Marcy Kaptur

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, and thank the gentleman for his enormous leadership, as well as Chairwoman Susan Davis. This legislation takes real meaningful steps to increase access to registered apprenticeships, one of the most successful workforce development programs we have ever had in our country, where 94 percent of people who complete them actually earn an average salary of over $70,000 a year. As Representative of the cities of Toledo, Lorain, and Cleveland, all of which boast a strong industrial and automotive heritage, it is difficult to overemphasize the value that these apprenticeships have for young people and adults starting careers in the industrial and automotive trades. Whether it is the expertise it takes to rebuild an engine or build it to begin with, replace a battery in a hybrid vehicle or TIG weld the rear quarter of an old Wagoneer, there will always be a market for skilled craftspeople who can repair or restore modern and classic vehicles. It is these curious minds and hands that are America's inventors of the future for new power systems and new engines. This legislation is estimated to create over 1 million apprenticeship opportunities over the next 5 years and will strengthen our workforce, ensuring businesses large and small can recruit the skilled workers they need. I include in the Record a letter from the National Task Force on Tradeswomen's Issues that supports this legislation. National Task Force on Tradeswomen's Issues, November 18, 2020. Re H.R. 8294 Letter of Support, NAA Reauthorization. To: Committee on Education and Labor Chairperson Robert C. ``Bobby'' Scott Attention: Katherine McClelland. The National Taskforce on Tradeswomen's Issues (TWTF) is a coalition of tradeswomen organizations, advocates, allies and individual tradeswomen. TWTF promotes public policies and best practices towards equity in apprenticeship, training, workforce development, career and technical education, and in workplace experience in construction and other nontraditional occupations for women. Women make up close to 50% of the nation's workforce. Women occupy 2/3's of the minimum wage jobs in this country. Yet, women comprise only 7% of our nation's apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeship is a critical component of our efforts to increase economic opportunity for women, particularly women of color, in blue- collar occupations. TWTF very much appreciates the interest of the House of Representatives Education & Labor Committee and its Higher Education & Workforce Investment Subcommittee in reauthorizing the National Apprenticeship Act in a way that best protects apprentices and enhances their opportunities for meaningful, well-compensated careers. TWTF is grateful for the careful attention that the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, H.R. 8294, pays to ensuring that women and people of color--populations that have historically been too often unfairly denied opportunities because of their gender, race, or ethnicity--can gain access to and retain high-skill, high-wage jobs through registered apprenticeships, pre- apprenticeships, and youth apprenticeships. Finally, we are very appreciative of the open and consultative process that you and your staff have engaged in to get public input as you developed this bill, including allowing us to submit detailed comments on a publicly available discussion draft, and your staff's willingness to respond to questions and concerns on an on-going basis. H.R. 8294 could well be a key piece to remedy the enduring skills and pay gap as we move beyond the ``She-cession.'' TWTF is pleased to support H.R. 8294. In particular, we support the bill's incorporation of nondiscrimination and affirmative action standards for apprenticeship programs currently codified in 29 CFR part 30; the requirement that funded entities devote a minimum of 5 percent of grant funds to direct financial assistance to apprentices, pre- apprentices, or youth apprentices for supportive services; and the significant investments that the bill makes in registered apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs and technical assistance to make progress on equity and inclusion for women and people of color. We look forward to continuing to work with your staff to accommodate remaining concerns as the legislation moves forward in the next Congress. Respectfully, Connie Ashbrook, Leah Rambo, TWTF Co-Chairs.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank Chairman Espaillat for the time in support of H. Res. 672, which is a bipartisan resolution, and I appreciate his help in moving it through the subcommittee and committee. This resolution was introduced with our colleague, Congressman Adam Kinzinger. I want to thank Ranking Member Smith for his years of dedication on the committee as well. This resolution expresses robust support for the Three Seas Initiative to accelerate the development of cross-border infrastructure in Central and Eastern Europe. I am also very grateful to the chairman of the full committee, Eliot Engel, who has given the best years of his life to this country and our interests around the world, and to Ranking Member McCaul and Congressman Keating for their commitment to strengthen the Transatlantic Alliance. I thank again my colleague, Congressman Kinzinger, for his partnership to shepherd this resolution to the floor. I also extend special thanks to Majority Leader Hoyer and his staff associate Daniel Silverberg for their support. Throughout the Cold War, the United States led efforts to expand liberty in Europe. After the collapse of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the United States welcomed the people of the region into the community of democratic nations. Yet Soviet tyranny left this strategic region without a significant infrastructure--actually a huge infrastructure deficit--increasing dependence on malign influence from Russia and, yes, China, too. Tragically, Russia seeks to divide Europe by exploiting Europe's energy dependence, including through the Nord Stream 2 and TurkStream pipelines. Meanwhile, Chinese state-linked companies like Huawei offer predatory financing to capture Europe's telecommunications networks creating surveillance vulnerabilities. In response, 12 U.S. allies in Central and Eastern Europe launched the Three Seas Initiative and Investment Fund. The initiative provides a critical platform to pool financing to construct infrastructure projects free from malign influence. Currently, the Three Seas fund totals $1.4 billion. The first investment has been made in the transportation infrastructure sector. This resolution encourages Three Seas member nations to increase investments into the fund. Further, it strongly urges that the vision of a cross-border cooperation be extended to non-E.U. nations such as Ukraine and Moldova. Importantly, this legislation encourages support for financing of clean energy to counter the scourge of climate change. Following this resolution's introduction, the United States pledged up to $1 billion to finance energy security projects through the Three Seas Investment Fund. In conclusion, the transatlantic relationship is the bedrock of U.S. foreign policy. Out of the ashes of two world wars, visionary leaders created institutions like NATO to protect and expand liberty. The Three Seas Initiative--this time launched and led by our Allies-- is the next step to complete the transatlantic project. It will ensure a Europe in this 21st century that is whole, free, and at peace. