mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN HONOR OF DANA KERVIN AND HER 25 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE HOUSTON ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
Kevin Brady (Republican, TX) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise in recognition of Dana Kervin and her 25 years of service to the Houston Association of Realtors. Over the past quarter of a century, Dana has spent countless hours serving and improving our community. prgtoken Though not a native Texan, Dana made her way to Houston as soon as possible. Dana grew up in Rayville, Louisiana, and later attended University of Louisiana at Monroe, earning a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Management. After graduation, Dana moved to Houston to embark on a career in public affairs. In the County Attorney's Office, she served as the Executive Assistant to the late Mike Driscoll for 12 dedicated years. In 1994, Dana transitioned to a new career with the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR), where she currently serves as the Chief Political Strategist. prgtoken During her 25 years at the HAR, Dana has served the group in a variety of ways, holding diverse positions such as the Director of Products and Services and Government Affairs Director. In each position she held, Dana led HAR with bold forethought and keen leadership. As all who had the privilege of working with her can attest, her tenure at HAR has made the organization the best it can be. prgtoken Outside her work with HAR, Dana has been a prominent figure in the Greater Houston community. She was the Founding Board Chair of the Greater Houston Women's Chamber of Commerce and also served as the President of the River Oaks Place Home Owners Association. As a Mayoral appointee, Dana currently serves as Director on the Houston Housing Finance Corporation, a position that combines her passion for public service and her deep knowledge of real estate finance. prgtoken Dana was awarded the Governmental Affairs Outstanding Achievement Award in 2015 by the Texas Association of Realtors--an award that is truly well-deserved. Dana was also named one of the 50 most influential women in Houston in the Houston Woman Magazine, a title no doubt reflective of her years of professional success and personal public service. prgtoken Dana's genuine love of her peers and dedication to making a difference has touched not only her colleagues, friends, and family, but our entire community. I thank you for your years of friendship and dedication to the Greater Houston area, and I wish you all the best as I have no doubt you will find new ways to be at service to the community.
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF RICHARD SPROULE
Jack Bergman (Republican, MI) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , it is my honor to recognize the life and service of Richard Sproule. As a proud Veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Richard has proven himself to be an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. prgtoken The Continental Marines were formed by decree of the Second Continental Congress on November 10, 1775. Since the Revolutionary War, Marines served with the American Expeditionary Force on the Western Front of WWI, island hopped in the Pacific, landed on the beaches of North Korea, fought to protect the Republic of Vietnam, and defended Americans from the threat of global terrorism. Rick served a crucial role during his service in the Marines, maintaining jet engines and ensuring the safety and fighting capacity of our Airmen. His unwavering devotion to duty perfectly exemplifies the spirit of the U.S. Marine Corps. We owe Rick and his brothers in arms an enormous debt of gratitude. He has served our nation willingly, honorably, and without bias. prgtoken Madam , it's my honor today to acknowledge the extraordinary life of Richard Sproule. I ask that you join with me and the people of Michigan's First District in thanking him for his unwavering commitment to our nation and its people.
