Extensions of Remarks, February 4, 2021 — Congressional Record
Summary
This is E106 of the Congressional Record, Extensions of Remarks, February 4, 2021, with interleaved columns. The page opens with the end of a tribute to a man named Sheldon, describing him as a serial entrepreneur, a dedicated defender of Israel and a supporter of the RJC. Under the heading Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2021, Ms. Jackson Lee's speech of February 3, 2021, supports H. Con. Res. 11, which she says reorders budgetary priorities as the country faces the COVID-19 public health emergency and economic catastrophe. She urges Republican colleagues to join the effort, quotes remarks attributed to the Governor of West Virginia, and says the Democratic majority will act boldly if they refuse. The views are attributed to the speakers.
Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used
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“Extensions of Remarks, February 4, 2021 — Congressional Record.”
Original at www.govinfo.gov. Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/crec-crec-2021-02-04-crec-2021-02-04-pt1-pge106-3627a02370/
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E106 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 4, 2021
viewed the world through the eyes of a poor I have a very vivid memory of the first the Republican Senate Majority Leader’s desk
kid from Dorchester. As one of the richest time I met Sheldon. I traveled to Las Vegas while hundreds of thousands of our fellow
men in America, he could afford the finest to tell him about the Republican Jewish Coa- Americans succumbed to the virus and mil-
wines and any luxury foods he desired. But lition (RJC) and try to get him involved in
those who knew him knew that the best time
lions of others lost their livelihoods and busi-
the organization. We had a wide-ranging con-
to meet with Sheldon was on Friday over versation and, at one point, he asked me
nesses, and everyone faced an uncertain fu-
lunch in his office, because that was his fa- what I thought about something he’d said. I ture.
vorite day, when his staff would bring him said I disagreed with him. You could have It would send a powerful signal to the Amer-
hot dogs and sliders for lunch and he was heard a pin drop in that room. Sheldon ican people if our colleagues across the aisle
sure to be in a good mood. He never lost his cocked his head and asked, ‘‘Why?’’ I an- would join us in this effort because nothing
enjoyment for those kinds of simple things. swered him honestly, sure that I had lost all would better show them that their elected rep-
More than that, Sheldon never lost touch chance of getting him interested in the RJC, resentatives can set partisanship aside and
with people. Most of those who achieve his but he replied, ‘‘Yeah, I think you might be
level of success spend a lot of money on staff
put America first.
right.’’ After that, Sheldon was very in- And that bipartisan achievement would por-
to serve as buffers between them and other volved in the RJC and gave generously not
people. Sheldon didn’t do that. At Repub- tend success for similar initiatives in the area
only his money, but more importantly, his of infrastructure, energy, national and home-
lican Jewish Coalition events, people would time and good counsel. Much of the RJC’s in-
be lined up 20- or 30-deep to say hello and land security, and criminal justice and immi-
novation and impact over the last few years
take pictures with him. He obliged them,
were made possible by his vision and leader- gration reform, all of which I am ready and
even in the middle of eating his dinner. He willing to reach across the aisle to find com-
ship.
gave out his cell phone number freely and Sheldon was an American patriot, a dedi- mon ground.
enjoyed being with people, talking to them cated defender of Israel and a living example So, if our Republican colleagues are ame-
and listening to them. nable to reaching an agreement on a legisla-
of the American dream. His passing truly
Sheldon was a serial entrepreneur who cre-
ated dozens of companies over the years. He
leaves an empty place where a vibrant, cou- tive response that is commensurate to the
was often called a visionary leader, which is rageous and caring man once stood. He will challenge facing Americans, nothing in the
true, but he had more than just vision. Hard be sorely missed. legislation before us will preclude that from
work and courageous confidence (or out- f happening.
rageous confidence, to your detractors) are But have no doubt, if they refuse to be part
required to achieve great things. Sheldon CONCURRENT RESOLUTION ON of the solution, the unified and bicameral
had a vision of Las Vegas as more than just THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR Democratic congressional majority, in coordi-
a gambling town. He knew that bringing in 2021 nation with the new Democratic Administra-
trade shows and business conventions and of- tion, will take the lead and act boldly to ad-
fering grand resorts with the finest amen- SPEECH OF
ities and big, beautiful rooms would make
dress and overcome the present crisis.
