Rand Paul

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the following interns in my office be given floor privileges until December 17, 2021: Paris Nguyen and Seth Ricketts.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, reserving the right to object, this motion is an attempt to get around the ruling that the SBA has that Planned Parenthood is, indeed, a small business. This would allow illegal funding of Planned Parenthood affiliates through the Paycheck Protection Program. Let's be very clear. Planned Parenthood is not a small business; Planned Parenthood is a big business. This is not my allegation; this is a ruling from the Small Business Administration. The Small Business Administration ruled in May of 2020 that Planned Parenthood was a big business, not a small business, and ineligible for the PPP program. The program was intended for small businesses. The current ruling from the Small Business Administration is, they are ineligible because they are a big business. This program was intended to support small businesses across the country that were forced to lock down during COVID-19. However, the Small Business Administration, despite having previously ruled that they were ineligible, that they were a big business, has now unlawfully approved nearly $100 million in taxpayer funds to Planned Parenthood. On June 30 alone, the Small Business Administration approved four new loans to Planned Parenthood despite a clear determination by the Small Business Administration that these entities are ineligible. So we have a great contradiction here. They say they are ineligible. That is the existing rule from the Small Business Administration. Yet they are still giving them money. This nomination is for the position of Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration, which is responsible for the Agency's day-to-day operations and involved in all policy decisions, including the PPP program. The Biden administration has continued to obstruct congressional oversight of the illegal Planned Parenthood loans, and the nominee has refused to provide to the committee a commitment that he would take action to recover the funds that are being disbursed illegally. The Republican members of the Small Business Committee have continued to make it clear that we will not allow a vote on this nominee to occur until the Small Business Administration takes action to recover the illegally disbursed funds to the big business known as Planned Parenthood. I object.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize BluMine Health, LLC of Louisville, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Headquartered in Louisville, KY, BluMine Health began operations 6 years ago as Alternative Health Solutions. Led by Michael Dees, BluMine Health was established to meet a demand for individualized, easily accessible medical care. Through its direct primary care--DPC--model, BluMine Health provides local businesses with affordable healthcare services. As an alternative to fee-for-service insurance billing, BluMine Health's DPC charges employers a flat monthly per-employee fee. This fee covers primary care services, including clinical and laboratory services, consultative services, and comprehensive care management. DPC allows family physicians to care for the whole person, reducing the overhead and negative incentives associated with fee-for- service third-party-payer billing. Through onsite care clinics and shared on-site care centers, BluMine Health provides a practical alternative to the third-party insurance coverage system. Today, BluMine Health has become a regional leader in direct primary care. They continue serving communities across Kentucky, with locations in Brandenburg, Lexington, Madisonville, Elizabethtown, Somerset, Richmond, Shelbyville, Shepherdsville, and Dunnville. BluMine Health provides care to dozens of clients, covering 20,000 individuals and their families. Since 2019, BluMine Health has partnered with Baptist Health, the leading healthcare provider in Kentucky and southern Indiana, to provide additional services such as hospital care and physical therapy to its clients. BluMine Health is expanding its services throughout the Ohio River Valley, establishing a clinic in Jeffersonville, IN, and announcing an expansion into Ohio in August 2021. Like many small businesses, BluMine Health is active in its community. Locally, BluMine Health regularly supports nonprofit organizations and sponsors charity events, such as the Kentucky Harvest fifth annual golf tournament. They are actively involved with industry and business organizations, including the chamber of commerce and the Health Enterprise Network, Louisville's regional healthcare business network. As