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in recognition of a beloved system of parks and trails in my northern Ohio district: Toledo Metroparks. On October 27 of this year, Toledo Metroparks was awarded the most prestigious honor in the parks and recreation industry: the 2020 National Gold Medal Award for excellence in parks and recreation management and, with it, the recognition as the number one park system in the United States of America by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association. Like many Toledoans, I am immensely thankful for those who have fought tirelessly to create a genuine, world-class system of parks and trails right in the heart of our community. In fact, Toledo Metroparks was among 20 park and recreation agencies and four military installations across our country and in Germany considered just as finalists for the award. Whether you enjoy bird watching, hiking, mountain biking, archery, or even just relaxing in a hammock, Toledo Metroparks has countless ways to get you outside and enjoying nature. Congratulations to Toledo Metroparks for receiving this prestigious and well-deserved national recognition. With the recent $23 million grant from the Department of Transportation to construct the Glass City Riverwalk, a transformative project in the heart of Toledo, our Metroparks will only continue to get better in this 21st century. Madam Speaker, our office will gladly fly a flag over this U.S. Capitol in the honor of this gold medal award to Toledo Metroparks. Congratulations to all.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the legacy of an honored veteran, an intense advocate for environmentalism, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and an installation on our Great Lakes, David L. Spangler. Born in Defiance, OH, David created a story for himself of valor, service, family, and intentional advocacy. After honorable service in the U.S. Army, where he received a Purple Heart as well as a Bronze Star, he became a career operations manager at Johns-Manville for 37 years. After his retirement he pursued his love of his second home, Lake Erie, in licensing a fishing charter boat in Lake Erie's Western Basin. After 27 years on the Lake, he is recognized as the fiercest advocate for the health and sustainability of the water he loved so. David filled an extremely imperative role in his community. He instilled tangible first-hand experience in his advocacy and leadership around the needs of Lake Erie and the Great Lakes in general. He held several leadership positions in advocacy and collective groups such as Lake Erie Waterkeeper President as well as the Lake Erie Charter Boat Association Vice-President. The Lake community as well as the health of the water and the future of fishing on the Lake have been forever changed by his actions and candor in these groups. David sparked conversations as well as immense political change in his tenacity funneled towards the quality of the water of Lake Erie as well as curving the harmful algae plaguing the water's fisherman and aquatic life. As a Great Lakes Ambassador, he continually set the standard for involvement in every level of operations in regard to Lake Erie. David was renowned for his resolute defense of sustainability coupled with tempered stature of understanding and mutual respect. He entered deliberations and discussions grounding his words in fact and science and opening ears and perspective to those around him. He stands in a class of his own, a practical, tireless, and effective champion of change. David's life and legacy has been enshrined in his continued defense of the waters that he called home. His time spent in meetings, briefings, conferences, and surely on his boat have forever impacted the quality of the great waters of Ohio's most renowned body of fresh water. He dedicated his adult life to pursuit of public service as well as set an example that all future public servants, environmentalists, community members, Ohioans, and Americans should be inspired to follow. David is survived by his beloved wife, Kath ``Kady'' Lerch, whom he married in 2007 as well as his sister Mary Engle and children; Jared Lerch, Nathan Lerch, Courtney Cochran and Melissa Lerch, and finally his three cherished grandchildren. His vigilance on the lakes as well as his love for family and his State will be pronounced for years to come, both on and off the water.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life and career of James D. Jensen--a lawyer, assistant U.S. attorney, and a judge who resided for nearly two decades in our court systems. Born in Denver, OH, Judge Jensen built an educational career as well as a professional career out of Ohio institutions. Graduating from Buchtel High School he pursued his bachelors at Wittenberg University then his law degree at the University of Toledo, where he later taught as a professor of law inspiring a new generation of public servants. Jensen's career found its beginning in private practice and soon transformed into a public endeavor as an assistant U.S. attorney in Toledo, and in this position was appointed to senior litigation counsel. He then served a year at the Department of Justice as the assistant director for the attorney general Advocacy Institute, teaching courses at the institute and at the FBI. After signing onto a firm for a span of his career he was appointed to a Common Pleas Bench in 1995 which propelled him to his eventual election onto the Ohio 6th District Court of Appeals Bench in 2012 where he ended his career honorably. His professional career was studded with honor and recognition of his valor and kind disposition. Just last month Judge Jensen was honored with the 2020 Thomas J. Moyer Award for Judicial Excellence, a high regard and an honor well deserved. Judge Jensen exemplified passion in his legal tenure and is remembered by his peers as an authority on law like no other. He is remembered to have coined the phrase, ``I'd rather be right than affirmed''. These worded, often delivered in passing, reflect his sharpened deliberate demeanor on the courts and in his life. Jensen's humility and joy in life were manifested with every court ruling, peer interaction, and opportunity to advocate for justice. He was commended for his quiet and intentional command of the court room, in delivering justice with a temperament that was even, consistent, and memorable. Judge Jensen is survived by a loving family that continues his legacy of kindness and determined intelligence. His children, Tracy, Tammy, Tim, Dean, and Tyler look forward having a path of educational and professional achievement paved by their father. Judge James Jensen's impact on the Toledo community as well our legal system as whole is nothing less than immeasurable. His memory and his stature will be remembered all, and especially those lucky enough to call him friend.