mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
TRIBUTE TO KEN QUINN
Chuck Grassley (Republican, IA) \u2014 2019-10-15

on another point, for the last three decades, Des Moines has hosted something every year this week called the World Food Prize. As the World Food Prize kicks off this week in Des Moines, I pay tribute to an outstanding Iowan and the president of that foundation. prgtoken In his Foreign Service career, Ken Quinn was the Ambassador to Cambodia, but earlier in that career, Ken Quinn's life of service took him from a small town in Iowa to Southeast Asia and back. Decades ago, he identified an avenue to peace and prosperity. As a young Foreign Service officer, he saw that roads secured economic freedom and food security for the impoverished people of Southeast Asia. prgtoken For the last 20 years, Ambassador Quinn--now not in the Foreign Service--has cultivated the World Food Prize into the Nobel Prize for Agriculture. Thanks to his stewardship of the seeds first planted by the Nobel Peace Prize laureate of 1970, Dr. Norman Borlaug, the World Food Prize will yield humanitarian goods for generations to come. prgtoken . prgtoken .
RECOGNIZING HONG KONG'S BILATERAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UNITED STATES
J. French Hill (Republican, AR) \u2014 2019-10-15

I thank my friend from New Jersey very much for allowing me to speak on the subject of Hong Kong today. prgtoken I rise in support of all these bills before us today, particularly the bill from my friend from New Jersey, the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, and I stand in solidarity with all freedom-loving people in Hong Kong. prgtoken For more than 4 months, we have witnessed Hong Kong citizens peacefully protest for the right to live in a free and fair political system. prgtoken Over my years, I have traveled to Hong Kong and witnessed their innovative spirit and work ethic. In fact, Hong Kong was the model for the post-World War II growth of the Asian Tigers in their prosperity and innovation. prgtoken In the 1980s, when a proponent of welfare statism queried pro-growth economist Melvyn B. Krauss: ``But how many Hong Kongs can the world have?'' prgtoken Dr. Krauss replied, ``As many as the world will allow itself.'' prgtoken Freedom lovers should rally to that wisdom. prgtoken This summer, I had the opportunity to hear directly from leaders in Hong Kong dedicated to religious tolerance and democracy as promised in the one country, two systems agreement. prgtoken The people of Hong Kong continue to wave American flags during their protests as a symbol for the freedoms that they desire. prgtoken Rather than receiving support from all over our great land here in this country, they have had to witness the blatant hypocrisy that we have seen from U.S. companies, including the National Basketball Association, more worried about the bottom line and retribution from the PRC, rather than standing up for the basic human rights that we are so blessed with in this country and that we advocate for as a part of our foreign policy all over this globe. prgtoken The free world is looking to us for leadership, and that is why I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), Mr. McGovern, and Mr. Sherman for supporting these legislative efforts on a bipartisan basis, but more importantly, supporting the people in Hong Kong that they have the right to freedom of expression and democratic governance guaranteed under that 50-year arrangement agreed to in 1997 by both--by both, Mr. --the United Kingdom and the People's Republic of China. prgtoken , I urge all my colleagues to support these measures today, and I thank their sponsors.
CONGRATULATING DR. PATRICK E.T. GODBEY
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2019-10-15

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Dr. Pat Godbey, who was sworn in as the president of the American College of Pathologists on September 18. prgtoken The college's 36th president, Dr. Godbey has been active with the organization for the last 25 years, serving on numerous committees and councils. His election is an extraordinary honor, with the College of American Pathologists being the world's largest association of board- certified pathologists. prgtoken As president, Dr. Godbey will be tasked with continuing their commitment to creating accountable, high-quality, and cost-effective patient care. prgtoken I know that he is up to the task. He has already served a 2-year term as president and maintains an exceptional track record as director of the Southeast Georgia Health System in the First Congressional District of Georgia. prgtoken Congratulations on your election, Dr. Godbey. Keep up the good work.
TRIBUTE TO PERRY HAND
Richard C. Shelby (Republican, AL) \u2014 2019-10-15