a healthcare provider, BluMine Health stepped up to meet the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. They continued to offer in-person care and adapted to provide telemedicine service, with telehealth appointments surpassing 40 percent of their medical delivery. Through their partnership with Baptist Health, BluMine Health provided a COVID-19 workplace reopening service, enabling local businesses to create and maintain healthy workplaces as lockdowns lifted. BluMine Health, LLC is a notable example of the critical role that small, community-oriented healthcare providers play in their communities. Local medical practices like BluMine Health form the heart of towns across Kentucky, regularly stepping up to support their communities in times of crisis. Congratulations to Michael and the entire team at BluMine Health, LLC. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky and beyond.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize a family-owned small business and Louisville staple, Dan-O's Seasoning of Louisville, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Like many college students, Dan Oliver knew nothing about cooking. One day, while seasoning chicken, he threw together some spices and cooked the best chicken he had ever had. That spice blend planted the seeds for what would become Dan-O's Seasoning. Over the next 15 years, whenever he cooked for friends and family, Dan used his original spice recipe. After a career in the professional sector, Dan joined the restaurant industry as a cook and bartender. Dan, an aspiring entrepreneur, used his passion for cooking to develop what he called his ``million-dollar idea:'' selling his signature seasoning mix. Two years--and nearly 200 modifications later--Dan-O's Seasoning launched in 2017. Today, Dan-O's Seasoning is a thriving company selling products nationwide. The business is based in Louisville, where Dan and his team prepare and package the product. Initially, Dan traveled across Kentucky selling his seasoning at trade shows and flea markets. The low-sodium, sugar-free, 100-percent natural seasoning was a hit, with sales doubling every year. Dan-O's Seasoning was soon available at Louisville-area stores and online. Like many small business owners, Dan adapted to overcome the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the trade show circuit closed, he turned to social media to keep his business afloat. After a video clip went viral on TikTok, a video creating and sharing platform, Dan-O's gained thousands of new customers and increased its sales more than tenfold. Their success was profiled in several local and national outlets, including WDRB, the Louisville Courier-Journal, Louisville Business Journal, and BuzzFeed. And in March 2021, Dan-O's exponential growth led to their products being sold at Kroger's, a regional supermarket chain located in the Midwest and South. Like many small business owners, Dan is actively involved in his community. Locally, Dan-O's Seasoning regularly supports community organizations, including the Louisville V.F.W. Post 6182, the Permanently Disabled Jockey Fund, and the Boone County Cancer Society. When the company hosts events, like its annual cornhole tournament, they prioritize working with local small businesses. Notably Dan-O's Seasoning sponsors several athletes, including NASCAR drivers, dirt- track racers, tournament fishers, cornhole players, and NCAA athletes. In June 2021, Dan earned the Silver Fleur-De-Lis Award from the Greater Louisville, Inc. Metro Chamber of Commerce, recognizing his company's exponential growth and innovative marketing tactics. Dan-O's Seasoning is a remarkable example of how hard work, ingenuity, and discipline can turn a dream into reality. Small businesses like Dan-O's Seasoning form the heart of towns across Kentucky, regularly stepping up to support their communities. Congratulations to Dan and the entire team at Dan-O's Seasoning. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky and beyond.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, on October 16, 2021, the Colonel Benjamin Logan Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will present a special award to a great modern-day patriot with roots in Russellville, KY. Retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Jerry Humble was born in Russell County, KY, but being the son and grandson of Methodist ministers, he and his family moved several times, eventually settling in Russellville, KY, where he attended high school and lettered in four sports. He accepted a football scholarship to Western Kentucky University, in my hometown of Bowling Green, where he was defensive MVP his senior year. Logan County native, Margaret Jane