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to reflect upon the life of Frederick Hill McDonald, an institution of our courts serving almost three decades as a Lucas County Common Pleas judge. A Vietnam War Veteran, a father, a grandfather, a husband, and a missed and cherished member of our community. A native of Poland, Ohio, Judge McDonald graduated Poland High School and then attended Carleton College graduating with high marks. Following his undergrad, he jumpstarted his law career in receiving his law degree from Georgetown university, then soon after was honorably admitted to the Ohio Bar in 1968. In the genesis of his career, McDonald joined the Toledo Aid Society in 1970, then took the step into the legal world officially in becoming an assistant county prosecutor. After a few years of service, he was selected as an assistant U.S. attorney in Toledo, and after serving one year as a Judge on the Toledo Municipal Court bench, his candor and professionalism propelled him to be appointed to the Common Pleas Court where his career blossomed. Judge Frederick McDonald's time on the court was highlighted by his service of equality and equity on the bench and in his own life. In 1997 he received the Arabella Babb Mansfield Award from the Toledo Women's Bar Association, in accordance with his commitment to diversity and his general tenacity and grit on the bench. In his tenure in our courts of law, Judge McDonald displayed a fervent commitment to decency and democracy like no other. At 71 years of age he retired his robes and was remembered by his peers as a dedicated collaborator and mentor, providing leadership and discernment on challenging issues. A Toledo resident, his life was one filled with love and devotion to family. His three grandsons look onto a great example of a legal legacy and a profoundly sweet man. His Wife, Holly Sydlow, shared his love of law in her career as an assistant U.S. attorney. Judge McDonald led everyday with the intention of imparting his legal knowledge unto the next generation of impactful lawyers and legal professionals, passing the merits of his valuable tenure unto the future of our courts. During his time in the courts, Judge McDonald saved all of his jury instructions from his years of trial digitally and passed them on to a currently seated Judge, thus his legacy and institutional knowledge will live on within the systems that miss him so. Our courts and our hearts mourn the Joss of Judge McDonald. I express my great sympathy for his family and all who were lucky enough to call him friend or peer.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, yesterday, our Nation marked National Voter Registration Day. But it was also a day of reckoning and milestone as our Nation surpassed 200,000 COVID-19 deaths. Unfortunately, by erecting barriers to voting, we are sending the wrong signal to our citizens. We can do better as voting is the lifeblood of our Democracy. Our nation must take common sense steps like passing the HEROES Act with its $3.6 billion for state election grants and reigning in the President's politization of the USPS. The State of Ohio can also do better. Ohio must add more drop boxes for voting, provide universal prepaid postage, and simplify the ballot request process. While Republican leaders in Columbus and in Washington have wrapped themselves in knots, yesterday, I led an Ohio delegation letter urging Ohio higher educational institutions proactively educate students, faculty, and staff about how to ensure their voice is heard at the ballot box. I include in the Record our September 22, 2020, letter. Congress of the United States, Washington, DC, September 22, 2020. Dear Ohio College and University Presidents: As our State continues to grapple with the challenges presented by COVID- 19, our nation is relying on Ohio's colleges and universities to take a leadership role in ensuring access to the ballot box. This duty is particularly important as we commemorate national voter registration day on September 22, 2020. Your institutions play a key role in ensuring that students understand how to access and exercise their constitutionally enshrined right to vote. Under normal circumstances, students face barriers to voting, and in these difficult times, those barriers have multiplied. We ask that each of you to take steps to ensure your institution commits to easing barriers for your faculty, students and staff to vote. As we know, the 1965 Higher Education Act (HEA) helped increase access to higher education for low-income and first- generation college students. In 1998, recognizing the importance of involving younger generations in the democratic process, Congress expanded the scope of the act to include provisions on student voting. Section 487(a)(23) of the HEA as reauthorized in 1998 specified that institutions must make a good faith effort to facilitate student voter registration. This reinforced vital role institutions of higher education play in educating and encouraging students to vote. Your institutions have the opportunity to play an essential role in ensuring that young Americans participate in our democracy by taking simple steps such as designating places where students can complete voter registration forms or absentee ballot requests. Colleges can text students where these one-stop election stations are located and can e-mail students a voter registration link. Institutions should share broad voter education information about how to vote, including the following: Communicate to your students to ensure they are registered to vote and that their registration information is up to date. Explain Ohio's voter ID requirements directly to students and staff with emails, posters or mailers. Students driver's license may be expired this year, but the Ohio legislature authorized individuals to vote with an expired license, which students, faculty and staff may not know. Clarify that if a student's current address varies from where they registered when they go to vote, they can vote absentee, with the mailer sent to another address, or they can vote provisionally if they can prove their address. Be prepared to educate students on how to vote by mail or vote provisionally in the event that campuses close due to the pandemic. Make clear to students that where you register to vote will not affect federal financial aid such as Pell Grants, Perkins or Stafford loans, or your dependency status for FAFSA; being registered to vote at a different address from your parents does not prevent them from claiming you as a dependent on their taxes; and being deemed out-of-state for tuition purposes does not prevent you from choosing to register to vote in your campus community. Provide faculty, staff, and students with information about how to volunteer as poll workers. Students, faculty and staff at your institutions need the type of nonpartisan voter information described in this letter. In a time where voter disinformation is rampant, your colleges and universities have not only a legal obligation, but also a moral obligation to make your campuses an example of democratic participation. Thank you for your leadership and for taking every step possible to ease the barriers of voting for eligible voters on your campuses. Sincerely, Marcy Kaptur, Member of Congress. Marcia L. Fudge, Member of Congress. Joyce Beatty, Member of Congress. Sherrod Brown, United States Senator. Tim Ryan, Member of Congress.