today I wish to honor the retirement of Perry Hand, an Alabama native, from Volkert, Inc. Perry is a recognized leader in the engineering field with nearly 50 years of experience in the industry. He has provided decades of service to improve the quality of life in his community and across the State of Alabama. prgtoken Mr. Perry Hand previously served as senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Volkert in Mobile, AL. He was appointed president, chief executive officer, and chairman of the board in 2011. In 2018, Mr. Hand appointed a new president and CEO to the company, and he retained the role of chairman. Prior to his work with Volkert, Perry served as Alabama's highway director, Alabama's secretary of state, and a two-term State senator. He also founded Perry Hand & Associates, Inc. prgtoken Perry has earned many recognitions throughout his career, among them are his induction into the Alabama Construction Hall of Fame, the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame, earning the Chairman's Award at Volkert, multiple Auburn University awards, and many more. He earned his bachelor's degree prgtoken in civil engineering from Auburn University and holds an honorary doctorate from Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee. prgtoken What is truly remarkable are Perry Hand's many accomplishments and contributions to the State. I am proud to take this time to recognize him for his service at Volkert, which has greatly benefitted the people of Alabama. His achievements and dedication to advancing the industry have not gone unnoticed. I join Perry's friends, family, and colleagues in wishing him the best of luck as he transitions into a new chapter of his life, and I thank him for his commitment to Alabama.
RECOGNIZING VIERA SUNTREE LITTLE LEAGUE'S ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Bill Posey (Republican, FL) \u2014 2019-10-15

. Madam , today I rise to recognize two exceptional and accomplished baseball teams from Florida's eighth congressional district for their recent championship wins. The Viera Suntree Little League sent both their Juniors and Majors All-Stars baseball teams to compete in the state championships, bringing home two stunning victories. Not only did both teams win state championships, but the Juniors team went on to play in the Little League World Series where only 16 teams in the entire country are selected to compete. There the Juniors team placed second in the U.S. bracket and fourth in the World, finishing with a 15 and 2 overall record. The magnitude of both teams' accomplishments cannot be understated. Their dedication to excellence in the sport of baseball is evident in this achievement. prgtoken I would like to also mention that this is not the first time that Viera Suntree All-Stars teams have competed for championships. They received their first Majors division state championship in 2010. These teams consistently compete at high levels and voluntarily dedicate themselves to countless hours of practice and playing games. prgtoken I am incredibly grateful to have such outstanding young men and their coaches represent our district on the national stage. I would like to extend a special congratulations to Manager Jason Allen, Coaches John Glendinning and Dustin Keith, and players Aaron Brand, Luke Campbell, Lucas Glendinning, Apollos Horrell, Luc Iten, Dylan Jordan, Logan Keith, Luke McDonough, Cameron Ruston, Cameron Simpkins, Cole Smith, Blake Strode, Brycen Weeks, and Camden Wicker of the Juniors team. prgtoken I would also like to congratulate Manager Russell Cheatham, Coaches Raul Leoni, Clint Marshall, and players Izzy Birru, Robbie Caruso, Micah Cheatham, Brennan Confreda, Finnegan Goldiner, Dominic Leoni, Evan Lipski, Austin Marshall, Colton Marshall, Deaglan McBride, Mikey Minarik, Jonah Peacock, and Brandon Reiter of the Majors team. prgtoken I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the accomplishments of both the Juniors and Majors All- Star teams and I look forward to seeing what they can achieve next year.
2020 COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
Marsha Blackburn (Republican, TN) \u2014 2019-10-15

in Nashville, we have a saying: It all begins with a song. That is the truth, but that is not where the story ends. It is where it begins. prgtoken Every record that makes it out into the world is backed by a team of hard-working and creative individuals whose job is to bring the music to the masses: the songwriters, who find a way to express feelings that we mere mortals could never hope to put down on paper; the studio musicians, whose refined techniques satisfy even the most sensitive microphones; the producers, whose vision and intuition can turn a song into a hit cut; and the label heads, whose job it is to take a chance on new artists in hopes of discovering the next country music superstar. prgtoken Each year the music industry's movers and shakers come together to decide who among them is worthy of a place in the industry's most sought-after circle: the Country Music Hall of Fame. prgtoken The Country Music Association inducted their first Hall of Fame class in 1961. Since then, the CMA has welcomed some of the most well-known and beloved members of Nashville's entertainment community into the Hall's ranks. This year's inductees have made their mark on both sides of the studio glass. prgtoken Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn--we know them as Brooks & Dunn--started out as solo singer-songwriters, but rocketed to stardom as a duo. prgtoken Their first album produced four No. 1 singles and sold almost 3 million copies, all in the pre-smartphone, pre-streaming era. Since then, Kix and Ronnie's over 40 top 10 hits, 20 No. 1 singles, and 12 platinum-plus albums have earned them the distinction of being one of the most successful country duos of all time. They have done it all while writing their own songs, designing their own shows, and supporting the art of up-and-coming performers. prgtoken This dedication to the future of country is why Brooks & Dunn will be inducted into the Hall of Fame in the ``Modern Era Artist'' category. prgtoken Ray Stevens--when we think about country music, many times, we are thinking about steel guitars and broken hearts, but this year's second Hall of Fame inductee really just wants to make you smile. prgtoken Ray Stevens is one of the most successful comedy recording artists of all time, but he made his mark in Nashville as a songwriter, studio musician, producer, and gospel singer, in addition to being a star comic and country entertainer. prgtoken If you look at his catalog, there really is something for everyone. His work spoke to fans in need of a laugh or sometimes spiritual guidance or a song to sing along to after a hard day's work. prgtoken Ray's wonderful sense of humor, open heart, and commitment to entertainment as an art form made him a Music City standout and the perfect choice to earn the distinction of ``Veterans Era Artist'' in the Country Music Hall of Fame. prgtoken Jerry Bradley--this year's third and final inductee--may not have invented country music, b
RECOGNIZING HANSON GARAGE
James E. Risch (Republican, ID) \u2014 2019-10-15