Las Vegas a top destination for millions of HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE I would urge my Republican colleagues to
people. When he began building The Vene- OF TEXAS heed the words of Republican Governor Jim
tian, he was mocked and called a fool. But he IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Justice of West Virginia who said colorfully
never lost confidence in his vision of what just a few days ago, ‘‘At this point in time in
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Las Vegas could be, and today everyone is this nation, we need to go big. We need to
copying his integrated resort model. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a sen- quit counting the egg-sucking legs on the
The same was true in Asia, where Sheldon ior member of the Committees on the Judici- cows and count the cows and just move. And
saw glittering potential in Macau, then a ary, on Homeland Security, on the Budget,
seedy, prostitution-ridden city. He turned it
move forward and move right now.’’
and as the Member of Congress for a con- The same sentiment was expressed more
into Asia’s own Las Vegas, on land reclaimed
from the sea. People called him crazy, but gressional district that has experienced the eloquently by Abraham Lincoln in 1862 when
once again he had the courage of his convic- worst of COVID–19 as a public health emer- he memorably wrote:
tions and he was proven right. His confidence gency and economic catastrophe, I rise in The dogmas of the quiet past are inad-
in his own vision and his willingness to take strong support of H. Con. Res. 11, 447, which equate to the stormy present. The occasion
risks to bring that vision to fruition were reorders budgetary priorities to provide $1.9 is piled high with difficulty, and we must
the keys to his success. trillion to allow Congress to take immediate rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so
That success made it possible for him and we must think anew and act anew. We must
his beloved wife, Dr. Miriam Adelson, to en-
and decisive action to crush the virus and vac-
disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save
gage in substantial and meaningful philan- cinate our people, build the economy back our country.
thropy—in the Jewish community and be- better, reopen schools, and provide needed
Mr. Speaker, the bipartisan action we took
yond. The Adelsons have been the largest support and assistance to state and local gov-
funders of Taglit-Birthright Israel and sup-
last December was a step in the right direction
ernments that have been asked to do too
ported Yad Vashem, United Hatzalah and but only a long-delayed down payment; we
much with too little for far too long. cannot afford any more delays, especially
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, among Mr. Speaker, by an overwhelming margin
other organizations in Israel. They built a since Republican stalling already caused a
(79 percent), the public wants and is demand-
$65 million campus in Las Vegas for the Mil- painful lapse in critical unemployment assist-
ton I. Schwartz Hebrew Academy and ing that we act to provide more economic re- ance last year, and additional unemployment
Adelson School, which serves students from lief to address the damage caused by the assistance is set to expire on March 14, 2021.
preschool through high school. In addition, coronavirus pandemic. That is why this resolution, which creates a
their Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of Repub- failsafe alternative so that the American Res-
Medical Research Foundation funds collabo- licans and Republican-leaning independents
rative, cutting-edge medical research. Dr.
cue Plan can be debated, voted on, and
believe an additional relief package is nec- passed, is absolutely crucial and the right
Miriam Adelson has contributed enormously essary, while more than nine in ten (92 per-
to drug addiction research and therapy, and thing to do and to do right now.
the Adelsons built two major drug abuse cent) Democrats and Democratic leaners say The American Rescue Plan proposed by
treatment and research centers, in Las more coronavirus aid will be needed. President Biden takes a multiprong approach
Vegas and in Israel. Even the most conservative Republicans to tackling the public health and economic cri-
The Adelsons have also extended tremen- favor more relief by a 56 percent–44 percent ses stemming from the COVID–19 pandemic.
dous kindness to friends and others in need. margin. No one is better prepared or more experi-
Sheldon showed the same compassion to his Nearly nine in ten of all adults (88 percent) enced to lead the American rescue that Presi-
employees that he showed to everyone else. in lower-income households say an additional
When COVID–19 hit, he refused to lay off his dent Biden, who as Vice-President oversaw
employees, and he continued to provide them
package is necessary, while 81 percent of Re- the implementation of the Recovery Act, which
with full pay and benefits throughout the publicans in lower-income households (81 per- saved millions of jobs and rescued our econ-
pandemic. cent) say additional aid is needed now. omy from the Great Recession the Obama Ad-
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Sheldon did what he thought was right, in Let me make clear at the outset Mr. Speak- ministration and the nation inherited from a
business and in every other part of his life. If er, that nothing in this resolution precludes the previous Republican administration.
you wanted to argue with him, you had bet- reaching of a bipartisan and bicameral agree- And let us not forget that President Obama
ter know your stuff. Sheldon never got a col- ment to pass and fund the President’s Amer- also placed his confidence in his vice-presi-
lege degree, but he was one of the smartest
people I’ve ever known. He hated yes-men ica Rescue Plan, which in nearly all material dent to oversee the rescue of the automotive
and respected people who were not intimi- respects mirrors the Heroes Act passed by the industry, which he did so well that the Amer-
dated by him or his wealth—people who House Democratic majority on May 15, 2020, ican car industry fully recovered its status as
would give him honest and sound counsel. nearly nine months ago, only to languish on the world leader.