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, it is with frustration that I rise in support of today's short-term continuing resolution and urge my colleagues to do so as well. Once again, we need a means to keep the lights on for the Federal Government. The American people need and deserve more from their collective elected leaders. We are in the middle of an economic crisis and global pandemic when many are unsure they can keep their own lights on. This 11-week extension puts our Federal agencies on autopilot. They can't begin new programs or respond to shifting priorities. It handcuffs our ability to respond to America's twin crises. It blocks investments in national security, fails to assist schools struggling to safely educate America's youth, fails the millions of families standing in long lines desperate for food assistance, and leaves millions questioning whether they even have a home tomorrow. It is a complete and total dereliction of duty for today and tomorrow. The lack of action from our Senate colleagues, for the second year in a row, who deep-sixed their fiscal responsibility and leadership brought us here today. Our Senate friends have not even started the appropriation process. Not a single bill was considered in their committees. But they have time for another judicial confirmation. Madam Speaker, I commend Chairwoman Lowey's leadership, and Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer for their prioritization and passage in the House of 10 of our 12 annual appropriations spending bills--all managed with the unknown and lack of Presidential leadership in establishing a Federal response to the COVID pandemic. The Senate achieved nothing. Nothing. While Senate Republican strategists are squeezed in rooms over there thinking about a Supreme Court nominee before election day, they ignore their top responsibility of Congress' funding responsibility. Our Senate Republican colleagues have 11 weeks to draft and pass 12 bills, but not a single word on how they plan to achieve this monumental task. The Energy and Water portion of the continuing resolution contains commonsense, necessary extensions to keep certain programs operating for the next 11 weeks. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this short-term resolution.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today in reflection following the tragic loss of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsburg not only has woven her legacy into the fabric of American law, but blossomed into a progressive cultural icon as a result of her dogged defense of women's rights and gender equality. Her personality and words of deliberate intention seamlessly filled our courts with promise and purpose and our hearts with gratitude. To say that her time as an attorney and Justice was revolutionary is an understatement. Her impact, her memory, her stature will never be forgotten and will be forever honored. As early as the 1970s, Justice Ginsburg dedicated her career to the advancement of women's equality. Acting as an unprecedented firebrand for accessible, lawful, and equitable government, she became not only a woman I admire so fervently, but a woman that has become an installation of American regality. When asked how she might wish to be remembered, she answered: ``Just as someone who did whatever she could, with whatever limited talent she had, to move society along in the direction I would like it to be for my children and grandchildren.'' I believe she rests knowing she accomplished just that. Thank you, Justice Ginsburg. What shooting stars your precious life has yielded, giving guidance to human progress here at home and abroad. A grateful nation says, thank you.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, it is with terrible sadness and grief that I rise today, for in my district the Cleveland community is laying to rest two Cleveland City Police Officers, whose fates were met far too early. Detective James Skernivitz, 53, was working an undercover drug operation when he and his informant, Scott Dingess, 50, were ambushed and killed, a tragic incident marking Detective Skernivitz as the first on-duty officer to be fatally shot in Cleveland in more than a decade. Officer Skernivitz was a devoted husband to his wife Kristen, and father to Matthew, Bayleigh and Peyton. Officer Skernivitz was a brother, a son, and a friend to many. We are also mourning the terrible loss of Cleveland Police Officer Nick Sabo, 39, who was found dead as a result of a tragic and sudden suicide. Officer Sabo will be remembered as a devoted husband to his wife Brienne, beloved father to his four children Isaiah, Elijah, Camryn, and Kinsley, and treasured son, brother, friend and fellow officer. The sudden deaths of Detective Skernivitz and Officer Sabo serve as a constant reminder of the dangers and stresses put on public safety officers every single day. Both men lived and died as heroes and the Cleveland community will never forget their service and sacrifices. My sincerest condolences and prayers are with their families, the Cleveland Police Department, and the entire Cleveland community during this difficult time. In their memory, I will request that American flags be hoisted over the U.S. Capitol in their memory and be presented to their families as a token of our everlasting gratitude for their ultimate sacrifices to Protect and Serve.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House Resolution 908--Condemning all forms of anti-Asian sentiment as related to COVID-19. I praise my distinguished colleague, Congresswoman Grace Meng, First Vice-Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), for her exemplary leadership on this Resolution on behalf of Asian-Americans and Asian and Pacific Islander communities all over the world. With this Resolution, I am reminded of the talented and brave Asians and Asian-Americans who have helped lead us through COVID-19. I think of my district's University of Toledo Medical Center's molecular specialist, Dr. Ji-Youn Yeo, Ph.D., a Postdoctoral Fellow of South Korean descent. Dr. Yeo's expertise helped the Center's coronavirus pathology lab modify its test to keep employees safe during the testing process. First Lady of Maryland, Yumi Hogan, was instrumental in obtaining 500,000 testing kits for Maryland by working with the South Korean Ambassador to the United States, Lee Soo Hyuk. The people of South Korea were able to minimize the devastation of COVID-19 on its own shores and became an example to the world by implementing lessons and procedures learned from its MERS outbreak. These efforts are a significant representation of how Asian communities are helping to combat the corona virus. To incite anti-Asian sentiments through racism, discrimination, or religious intolerance, especially related to COVID-19, is an insult to the very people who have helped shape our country. At this difficult time as we experience a resurgence of this troubling discrimination, I am reminded of my trailblazing colleagues as they continue the fight against discrimination, and through their efforts, are making our nation a fairer and more just society. One such trailblazer is the distinguished Chairwoman of CAPAC, Congresswoman Judy Chu, the first Chinese American woman elected to the United States Congress. She has served with great dignity and has been a fierce leader and advocate for Asian Americans. Former Congressman and CAPAC Chair Emeritus, Mike Honda, a statesman who was forced into a Japanese internment camp with his family in Colorado and then thrived to become a Member of the United States House of Representatives. He experienced xenophobia firsthand, and we heartfully thank him for teaching all those who face oppression that they have the ability to overcome and achieve remarkable things. I also recognize our distinguished Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, Congressman Mark Takano. He is a consummate educator and brave leader who became the first openly gay person of color to serve in Congress. These are some of America's finest patriots. I had the honor and privilege to serve with Congress' first female Member of color, Patsy Mink. A third generation Japanese American, she achieved greatness through insurmountable barriers. A fighter for the fundamental belief in equality, Mink co-authored Title IX to ensure that no person, regardless of sex, could be excluded from any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. She was ahead of her time and laid a great foundation for Asian Americans and women to follow. Congresswoman Meng's efforts today proudly honor her memory. To the current and past Asian American and Pacific Islander Members of Congress, the current 74 bicameral members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, and the many Asian Americans who are working every day to make sure America stands tall during COVID-19, I salute them and their service to a grateful nation. I urge support for H. Res. 908.