today I wish to highlight the hard work and determination of a small business in my home State of Idaho. The small business that I am honoring today goes above and beyond when it comes to embodying the American entrepreneurial spirit. As a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, it is my pleasure to recognize Hanson Garage, Inc as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for October 2019. prgtoken Hanson Garage in Orofino was founded in 1917 by Hans ``Pete'' Hanson and began selling Dodge vehicles in 1919. Pete's son, Ket Hanson, later took over the garage and passed it on to his sons Keith and Larry when he retired in the early 1980s. Keith and Larry grew up sweeping floors and washing cars at the garage, and upon graduating from the University of Idaho, they became partners in the family business. More than 100 years and three generations later, Hanson Garage remains a smalltown, family-owned business renowned for its passion, friendliness, and dedication to providing exceptional service. prgtoken The garage sells new and used Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, Suzuki ATVs and motorcycles, and KTM motorcycles. It also offers services such as financial assistance, vehicle repair, and a variety of parts for purchase. Over the years, the business has received several awards from Chrysler and Suzuki for exceptional sales and service, and the Hanson family attributes the business's success to their consistent fair prices and superior customer service. prgtoken Thirteen families in the Orofino area are employed at Hanson Garage, comprising a significant share of the workforce for a community of about 3,000 people. Keith and Larry Hanson are active members of the Orofino Chamber of Commerce and supporters of local youth sporting events and of the Orofino Lumber Jack Days and the County Fair. I would like to extend a well-deserved congratulations to Keith and Larry Hanson and all of the employees of Hanson Garage for being selected as the October 2019 Idaho Small Business of the Month. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to watching your continued growth and success.
HONG KONG HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY ACT OF 2019
Christopher H. Smith (Republican, NJ) \u2014 2019-10-15

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , first of all, I want to thank so many people for working so hard on this piece of legislation: my good friend, Jim McGovern, the principal cosponsor and just a great friend, on fighting tyranny in China. He chairs the China Commission. I am the ranking member. Previously, I have chaired it, and so we have gone back and forth in working that leadership. I want to thank him especially for that. prgtoken , I also want to thank, of course, Chairman Engel and Ranking Member McCaul, Chairman Sherman and Ranking Member Yoho for their strong support for this bipartisan legislation. prgtoken , there are a number of staffers who I will speak about in a moment. No. I will do it now: Scott Flipse for his great work on this bill, it is landmark work going back to 5 years ago; Jon Stivers; Reva Price from the 's office, who has been tenacious on this legislation; Jennifer Hendrixson-White; Bryan Burack; Janice Kaguyutan; Theresa Lou; Darrow Godeski Merton; Doug Anderson; Piero Tozzi; Sabrina Tsai. Just so many very good people who have all pulled together in a bipartisan way to make sure that this legislation comes to the floor and becomes law. prgtoken , since the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre 30 years ago, I have had the privilege of working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle, including Pelosi, on human rights, the rule of law and democracy for the People's Republic of China. prgtoken , I also want to thank Kevin McCarthy, the minority leader here in the House, the leader, who has put me on as his selection on the China Commission and for his strong support for this legislation as well. prgtoken We have always believed, , that every person in China deserves better than the brutality so many endure every single day and the systematic violations of their universally-recognized human rights. prgtoken Tragically, under President Xi Jinping, human rights abuses throughout China have significantly worsened, including the pervasive use of torture, religious persecution, and human trafficking. prgtoken Solemn promises made by Beijing are rarely kept, and far too many leaders of the free world are far too eager to blindly accept fiction over fact. prgtoken Broken promises are the rule, not the exception under Xi Jinping, and the people of Hong Kong are suffering because of it. prgtoken During the 2014 Umbrella Movement, the world saw the courageous people of Hong Kong demanding that Beijing not renege on promises made to ensure universal suffrage, basic rights, and authentic elections in 2017. prgtoken Despite President Xi Jinping's brutal crackdown on protesters then and now, triggered this time by an outrageous proposed policy to facilitate extradition, the resolve, the courage, the tenacity, and clarity of purpose of the people of Hong Kong shines through the darkness like the Sun. prgtoken Two days ago, Reuters reported that President Xi Jinping tol
WELCOMING PASTOR ANDREW BRUNSON
Thom Tillis (Republican, NC) \u2014 2019-10-15