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February 4, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E107
Mr. Speaker, to crush the virus and safely In addition, Hispanic and African American I strongly support this legislation and urge
reopen schools, the American Rescue Plan populations in Texas are less likely to have all Members to join me in voting for its pas-
will mount a national vaccination program that health insurance and to have a regular health sage.
includes setting up community vaccination care provider, so less likely to seek or receive [Oct. 14, 2020]
sites nationwide and makes the investments early care for symptoms, especially in the first HALF OF TEXAS FACE FINANCIAL HARDSHIP
necessary to safely reopen schools. months of the epidemic. BECAUSE OF CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC, SUR-
It will also take complementary measures to And African American and Hispanic popu- VEY FINDS
combat the virus, including scaling up testing lations are also more likely to have an under- (By Nataly Keomoungkhoun)
and tracing, addressing shortages of personal lying health condition that makes them more According to the Episcopal Health Founda-
protective equipment and other critical sup- vulnerable to the effects of COVID–19. tion survey, Black and Hispanic people are
plies, investing in high-quality treatments, and To respond and mitigate the devastation much more likely to be concerned about an-
addressing health care disparities. wrought by COVID–19 on Americans, and es- other wave of COVID–19.
The American Rescue Plan delivers imme- pecially marginal and vulnerable communities Half of Texans are experiencing some kind
diate relief to working families bearing the of color, I have introduced H.R. 330, the ‘‘De- of financial hardship because of the ongoing
coronavirus pandemic, a new survey finds.
brunt of the crisis by providing $1,400 per per- livering COVID–19 Vaccinations to All Regions
The survey, conducted by the Episcopal
son in direct cash assistance to households and Vulnerable Communities Act’’ or ‘‘COVID– Health Foundation, highlights how the pan-
across America, bringing the total (including 19 Delivery Act,’’ which I invite all Members to demic affects people across the state with
the $600 down payment enacted in Decem- join as sponsors. different household incomes and races, with
ber) to $2,000. Under the COVID–19 Delivery Act, FEMA and without health insurance, and other fac-
Additionally, the plan will also provide direct will be authorized and directed to lead the ef- tors. Nearly 1,900 Texans were surveyed.
housing and nutrition assistance to families fort for vaccine delivery from the receipt from ‘‘From being uninsured to not having
struggling to get by, expand access to safe manufacturing facilities to delivery to des- internet access for online school, Texans say
ignated inoculation sites (hospital, clinic, doc- these nonmedical factors are not only shap-
and reliable child care and affordable health
ing how they’re dealing with the pandemic;
care, extend and expand unemployment insur- tors’ offices, school, places of worship, com- they also could be seriously affecting their
ance so American workers can pay their bills, munity centers, parks, or neighborhood gath- future health in many different ways,’’ said
and give families with children as well as ering locations. Elena Marks, CEO of the foundation.
childless workers a boost through enhanced The legislation directs FEMA to develop and Roughly 22% of Texas residents are facing
tax credits. deploy a fully staffed and resourced 24–7 ad- ‘‘severe hardship,’’ the survey found, and an
Mr. Speaker, the American Rescue Plan vanced real-time tracking system that allows additional 28% are facing ‘‘moderate hard-
provides much needed support for commu- FEMA to monitor shipments of vaccine units ship.’’
that can provide end-to-end transparency on Those with less than $50,000 in household
nities struggling with the economic fallout, in-
income were more likely to experience finan-
cluding hard-hit small businesses, especially the temperature, real-time location, origin, and cial distress than those making more than
those owned by entrepreneurs from racial and destination data, anticipated time of arrival, $50,000, according to the survey. A third of
ethnic backgrounds that have experienced and report on changes and update recipients the people surveyed said someone in their
systemic discrimination. on the progress of their delivery and report on home had lost a job or business or had work
Finally, the plan also provides crucial re- changes that may impact expected delivery or hours reduced.