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and passing of a gentle caring soul. As August turned to September, Louis Escobar entered eternal life. Louis was a role model to many young people and a mentor to many in the LGBTQ community. The first Latino elected to Toledo City Council, he served three years as Council President. Louis' servant's heart led him to involvement in a wide array of Toledo Area community organizations including Northwest State Community College, the AIDS Resource Center, The Fair Housing Center, Toledo Sister Cities, Toledo/Lucas County Homelessness Board, the Latino Arts Council, the Latino/Hispanic Alliance of Greater Toledo, Stonewall Democrats, St. Paul's Community Center, the Area Office on Aging and many others. Always, his life was helping others to rise. Louis was born to Nancy and Peter Escobar. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in Toledo, then went on to earn his bachelor's degree from St. Mary's College, a Master of Divinity from SS Cyril and Methodius Seminary, and a Master of Arts degree from the University of Detroit. A loving and deeply spiritual seminarian, he was ordained to the priesthood in 1976 and served St. Joseph Tiffin, St. Agnes Toledo, and St. Joseph Maumee parishes. He taught at Central Catholic and Tiffin Calvert high schools. Later, Louis worked as a counselor and probation officer, for the HIV/AIDS Task Force, in community mental health through the Zepf Center, Latino empowerment with Adelante, serving the most vulnerable while at La Posada, and at Owens Corning and the University of Toledo. We offer his companion, his mother and brothers, nieces and nephews and many dear friends our compassion and sympathy. As they mourn Louis' loss, may they find comfort and strength in his memories and his teachings. Louis Escobar was a kind, gentle, intelligent, brave and pioneering soul who endured deep illness for a very long time with such dignity and bearing. His struggles as a gay man in the Catholic Church where he desired to become a priest, and as a rising Latino leader were prophetic and huge. He never yielded as a standard bearer for truth and social justice. His election and steady, honorable service on City Council rising as its president became part of America's transformative social and political change toward human rights and liberty and equality for all. Louis Escobar lived the change he knew in his heart was essential for humankind to advance the reality of the human condition. His lifelong partner Kelly cared for him throughout his long illness and set the standard for love and fealty to family. Our community mourns his loss and expresses its deep gratitude for his courage, love, service, and sacrifice. A U.S. flag is being flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of his life.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, this is a back-to-school September like we have never seen before. Over the last few weeks, students, parents, teachers, and administrators have faced great uncertainty as students return to the classroom. In many parts of our country, schools are struggling to reopen safely because of the Trump administration's failed response to the ongoing pandemic. Our States are in dire need of more Federal funding for education, and Republicans must come to the table to help provide the support and protection our students and workers need to learn and teach safely. Secretary DeVos and the Trump administration must embrace virtual learning opportunities, including remote learning, and encourage limited in-person options rather than threatening students' safety and school funding, especially in the areas of science and public health guidance. It is self-evident that COVID-19 is still a serious health and safety concern for our Nation and neither children nor teachers are immune from this deadly disease. Mr. Speaker, I urge the public to double down on precautions to prevent infection, and I urge Congress to strike a bipartisan agreement on a COVID-19 relief package that ensures all schools have the resources they need to carry out their duties and to protect the lives of teachers and students as well.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise as a former letter carrier in support of H.R. 8015, to prevent the dangerous budget and service cuts proposed by Postmaster General DeJoy. The Postmaster General claims he has not taken any steps to limit overtime for postal employees. His statement is hollow, because internal Postal Service documents show how policy changes prohibit ``extra'' or ``late'' trips, which means you finish delivering the mail in your bag that day, and they mandate that carriers ``return on time,'' which means they can't finish the job. In normal times, the Postal Service is crucial, but during a pandemic, on-time and efficient mail delivery is a matter of life and death. Today's legislation will not just protect the Postal Service, but, given that people's homes are now polling places, the service protects the very essence of our democracy. Don't mess with USPS.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the remarkable life of Robert ``Bob'' Lee Jones, Sr. On August 4, 2020, Bob returned to his creator after fulfilling a lifelong service as a visionary farmer and educator who helped shaped sustainable farming for Northern Ohio and America. Born in Zanesville and raised in Huron, OH, Bob embraced farming as his birthright, passed down from his father, Melvin ``Pete'' Jones, a sheep farmer in Southern Ohio. He and his father shared a love for farming and Lyman wooden boats, while he and his mother, Marjorie ``Mimi'', enjoyed spending time at the Huron Lakefront Park. Having agriculture in his DNA, Bob attended The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences and Bowling Green State University. Academically gifted and scientifically curious, he proudly collected and read a library of old and new agricultural and business volumes over his lifetime. One of Bob's proudest and dearest accomplishments was his six-decade long marriage to his beloved high school sweetheart and wife, Barbara. His beautiful wife Barbara built their Garden Enterprise at his side, a partnership of love and botanical genius. Her racks of thousands of cookbooks and recipes formed foundation stones for the evolving Chefs' Garden that attracts the finest chefs in the world for advanced training. Together, they raised three remarkable children, Melvin ``Lee'', Terri Lynn, and Bob Jr., who will proudly continue their father's work. The most prolific and enduring part of Bob's legacy was born out of persistence and the strength he and his family summoned to rise above. After suffering a setback in the 1980s, Bob and his family created the Chefs' Garden. The Chefs' Garden is a mixture of traditional farming, innovative food safety programs, and education that provides fresh vegetables, microgreens, herbs, edible flowers to chefs with an ``Earth-to-Table'' philosophy. For the past three decades, Bob lead his family to catapult their operation into a force, which provides chefs in 50 states and 14 countries with flavorful, sustainable, and high class produce. Ever evolving, Bob's business became a