. and those who were watching during the opening prayer, that was Pastor Andrew Brunson from North Carolina. This month marks a year since Pastor Brunson was released from a Turkish prison. Norine, his wife, is in the Gallery as well. They were swept up in what I considered to be an overreaction by President Erdogan and the Turkish regime in their imprisoning thousands of people after the coup attempt in Turkey. I actually found out about this first as casework. Pastor Brunson was from North Carolina. Then, slowly but steadily, diplomacy wasn't working, and he found himself in a Turkish prison--at one point in really what we would consider to be despicable circumstances. He was in a prison cell that was designed for maybe 8 or 10 people that had had more than 20 in it, and none of them spoke the English language. prgtoken Pastor Brunson was a missionary in Turkey for almost 20 years. He had a church in Izmir, and all they tried to do for those who wanted to hear the Word of God was to speak it. For that, he was ultimately incarcerated and accused of being a part of the Turkish coup attempt. It was about a year later that they issued an indictment for him. It was a 62-page indictment that read like a horrible, fictional novel and had some of the most absurd allegations you could possibly imagine. Certainly, they were things that wouldn't keep you in jail overnight in the United States but were things that were potentially going to have Pastor Brunson convicted and spending 35 years in a Turkish prison. prgtoken We got word back that after the indictment was issued against Pastor Brunson, he was afraid that the American people were going to believe it, that we would simply move on, and that he would be left there at the fate of the Turkish judiciary. When I heard that, the first thing I told my staff is that I had to go to Turkey. I wanted to go to the prison that Pastor Brunson was in, and I had the opportunity to meet Norine, his wife, the day before. I went there, and across a table that was about as wide as this desk, I told Pastor Brunson that we were not going to forget him and were not going to stop until we got him released from prison. prgtoken In a series of efforts here, for which I have to really compliment all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, more than 72 Senators signed on to a letter that encouraged Pastor Brunson's release. More than 100 House Members signed on to a similar letter. We did everything we could diplomatically to get Pastor Brunson released. prgtoken I decided I wanted to see how the court case was going, so I went back to Turkey a few months after I had first met Pastor Brunson in the prison, and I sat through 12 hours of so-called Turkish justice. I saw this man stand before a dais of three judges and a prosecutor, where basically you were assumed guilty until you proved innocence. His defense attorney was as far away from him as is that wall. That is
HONORING THE CENTRAL WASHINGTON HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Dan Newhouse (Republican, WA) \u2014 2019-10-15

I rise today, as National Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, to celebrate the Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which is celebrating 10 years of service to central Washington communities. prgtoken The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was formed to support Yakima Valley's growing Latino business community. They work to develop a professional network that fosters a thriving business environment, encourages job development, and promotes business growth. Their diverse membership is a testament to the range of positive contributions Hispanic Americans and Latinos have on our central Washington communities. prgtoken Last month, the chamber hosted ``Taco Fest,'' a celebration to mark the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month with our friends and neighbors throughout the Yakima Valley. They also, annually, hold the Estrella Awards, which honor exemplary local Hispanic leaders and professionals. prgtoken I am proud to represent the Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and its members, whose work strengthens and improves our local communities in the Yakima Valley. I urge all of my colleagues to help me celebrate their 10-year anniversary, and I thank all who join me in celebrating the contributions of Hispanic Americans and Latinos during National Hispanic Heritage Month.