mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CONGRATULATING TeKYLAH SIMPSON ON HER ACCEPTANCE TO CULINARY SCHOOL
Pete Olson (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today to congratulate TeKylah Simpson for being accepted into the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Austin. prgtoken TeKylah, a senior at Stafford High School, enrolled in Chef Courtney Ralls' Culinary Program as a sophomore. Through the program, Simpson became the first in her family to travel outside of the United States when she went to Italy; next summer she will go to Spain. Her skills have developed and earned her a spot at the Culinary school. She is incredibly driven and one day hopes to open her own bakery. prgtoken On behalf of the Twenty-Second Congressional District of Texas, congratulations again to TeKylah Simpson for being accepted into the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Austin. We know that she will reflect the hard work and values of her community through her academics, and wish her the best of luck.
HONORING MICHAEL J. DECKER, KINGSTON VETERANS ASSOCIATION'S VETERAN OF THE YEAR
John J. Faso (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-9-20

it is with great respect and admiration that I rise today to recognize and honor Michael J. Decker for being designated as the Kingston Veterans Association's Veteran of the Year for 2018. A native of Kingston, New York, Mr. Decker has bravely served our country in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves since 1993. prgtoken I admire the great commitment of those distinct individuals who have tirelessly devoted themselves to their country and community. Mr. Decker's service as a Marine has spanned the globe, having completed several periods of active duty in countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, Jordan, and Ghana. His service to the greater Kingston community, however, is unparalleled. prgtoken Through his active involvement with the Boy Scouts, the Ulster Detachment Marine Corps League, the Toys for Tots program, the Kingston Veterans Association, the Kingston American Little League, and as a devout parishioner of Saint Colman's Roman Catholic Church and member of their Buildings and Grounds Committee, Mr. Decker is an important role model for our communities, our veterans, and the next generation of soldiers. prgtoken Being named the Veteran of the Year is a true testament to Mr. Decker's continued legacy of patriotism and steadfast commitment to improving the lives of his friends, neighbors, and fellow veterans. I can think of no one more deserving of this honor I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Decker on receiving this award. His lifetime of hard work and dedicated service to the United States is inspirational, and I am grateful for his contributions to New York State.
CONGRATULATING MARK BEHAN ON RECEIVING THE HENRY CRANDALL AWARD
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today to congratulate Mark Behan on receiving the Henry Crandall Award. prgtoken For the past six years, the Crandall Public Library has presented the Henry Crandall Award to an individual active in the community who embodies the values of loyalty, perseverance, generosity, compassion, and civic pride. This year, the Library selected Mark Behan, a gentleman who is a staple of the Glens Falls community. Mark's dedication to improving his community and his commitment to the Crandall Public Library is admirable. prgtoken A former board member of the Crandall Public Library, Mark holds a number of positions that qualify him for this award. He serves his community as the vice chairman of the Board of Governors of Glens Falls Hospital, co-vice chair of the Board of Trustees of The Hyde Collection, a member of the board of the Glens Falls Foundation, and a director of Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Co. and Arrow Financial Corp. After a career in the newspaper industry, Mark founded Behan Communications, where for 30 years he has provided public relations advice to organizations in his community. His philanthropic spirit is contagious. prgtoken On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to congratulate Mark for this well-deserved award, and thank him for his tireless commitment to making his community a better place to live.
RECOGNIZING THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF HAYLOR, FREYER & COON
John Katko (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today in recognition of the 90th anniversary of Haylor, Freyer & Coon, a small business in my district providing insurance assistance to residents across Upstate New York. prgtoken Haylor, Freyer & Coon was founded in 1928 when Barney E. Haylor and James McLusky opened a small four-person agency at the Herald Building in Syracuse, New York. Following the passing of Mr. McLusky, Barney Haylor partnered with Clayton F. Freyer in 1946 and Douglas Coon shortly after to establish the corporation that exists today. As time progressed, HF&C began to expand its presence by partnering with other local agencies across the state. Following the establishment of its Northern Divisions in 1984, Haylor, Freyer, & Coon grew to become the largest independently owned insurance agency in the state. prgtoken Today, Haylor, Freyer & Coon remains a leader within the insurance industry of Central New York. It has also been ISO 9001 certified by the International Standards Organization, which recognizes the agency's quality management principles and its strong customer focus. Staffed with a team of approximately 180 employees and 6 corporate offices, HF&C continues to be a valuable institution in the Central New York community. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in celebrating Haylor, Freyer & Coon's go years of service to the state of New York. As one of the top 100 independently owned insurance agencies in the United States, HF&C continues to stay true to the principles it was found upon nine decades ago.