botanical science campus, with plants and students from nearby and around the world coming to partake in his Culinary Vegetable Institute. The Institute is a world class educational, research, and event facility where chefs and their teams come to immerse themselves in revitalizing education or team building missions. Bob's dedication to his craft knew no bounds, and he wanted to share that with the chief benefactors of his mission, chefs. Bob and Barbara's passion for education yielded their nationwide nonprofit-Veggie U. Nothing could equal ``Farmer Jones'' in his denim jeans trekking to schools everywhere with Grow Kits to educate children and teachers for the next generation about the magical power of the productive earth. Veggie U educates children on the processes of planting, growing, harvesting crops, as well as healthy eating strategies, in their classroom. They also offer a dedicated program for special needs students. The program has sprouted 8,300 classroom gardens and graduated 207,500 students in 36 states. Veggie U ensures Bob and his family's mission will remain steadfast for many generations to follow. One of Bob's last gifts to his country came during the Coronavirus pandemic. He and his family were devising plans to get fresh produce to the needy well before federal assistance was implemented. They are patriots, participating in USDA's Farmers to Families Food Box program, providing their world-class produce to help feed those devastated by the pandemic. His desire to ensure people were properly nourished persisted until his last breath, and with the help of his beautiful family, will continue. Robert Lee Jones, Sr. was a giant among men. His focus and dedication to agriculture never wavered and furthered the progress of American farming. I send my deepest condolences to his family, especially his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and the many people who were touched by his life. May they find solace in the faith Bob held so dear, and may the angels raise him to a place of peace and comfort which he so richly deserves.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, as our Nation reels from COVID-19 and over 150,000 deaths, millions of Americans depend on the U.S. Postal Service for access to medicine, stimulus payments, small business support, and trustworthy door-to-door service upon which Americans rely. Yet, recently appointed Postmaster General and major Trump donor Louis DeJoy has instituted a deeply misguided policy that puts American lives at risk. In a disturbing memo, it reads: ``late trips are no longer authorized or accepted . . . we may see mail left behind or mail on the workroom floor or docks.'' The United States Postal Service has served our Nation ably for over two centuries, delivering at the most cost-effective rate. Letter carriers walk through rain, sleet, snow, dark of night to ensure the mail gets delivered. That is why Congress already provided $10 billion in financing to the Postal Service during this pandemic, and, tragically, the Trump administration continued to hold it up, causing backups in mail across our Nation. I demand the Trump administration release the funds Congress provided to our Postal Service. We must act now to ensure our people have access to medications they need, protect our small businesses and democratic institutions, and end these senseless delays.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairwoman Lowey, Ranking Member Granger, and Vice Ranking Member Cole. Please let me add my thanks to Chair Lowey for her years of honorable, dedicated, and affable service to this committee and to our Nation and for her recognition of the full potential of the Energy and Water division. Truly, she will be missed. Without question, she has made her mark across our Nation and the world. She can draw great satisfaction from that. Mr. Speaker, I also want to thank my brother, Stephen, who is watching from a distance. Without his strength and courage, I would not be here today. This bill represents an overwhelming majority of our total discretionary appropriations, and with its passage, the House's completion of 10 appropriation bills. Mr. Speaker, I extend congratulations to Chairwoman Lowey and, of course, Ranking Member Kay Granger for this feat in the middle of a global pandemic. Mr. Speaker, I also have to thank the marvelous committee staff who have made this possible. I wish to say that the Energy and Water division captures the American spirit of ingenuity and independence in our enterprising Nation. Our bill lays the foundation for critical investments to combat climate change. It is poised to pass today as the most important funded climate change bill the 116th Congress will pass. Truly, this bill will sustain life in America and address global imperatives. Our bill upgrades and strengthens our Nation's energy and water infrastructure. It responsibly funds our Nation's nuclear deterrent. It rejects the administration's dangerous plan to start nuclear explosive testing. The bill rejects the President's drastic and shortsighted proposed cuts that would harm America's leadership at home and abroad. Instead, it invests in important programs that keep our Nation at the forefront of global energy innovation. It enables the efficient shipment of goods. It provides water, irrigation, and electricity to millions upon millions of Americans, and these programs propel real economic growth and the jobs that go with it. Let me briefly walk through the bill. The Army Corps of Engineers receives $7.6 billion, the second year of record funding and an increase of $1.7 billion above the budget request. The Bureau of Reclamation receives $1.64 billion, an increase of $508 million above the request. The Department of Energy receives $41 billion, an increase of $5.1 billion above the request. Within the Department of Energy, the bill contains historic funding levels for key programs critical to our future. First, energy efficiency and renewable energy receive $2.85 billion, $2.1 billion above the request. ARPA-E, our advanced energy portfolio, receives $435 million, a record amount for a program the President proposed to eliminate, blunting America's future. The Office of Science receives $7.05 billion, $1.2 billion above the request. This bill also provides an increase for the home Weatherization Assistance Program. It helps ensure that additional low-income households have energy-efficient and more livable and affordable futures in communities across our Nation. The National Nuclear Security Administration receives $18 billion, $1.3 billion above 2020. Within the Nuclear Security Administration, the bill responsibly funds America's nuclear deterrent. Nuclear nonproliferation receives $2.24 billion, an increase of $209 million above the request. Finally, this bill prohibits the diversion of essential Army Corps funds to be used for a border wall. In addition to regular appropriations, the bill cues up additional investments that will spur a job-rich, robust economic recovery by modernizing our water and energy infrastructure. I cannot thank our chair more for her efforts to make sure this occurs, including $17 billion to accelerate backlogged Army Corps of Engineers projects across this Nation; $3 billion to accelerate work on authorized reclamation projects; and $25.3 billion for the Department of Energy to modernize infrastructure and deploy technologies for our Nation's future clean energy. In sum, the Energy and Water division will help put America back to work. It makes desperately needed investments in crumbling water infrastructure across the Nation.