Hollingsworth, his high school sweetheart--and fellow WKU graduate--became Jerry's wife in 1968 and began an amazing partnership with him in service to their country. In the midst of the Vietnam war, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. Beyond Vietnam, his 34-year career included service in Desert Storm and other operations, including commanding Marine Forces in Korea. He was recognized with the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit with two Gold Stars and Combat V, Meritorious Service Medal with one Gold Star, Joint Service Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with one Gold Star, Navy Achievement Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon. His military career has been featured in a number of books and publications, he has appeared on a host of national media broadcasts, and he has testified multiple times before the U.S. Congress. Jerry's commitment to our Nation did not end in his retirement. Many public and private organizations have benefited from his leadership, including serving as the cabinet secretary for homeland security for the State of Tennessee. It is highly fitting that this distinguished U.S. Marine Corps veteran will receive the Colonel Benjamin Logan Award from his fellow Logan Countians and that we further honor him by this permanent tribute to his exemplary service to our Nation as recorded in these remarks.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize a family-owned small business and second-chance employment opportunity, DV8 Kitchen of Lexington, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2017, Rob and Diane Perez opened DV8 Kitchen in Lexington, KY. The couple, who met while working in the restaurant industry, ran a successful restaurant in town. In 2013, Rob and Diane were dismayed to discover that they had lost 13 employees to addiction over 10 years and that half the cases were related to opioid drugs. Rob, who had overcome alcoholism when he was young, understood firsthand the challenges of recovery. Together, Rob and Diane decided to pursue a business venture that would provide dignified work and validate those in recovery. After a 2-year planning process, DV8 Kitchen came together in just 4 and half months. There was an outpouring of support from local families and businesses, ranging from monetary investments to local professionals donating their services to the project. In September 2017, DV8 Kitchen began touching lives in Lexington, one meal at a time. Today, DV8 Kitchen continues their transformative work as a second- chance employment opportunity. The restaurant provides hearty, home- cooked Southern fare and is known for its homemade baked goods and bread, which it sells wholesale to other restaurants. Rob and Diane partner with local organizations and treatment centers, like Shepard's House, to identify and hire individuals in recovery. Beyond employment, DV8 Kitchen provides community, purpose, and job skills. Through volunteer-taught workshops and mentoring, employees are equipped to continue rebuilding their lives. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rob and Diane were able to keep DV8 Kitchen running and continue their critical mission of supporting individuals in recovery. Additionally, in fall 2021, DV8 Kitchen opened a second location with a larger bakery, right on Lexington's Third Street. Beyond DV8 Kitchen, Rob and Diane are committed enabling small businesses to support workers in recovery. Through Soulfull Enterprise, an immersive training experience, local nonprofits, small businesses, and corporations are equipped to hire and integrate second-chance employees into their organizations. Additionally, the DV8 Kitchen Vocational Training Foundation, Inc., trains and equips individuals in recovery to work in the restaurant industry. DV8 Kitchen's remarkable mission and success has been recognized at the local, regional, and national level. Their work has been profiled by local media, including WTVQ, WKYT, and Lex 18, and in national outlets like the New York Times, NBC News, and Oprah Magazine. In addition to its social impact, DV8 Kitchen has earned accolades for its food, including being recognized by Yelp as one of the Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. in 2019. DV8 Kitchen is a remarkable example of the critical role small businesses play in uplifting and building community. Family-owned small businesses like DV8 Kitchen form the heart of towns across Kentucky, regularly stepping up to support their communities and transform lives. Congratulations to Rob, Diane, and the entire team at DV8 Kitchen. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, I call up my amendment 3150 and ask that it be reported by number.