HONORING DANIEL RISSER OF PENNSYLVANIA FOR ACHIEVING THE RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT
Scott Perry (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today to honor and congratulate my constituent, Daniel Risser, for his accomplishment in earning the rank of Eagle Scout. prgtoken The Eagle Scout designation is the highest advancement rank in scouting; only a small number of Boy Scouts are able to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. The award is a performance-based achievement with high standards that have been well-maintained over the past century. To earn the rank of Eagle Scout, a Boy Scout is obligated to pass specific tests that are organized by myriad requirements and merit badges, as well as completing an Eagle Scout project to benefit the community. prgtoken Daniel has been a Scout for ten years, since he joined Troop 150 in the first grade. Since then he has been deeply involved in the organization, rising to become a brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow. Daniel also performed a great deal of community services through his involvement in the National Youth Leadership Training Program. prgtoken I've long appreciated the commitment of people who demonstrate hard work and selflessly devote themselves to serving our communities and fellow citizens. On behalf of Pennsylvania's Fourth Congressional District, I commend and congratulate Daniel Risser on his great accomplishment, and wish him Godspeed in his future adventures.
HONORING THE FIRST ANNUAL LEGACY RUN BY THE AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS OF POST 114
Jason Smith (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today to honor and congratulate the American Legion Riders of Post 114 in Sikeston, MO as they celebrate the completion of their first annual Legacy Run to benefit the Legacy Scholarship Fund. prgtoken The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. Chartered in 1920, Post 114 embodies this patriotic spirit and serves an important role in the Sikeston community by sponsoring youth baseball leagues, supporting local community causes, and providing unrelenting support to America's servicemen and women. prgtoken The American Legion created the Legacy Scholarship Fund to provide college scholarships to children of fallen U.S. military personnel on active duty since September 11th, 2001. On June 22nd of this year, riders from Post 114 embarked on their first Legacy Run, visiting 22 cities throughout my congressional district. The efforts by these Riders will create educational opportunities for many children who would otherwise not be able to pursue a higher education. prgtoken It is my great privilege to recognize the American Legion Riders and the entire Legion family before the United States House of Representatives as the organization approaches its centennial birthday next year. I celebrate the community spirit, sense of duty and pride that thrives in this patriotic organization.
RECOGNIZING THE CAREER OF JAMES CAMP
Kevin McCarthy (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today alongside my colleague, David Valadao, to recognize Mr. James ``Jim'' Camp, a philanthropist and community leader from Bakersfield, California. Jim will be recognized as the Kern County Fair's Person of the Year for his lifetime of commitment to bettering the quality of life in Kern County. prgtoken Jim is a tireless advocate for promoting and supporting the community he calls home. He has served three terms on the Board of Directors for the Kern County Fair--first appointed by Governor Pete Wilson and later appointed twice by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. As a member of the Board of Directors, Jim worked year-round to fulfill the Kern County Fair's mission of providing a safe and friendly environment for educational, cultural, and entertainment experiences celebrating the accomplishments of the Kern County community. During his time with the Kern County Fair, Jim also participated on the Finance and Livestock Committee, serving two terms as Chairman of the Board. prgtoken More than anything else, Jim has distinguished himself as a man with a heart for the Bakersfield community. Over the years, Jim has paid his personal successes forward, donating to charitable causes across Bakersfield. In particular, Jim and his wife, Beverly, extended their generosity to help fund Bakersfield's Memorial Hospital's Grossman Burn Center. Jim has also been an active member of the Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK), serving the community service organization in a variety of roles since 2007, the most prominent being his tenure as chairman of CAPK's Board of Directors from 2013 to 2015. Through his work with CAPK, Jim helped to provide critical services to Kern County's most disadvantaged, organizing and participating in events that helped to reduce poverty and meet critical needs such as education, housing, and healthcare. prgtoken Over his life of work and community service, Jim Camp has distinguished himself as a man who always put the needs of others first. We have known Jim as a humble servant to Bakersfield--a man who never sought credit or recognition, but always had his community's best interest in mind. He is a giver--pure and simple--a man with a heart of gold with an insatiable desire to enrich the lives of others. That's a rare quality to come by, and our community is a better place because of Jim and his love for the people of Bakersfield. His efforts have measurably changed the Kern County community for the better, and one would be hard pressed to find a person worthier of the designation of `Man of the Year' than Jim Camp.
