mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
TRIBUTE TO REVEREND DR. W.B. LEWIS
David E. Price (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2017-8-8

I rise to honor the Reverend Dr. W.B. Lewis who is retiring after fifty-three years as the Pastor of First Cosmopolitan Baptist Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. I have come to appreciate over many years the gracious hospitality and faithful witness of Rev. Lewis and this congregation. Early in my term of service--but well into his--we worked together to help land a so-called ``section 202'' Housing and Urban Development grant to construct rental housing for the elderly under First Cosmopolitan's sponsorship. Those apartments stand as a symbol of Rev. Lewis's leadership and the church's understanding of its ministry. Under Rev. Lewis's leadership, First Cosmopolitan has grown into a powerful pillar of the Raleigh community. Dr. Lewis himself has become an institution of sorts within North Carolina. For four years, he served as the President of the General Baptist State Convention. He was appointed by North Carolina Governor James Hunt to serve on the board for Smart Start. His service has also included the Raleigh Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, the Raleigh Interracial Ministerial Association, the Raleigh YMCA Board of Directors, the State Board of Chaplaincy, the Rich Park Board of Directors, the Board of Trustees at Shaw University, Prince Hall Lodge, the Masonic Order of Raleigh, Wake and Johnston Missionary Baptist Association, Wake Baptists Association Ministers, and the Deacons Union. Reverend Lewis has rightfully been recognized on numerous occasions for his roles as a pastor, builder, teacher, mentor, spiritual and community leader, and friend to many. In 2013, he was inducted into the Wake Baptist Association ``Hall of Fame''. In 2017, he was presented with the ``Loving Cup'', the highest award that can be presented to an individual minister or pastor who has served with distinction, from the General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. During his tenure he was also instrumental in the planning and execution of two projects critical to the South East Raleigh Community: the Willie B. Lewis Family Center, and Rich Park, a 100 unit apartment complex that serves the elderly and handicapped. Reverend Lewis also co-authored ``A Splendid Enterprise,'' a history of the General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. Having an artistic eye, he was also instrumental in the design of the beautiful Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Raleigh. In celebration of his great accomplishments, Rev. Lewis will be the recipient of the order of the Long Leaf Pine, which is the highest honor bestowed upon a citizen by the Governor of the State of North Carolina. I am pleased to join the State of North Carolina and the Raleigh community in celebrating this remarkable man, whom I and many others regard as a mentor and friend. We thank Rev. Lewis for a legacy of lives touched and a community made more welcoming and just, and we wish him the very best in retirement.
HONORING DANIEL SCHOELLKOPF
Michelle Lujan Grisham (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2017-8-8

I rise today to recognize an exceptional young person from my district. Daniel Schoellkopf is an Albuquerque High School graduate who recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout following 11 years in scouting. Daniel's dedication to his goal of reaching the highest rank in the Boy Scouting program helped shape his desire to be a leader in his community. prgtoken As part of his Eagle project, Daniel worked with the Drug Enforcement Agency on a program to encourage people to turn in unused prescription drugs at convenience centers. This effort is particularly important in New Mexico as we work to discourage the abuse of opioids, especially among young people. prgtoken During his senior year in high school, Daniel worked at Kirtland Air Force Base as a lifeguard, where he was awarded the Bright Star civilian award by the U.S. Air Force. He has also worked summers at Camp Gorham north of Santa Fe. prgtoken Daniel earned a ROTC scholarship to the University of New Mexico, where he would like to study political science and eventually become an officer in the military. prgtoken Daniel recently visited my office in Washington, D.C. to raise awareness for Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.) with the M.S. Society advocacy group. The M.S. Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people with M.S. by funding research, driving change through advocacy, facilitating professional education, and providing programs and services that help people with M.S. and their families. prgtoken I am confident that Daniel will continue to be a leader in our community and I look forward to hearing about his continued success. Congratulations, Daniel.
RECOGNIZING DESIGN COLLABORATIVE
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2017-8-8

