third parties to use inventions that benefited from DOD funding whenever the price of a drug, vaccine, or other medical technology is higher in the United States'' as compared to prices in foreign countries. I am concerned that the report language is inconsistent with the original intent of Bayh-Dole and could hinder critical medical developments. prgtoken Americans, including our men and women in uniform, must have access to affordable healthcare, including prescription drugs and medical technologies. However, I fear the committee report directive in question will slow future innovation, lead to a more complex and burdensome regulatory scheme, and make it less likely that our military personnel will be able to access cutting-edge medicines in the future, while doing nothing meaningful to address healthcare costs. The DOD relies on its partnerships with industry to develop vaccines, drugs, and diagnostics that target unique threats faced by our warfighters during operations in theater. As such, the biopharmaceutical industry plays a critical role in enhancing our military and civilian defenses against biological, chemical, radiological, and nuclear threats. prgtoken Federal agencies, such as the DOD, already face significant challenges in attracting top drug and vaccine developers as partners to develop lifesaving medical countermeasures necessary to protect the warfighter. These challenges include low procurement quantities, high regulatory risk, complex Federal contracting regulations, and inconsistency in funding, among others. The added risk of diluting or compromising intellectual property protections as a means of price control will not only fail to meet its objective, but will serve as an additional deterrent to private sector development of critical medical capabilities offered by DOD. prgtoken Furthermore, companies who partner with the Federal Government rely heavily on the strength and scope of their intellectual property to generate investment to take their technologies to commercialization. The report language invokes the Bayh-Dole Act, the purpose of which is to encourage the prompt commercialization of federally funded patents. Prior to Bayh-Dole, collaborations between private industry and public entities were rare. The act has fostered a delicate balance of collaborations between Federal agencies, public research institutions, and private industry that have resul
TRIBUTE TO NANCY KERVIN
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2017-9-18

on one final matter, I would like to take a brief moment to recognize a talented member of the Senate community who will be retiring this month after 20 years of service to this body and to the Nation. prgtoken Nancy Kervin is a reference librarian in the Senate Library, and for years, whenever my office needed assistance with a seemingly impossible research question, she was always ready to lend a helping hand. I could not let her depart without giving her the recognition that she so richly deserves. prgtoken Nancy came to the Senate following a wide-ranging career in publishing and in research, and through her work here, Nancy has made a lasting mark. prgtoken To members of my staff and to numerous others around the Senate, Nancy has been the first person to call when facing a difficult research question. Nancy's signature combination of intellectual rigor and unyielding perseverance has enabled her to skillfully complete countless research projects on numerous subjects throughout her time in the Senate, and, of course, she is widely known for her kindness and her good humor. prgtoken My office has worked closely with Nancy on a number of different projects over the years, but there is one project--a project of particular personal importance to me--that I would like to mention today. prgtoken A number of years ago, I began a series of lectures at Kentucky colleges and universities focusing on the lives and legacies of prominent U.S. Senators from the Commonwealth. Since the project's inception, my staff has regularly looked to Nancy for help. She has been an indispensable resource for each historical speech in Kentucky that I have delivered. Her work in gathering sources and putting the information in its proper context has helped me to pay tribute to many distinguished Kentuckians. Therefore, it is fitting that she holds the highest honor that my State can bestow upon a civilian, that of a Kentucky colonel. prgtoken After her years of dedicated service, Nancy deserves a relaxing retirement. Along with her husband, Stephen--another stalwart member of the Senate family who will be retiring from the Senate Historical Office--Nancy plans to spend time traveling and working in her garden. She will be sorely missed here. prgtoken On behalf of the entire Senate family, I congratulate Nancy and Stephen on their successful careers in promoting the history and the legacy of this Chamber and those who have served in it. I wish them both happy retirements. prgtoken .
BERT HACK
Mimi Walters (Republican, CA) \u2014 2017-9-18