107TH NATIONAL DAY OF THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today to commemorate the 107th National Day of the Republic of China. National Day, known as 10- 10, commemorates the Wuchang Uprising of 1911 and the revolution that followed. The Wuchang Uprising was the first event in a monumental revolution that reshaped China. Dr. Sun Yatsen led the Chinese nationalists to victory and went on to create a republic grounded in the same principles as our own. prgtoken Today, the National Day of the Republic of China is the celebration of a free and democratic Republic of China. Taiwan is a global leader in commerce, technology and innovation and has helped power the technological revolution of the 21st century. Over the last 107 years, the United States has developed deep connections with the Republic of China. The Republic of China has been a steadfast ally of the United States, assisting operations in World War II and Vietnam. At a time of increasing strategic competition, the FY 19 NDAA passed by this Congress seeks to increase our strong ties with Taiwan by increasing security cooperation. Trade is an additional area of cooperation between the United States and the Republic of China. In fact, Taiwan is one of the largest markets for soybeans grown in northeast Indiana. prgtoken I wish the people of the Republic of China a happy 107th National Day, and I know that the bonds of friendship between us will continue to flourish.
RECOGNIZING NATIONAL ESTUARY WEEK: SEPTEMBER 15 TO 22, 2018
Bill Posey (Republican, FL) \u2014 2018-9-20

this week we celebrate National Estuary Week, a week dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of our nation's estuaries. This marks the 30th anniversary of National Estuary Week, and on Monday, September 17, I joined my fellow co-chairs of the Congressional Estuary Caucus and Restore America's Estuaries in kicking off this celebration with the 2018 National Estuaries Week Hill Expo. This Expo was a great showcase of research and resources for coastal habitats. The Environmental Protection Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service were on hand to talk with staff and Members and explain how we can improve the health of our estuaries. prgtoken Former Congressman Jim Gerlach taught us ``Estuaries are coastal bays, harbors, sounds and lagoons, places where rivers meet the sea.'' My own Eighth District of Florida is home to the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most diverse estuaries in North America and the world. I grew up around Cocoa Beach, raised my family along the Lagoon, and worked in local real estate for many years. I learned firsthand why it's so important for us to work together to care for our environment. prgtoken That is why, in early 2017, I founded the bipartisan Congressional Estuary Caucus with several of my colleagues to give the nation's estuaries a stronger voice and presence in Congress. Since that time, more than forty Members of Congress have joined the Estuary Caucus and become actively engaged in our efforts to support estuary restoration and conservation. The Caucus has already held eleven briefings on Capitol Hill about the critical role these delicate ecosystems play in our communities. prgtoken Stretching 156 miles along Florida's east coast, our Lagoon is a sanctuary for nearly 4,000 species of wildlife, an economic engine for our community, and an invaluable recreational and educational resource for residents and visitors. Since estuaries are places where freshwater mixes with saltwater, preserving the delicate balance is as critical as it can be difficult. Our quality of life, economy and tourism, property values and the survival of many indigenous species of plant and wildlife depend on our efforts. Scientists often call them ``nurseries of the sea'' because estuaries are the nesting and feeding habitats for many aquatic plants and animals. Experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimate that up to 80 percent of the fish and shellfish that we catch spend at least part of their lives in estuaries. That catch includes salmon, herring, and oysters, and our fishing industry is valued in the billions of dollars. Estuaries also contribute to healthy ocean environments by filtering out sediments and pollutants from rivers and streams before they flow into the oceans. Estuaries are also important recreational destinations. Millions of people each year boat, swim, watch birds and other wildlife, and
HONORING COMMUNITY CHAMPION ELIZABETH LAMPKINS
Mike Kelly (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-9-20

I would like to recognize one of my constituents from Western Pennsylvania, Mrs. Elizabeth Lampkins. Elizabeth has been employed with the Shenango Valley Urban League since 1974 and has served as the director of the Woman, Infants, and Children program (WIC) since 1978. Elizabeth has spent the past 44 years selflessly serving others and building a legacy that is absolutely admirable. Although her successful career is coming to an end as Elizabeth is retiring, her efforts will continue to benefit the community for years to come. prgtoken Elizabeth is the beloved widow of Marion Lampkins, as well as a proud mother of three and a doting grandmother to five. In 1961, Elizabeth graduated from Choffin School of Practical Nursing and received additional certification from St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown, Ohio. In 1974, following a life-threatening illness, Elizabeth began volunteering at the former Community Medical Education & Screening Center in order to help them create a program to address Sickle Cell. prgtoken After just one month of volunteering, Elizabeth was hired as a secretary and from that point forward she continuously advanced the program and her career. Elizabeth worked her way up from volunteer to secretary to counselor to coordinator and, ultimately, all the way to director. Being appointed as the Director of the WIC & Sickle Cell program was the start of the most rewarding endeavor of Elizabeth's career. She proudly took on the leadership role and always maintained her