sources to protect the jobs of first responders, the viability of the vaccine while in transit. Those deemed essential workers make up
frontline public health workers, teachers, tran- FEMA will provide an advanced communica- about 34% of Texans, the survey found.
sit workers, and other essential workers that tion system that allows public health depart- About 43% of essential workers are Hispanic,
38% are white and 10% are Black. According
all Americans depend on. ments to communicate their vaccine readi-
to the survey, those who hold essential jobs
Mr. Speaker, the COVID–19 pandemic, as ness, capability of receiving vaccines, delivery are more likely to receive government as-
did the videos of the unjustified killings of locations, details of facility capability of storing, sistance such as food aid and Medicaid, and
George Floyd, Breanna Taylor, Ahmed Arbrey, securing, personnel authorized to receive de- they are less likely to have health insurance.
and so many others, laid bare for the nation liveries, logistics for delivering vaccines to pa- Medical care has been postponed or
to see the stark racial and ethnic inequalities tients, report on vaccine receipts, condition of skipped altogether by 36% of people since the
exacerbated by the virus. vaccines, patient reactions, feedback on how start of the pandemic, the survey found.
In my home state of Texas, as of the end to improve the process. Most said their mental health was good, but
46% were worried about the effects of pan-
of September 2020, there have been more H.R. 330 authorizes FEMA to secure trans-
demic-related stress on their health.
than 760,000 cases of COVID–19 and 16,000 portation for delivery or use of vaccines, and, Texas continues to have the highest rate of
deaths. when requested, security for the vaccine deliv- people in the nation without health insur-
According to the Texas Department of State ery sites or inoculation locations to ensure the ance, with 29% saying they lack coverage.
Health Care Services, 70 percent of the con- life and safety of personnel and patients who The survey asked whether Texans were
firmed fatalities were people of color. seek to provide or receive vaccinations are bracing for a worsening of the COVID–19 out-
In Texas, COVID–19 mortality rates are 30 free of interference or threat. break. Overall, less than half said they were
percent higher for African Americans and 80 Finally, the COVID–19 Delivery Act directs very concerned about another wave. But
percent higher for Hispanics overall. FEMA to conduct public education and patient roughly 73% of Black Texans and 55% of His-
panic Texans said they were very concerned
The differences become much larger when engagement through the provision of inocula- about another wave, compared with about
accounting for age; for example, in the 25 to tions of persons in areas and locations where 33% of white Texans.
44–year-old age group, African American mor- vulnerable populations are under performing in A majority did not think the federal gov-
tality rates are more than four times higher getting vaccinations. ernment was very prepared for another wave
than White rates, and the Hispanic rates are Mr. Speaker, the 2021 budget resolution be- of COVID–19.
more than seven times higher. fore us now is not a comprehensive fiscal ‘‘These stark differences in concerns about
One factor in Hispanic and African American blueprint for the next 10 years; it is designed the future show that COVID–19 is hitting
populations being more likely to contract solely to provide the option of using reconcili- Black and Hispanic Texans harder than any-
one else,’’ Marks said. ‘‘These groups are see-
COVID–19 is employment in occupations as- ation to deliver critical relief and achieve the
ing more deaths and serious complications
sociated with public contact and that cannot goals of the American Rescue Plan. from the virus because they’re more likely
be done remotely. As such, the total spending and revenue to already suffer chronic conditions related
The sad fact is that most workers in these levels in the resolution simply reflect current- to where they live that make them more sus-
occupations are less able to be absent from law projections adjusted for the estimated ceptible.’’
their job or to have paid time off. costs of the American Rescue Plan. Nearly 75% of surveyed Texans said they
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In Texas, people of color are more than 40 Once the American Rescue Plan becomes received financial assistance from the fed-
percent of cashiers, retail salespersons, child law, Congress will begin its work on a forward- eral government in the form of unemploy-
care workers, licensed practical nurses, more looking, comprehensive budget resolution for ment benefits, small-business loans and di-
rect stimulus payments. One-fourth said
than 50 percent of bus drivers and transit 2022 that will provide urgently needed eco-
they also received assistance from programs
workers, medical and nursing assistants, per- nomic support and address longstanding defi- such as STAR Medicaid and the Supple-
sonal care aides, and home health aides, and cits in our communities and underlying inequi- mental Nutrition Assistance Program, or
more than 60 percent of building cleaners and ties in our society, which have been so starkly SNAP. Most Texans who receive these bene-
housekeepers. revealed and exacerbated by COVID–19. fits are Black or Hispanic, the survey found.