today I rise to recognize Design Collaborative, an architecture and engineering firm in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This year marks their 25th anniversary. prgtoken Since 1992, Design Collaborative, and its team of architects, engineers, interior designers, and graphic designers has created projects in northeast Indiana, with work focused on higher education, healthcare, and workplace design. Over the last few years, it has developed a strong portfolio in the design of spaces for financial, recreational, multi-family housing, and civic clients. prgtoken The company was founded by two architects and an engineer with dreams of improving people's worlds through the design of people-first places. Today, Design Collaborative employs over 60 people and is a model business for developing a culture and environment that attracts and retains talent to the region. They are also consistently and actively involved in the development of downtown Fort Wayne and northeast Indiana. Their work has helped make the Fort Wayne region a destination to live, work, and play. prgtoken Over 25 years, Design Collaborative has designed thousands of projects in Fort Wayne and beyond, impacting clients in Indiana, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. prgtoken Design Collaborative has earned multiple honors, including the 2011 American Institute of Architects Indiana Chapter Distinguished Firm of the Year, 2015 Indiana Office of Small Business Entrepreneurship Companies to Watch, 2017 Professional Services Management Journal Circle of Excellence, 7-time Best Places to Work in Indiana, and multiple local and national design awards from organizations like the American Institute of Architects, American School and University Magazine, and Illumination Engineering Society. prgtoken Since its beginning, Design Collaborative has always believed that the true measure of a project's success is the positive impact it has on the lives of the people who use it. Design Collaborative truly believes in people-first places. Its goal is to make life better for the people who live, work, learn, heal, or worship inside the spaces they design. prgtoken , I would like to congratulate the entire team at Design Collaborative on 25 years of improving people's worlds through design, and wish them another 25 years and more.
CONGRATULATING THE EUREKA GIRLS SOCCER TEAM
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2017-8-8

I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Eureka Girls Soccer Team on their first place win in the 2017 Missouri Class 4 Girls Soccer State Championship. This team should be commended for all of their hard work throughout this past year and for bringing home the state championship to their school and community. I ask you to join me in recognizing the Eureka Girls Soccer Team for a job well done.
TRIBUTE TO ERNEST R. GRECCO
Steny H. Hoyer (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2017-8-11

I rise to congratulate Ernest ``Ernie'' R. Grecco on being honored for his fifty-five years of service to the labor movement next Tuesday evening, August 15, in Baltimore. I have known and worked closely with Ernie, who serves as President of the Baltimore Metro AFL-CIO, for thirty years. He is one of the toughest advocates for working men and women I've ever met, who has dedicated his life and his career to achieving better pay and conditions for workers and opportunity for their families in Maryland. prgtoken Ernie has worked on behalf of labor in Maryland since 1970, when he was elected Secretary-Treasurer of what was then the Distillery Workers Local 34-D. In 1976, he became Committee on Political Education (COPE) Director for the Metropolitan Baltimore Council AFL-CIO. He went on to lead the Maryland State and District of Columbia AFL-CIO COPE from 1983-1987 before taking the helm in Baltimore. Since that time, whenever working people in the greater Baltimore area have had a challenge to overcome, Ernie's been there, leading the way and bringing to bear the forces of organized labor and its allies. Under his leadership, the Baltimore Metro AFL-CIO has expanded programs for job training, placement, and community service. prgtoken Ernie also became involved in making his community a better place by serving as the Secretary of the United Way of Maryland from 1992 until this year. He also received the Samuel Gompers Award from the American Red Cross and the Joseph Beirne Award from the United Way of America. In 1995, the International Association of Firefighters Local 734 and Local 964 established the Grecco Labor Award in Ernie's honor. prgtoken I'm proud to stand with Ernie and the hardworking men and women of labor to advocate for better wages, better conditions, and greater opportunities for all our people to make it in America. I hope my colleagues will join me in congratulating Ernie on this well deserved honor and thanking him for his service and contributions to Maryland and our country.
REFLECTIONS ON THE 72ND ANNIVERSARY OF THE BOMBINGS OF HIROSHIMA AND NAGASAKI
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2017-8-11

I rise today to speak in remembrance of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that ushered in the nuclear age 72 years ago this week. prgtoken The atomic bombs that devastated Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 and Nagasaki on August 9, 1945 thankfully represent the only instances where the awesome destructive power of nuclear weapons were unleashed. prgtoken While it is true that the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki helped to bring a speedy and decisive end to the conflict in the Pacific theater during World War II, it is also true that devastation and carnage wrought by those explosions was a vivid reminder and compelling reason for the international community to work in concert to prevent the proliferation and use of nuclear weapons. prgtoken And for 72 years, the international community, led by the United States, has deterred every nation on earth from using nuclear weapons although it has been less successful in deterring several nation-states from developing their nuclear weapons capability. prgtoken So while we pause to remember the victims who perished in, and the lives that were saved by, the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, it is critically important that we take this moment to redouble our commitment towards nuclear nonproliferation and banishing the threat of nuclear annihilation from the earth. prgtoken , since 1945 preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology has been a pillar of the U.S.-led, rules-based international order that has brought an unprecedented era of peace and prosperity to the United States and its allies in Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. prgtoken It is this commitment to nuclear non-proliferation that has led the United States to work with the international community to keep rogue nations from developing their own nuclear arsenals, the most recent achievement in this regard is the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) negotiated with the Iranian government in 2015. prgtoken Multilateral efforts like the JCPOA were made possible by responsible, level-headed leadership that did not needlessly engage in brinksmanship. prgtoken Today, the world faces a grave threat from the rogue and hostile regime in Pyongyang in the ic People's Republic of Korea. prgtoken , it is imperative that we continually seek to reduce the risk of war, and this is not accomplished through the use of overheated, reckless, and bombastic rhetoric. prgtoken It is vitally important that the Administration understand the importance of using restrained and judicious rhetoric in trying to diffuse this delicate situation. prgtoken , blustery statements and bombastic tweets will not defuse the tense situation on the Korean peninsula or frighten the regime in North Korea. prgtoken Instead, we must employ the full arsenal of America's smart power assets--diplomacy, economic sanctions--to persuade North Korea that it is in its self-interest to turn away from the dangerous path it is tr
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ELIZABETH CADY STANTON
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2017-8-11