Ms. KAPTUR. It maintains a credible nuclear deterrent while supporting a robust nonproliferation program. I would like to thank our ranking member, Mr. Simpson, for his partnership and thank our subcommittee staff for their hard work: Jaime Shimek, Farouk Ophaso, Scott McKee, Marcel Caldwell, Mike Brain, Mark Arnone, and Angie Giancarlo on the other side. I want to thank all of our committee members, especially dear friends like Chairman Visclosky; Chairman Serrano; Chairwoman Lowey; and on the Republican side, Mr. Graves, all of whom are retiring. They will take with them over a century of cumulative legislative knowledge that simply cannot be replaced. It is a profound contribution but also a great loss to our Nation as you depart. May God bless you all. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and extend warmest congratulations to Wersell's Bike shop, owned by Jill Wersell. Her father started the business in 1945, and Wersell's has been a positive addition to the Toledo community for 75 years. As Wersell's Bike shop celebrates its 75th year of existence, we can also celebrate the many years of service to Northwest Ohio the Wersell family has given. Jill Wersell takes pride in the community in which she was born. Whether it is by spending time working with organizations that help children with autism learn to ride a bike, or donating bikes to children and those in need, giving back to the community is important to Jill and her shop. Wersell's Bike Shop also sponsors the Toledo Glow Roll where hundreds of bikes decorated in lights ride through Toledo to raise money and awareness for ovarian cancer. The Toledo Glow Roll is a healthy community event that brings family and friends together. The Wersell family has worked tirelessly serving Toledo families year after year. Their number one priority has always been customer service, which keeps the family at the shop a minimum of six days per week. With countless stories, events, and support, we wish them a very happy 75th Anniversary. Onward, Wersell's.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Silvestre Duran, an outstanding member of our Toledo community. Silvestre worked at the Jeep plant before settling into a long career at the Catholic Diocese of Toledo as its Hispanic Outreach Coordinator. He was one of Ohio's pioneers of Tejano music, hosting his own Saturday radio program, Radio Fiesta, from 1955 to 2008. He saw it as an opportunity to bring joy into the lives of many migrant families who were working the fields and those, like his family, that had settled in the area. During these busy years, Silvestre also owned and operated a Mexican restaurant in South Toledo called Don Ysidro's. Many churchgoers and late-night revelers would go to Don Ysidro's for all the Mexican favorites. He engaged his entire family in working at the restaurant. Silvestre was an advocate for the Latino community in the Toledo area during its formative years. He served on countless committees, boards and organizations advocating on behalf of Latino community. He received numerous awards and accolades for his hard work. He taught GED classes early on and worked to get people from the community hired into good paying jobs at the Jeep plant. He was a founder and served as board President for La Raza Unida de Ohio, and founder and commissioner for the Ohio Commission on Hispanic/ Latino Affairs. Silvestre was a lifetime member of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) of the AFL-CIO, attending rallies and demonstrations in support of Baldemar Velasquez. Last year, prior to his 90th birthday, he traveled with FLOC to North Carolina to protest the treatment of migrant farmworkers in the tobacco fields. Silvestre dedicated his last decades of life to music and singing. He could be seen at many Latino social events singing and playing his guitar with the trio Los Distinguidos alongside Francisco Ibarra and Jesse Ponce. His musical influence was passed on to his grandchildren Steve Longoria; Silvestre Roberto and Jose Duran; and Ricky May who all sing and play the guitar and piano. Silvestre also enjoyed traveling with his family, whether it was visiting Texas or traveling to Spain and Mexico. You could find him at SS Peter & Paul Church attending Sunday Mass every week. He was a man of integrity, inspiration, and kindness. Whether serving his community, entertaining a crowd, or bringing joy to countless people, Silvestre will not be forgotten. We offer his family and friends our prayers and hope that they find comfort in the wonderful memories of what Silvestre Duran had meant to each of the people who shared in his life. ``We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community . . . Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own.''--Cesar Chavez

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the able Chairman Scott for allowing me this 1 minute, and I congratulate him on this legislation, also to Chairwoman Lowey on a related bill, and Chairwoman DeLauro. I rise in support of the Child Care Is Essential Act and the Child Care for Economic Recovery Act. Parents in our communities want and need quality, affordable childcare. Since the Childcare and Development Block Grant's enactment in 1990, the program has been the largest source of financial assistance to families struggling to afford childcare. Today, the need for childcare assistance in this country has never been greater, and coronavirus has made the situation so much worse. In Ohio, the average annual cost of infant care is $9,697 a year. That is a staggering $808 a month, which is unattainable for the majority of families in Ohio. With the ongoing pandemic, there could not be a better time for Congress to make investments in stabilizing the childcare sector to support providers, workers, and families they serve.

