mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IN HONOR OF IRENE O'CONNELL, DEPARTING MEMBER OF THE SAN BRUNO CITY COUNCIL
Jackie Speier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , Irene O'Connell is leaving the San Bruno City Council after a remarkable 24 years of service to the community. Her departure marks the end of an era but the beginning of a new path in the life of this amazing woman and civic leader. During all these years I have deeply appreciated Irene's friendship and enjoyed working with her to promote San Bruno's bright future. prgtoken In 1995, Irene O'Connell was elected to the San Bruno City Council, serving her community with enthusiasm, vigor and effectiveness. She helped initiate a Youth Committee and helped create an after-school program at Allen Elementary that has since expanded to five other schools. She identified $600,000 in flood control district funds that became available to help residents of the Belle Air community. She initiated the creation of the City's Culture and Arts Commission with funding through a surcharge on building permits. The Commission has installed a number of pieces of public art including the Centennial Mosaic at the San Bruno Caltrain station and the mural painting at Centennial Park in San Bruno's downtown. A park on Florida Avenue is authorized in large measure because Irene's love of civic beauty is matched with a love of open space in San Bruno's urban environment. prgtoken For 22+ years, 200 volunteers have joined Councilwoman O'Connell annually to sweep up, recycle, plant flowers and trees, paint garbage bins, and to otherwise beautify the city. As a representative on transportation and water agencies, she's helped the city to obtain transportation grants and ensured that the water supply remained reliable and affordable. If your heart stops in San Bruno, a paramedic on a fire truck is present in large part because Irene O'Connell insisted that the service be standard on fire trucks throughout the county. She evaluated and advocated for ambitious plans for full rehabilitation and replacement of the City's utility systems over a 20- year period and the necessary funding to complete the improvements. prgtoken During some of the most difficult years in the history of her hometown, Irene O'Connell and her colleagues first consoled and then fought for the citizens of San Bruno after a natural gas pipeline exploded and killed 8 residents and destroyed 38 homes. She and her colleagues were warriors for justice holding PG&E accountable for its gross negligence. prgtoken No mention of Irene's love of her community would be complete without mention of her founding of the San Bruno Library Foundation. Irene's commitment to the library is heartfelt and enduring. prgtoken Irene is a first-generation Italian American and as such reflects the industriousness and civic involvement characteristic of those whose parents struggle to come to this country. She was born in San Bruno and has lived there ever since. prgtoken She and her family were continually involved in community service and other activities. They volunteered for the Boy Scouts
IN RECOGNITION OF THE THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VELVET REVOLUTION
Emanuel Cleaver (Democrat, MO) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , I rise today to commemorate the thirtieth anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, a significant anniversary for two of America's closest allies--the Czech and Slovak Republics. prgtoken Only eight days after the fall of the Berlin Wall, the same spirit of freedom that overcame Berlin made its way to Prague. On November 17, 1989, the country formerly known as Czechoslovakia freed itself from four decades of a communist totalitarian regime, transforming authoritarian rule of the nation into democracy. Initiated by student protesters in the streets, the protest of the regime and the demand for democracy quickly gained momentum with over a half-million Czechs and Slovaks filling Prague's streets and taking over Wenceslas Square. prgtoken Soldiers beat protesters, used water cannons on the crowd, and made numerous arrests during this time. However, the demonstrators remained peaceful. By the end of 1989, Czechoslovakia was on its way to holding its first presidential election since 1948. The successful movement is now referred to as the ``Velvet Revolution'' or the ``Gentle Revolution,'' which signifies the idea that the revolution was brought about without violence. prgtoken The years following the Velvet Revolution brought the ``Velvet Divorce,'' the unofficial name given to the separation of the Czechoslovakia into two nations: the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. Through peaceful mutual consent, Czechoslovakia separated on January 1, 1993. To solidify their places on the world stage and showcase their commitment to democracy, the Czech and Slovak Republics formally became members of the European Union, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the United Nations. prgtoken It is also worth mentioning that the Czech Republic has a local tie to Missouri's Fifth Congressional District. When applying for admission into NATO, the Czech Republic had the official documents signed at the Truman Presidential Library in Independence, Missouri in 1999. The induction ceremony that took place included Poland and Hungary, and marked the first eastward expansion by NATO since the end of the Cold War. prgtoken Madam , please join me and all of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District in congratulating the Czech Republic and Slovak Republic for their achievements in independence and their efforts in promoting democracy
IN SUPPORT OF HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Eddie Bernice Johnson (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's) have played an important role in our nation's history. These places of higher education have given opportunities to millions of young people to get a quality postsecondary education. Many of these students are the first in their family to attend college. I am proud to say that one of these institutions, Paul Quinn College, is located within my district. prgtoken Currently, the top priority for HBCU's is to ensure they have the resources needed to prepare students for a competitive, globalized workforce. The FUTURE Act, which passed in this chamber some time ago, does exactly that. The bill reauthorizes critical funding for all Minority Serving Institutions (MSI's) for the next two years. Sadly, like most of the legislation that has passed the House of Representatives this Congress, the Senate refuses to do their job and vote on this noncontroversial bipartisan bill. prgtoken The College Affordability Act, which was introduced in October, would go beyond what the FUTURE Act does and provides HBCU's more flexibility so that they can strengthen their endowments, academic quality, and institutional management. The College Affordability Act also provides states with incentives to lower the cost for students to obtain a quality college education by raising the maximum amount for Pell Grants and simplifying the student loan repayment program. These two bills are great examples of what we should strive for to guarantee the best outcome for students attending HBCU's and other MSI's. prgtoken Madam , We need to make sure our higher education system serves all the students that hope to receive a degree. Historically Black Colleges and Universities along with other Minority Serving institutions play a vital role for African Americans and other minority students. We need to continue passing legislation that provides true educational opportunities for those who desire to learn and are unable to afford it.