focus on ``service first,'' which earned respect and admiration from colleagues at the Shenango Valley Urban League. prgtoken The Shenango Valley Urban League, which is proudly celebrating their 50th anniversary, is an organization that welcomes, empowers, and encourages all citizens and provides vital services to those in need. Elizabeth is the oldest employee at the Shenango Valley Urban League in both age and tenure, and she has proudly served under every Executive Director or President since the inception of the organization. Throughout her career, Elizabeth has worked tirelessly to advance the WIC program and ensure it continues to prosper and provide. In every role, in every effort, Elizabeth has displayed unparalleled integrity, dignity, and strength. prgtoken In addition to her loyalty to the WIC program, Elizabeth has actively participated in various civic organizations and advisory boards, making community service an integral part of her life. Elizabeth's expertise and participation has been beneficial to the following: Prince of Peace Center, Teen Parenting Advisory Board, United Way Budget Panel, Minority Health Advocacy Committee, Pennsylvania WIC Association, Mercer County Children & Youth Services, Mercer County Family Centers, and Mercer County Comprehensive Health Planning Council. prgtoken Due to her noteworthy accomplishments, Elizabeth has been honored by many, including the Shenango Valley Urban League, N
LAKE FOREST DEBT FREE DAY
Mimi Walters (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today in recognition of the City of Lake Forest, California, located in my congressional district. prgtoken On October 2, 2018, the Lake Forest City Council will notify bondholders that the city intends to make an early repayment of a $7 million bond, the city's only outstanding debt. The debt will be paid in full by December 2, 2018. prgtoken By repaying the debt early, Lake Forest will save approximately $1 million. Those savings will allow the City to allocate additional resources toward various funds, such as transportation improvement funds and the General Fund. prgtoken Lake Forest is the largest of three cities that has zero outstanding debt liability and is current in its pension payments within the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). prgtoken Following its incorporation in 1991, Lake Forest adopted a conservative fiscal management approach resulting in the substantial financial security the City enjoys today. prgtoken For example, Lake Forest contracts for police and fire services, and landscape and street maintenance, and rents office space for City Hall rather than issuing debt to build a Civic Center. prgtoken Further, Lake Forest relies on property and sales taxes to fund its budget, rather than relying on specialty taxes like automobile sales or hotel taxes, which can be unreliable sources of income. prgtoken A stable income base coupled with conservative spending practices allow Lake Forest to maintain a balanced budget and be debt-free. prgtoken Again, I would like to congratulate Lake Forest on this achievement and applaud its fiscal responsibility.
HONORING CHAPLIN RICARDO GARCIA
Vicente Gonzalez (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today to recognize Chaplin Ricardo Garcia and his commitment to serving those in need. prgtoken Chaplin Garcia's dedication to selfless service is commendable and deserving of recognition. Chaplin Garcia has delivered aid to regions affected by natural disasters such as Joplin, Missouri after it was hit by a tornado, Louisiana after the destructive flooding, and most recently Houston in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. prgtoken The Chaplin's work with the Emergency Ministries Service Church and Garcia Trail Rider moves and inspires all of us. The Emergency Ministries Service Church provides food, preaches to the youth, gives the homeless a nice, warm place to rest for the night and much more. Chaplin Garcia also led a trail ride to benefit a Vietnam veteran battling cancer and has an upcoming trail ride to benefit St. Jude's. prgtoken , it is an honor to represent individuals, such as Chaplin Garcia, who consistently put the needs of others before their own. Chaplin Ricardo Garcia and all of the people who volunteer to work with him at Emergency Ministries Services Church and Garcia Trail Rider are shining examples of what the 15th District of Texas has to offer.
RECOGNIZNG THE SERVICE OF ROBERT ``BOB'' SEWELL
Mark DeSaulnier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-9-20

I rise today to recognize Robert ``Bob'' Sewell, Business Manager of Plumbers and Steamfitters UA Local 159 in Martinez, a respected member of the community, for being recognized as the Labor Leader of the Year. prgtoken Bob joined Plumbers and Steamfitters UA Local 159 in July 1979, where he went on to complete his apprenticeship in June 1984. He later had a long career at Lescure Company Incorporated, where he served as a foreman, general foreman, and field superintendent. prgtoken In addition to his daily responsibilities on the job, Bob served on the Craftsman Committee, and later on the union's Executive Board. On top of his leadership positions, Bob taught classes at Local 159, specifically in medical gas installation to journeymen and apprentices. In 2002, the members of UA Local 159 recognized his dedication and elected him to serve as the union's Assistant Business Manager and Financial Secretary-Treasurer. prgtoken In 2009, Bob served as Recording Secretary for the Contra Costa Building Trades and was instrumental in securing Project Labor Agreements in the region, which have provided prevailing wage jobs and apprenticeship opportunities to local residents. prgtoken His skill and service as a leader have benefited his fellow union members of Plumbers and Steamfitters UA Local 159, and the community. Bob's dedication to his job, his family, and his community as a lifelong Contra Costa resident is admirable. I congratulate him on this award and thank him for his dedication to our shared mission of promoting the rights of American workers.