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me the additional time. The Child Care for Economic Recovery Act adds to and modifies tax provisions allowing for an increase and refundable child and dependent care tax credit, allows employers payroll tax credits, while also increasing the general funding for childcare entitlement under the Social Security Act. Furthermore, the Child Care Is Essential Act allows providers to use stabilization grants to support personnel pay and benefits, sanitization and PPE, training and professional development, and mental health services. According to the Economic Policy Institute, investing in children could increase economic recovery by $5.6 billion in new economic activity in Ohio alone. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support these important bills.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker. I rise today to remember the life of Robert Schwanzl who had a distinguished career and was an outstanding Ohioan. He dedicated his adult life to protecting and serving his community and nation. Bob was born and raised in the Toledo area. He attended Central Catholic High School, where he decided to join the Army after graduation. He started as a sergeant in the U.S. Army, working in intelligence during the Korean War. Upon returning to Toledo, he served at the Toledo Fire Department for 40 years before retiring in 1998. Working at the fire department was a source of pride for Bob, saying ``it's not work if you love what you do''. He worked his way to Fire Chief in 1994, where he proudly took on major responsibilities for his community. He oversaw the first female firefighters complete their training and supported the creation of the Toledo Fire Department's water rescue unit. After his graduation from Owens Tech with a degree in their inaugural Fire Science class. he worked as a fire science instructor at Owens for fifteen years. Above all his love for his family exceeded all other passions. He and his wife Carolyn spent 53 years together and had four children together and later sixteen grandchildren. Late in his career and through retirement, Bob became highly involved with the Toledo Firefighters Museum, and served as its President since 1993. His family and extended family enjoyed trips to the Museum, listening to Bob explain the exhibits with enthusiasm and pride. This was especially true when he and the other volunteers were able to locate a new artifact from other museums or private owners. Bob also became deeply involved in his church, St. Joe's of Maumee. He was a frequent lector and usher and an active member of the Knights of Columbus, serving as Grand Knight in 2016. He also enjoyed traveling, whether it was to visit his children and grandchildren or to visit Ireland, where at 85 years old he kissed the Blarney Stone, or Rome, where Bob was able to see the Pope for a second time in his life. Bob will be remembered for his love and commitment to his nation community, family, friends, and colleagues. He was a man of integrity and an inspiration to countless people throughout his life, demonstrating humility and kindness always. Whether heroically commanding a scene, teaching a class or telling a story, Bob had a commanding voice that cannot be forgotten. He will be remembered admirably by our community. Chief Schwanzl assumed the awesome responsibility of leading one of the largest Fire Divisions in Ohio and ably served for four decades. His dutiful works for the city of Toledo built a finer city and place him in the ranks of citizens who become a father for all of Toledo. May the angels raise him to a place of peace and comfort which he has richly earned.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Captain Stephanie Duarte, Ohio National Guard, 237th Brigade Support Battalion. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people in our communities rose to high occasion to support those in need--nurses and doctors turned into family for patients and their loved ones, neighbors turned into delivery services and PPE manufacturers, and National Guardsmen turned into hunger lifelines. Cpt. Duarte was one of those tireless servants. Cpt. Duarte serves as Officer in Charge at the Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio in my district. As COVID-19 surged and job security waned, many were forced to turn to local food banks for the first time. Understanding this harrowing position, Cpt. Duarte ran into action without hesitation. Among many notable efforts in this assignment, she helped to organize, coordinate, and implement Second Harvest's No Touch Drive Thru Mobile Pantry distribution. This process remains instrumental in efforts to feed the overwhelming demand of new families in need of assistance, and in an expedited means. Her strategic leadership was invaluable in developing and implementing such a monumental challenge. Because of her dedication, the people of Lorain, Erie, Huron and Crawford counties were given food and more importantly, hope. On August 7, 2020, Cpt. Duarte will depart from her duties at Second Harvest Food Bank as she moves onto a new assignment with the Ohio National Guard. Her unparalleled leadership and keen sense of intellect and duty will not be forgotten. Her system and capable guidance has ensured that the remaining guardsmen can continue the mission without hesitation or interruption. That is a sign of true leadership, mission above self. We wish her all the best as she continues to serve her country. Captain Stephanie Duarte, a hero during one of America's darkest hours. The people of Ohio's 9th Congressional District, Ohio, and America owe her a debt of gratitude. Godspeed, and I thank Cpt. Duarte for her enduring spirit and service.

Ms. KAPTUR

Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Water Resources Development Act. This bill, which was artfully and carefully drafted by Chairman DeFazio and the chair of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, Congresswoman Napolitano, enjoys broad bipartisan support. In particular, this bill includes provisions that will protect the Great Lakes, which contain 90 percent of North America's fresh surface water. It includes a specific authorization of the invasive species control system at Brandon Road Lock and Dam. Once completed, Brandon Road will prevent Asian carp and other invasive species from entering the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes delegation has fought for that authorization for nearly a decade. Since 2010, when Congress authorized the Great Lakes interbasin study, our delegation has worked for a long-term and basin- wide solution to the threat posed by the Asian carp. Today's authorization is not the end, but it sends a bipartisan and clear message to our Nation that we take the protection of America's greatest $7 billion recreational, fishery, and freshwater system seriously. In addition to the bill's commitment to the Brandon Road project, I also commend the committee and its chair for taking important steps updating requirements for resiliency, embedding beneficial reuse into the Corps' project development process, and investing and rebuilding the Nation's water infrastructure for the 21st century, all of which will create good jobs across this Nation. Let me applaud Chairman DeFazio and the ranking member for their careful work to develop a bipartisan bill. The Water Resources Development Act of 2020 enjoys broad support and will ensure our Nation's continued prosperity.