Tribute to Johnny Isakson (Executive Calendar)
Mark R. Warner (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2019-12-3

I want to thank the gentleman from Georgia for allowing me to participate in this colloquy and pay tribute to his remarkable career of public service. prgtoken I think you could ask anyone in this Chamber, or , what they think of Johnny Isakson, and you probably get the same answer every time: He is a gentleman and a statesman, somebody who knows how to find common ground and understands why that is still important. Sometimes, it was the little things--a bipartisan barbeque to just get Senators in the same room for a few minutes. As a chairman he brought folks together on one of the few remaining pieces of bipartisan territory: caring for our veterans. prgtoken Even on issues that often divide us, Johnny has spent his career looking for ways to get to yes, and he has a track record to prove it, particularly on the issue of healthcare. This is an issue that Johnny approaches from a place of deep knowledge but also deep empathy. prgtoken One of my proudest moments in the Senate was working with Senator Isakson, along with Senator Hatch, Senator Wyden, and others, on improving care for the millions of Americans with multiple chronic illnesses. As many of you know, this is pretty personal for me. My mom had Alzheimer's for 10 years before she passed away; 9 of those she couldn't speak. prgtoken Working with Johnny on that Chronic Care Working Group--you knew he wasn't just transacting business or playing politics; he was personally invested in making life better for folks with these conditions. prgtoken I can't think of a better testament to the Johnny Isakson way than the fact that just a couple months after one of the toughest fights to ever take place over healthcare, we passed the Chronic Care Act on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis. prgtoken A lot of people in politics can tell you what they are against, but not many people can show you what they have accomplished. And as Johnny Isakson heads home to Georgia, he leaves behind a legacy of bipartisan accomplishment that will live on for many years to come. prgtoken Johnny, I want to wish you, Dianne, and your family health and happiness. prgtoken In closing, I just want to say thank you for your years of service to our country and for your years of friendship.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF FLORENCE WEISS
Mark DeSaulnier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Florence Weiss for her honorable service to the City of Concord, California as she begins retirement. prgtoken Florence Weiss has been a resident of Concord since 1982. She was first hired by the City of Concord as Downtown Coordinator on June 24, 2002 and eventually became the Downtown Program Manager. Throughout Florence's 17-year career with the City, she has promoted and fostered an increased sense of community in the downtown area, including Todos Santos Plaza. prgtoken Florence focused much of her leadership on expanding community events. She has overseen countless events including the popular Music and Market series, which has grown in attendance from an average of 500 attendees to an average of 4,500 attendees. In an effort to keep the music series running in downtown Concord, Florence established the Save our Series program to help fund the event and she has consistently exceeded fundraising goals. She has also overseen the creation of new events such as viewing parties for the Golden State Warriors championship games and Concordstock, an event held in 2008 that celebrated 20 years of concerts in Todos Santos Plaza. prgtoken In conjunction with Florence's commitment to increasing attendance at downtown and community events, she has advocated for a healthier and cleaner Concord, most notably by helping to successfully implement a smoking ban in the Downtown District. Even in times of tight budgets, Florence has used her creative problem solving and fostered community engagement and enthusiasm. prgtoken Florence Weiss has a been a champion for the City of Concord and its residents. We wish her great luck and joy in retirement.