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E108 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 4, 2021
About 18% of people said they had received been a political football for months. Demo- She, too, holds both parties responsible for
help from a nonprofit organization, and 13% crats have proposed a $2.2 trillion dollar failing to pass a plan.
said they had received food from a local food package, which would bring back an addi- Washington’s inaction has made res-
bank during the pandemic. tional $600 in weekly unemployment pay- taurant owners feel like they don’t matter,
‘‘This kind of information is crucial to let- ments, according to media reports. The Knight said.
ting government and other recovery efforts White House has countered with a $1.6 tril- ‘‘It was a lot of theatrics so they could go
know what Texans need to recover from the lion dollar plan with $400 in extra weekly un- back to their constituents and demonstrate
pandemic,’’ Marks said. ‘‘We hope it helps employment, though it’s unclear congres- that they acted and it was someone else’s
make good decisions about how to reach sional Republicans would pass such a bill. fault,’’ she said.
those most in need with the help they need Both sides appear to agree on sending out ECONOMIC ISSUES SPAN INDUSTRIES
the most.’’ another round of $1,200 stimulus checks,
Many of the issues restaurants face extend
[From the Texas Tribune, Oct. 8, 2020] which were first sent to people making
to industries across the state.
‘‘WE CAN’T DO IT ALONE’’: TEXANS SAY FED- $75,000 or less this spring.
Ebele Iloanye, the owner of the retail store
ERAL LEADERS’ INACTION ON A NEW CORONA Further delay of any federal deal could
MODChic Couture in Sugar Land, has lost
VIRUS AID PACKAGE IS ENDANGERING THEIR also shutter more businesses, lead to evic-
70% in revenue over the last few months of
LIVELIHOODS tions and cause permanent job losses for mil-
the pandemic. Though she’s kept up with her
(By Dan Rosenzweig-Ziff and Trinady Joslin) lions, according to various industry leaders.
rent for now, largely with the help of her
With reduced indoor capacity, economic
Texas business owners and unemployed $11,000 PPP loan, she’s cut many of her em-
hardships hitting their customers and colder
residents feel like federal leaders of both ployees.
weather soon threatening outdoor dining, no
parties are playing political games with A second stimulus package would ensure
additional stimulus deal could be cata-
their financial lives in the middle of a dam- she could continue to pay her rent—and
strophic for restaurants.
aging recession. bring back the workers she’s been unable to
Jacque Miles is three weeks away from los- According to Texas Restaurant Associa-
tion President and CEO Emily Williams pay for months. That would mean they could
ing everything—her home, her utilities and then pay their bills as well.
even the cellphone service she relies on to Knight, 15% of Texas’ 50,000 restaurants have
already closed their doors permanently. With ‘‘Things are bad all around, everybody can
apply for five to six jobs a day. see it and we’re just trying to survive,’’
The 54-year-old Myra resident was let go no stimulus plan, another 10% could close
before the year ends, she said. Iloanye said. ‘‘We’re doing our part, and I
from her job at a merchandising agency in really hope that they would now do theirs.’’
April and, like millions of Texans, has been She’s received countless calls from res-
taurant owners in tears because, after pour- Iloanye did not cast blame on Trump spe-
watching Congress to see if it’ll pass another cifically—though his tweets were the most
federal relief package to help her make ends ing years into their dream business, they had
to shut down everything. recent example of what many consider polit-
meet during the pandemic and its parallel ical posturing—but said that all Washington
economic recession. ‘‘It felt like a gut punch that the potential
relief is officially done,’’ said Knight. ‘‘Eight politicians are to blame for this failure to do
But federal lawmakers and President Don- the job they were elected to do. Eddie
ald Trump have failed for months during a weeks of help for a seven month problem
seems incredibly unreasonable.’’ Aldrete, the national affairs committee
heated election year to reach a deal on a bill chair of the Texas Association of Business,
that could provide millions of Texans with a ‘‘NO TIME TO BE PLAYING POLITICAL GAMES’’ agreed.