I rise today to honor and recognize one of the most influential members of the women's suffrage movement. prgtoken Elizabeth Cady Stanton was born in Johnstown, New York in 1815. From a young age, Stanton showed interest in pressing social issues affecting American society, which would eventuallydrive her to become a force for change. At her father's law office, she witnessed the inequitable laws restricting women's freedom and abilities to inherit property. As a young mother, Stanton advocated for equal education and freedom of expression for all of her children, no matter their gender. Stanton was also heavily involved with the abolitionist movement; however, frustration over the exclusion of women from many of the local meetings and proceedings led her to focus her efforts on a different mission. prgtoken Along with fellow reformer Susan B. Anthony, Stanton launched a crusade to ensure that women's rights were brought to the forefront of national debate. While Anthony served as themovement's public face, Stanton remained behind the scenes, guiding the movement's direction and agenda. prgtoken Perhaps Stanton's most defining moment was the delivery of her Declaration of Sentiments at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848, the first women's rights conference ever held in the United States. At the convention, Stanton recited a familiar testimony with a subtle yet resonant sentiment, ``We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal''. prgtoken In the years following the Civil War, Stanton continued her work for women's suffrage, serving as the president of the National Women's Suffrage Association from 1865 to 1893. In 1866, she ran for a Congressional seat in New York and received the first votes ever cast for a female candidate. prgtoken Elizabeth Cady Stanton passed away in 1902, seventeen years prior to the enactment of the 19th amendment. Her dedication to removing the barriers of gender inequality exists prgtoken as an act all women can look to for inspiration and courage. And as Stanton once noted, ``the best protection any woman can have . . . is courage.'' In New York's 21'' District, we are proud of Stanton's legacy as an advocate for liberty and equality.
CONGRATULATING LUKE ALLEN OF THE CALVARY LUTHERAN LIONS
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2017-8-11

I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Luke Allen from the Calvary Lutheran Lions for his first place win in the long jump and triple jump at the 2017 Missouri Class 1 Boys Track and Field State Championship. Luke and his coach should be commended for all of their hard work throughout this past year and for bringing home the state championship to their school and community. I ask you to join me in recognizing Luke Allen for a job well done.
IN RECOGNITION OF BARBARA JONES, CONSUL GENERAL OF IRELAND
Patrick Meehan (Republican, PA) \u2014 2017-8-15

today I recognize Consul General of Ireland Barbara Jones. Barbara has a long history of service to the Irish people. Her career as an Irish diplomat began in 1983 after receiving a graduate degree in education from University College, Dublin as well as a graduate degree in computer science from the National Institute of Higher Education at the University of Limerick. prgtoken Her posting as Consul General for the New York Consulate of Ireland concludes this month after three years of promoting Irish-American relations. I also thank the Irish Immigration Center of Philadelphia for working closely with Barbara during her tenure to ensure a positive and productive relationship between Ireland and the Philadelphia region. prgtoken Irish-American relations have never been stronger. This bond is due in no small part to Barbara's tireless efforts to foster meaningful connections between U.S. localities and Ireland. I hope she leaves the United States with fond memories, as I know she leaves her many friends and colleagues with their own fond memories of Barbara. I wish her well as she returns home and moves on to her next venture.
TRIBUTE TO SENIOR AIRMAN LACEY K. MILLER, THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE AIRMAN OF THE YEAR
John H. Rutherford (Republican, FL) \u2014 2017-8-15

Senior Airman Lacey Miller's recognition stems from her dedication to her country. Airman Miller bravely enlisted into the United States Air Force Reserves in February 2012. While she was in the reserves, she was attending Materiel Management School. Upon completion of technical training, she was assigned to the 911th Airlift Wing in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. She was then assigned to the Logistics Readiness Squadron supporting the C-130 Hercules aircraft mission set. After a year of serving the squadron, she transitioned to her current position in the Florida National Guard as a Materiel Management Journeyman assigned to the 290th Joint Communications Support Squadron at MacDill Air Force Base. Airman Miller has deployed in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel where she was assigned as a logistics liaison for nine forward operating bases in Afghanistan areas of responsibility, directly supporting Special Operations Forces in combat operations. Airman Miller can be described as a leader--considerate, courageous, and compassionate. At a young age, Lacey took part in helping her community, as a volunteer at a Young Life Group where she mentored troubled youth. She also cares profoundly for her planet and traveled to Sweden to promote eco-friendly farming. In the fall, Senior Airman Miller will be attending the University of Florida pursuing a bachelor's degree in forestry. Airman Lacey Miller is a phenomenal example of service and sacrifice. She is truly deserving of the recognition that the United States Air Force has bestowed on her as Airman of the Year and we thank her for her service to our great nation.
THE CITY OF BUENA VISTA, VIRGINIA
Bob Goodlatte (Republican, VA) \u2014 2017-8-15