CONGRATULATING OLD MONROE--200TH ANNIVERSARY
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate the city of Old Monroe, Missouri, on the commemoration of its Bicentennial. prgtoken Old Monroe, located in Lincoln County, Missouri, has a rich history dating back to 1673 and the exploration of Frenchmen James Marquette and Louis Joliet. Old Monroe is the oldest town in Lincoln County and was a city before Missouri obtained statehood. prgtoken In 1799, Christopher Clark settled along the rich freshwater spring in Lincoln county. He deemed the land to be the ``finest, richest, and most attractive district.'' Among the first settlers, were Joseph Cottle, Zadock Wood, and prgtoken his brothers: James and Martin Woods settling near present day Old Monroe. In 1802, Ira and Almond Cottle, relatives of Joseph Cottle, moved from Vermont to Missouri. Several years later, Ira and Almond established the town of Old Monroe--named out of respect for President James Monroe. prgtoken In 1819, the town was the site of the first election held in Lincoln County. The Territorial General Assembly organized 8 new counties in Missouri, dividing them into three judicial circuits: Southern, Northern, and Northwestern. Lincoln was placed in the Northwestern County. The first court of the new Northwest Circuit was held in the home of Zadock Woods. prgtoken In 1859, the United Evangelical church of Old Monroe was organized by a group of German Protestants, with approximately 50 families participating. The next year, the congregation merged with the Evangelical Synod of North America Church eventually becoming the St. Paul United Church of Christ that still stands today. The settlers sought to honor God when establishing their town and would be proud of how far the church has come. prgtoken The city of Old Monroe will commemorate its 200th Bicentennial with three separate weekends full of exciting events. The weekend of May 4, the town will have a parade and day in the park, along with a flag ceremony, ball tournaments, and local historian speakers. The weekend of June 8, Old Monroe will celebrate with a car show, motorcycle rally, and a kayak river race. Finally, the weekend of September 14, the town will host a BBQ cook off, street dancing, and a duck calling contest. A celebration fit for this incredible milestone. prgtoken Madam , I ask you to join me in congratulating the city of Old Monroe on their 200th Anniversary. May the town's rich history continue to be the foundation for an undoubtedly bright future.
HONORING TRIG SOLBERG
Sean P. Duffy (Republican, WI) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I'd like to congratulate my friend Trig Solberg of T.A. prgtoken Solberg Company, Inc, for being honored as an independent grocer that has demonstrated superior entrepreneurial skills in his community. Just a few weeks ago, Trig was presented with the National Grocers Association's prestigious ``Thomas K. Zaucha Entrepreneurial Excellence Award.'' Since Trig's grocery career began with a small single grocery store 1971 in Land O' Lakes, Wisconsin, he has had an incredible reputation for focusing on families, customer service, and supporting the surrounding community. Today, Trig has grown the family company to include eight supermarket locations and dozens of other business establishments employing more than 1,200 people. I recently toured one of his grocery stores and I can attest that Trig is admired by staff, colleagues, and industry peers for his dedication to his community and commitment to excellence. Congratulations again to Trig Solberg for receiving this award honoring his entrepreneurship and dedication to his community.
RECOGNIZING PATRICIA MORRIS
Jason Smith (Republican, MO) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise today to honor Mrs. Patricia Morris, the Honoree for the ``Daughters of Sunset'', a nonprofit community service organization in Sikeston, Missouri, as they celebrate their 35th Anniversary. prgtoken Mrs. Morris is the owner and director of Keidra's Caring Center, a day program for the elderly and disabled, serving Sikeston, MO and Caruthersville, MO. Prior to her work in the field of Adult Care Services, she worked as a Youth Specialist, helping at risk adolescents become successful members of society. prgtoken Mrs. Morris is an active member of her church, the Cornerstone Baptist Church, where she is the Choir Director. She is also a member of the CBC Willing Working Women Auxiliary and the Pastor Aide Auxiliary. prgtoken Mrs. Morris is a graduate of Charleston High School and Southeast Missouri State University, where she received a Medical Assistant Certificate. She and her husband, Michael, are the proud parents of two daughters. prgtoken On behalf of the Eighth Congressional District of Missouri, it is my great privilege to congratulate Mrs. Patricia Morris on her recognition by the ``Daughters of Sunset'' for a lifetime of service.
RECOGNIZING MRS. MARY NELL CHEW
Mike Bost (Republican, IL) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Mrs. Mary Nell Chew of Carbondale, Illinois, for her significant contribution to the Veterans Honor Flight of Southern Illinois, a program that honors veterans with a free trip to Washington, D.C. to visit their monuments and memorials. prgtoken As a testament to her dedication to the brave men and women who have served our country, Mrs. Chew made the gracious decision to help fund the travel of many Southern Illinois heroes on their trip to Washington. prgtoken The daughter and wife of veterans herself, she understands what it means for veterans to visit the nation's capital and honor all the brave men and women who have served our country. By sponsoring an entire flight herself, Mrs. Chew has allowed 90 veterans from across generations to make this trip. prgtoken Madam , please join me honoring Mrs. Mary Nell Chew for her generosity and dedication to our nation's veterans.