second $1,200 stimulus check, additional un- J.R. Gonzales, a top executive at the Texas ‘‘Texas businesses are doing their best to
employment benefits and more loans for Association of Mexican American Chambers weather this pandemic and help our state
small business owners hanging on by a of Commerce, said the lack of federal sup- and nation recover,’’ he said. ‘‘We can’t do it
thread. port has hit Hispanic Texans—who have dis- alone, and we are hopeful that leaders in
‘‘They all get to go home to their nice big proportionately contracted and died from Washington can finally, for once, find com-
house and eat their nice big meal,’’ Miles the virus—particularly hard. mon ground to provide a stimulus and relief
said of the federal officials and lawmakers ‘‘The back and forth to me is just political package.’’
who have been working on a deal. ‘‘And I’m jockeying and a waste of time,’’ he said, add- Miles said she just wants a reprieve. While
eating macaroni and cheese for the 10th time ing that he holds elected officials of both she voted for Trump in 2016, she feels like
this week. How can that be happening?’’ parties responsible for this failure, a senti- neither party is willing to bend and offer
It’s been a dizzying few days for Texans ment held by most Texans who spoke to The people help. After more than seven months
waiting to see if more assistance will come. Texas Tribune about a potential new relief of seeing disaster everywhere she looks, she’s
Trump deflated hopes that an agreement package. struggling to stay optimistic.
would be reached soon when he tweeted Gonzales said the Hispanic community he Earlier this week, she said if the presi-
Tuesday that he’d told his negotiators to represents has a large number of small busi- dential vote was tomorrow, she would choose
halt discussions until after the Nov. 3 elec- ness owners, some of whom are struggling to Biden. But on Thursday, after even more diz-
tion. Later that evening, he seemingly stay open. Many of their customers are out zying developments, she said if the election
walked back that request, calling for stand- of work or risk their lives to fill essential was tomorrow, she’d just stay home.
alone bills funding specific programs, which jobs. ‘‘It’s hard to find a happy spot,’’ she said.
U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi signaled ‘‘This is no time to be playing political ‘‘It gets harder every day.’’
she would not support. games,’’ Gonzales said. ‘‘Hispanic business
Then on Thursday, according to media re- [From the Texas Tribune, Feb. 1, 2021]
owners and workers need these grants to put
ports, Trump said talks had resumed. 10 MONTHS INTO PANDEMIC, TEXAS’ UNEM-
food on the table.’’
Pelosi’s deputy chief of staff said she and One such business is Beijing Bistro, which PLOYMENT RATE STAYS NEAR GREAT RECES-
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin dis- Janette Martinez, 25, took over from her fa- SION-LEVEL HIGHS
cussed the prospects of reaching an agree- ther, Eddie, when he had a stroke in April. (By Anna Novak and Mitchell Ferman)
ment on a comprehensive bill. And on Fri- With $250,000 in medical bills—Eddie does not
day, it appeared that the talks for a large re- UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
have insurance—on top of the challenges of
lief package were back on. Texas’ unemployment rate was 7.2% in De-
running the restaurant in Buda, Martinez
But it is still not known if or when any- cember, up from 3.5% in December 2019.
feels like she’s drinking water from a fire
thing will pass, leaving struggling Texans to SALES TAX REVENUES
hose.
continue scraping by with no clear end in
She’s never run a business before and In January, Texas collected $3.1 billion in
sight.
Miles likened the ever-changing develop- paused her plans to return to college and sales tax revenues, down 0.3% from January
ments to an ‘‘exhausting’’ tennis match. study business management to schedule 2020.
‘‘I’m just so disappointed with the govern- shifts for cooks, manage the books and keep Business shutdowns and limits on their op-
ment in general,’’ she said. ‘‘Not any par- the family business afloat. The $80,000 she re- erations through the coronavirus pandemic
ticular party, just the government in gen- ceived from the Paycheck Protection Pro- have battered Texas companies, which are
eral. It’s just so sad.’’ gram loans, which are now dwindling, al- now grappling with another devastating
As families struggle to keep their water lowed her to pay all her staff. surge in infections as intensive care units at
running and business owners pull in heavy Still, Martinez has no idea if she’s break- dozens of hospitals across the state are full.
losses, Texans are ‘‘heartbroken’’ and angry ing even or losing money and works every Entire industries—bars and restaurants,
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with REMARKS
with the federal government’s lack of sup- hour the restaurant is open six days a week. tourism and travel, oil and gas—continue to
port. On her birthday next week, her biggest wish struggle.