IN SUPPORT OF HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , I join my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus to celebrate and recognize the importance of educational opportunities that HBCU institutions create for thousands of young men and women from all walks of life. prgtoken I am a member of the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus because it promotes and protects the interest of HBCUs by: creating a national dialogue, educating Members of Congress and their staffs about the issues impacting HBCUs, drafting meaningful bipartisan legislation to address the needs of HBCUs, and supporting students and graduates of HBCUs by increasing access and career opportunities. prgtoken One important solution must be access to affordable 7 quality education for every person in this nation. prgtoken I am proud to count Texas Southern University as a constituent, a great HBCU--located in my home city of Houston. prgtoken I routinely partner with Texas Southern University to promote education opportunities and collaborate on community projects routinely. prgtoken In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, I led the initiative to get financial aid relief for the students and campus of Texas Southern University in the amount of $13 plus million dollars. prgtoken I continue to keep the university community informed about major issues impacting citizens of my city of Houston, Texas. prgtoken Issues like Health Care, Economic Development, Education, and Social Security are of great importance to TSU academic programs. prgtoken I initiated the digitization projects for former U.S. Members of Congress Barbara Jordan and Mickey Leland who both have permanent archives at Texas Southern University. prgtoken I also assisted with the establishment of several scholarship Endowments at Texas Southern University. prgtoken I helped create a partnership with Comcast at TSU's School of Communication, which offers scholarships, internships and in-kind marketing. prgtoken I helped establish the Center for Transportation, Training and Research in TSU's College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. prgtoken On September 17, 2019, the House passed House H.R. 2486, the Fostering Undergraduate Talent Using Resources for Education (FUTURE) Act, which I cosponsored and supported. prgtoken Title III, Part F of the Higher Education Act (HEA) provides funding to HBCUs, HSIs, TCUs, and MSIs to improve their self-sufficiency and strengthen their ability to serve low-income students, particularly in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professions. prgtoken These funds advance these institutions' academic quality and fiscal stability. prgtoken Unfortunately, funding for these institutions, as authorized by the HEA expired on September 30, 2019. prgtoken It is crucial that these funds do not lapse. prgtoken H.R 2486, the FUTURE Act, ensures that this will not happen. prgtoken Under the FUTURE Act, HBCUs, HSIs, TCUs, and MSIs will continue to receive $255 million for the next two years. prgtoken Wi
IN SUPPORT OF HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Alma S. Adams (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , I thank Mr. Davis very much for his eloquent presentation. As I think about many of the songs that we sing at our schools, they have a certain relevance, strength, and meaning for the students that we serve. prgtoken Madam , from California (Ms. Lee), who has been out on this battlefield for a very long time. I am so happy to share this hour with her and all of my colleagues.
HONORING FORMER VILLAGE OF LA GRANGE PRESIDENT ELIZABETH ASPERGER ON HER YEARS OF SERVICE
Daniel Lipinski (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , I rise today to honor Elizabeth Asperger for her accomplishments as the first woman elected President of the Village of La Grange, and her years of dedicated service to local residents. In order to recognize Ms. Asperger's positive impact on our community, the Village of La Grange is dedicating a garden at the historic Stone Avenue train station in her name on November 27th. I am pleased to be attending this celebration so that I can personally thank Ms. Asperger for her contributions and her tireless work to improve the lives of so many people. prgtoken Liz Asperger was elected President of the Village of La Grange after serving nine years as a trustee on the Village Board from 1996 to 2005. Prior to that she served on the village's Economic Development Commission beginning in 1993. Her two terms as President, from 2005 to 2013, were marked by tremendous accomplishments, and she was especially active on transportation and infrastructure issues. I was fortunate enough to work with Ms. Asperger and help La Grange accomplish vital projects including the parking deck behind Village Hall, modernization of La Grange's 9-1-1 call center, and the restoration of the Stone Avenue train station. prgtoken Prior to her time serving the Village of La Grange, Liz Asperger practiced law for sixteen years. As partner in her law firm, she specialized in real estate development. However, Ms. Asperger had a strong desire to serve our community, and in 1996 she resigned from her law firm in order to pursue opportunities in public service. After her retirement as President of the Village of La Grange, Ms. Asperger has remained committed to serving local residents and seniors. Liz and her husband, Jonathan, have resided in La Grange since 1983 and have one son, Kyle. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and thanking Elizabeth Asperger for her long history of public and community service. I am proud to have worked with such a dedicated public servant and leader, and I know that Ms. Asperger's example continues to inspire others to follow in her footsteps to work on behalf of La Grange and the region.