MR. KEN CARTER
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the retirement of Mr. Ken Carter after many years of service to his country. His time as an independent contractor, government contractor, and Supervisory Contract Specialist has been invaluable, and we wish him well in his well-deserved retirement. prgtoken Mr. Ken Carter is a retired enlisted airman, retiring as Senior Master Sergeant after 23 years of service. With more than 38 years of experience in contracting, his experience includes major construction, commodities, services, R&D, and Systems Engineering. In terms of higher education, Mr. Carter holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management Development from Bluefield College and an Associate Degree in Contract Management from the Community College of the Air Force. Mr. Carter also holds an Unlimited Contracting Officer Warrant with the VA and a Level III Contracting Professional Certification. prgtoken Currently serving as a Supervisory Contract Specialist with the VA, he is responsible for the supervision of 5 subordinate employees. Prior to assuming this position, Mr. Carter provided services as a Procurement Coordinator within the Strategic Acquisitions Center ARRC Directorate. His previous assignments include a five-year tour with the Federal Aviation Administration where he completed the largest single major contract in the history of the Agency. Beyond his illustrious career, Mr. Carter enjoys fishing, doing yard work, camping in the Shenandoah Valley, and attending football games at James Madison University where his grandson is a member of the JMU Marching Royal Dukes band. Residing in Spotsylvania County with his wife Ronna Carter, it is easy to see that Mr. Carter has led a wonderful, purpose filled life. prgtoken Madam , I ask you to join me in recognizing the bounty of Mr. Ken Carter's accomplishments as he enters retirement. To that end, we hope that he enjoys the extra time he has with his family, his football games, as well as with his fishing poles.
REMARKS ON H.R. 1585, THE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN REAUTHORIZATION ACT
Ted Lieu (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise today in support of H.R. 1585, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2019, which was introduced by my good friend Representative Karen Bass. prgtoken In 1994, Congress took the monumental step of passing the Violence Against Women Act to address violence against women and men and ensure they had access to justice and necessary services. Since its first enactment, Congress has reauthorized the law several times to provide critical updates and ensure that vulnerable persons, including Native Americans and LGBTQ Americans, are protected. prgtoken While domestic violence has declined in the past two decades, it remains too high. One-quarter of women and one-ninth of men suffer from intimate partner violence or intimate partner stalking; moreover, every year one in 15 kids is exposed to such violence. That is why I am pleased that we are considering H.R. 1585, which reauthorizes and improves the Violence Against Women Act. Among other things, the bill increases the funding authorization for the Rape Prevention and Education Program, improves grant programs that serve domestic violence survivors with disabilities or who are elderly, and ensures that Native American survivors have access to justice prgtoken Furthermore, H.R. 1585 recognizes the relationship between domestic violence and homelessness. In the Los Angeles Continuum of Care area, which includes my congressional district, nearly half of women who experienced homelessness reported that they had also experienced domestic violence and 14 percent stated that domestic violence was the reason they became homeless in the first place. We know that when women leave their abusers they are gravely concerned about finding safe and affordable housing and that too often they're forced to choose between staying with their abuser or facing homelessness. Critically, H.R. 1585 preserves and improves housing protections for survivors. prgtoken I'd also like to respond to criticism from my colleagues about firearms and transgender people. prgtoken First, according to researchers from Johns Hopkins University and others, we know that the risk that a woman will die increases more than fivefold when her abusive partner has access to a firearm. H.R. 1585 acknowledges this reality and ensures that those convicted of stalking misdemeanors and dating violence or who are subject to ex parte orders do not possess firearms. prgtoken Second, transgender people experience violence at disproportionately high rates--since 2013 more than 128 transgender Americans have been killed--and they deserve access to services for domestic violence survivors. I believe it is vitally important that the Violence Against Women Act is inclusive of trans people. prgtoken The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act takes important steps to address violence against men and women in the United States. Thank you, Madam , for bringing this bill to the House Floor. I am
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
A. Donald McEachin (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I was unavoidably detained on April 4, 2019 during roll call no. 151, on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 829, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1450 Montauk Highway in Mastic, New York, as the ``Army Specialist Thomas J. Wilwerth Post Office Building.'' Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' I was also unavoidably detained during roll call no. 152, on the Motion to Commit with Instructions for S.J. Res. 7, to direct the removal of the United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that have not been authorized by Congress. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' I was unavoidably detained during roll call no. 153, on Passage of S.J. Res. 7, to direct the removal of the United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that have not been authorized by Congress. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' I was also unavoidably detained during roll call no. 154, on Agreeing to the Amendment, Torres Small of New Mexico Part B Amendment No. 40, to H.R. 1585. Had I been present, I would have voted, ``aye.'' I was also unavoidably detained during roll call no. 155, on the Motion to Recommit with Instructions for H.R. 1585, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' I was also unavoidably detained during roll call no. 156, on Passage of H.R. 1585, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act. Had I been present, I would have voted, ``aye.''