Workers and business owners said they feel for a celebration is just to get a day off. And The unemployment rate in Texas decreased
like those in charge are playing games with see her dad. to 7.2% in December, more than double the
their livelihoods and are out of touch with ‘‘We’re all just trying to survive as best we rate of 3.5% a year earlier. Hungry and
the people they represent at the same time can out here,’’ she said. ‘‘The longer they homeless Texans have been confused about
that many of them are seeking their votes. take choosing whether or not to pass the the prospect of more federal coronavirus re-
The prospects of a deal after the expiration stimulus, the more dire the situation will be- lief while the state’s outdated and under-
of the CARES Act at the end of July has come.’’ staffed unemployment insurance office has
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February 4, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E109
left countless Texans struggling to receive the Green Bay community. His passing will be has served in numerous capacities in the local
unemployment benefits as they navigate the mourned by many across Northeast Wis- community. In 1952, he brought Houchens
Texas Workforce Commission’s confusing consin. My prayers and condolences go out to Market to Burkesville, where he served as
processes.
A decline in Texas’ sales tax revenues—the his family and to all the lives he touched. manager for 32 years. After retiring from
largest source of funding for the state budg- f Houchens, he has continued work at Norris
et—has created a shortfall that lawmakers and New Funeral Home, where he is still
will have to fill in the 2021 legislative ses- RECOGNIZING CAREN COWAN showing off the picture of his wife that he took
sion. Economists say weakened global de- to war with him seventy-eight years ago.
mand for oil, high unemployment and the
ongoing public health crisis will continue to
HON. YVETTE HERRELL Once again, I would like to join everyone in
OF NEW MEXICO Burkesville and throughout the 1st District of
weigh down Texas’ economic recovery.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kentucky in congratulating Mr. and Mrs. Flow-
THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DECREASED IN
ers on this extraordinary milestone.
DECEMBER Thursday, February 4, 2021
Texas’ unemployment rate in December f
Ms. HERRELL. Madam Speaker, today I
was 7.2%—a decrease from the 8.1% Novem- HONORING VETERANS DURING
ber jobless rate, according to a Texas Work-
rise to recognize a New Mexican who has
force Commission report released Jan. 22. been a tireless advocate for our farmers, NATIONAL SALUTE WEEK
The state’s unemployment rate for December ranchers, and the families who work every day
is the latest indicator that the economic re- to provide for America. Caren Cowan is not HON. JIM BANKS
covery in Texas will be slow and staggered. only a friend of mine, but of the hardworking OF INDIANA
f New Mexicans who she stands up for every IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
day. As the 2020 Cattleman of the Year and
IN RECOGNITION OF THE LIFE for a lifetime of service, Ms. Cowan deserves Thursday, February 4, 2021
AND LEGACY OF WILLIAM ‘‘RED’’ our appreciation. Mr. BANKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to
LEWIS After graduating from Arizona University in pay tribute to veterans cared for by the De-
1975 with a degree in Agriculture Communica- partment of Veterans Affairs in northeast Indi-
HON. MIKE GALLAGHER tions, Caren worked for the Arizona National ana and across the United States.
OF WISCONSIN Livestock Show, the American Red Brangus Each year, the week of February 14 is an
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Association in Texas, and the New Mexico opportunity for Americans to express their col-
Thursday, February 4, 2021 Wool Growers. She has served as the Execu- lective gratitude for the more than 9 million
Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, I rise tive Director for the New Mexico Cattle Grow- veterans of the United States Armed Services
today to honor the life of a remarkable man: ers since 1997 where she fights to protect the who are cared for in the VA system. This
William ‘‘Red’’ Lewis. A Green Bay native and rights of livestock producers and ensure their year’s National Salute Week is the most im-
successful businessman, Red Lewis personi- voices are always heard on every issue. She portant one to date, given the difficult times
fied the entrepreneurial spirit generosity North- has taken on battles in the courtroom, tackled our nation has faced over the last 12 months
east Wisconsin is known for. the often burdensome statutory and regulatory with many of America’s veterans hardest hit.