on March 24, 1999, Laguna Woods, California officially became Orange County's 32nd city. prgtoken A great deal has changed in the last 18 years, but Laguna Woods Councilman Bert Hack has remained a constant in our community. prgtoken Since taking office in 1999, Bert served as Mayor five times and sat on numerous boards throughout Southern California. prgtoken Bert's deep knowledge of local history and passion for service to others has made him a beloved fixture in Laguna Woods. prgtoken Bert's presence on the City Council will surely be missed, but he will undoubtedly continue to serve as an inspiration for all who follow in his footsteps. prgtoken I wish Bert well in retirement, and thank him for his many years of service to Laguna Woods and Orange County.
DESIGNATION OF MAPLE VALLEY, WASHINGTON AS A PURPLE HEART CITY
David G. Reichert (Republican, WA) \u2014 2017-9-18

today I rise to recognize the City of Maple Valley, in light of its designation as a Purple Heart City. The City of Maple Valley will be the first in Washington's Eighth Congressional District to become a Purple Heart, as well as the third city in the State of Washington. Additionally, the designation falls on the anniversary of 9/11, an event that will forever be seen in our hearts as a symbol of strength, hope, and freedom. prgtoken The Purple Heart is awarded to wounded members of the armed forces of the United States as a combat decoration for their commitment to our great country. As you visit the City of Maple Valley, you will find a road sign explaining the Purple Heart significance, which reminds all those visiting, of the sacrifice made for a just and free civilization. Furthermore, I would like to also thank the Boy Scout Troop 711 for building the display case for the plaques and other Purple Heart memorabilia, for the public to observe, learn and enjoy. prgtoken I thank the City of Maple Valley for its dedication to our armed forces who've risked their lives for ours. The City will not only be known as a beautiful place for wilderness, recreation and to raise a family; but one as an allegiance to our public servants.
RECOGNIZING MARK GOTTO
Mike Coffman (Republican, CO) \u2014 2017-9-18

I rise today to express my appreciation to Mark Gotto, Centennial City Council Member for District 3 Mark Gotto, for his many years of hard work and dedication to the City of Centennial. Council Member Gotto's leadership and vision has, amongst other accomplishments, contributed to the City of Centennial's reputation as one of the best in Colorado. prgtoken Council Member Gotto has consistently and effectively guided the City of Centennial towards a more business-friendly atmosphere that increases growth and the quality of life. He has continually provided his guidance and leadership as the City Council Liaison to a variety of different boards and committees, such as the Centennial Budget Committee, the Southgate Water and Sanitation District, and the Arapahoe Library District Board of Trustees. prgtoken Outside of his service on the Centennial City Council, Council Member Gotto has also dedicated his time making our community and the State of Colorado a better place. He continues to volunteer at the Children's Hospital of Colorado on the Anschutz Medical Campus and ensures that the Centennial City Council does not pass any resolution that would negatively affect the aging population in his city. prgtoken , City Council Member Mark Gotto represents the very best the State of Colorado and our nation has to offer in public service. I offer my sincere appreciation for his unyielding dedication to public service, and I wish him the very best of luck as he leaves the Centennial City Council and moves on to future endeavors.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018
Tom Cotton (Republican, AR) \u2014 2017-9-18