IN SUPPORT OF HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Donald M. Payne, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , I thank the gentlewoman for her leadership on this subject. Since coming to Congress, she has been one of the foremost advocates for education, specifically HBCUs. Prior to her arriving, it has always been an issue that has been very important, but she has really raised awareness and highlighted and been consistent in her leadership in this area. prgtoken Madam , I rise today to support the FUTURE Act in minority- serving institutions. I thank Representative Adams once again for anchoring tonight's discussion of this very important subject. prgtoken Minority-serving colleges and universities--not to be mistaken as HBCUs--serve a critical role in our society. I, in New Jersey, do not have an HBCU, but we have many minority-serving institutions, and several in my district. These are students who find more support with teachers and professors who come from their culture. prgtoken Studies have shown that they get better grades in classes with teachers of the same culture and race. This starts even before the students enter college. prgtoken Minority students in the same race classes have fewer behavioral problems, regardless of income level or family structure. They are far more likely to end up doing well and coming along on the collegiate level at HBCUs. They are more likely to be held to a higher academic standard and pushed harder to excel in these schools. They perform better in reading, mathematics, and other core courses. prgtoken That is where MSIs become vital to their continued success. Low- income, low-performing students' upward mobility skyrockets on these campuses. prgtoken Take Bloomfield College, for example. And let me commend its new president, Marcheta P. Evans, for her vision for Bloomfield College. prgtoken Bloomfield is a minority-serving institution of almost 1,700 students located in my 10th District, in Bloomfield, New Jersey. Of these students, 70 percent are low-income or first-generation college students; 95 percent get financial aid; and 75 percent are eligible for Pell grants. They come from families and communities that do not have many advantages. One Bloomfield college student was even homeless and struggled for meals before entering college. prgtoken But the college steps in and addresses more than their academic needs. Instead, they come out of MSIs and become engineers. They become nurses, teachers, and professors. Bloomfield College even graduates simulation designers for video games and medical technicians. prgtoken Like most MSIs, Bloomfield takes low-income students and turns them into middle- to high-income graduates, and they do it at rates that far exceed other universities. In other words, they solve several social problems at once. prgtoken HBCUs are criticized in this country for their necessity, but the creation of HBCUs comes out of the inability for the larger population to accept minority students at colleges that were already in place. prgtoken So where do they
RECOGNIZING COMMAND MASTER CHIEF PETTY OFFICER ALVIN J. VEENSTRA FOR HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE NAVY RESERVES SEABEES
Jack Bergman (Republican, MI) \u2014 2019-12-3

. Madam , it's my honor to recognize Command Master Chief Petty Officer Alvin J. Veenstra for his retirement from the Navy Reserves Seabees. Through his more than thirty years of excellence and commitment to service, CMDCM Veenstra has become an indispensable part of Michigan's First District. prgtoken The United States Naval Construction Battalions, more commonly known as the Navy Seabees, have a storied history in the United States Armed Forces--stretching from Normandy and Okinawa to Iraq and Afghanistan. Alvin decided to follow in this tradition of service early in his life, enlisting in the United States Navy, Sea, and Air Mariner program during his sophomore year of college. He carried out a variety of roles throughout his 32 years with the Seabees--including deployment with the 7th Naval Construction Regiment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he served as the Senior Watch Chief for the II Marine Expeditionary Force. On September 6, 2019, Veenstra turned over his final command position as the Reserve Affairs Command Master Chief at Navy Facilities Engineering Command in Washington, D.C. Outside of his service in the military, Alvin is a graduate of Ferris State University and serves as Project Manager/Executive Assistant for W.B. Builders in East Jordan. Alvin's more than three decades of decorated service is commendable, and the impact of his work on his fellow servicemembers and the people of the United States cannot be overstated. prgtoken Madam , it's my honor to congratulate Command Master Chief Petty Officer Alvin Veenstra for his decades of service to the people of the United States. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Alvin all the best in his future endeavors.
Order of Procedure (Executive Calendar)
Roger F. Wicker (Republican, MS) \u2014 2019-12-3

I ask unanimous consent that following the cloture vote on Executive Calendar No. 353, the time following the recess until 4:30 p.m. be reserved for tributes to retiring Senator Isakson; further that the time from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. be equally divided between the leaders or their designees on the nomination, and that at 5 p.m the Senate vote on cloture on the following nominations in the order listed: Executive Calendar Nos. 478, 381, 459, and 460; that if cloture is invoked, the confirmation votes on Executive Calendar Nos. 353, 478, 381, 459, and 460 occur at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, December 4. prgtoken I further ask unanimous consent that the mandatory quorum call with respect to the Duncan nomination be waived and that the cloture votes on Executive Calendar Nos. 479, 489, and 386 occur at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 4, and that if cloture is invoked, the confirmation votes occur at a time to be determined by the majority leader in consultation with the ic leader on Thursday, December 5. prgtoken I further ask unanimous consent that, with respect to all the votes ordered in this agreement, if the nomination is confirmed, the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action.