For 125 years, the city of Buena Vista, Virginia, has stood at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains by the Maury River. Though Buena Vista has seen many changes during this time, I have always known this community to be home to hardworking people who are eager to welcome a neighbor and lend a helping hand. prgtoken The city's origins can be traced back to the opening of a simple tannery by Benjamin Moomaw. In the early days, the community was known by several names, including Green Forest--a fitting name given the beautiful surrounding landscape. On February 15, 1892, Buena Vista was granted its city charter. prgtoken Buena Vista is well-known for a number of outdoor recreation opportunities, like the 315-acre Glen Maury Park. Glen Maury Park hosts numerous music events each year, including the Maury River Fiddlers' Convention and the annual Beach Music Festival. Buena Vista is also an Appalachian Trail community and a welcome respite for many through hikers. Whether giving a lift to an AT hiker or welcoming fiddlers to the competition stage, Buena Vista residents take pride in their city. Community is built and evidenced by the spirit of volunteerism which reigns across many projects and programs that benefit both residents and visitors, like arts promotions, beautification efforts, and local endeavors to protect historic structures. prgtoken Education has long been a hallmark of life in Buena Vista. The campus of Southern Virginia University, a private, 4-year liberal arts college, is located in the city. I would be remiss if I didn't mention that Buena Vista is also home to Parry McCluer High School, the Fighting Blues! Generations of former students come together during each sports season to support their team with resounding, ``Go, Blue'' cheers. Academic success is celebrated as well, not only by parents but by the community, witnessed by the multitude of academic scholarships presented to PMHS graduates each year. prgtoken The annual Labor Day Parade is a true Buena Vista tradition. Since the initial Labor Day Parade held in the early 1970s, folks from across the Commonwealth have gathered to watch as the parade marched down Magnolia Avenue from downtown Buena Vista to Glen Maury Park. It's traditionally known as the kickoff to the political season leading up to the November elections, and I always look forward to the parade and the many friends I see along the way. prgtoken The city of Buena Vista is a special place to me. After marrying my wife of more than 40 years, Maryellen, we both worked in the Buena Vista community. Maryellen was a secretary at First National Exchange Bank, and I painted school buses at the Bluebird Factory. We will never forget our experiences there. prgtoken The city has also endured several horrific flooding events over the years. Working with its partners, the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Buena Vista implemented the James R. Oli
HONORING SHERIFF STEVE FREITAS
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2017-8-15

I rise to honor Sheriff Steve Freitas upon the occasion of his retirement from the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office. Sheriff Freitas has dedicated 32 years to serving our community in law enforcement. prgtoken A native of San Jose, California, Sheriff Freitas moved to Sonoma County in 1988. He attended DeAnza Community College and graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Administration Justice. He and his wife, Michelle have two sons, Michael and Zachary. prgtoken Sheriff Freitas began his career in 1985 with the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office. In 1988, He joined the Novato Police Department. He joined the Sonoma County Sheriff's office in 1991 where he worked in several different assignments, including Detention, Courts, Patrol, Investigations and Administration. The City of Windsor selected him to be Chief of Police in 2005. prgtoken The people of Sonoma County elected and reelected Sheriff Freitas in 2010 and 2014. While serving as Sheriff, he created the Latino Advisory Committee to ensure quality communication and closer relationships with the Latino Community. He successfully guided the Office through necessary budget cuts during the recession. His hard work with Sonoma County's new law enforcement oversight agency is admirable. Sheriff Freitas will be remembered for leading the Sheriff's office to maintain the safety and security of the people of Sonoma County. prgtoken In addition to his service in law enforcement, Sheriff Freitas serves on the Boys and Girls Club of Marin and Southern Sonoma County's Leadership Council. He is a member of the Verity advisory board, the California Parenting Institute executive board and the Sonoma County Alliance. prgtoken Sheriff Freitas supports the Future Farmers of America and 4-H students at the Sonoma County Fair. He is an active Member of his church, a longtime fan of the San Jose Sharks and an avid camper. He is a valuable member of our community. prgtoken , Sheriff Freitas has led a long and distinguished career serving the people of Sonoma County. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.