I want to clarify something about what is going to happen this afternoon. Whenever a ic Senator says they are worried about the state of our military, that they are horrified about the kind of cuts we are making, and they can't sleep at night because of what we are doing to our troops in the field, don't believe them. They don't mean it. They are not serious. It is all for show because they had a perfect opportunity to stop all of these terrible cuts--and not just for the troops, for their own State, for their constituents, even for their little parochial projects. What did they do? They turned it down. They said no. prgtoken Well, actually I take that back. They didn't say no. They couldn't even bring themselves to say no. They didn't have the courage to say no. They did something much worse. They said nothing because we are not even going to vote on the amendment I wanted to offer, which would have repealed the sequester spending cuts for defense and nondefense-- defense and nondefense spending. prgtoken Now, the Members of this body know I am no fan of frivolous, pork- barrel spending. A lot of the projects that my ic colleagues sponsored could easily fall in that category, and we should rein that sort of thing in at a time when we are $20 trillion in debt, but I understand the only way we were going to get something done about the radical spending cuts to our military was to forge a bipartisan compromise. prgtoken After all, it is not like the sequester spending cuts really did that much to control spending. Did spending go down in 2011, 2012, 2013? Yes, it went from $3.6 trillion to $3.5 trillion, to $3.4 trillion, but the sequester wasn't even in effect for those first 2 years. Spending went down because s won control of the House in 2010. At the end of 2013, however, Congress raised the budget caps and pushed off the sequester for those 2 years ahead. So, by 2015, Federal spending was back to $3.6 trillion, and it has been growing ever since. Time and time again, Congress has proven itself utterly incapable of sticking to the caps under the Budget Control Act of 2011. prgtoken Instead of actually saving money, all the sequester does is create an endless series of crises for Congress to escape just in the nick of time. Take this year. We all know what is going to happen. We just passed a 3-month continuing resolution earlier this month. We are going to reach a 2-year budget agreement in October or November that doesn't control spending. We are going to have an omnibus in December, written in secret in our leaders' offices, and then we are going to have another omnibus spending bill, written in secret in our leaders' offices, next December, and we will repeat that cycle over again in 2019 and 2020. How do I know that? Because that is exactly what happened in 2013 and 2015. We will never make the cuts the Budget Control Act called for. We will just pass giant bu
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
Roy Blunt (Republican, MO) \u2014 2017-9-18

today I stand to honor the 100th anniversary of the Mount Airy Missionary Baptist Church, located on Maffitt Avenue in St. Louis, MO. This impressive 100th anniversary milestone speaks volumes about the tremendous impact Mount Airy Church has had on its congregation, community, and the broader St. Louis community. prgtoken First organized as a prayer band on August 8, 1917, Mount Airy has had many homes throughout its 100-year history. Over its history, while its base home address might have changed, the Mount Airy membership and effect of its faith leadership grew. prgtoken Today Mount Airy is a thriving house of worship led by pastor Reverend Charles J. Brown, Sr. Pastor Brown received an honorary doctorate degree of divinity from Western Bible College, becoming the first pastor in the history of Mount Airy Missionary Baptist Church to receive an honorary degree. prgtoken Over the years, the church has expanded its ministries to engage more people and positively influence thousands of lives. Mount Airy Church has been innovative and compassionate in finding ways to reach their congregation and the community. The commitment of Pastor Brown, all of Mount Airy Missionary Baptist Church leadership, and its entire congregation to studying the word of God and faithfully living it sets an incredible example for all Missourians. prgtoken Congratulations again to all connected with Mount Airy Missionary Baptist Church on its 100-year anniversary.
16TH DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AWARDS
Vern Buchanan (Republican, FL) \u2014 2017-9-18

I rise today to recognize Fire and Rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. prgtoken As first responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their respective communities. Oftentimes, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get ``the call.'' prgtoken In 2012, I established the 16th District Congressional Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards to honor officers, departments, and units for outstanding achievement. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, it is my privilege to congratulate the following winners, who were selected this year by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired Fire and Rescue personnel living in the district: prgtoken Manatee County Community Paramedicine Program was chosen to receive the Congressional Unit Citation Award; prgtoken Training Officer Christopher Stark of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue was chosen to receive the Congressional Dedication and Professionalism Award; prgtoken Chief Dennis Jones of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue was chosen to receive the Congressional Career Service Award; and prgtoken Division Chief-Fire Marshal Tammy Zurla was chosen to receive the Congressional Dedication and Professionalism Award
VOTE EXPLANATION
Robert Menendez (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2017-9-19

I was unavoidably absent for rollcall prgtoken vote No. 200, the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of Noel J. Francisco, of the District of Columbia, to be Solicitor General of the United States. Had I been present, I would have voted nay. prgtoken , I was unavoidably absent for rollcall vote No. 201, on the nomination of Noel J. Francisco, of the District of Columbia, to be Solicitor General of the United States. Had I been present, I would have voted nay. prgtoken , I was unavoidably absent for rollcall vote No. 202, the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of William J. Emanuel, of California, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board. Had I been present, I would have voted nay.