CELEBRATING THE CAREER OF DALLAS MAVERICKS LEGEND DIRK NOWITZKI
Eddie Bernice Johnson (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , after 21 seasons as the face of the Dallas Mavericks, Dirk Nowitzki played his final game in Dallas. Since he arrived as a 19 year-old from Germany, Dirk has transformed the game of basketball and led the Mavericks to unparalleled success. prgtoken He has earned the respect of fans and fellow players alike over the course of his record-setting career. In his early days in the NBA, however, he faced great adversity. But his resilience and determination proved too strong for any negativity. Dirk's leadership and great play culminated in a championship run in 2011. Because of his MVP performance, a championship banner now hangs in the American Airlines Center, which I can see from my District Office in Dallas. This building, which was the setting for many of Dirk's greatest games and most memorable moments, will forever be known as ``the house that Dirk built.'' prgtoken His accolades on the court are many--15 appearances in the NBA Playoffs, a 14-time NBA All-Star, a 12-time All-NBA team member, one of only eight players to score 30,000 points, a regular season MVP award, a Finals MVP award, and an NBA Championship. But the true measure of the man is what he has done off the court. For years, he has visited Children's Hospital as ``Uncle Dirk'' to give ill children and their families fond memories and glimmers of happiness. Never with fanfare, never with TV cameras chronicling his generous deeds, Dirk gave of himself out of the goodness of his heart and character. For as much as we have enjoyed his iconic three-pointers and fade-away jumpers, he has given us so much more. In addition to being one of the greatest athletes to ever play in Dallas, Dirk Nowitzki is one of the best human beings to play in Dallas. prgtoken Madam , no one embodies the big, beautiful, diverse city of Dallas better than Dirk Nowitzki. Like me, he wasn't born in Dallas but made it his home, and we are grateful that he did. As he retires from professional basketball, we are delighted that he will always be a part of what makes Dallas great, and I wish my friend and his family the best in the days and years ahead.
RECOGNIZING THE VILLAGE OF MILFORD
Haley M. Stevens (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the Village of Milford's 150th anniversary of incorporation on April 12, 2019. Located in southwest Oakland County, Milford began with the building of a sawmill by Elizur and Stanley Ruggles in 1832 and was incorporated in 1869. Hydropower made it possible for Milford to become one of the first communities to have electric lights in 1892. prgtoken Known for its small-town charm and rich history, the North Milford Historic District was entered into the National Register of Historic Places on April 21, 2000. Downtown Milford is recognized for its lively events and entertainment as well as its local shopping and dining. prgtoken Milford is also home to the General Motors Proving Ground, the world's first dedicated automobile testing facility. The Proving Ground has been used to introduce industry-leading safety features such as front center air bags. The facility has also helped create a global standard for frontal crash test dummies and was the first rollover test facility. prgtoken I encourage everyone to come to Michigan's 11th congressional district and, as we say, ``meet me in Milford.'' On its 150th anniversary, the Village of Milford has much to celebrate. I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this tremendous milestone.