Born in 1942, Red was the youngest of four requirements head on, and successfully navi- This week also serves as an opportunity for
children. He attended Premontre High School gated the bureaucracies’ often confusing rules Hoosiers and Americans everywhere to learn
(later to become Notre Dame de la Baie Acad- and regulations, something not easily done. about the role of the VA medical system, to
emy) and graduated in 1960. After multiple For 23 years Caren has been at the forefront encourage citizens to visit hospitalized Vet-
jobs in the Green Bay area, Red began his of these issues and has worked tirelessly on erans and to become involved as volunteers
career at the local PDQ car wash, working his behalf of the organization’s members. Nationwide, over 61,000 volunteers provide
way up to manager in 1967. Seeing an ave- As a leader on the issues facing the farmers more than 9.2 million volunteer hours serving
nue to improve PDQ’s cleanliness and effi- and ranchers of New Mexico, Ms. Cowan is America’s veterans. Volunteers are a priceless
ciency, Red bought the business in 1974. training the next generation of advocates to asset to our veterans, to the VA and to the
To enhance PDQ’s customer experience, ensure the New Mexico’s agricultural families country.
Red founded PDQ Manufacturing. His leader- always have a voice. We are forever grateful As a veteran myself and member of the
ship drove PDQ into becoming the world’s for her work and dedication to the state we House Veterans’ Affairs Committee in Con-
largest touchless car wash manufacturer with love. gress, I am honored to have served in uniform
clients in over 30 countries. In recognition of f and to serve the people of northeast Indiana
his innovation and contribution to the industry, in Congress. One of my top priorities has
Red was inducted into the Car Wash Hall of MR. AND MRS. ORESTUS AND been, and always will be, ensuring those who
Fame in 2000 by the International Carwash GERALDINE FLOWERS served the United States receive the honor,
Association. care, and opportunity they deserve.
Beyond his business success, Red was HON. JAMES COMER This is a testament to the honor and sac-
well-known in the community for his kind heart OF KENTUCKY rifice of those heroes who have served our
and extensive philanthropy. He was deeply IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES country, and to those who serve them.
dedicated to giving back to a community that f
Thursday, February 4, 2021
has supported him. He was particularly fond of
supporting the Green Bay Boys & Girls Club, Mr. COMER. Madam Speaker, I rise today HONORING JOE LAROCCO
the Lac Baie Girl Scout Council, Catholic to honor Mr. and Mrs. Orestus and Geraldine
Charities, Manna for Life Ministries, NEW Zoo Flowers of Burkesville for recently celebrating HON. H. MORGAN GRIFFITH
and St. Willebroad Parish. He was also gen- their 75th anniversary. OF VIRGINIA
erous to his alma mater, Notre Dame de la Mr. and Mrs. Flowers have displayed com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Baie Academy, and local veterans organiza- mitment in all facets of their life. At twenty-two
years of age, Mr. Flowers left his then- Thursday, February 4, 2021
tions.
Red also had a passion for collecting cars, girlfriend, Geraldine, to serve in the Army for Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise to
and in 2016 gifted the Green Bay community three-and-a-half-years during World War II. honor Joseph Charles LaRocco of Salem, Vir-
with The Automobile Gallery. This nonprofit is Mr. Flowers kept a picture of Geraldine in his ginia, who passed away on January 17, 2021
a beautiful addition to Green Bay’s downtown wallet during the war, and upon returning, at the age of 67. Joe was a longtime coach
whose collection of more than 120 auto- married Geraldine on February 1, 1946. Mr. and educator in Roanoke County who encour-
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with REMARKS
mobiles spans 113 years. It boasts a 1912 and Mrs. Flowers displayed an exemplary aged students and athletes toward excellence.
Maxwell, 1963 Corvette, and 1982 DeLorean level of commitment to both each other and Joe was born in Schenectady, New York on
DMC–12, among many other restored models. our nation through his military service. October 28, 1953. He grew up in Roanoke,
Visitors from across the state come to Green Mr. and Mrs. Flowers raised their family in graduated from Andrew Lewis High School in
Bay to enjoy the gallery which has quickly be- Cumberland County, Kentucky. They and their 1972, and graduated from Roanoke College in
come a cherished community treasure. three daughters, four grandchildren, and 1976. As a young man, he attained the rank
Madam Speaker, words cannot adequately seven great-grandchildren have been a staple of Eagle Scout and was a standout track and
thank Red for his extraordinary commitment to in the community of Burkesville. Mr. Flowers field and cross country athlete, eventually
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