HONORING THE WORLD WAR II AND KOREAN WAR VETERANS OF ILLINOIS
Mike Quigley (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise to honor the World War II and Korean War veterans who traveled to Washington, D.C. on April 10, 2019 with Honor Flight Chicago, a program that provides World War II and Korean War veterans the opportunity to visit their memorials on The National Mall in Washington, D.C. These memorials were built to honor their courage and service to their country. prgtoken The American Veteran is one of our greatest treasures. The Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who traveled here on April 10th answered our nation's call to service during one of its greatest times of need. From the European Campaign to the Pacific Asian Theatre to the African Theater, these brave Americans risked life and limb, gave service and sacrificed much, all while embodying what it is to be a hero. We owe them more gratitude than can ever be expressed. prgtoken I welcome these brave veterans to Washington and to their memorials. I am proud to include in the Record the names of these men and women for all to see, hear, and recognize, and I call on my colleagues to rise and join me in expressing gratitude. prgtoken Moms Allen, Thomas P. Anderson, Juan G. Avendano, Herbert Clifford Barrus, Donald J. Bendis, Richard Bianchi, Anton L. Boeckhold, Josephine M. Bogdanich, Donald K. Borta, Robert R. Brown, Roy Eugene Brown, Robert M. Buckley, Donald A. Burke, Richard V. Butler, Donald J. Carani, Carl R. Carlson, Lawrence A. Carlson, Andrew Carrillo, Marvin E. Causey, Fred Choromanski, Edward A. Clark, Cecil R. Coleman, James L. Conley. prgtoken Dominick Frank Corelli, Amelia Cunningham, Herbert E. Davidson, Robert Davis, William C. Devereux, Robert E. Dobis, Victor Drower, Terrence C. Duffy, Donald C. Eageny, Norval J. Edwards, Chester L. Evers, Jr Samuel C. Farley, Thomas P. Felsenthal, Aldo Filafusi, Blenard R. Franklin, Bernard Friedman, Richard J. Gaskey, Edward Gill, Fred J. Hefner, John I. Hozian. prgtoken Edward F. Jamrozik, Joseph J. Johnson, John H. Kawa, John Robert Kemble, Alvin J. Knauf, William F. Kretz, Milton F. Langer, Walter Mannaberg, Philip F. Manning Jr Douglas J. Martner, Frank V. Masters, Davis McClain, John McGregor, Earl McKay, Vernon A. Meyer, Donald J. Miller, Ronald J. Mitchell, Robert Kern Morgan, Stevenson Mountsier. prgtoken Thaddeus M. Murawski, Richard M. Naugle, Bruce F. North, Sr Thomas J. O'Keefe, Owen R. Owen, Robert C. Parker, James A. Powers, Michael S. Puzzo, James Reuter, Fred Grafton Rounds, Charles L. Rush, Frederick J. Schmelzer, William H. Schmit Jr Norman R. Sehnoutka, Donald J. Seneker, Thomas G. Sheehan, Herbert Sheriff. prgtoken John F. Slown, Robert Smith, Robert A. Sousa, Frederick T. Staron, Donald R. Strahanoski, Harold P. Streicher, James C. Terpstra, Van C. Virva, Jr George Vlahakis, Carol A. Walters, Edward P. Wilkin, James Williams, Ronald L. Wilson, Edwin Winclechter, Charles J. Yackley, Robert E. Yaeger, Paul Kenneth Young, Ronald P. Zuraski.
CONGRATULATING SUSAN KUBORN FOR WINNING A GOLD MEDAL IN THE 1,500 METER RUN AT THE 2019 SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES
Cheri Bustos (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2019-4-12

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Susan Kuborn of Rockford for winning a gold medal at the 2019 Special Olympics World Games held in Abu Dhabi. prgtoken Susan Kuborn knew that this was a ``once-in-a-lifetime'' opportunity and she trained hard to win gold in the 1,500 meter run. Ms. Kuborn was one of only seven athletes from Illinois to compete at the Special Olympics World Games. As a former athlete, I appreciate the fortitude Ms. Kuborn displayed to achieve her dream of winning gold and commend her for her outstanding efforts. Ms. Kuborn is an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic. I am proud there is such young talent in our community, and to see her represent Rockford not just here at home but throughout the world. prgtoken It is because of leaders such as Susan Kuborn that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam , I would like to again formally congratulate Susan Kuborn on her gold medal win at the Special Olympics World Games.