Mr. PAUL. Isn't it ironic that during today's long debate, we have not heard a word of the actual subject at hand: the budget? The budget presented by the Democrats has been entirely ignored by both parties. But if you read it, the Democrat budget before us is a blueprint for bankruptcy. The Democrat budget never balances and spends and borrows $15 trillion over 10 years. Already, our national debt exceeds $28 trillion. We borrow $2 million a minute. Now, Republicans have largely been united in believing in a constitutional amendment to balance our amendment in 5 years. In fact, many of the Members have voted for that. What I have presented today is an alternative to the Democrat budget. This is a budget that balances in 5 years, and I recommend a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. PAUL. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize a family-owned small business and beloved staple, Baxter's Coffee of Somerset, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2001, Terri Tuttle opened Baxter's Coffee in Somerset, KY. After running a successful ice cream store, Terri decided to pursue a different business venture. She noticed an opportunity to fill a gap in the Somerset market since there were no coffee shops in town. As Terri brainstormed business names, she was inspired by her family's dog, Baxter. When Baxter's Coffee first opened in 2001, it was an instant hit. Along with delicious coffee, Terri and her team provided family- friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere. To meet growing demand, the original Baxter's Coffee shop soon moved to a new location on Ogden Street and opened a second location in 2005. In 2021, Baxter's Coffee continues serving some of the best coffee in Pulaski County. As the business grew, so did the Tuttle family's involvement. Today, Terri's children, Jay, Lauren, and Ann, are actively involved in every facet of the business, from coffee roasting, to marketing, and bookkeeping. They continue welcoming customers from all over Kentucky and have expanded to four locations in Somerset, including a kiosk at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. Notably, since 2009, Baxter's Coffee has roasted its own coffee. Their newest location, which opened in 2016, includes a drive-thru, as well as a roasting and warehouse facility. Baxter's Coffee proudly offers its signature blends at all four locations and also sells its coffee wholesale and online. Baxter's Coffee also features baked goods and treats from local small businesses. Like many small business owners, Terri is actively involved in her community. Baxter's Coffee is a member of the Somerset Pulaski Chamber of Commerce and regularly partners with them to hire local community members. For years, Baxter's Coffee has contributed to a wide range of local philanthropic organizations, including God's Food Pantry, and supported events such as charity golf tournaments, walks, and runs. They regularly support local school district events and organizations, including PTA fundraisers. To demonstrate appreciation for first responders, Baxter's Coffee provides free coffee to all on-duty police officers. Baxter's Coffee is a remarkable example of the critical role small businesses play in uplifting and building community. Family-owned small businesses like Baxter's Coffee form the heart of towns across Kentucky, regularly stepping up to support their communities. Congratulations to Terri and the entire team at Baxter's Coffee. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President.

Mr. PAUL. The Treasury has been so thoroughly looted that we are incurring debt at a record-setting and alarming pace. Never in the history of our country have we incurred so much debt so fast. Our national debt now exceeds $28 trillion. It is now at 128 percent of our GDP. And we are asked by the Democratic Party to add $48 billion without so much as a--could we have a debate in committee?--so much as even a word spoken over this. We are just going to add $48 billion with no discussion. It is a huge mistake. Now, it has been alleged that, well, the thing is that the restaurants are suffering because of COVID. No. They are suffering because Democrat Governors locked them down. This is a manmade phenomenon. The economic disaster that we are in, that restaurants are in, is completely and entirely caused by Democrat Governors. In my State, they are suing the Democrat Governor because he won't let them open up. This is a manmade phenomenon. So if you reward a manmade phenomenon, you will get more of it. You reward Democrat Governors who shut these restaurants down, guess what, they will shut them down longer. The longer you give money to Democrat Governors for their lockdown policies, the more lockdowns you will get. We need to open up the country. We need to learn to live with this disease. As tragic as it has been, we need to learn to live with it. But the lockdowns have not worked. Closing the restaurants did not work, did not change the trajectory of this virus one iota. The only thing that is changing the trajectory of this virus now is the vaccine, plus natural immunity. Closing the restaurants did nothing and is doing nothing, except for devastating the bottom line of restaurants. So with that, I would object to the unanimous consent.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Southcentral Veterinary Services, a family-owned small business in Bowling Green, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2011, Dr. Eddie Grimes and his wife, Nicole Grimes, founded Southcentral Veterinary Services--SVS--in Bowling Green, KY. Growing up in Warren County, Dr. Grimes and Nicole were childhood friends and both attended Western Kentucky University--WKU--where Dr. Grimes majored in animal science and Nicole studied finance. The couple, high school sweethearts, married after graduating from WKU in 2000. Dr. Grimes went on to earn his doctorate of veterinary medicine from Auburn University and worked as a veterinarian for a few years before moving back to Bowling Green. With Nicole, who had experience in the banking industry, by his side, Dr. Grimes established Southcentral Veterinary Services. Today, Southcentral Veterinary Services provides exceptional mixed animal care in Warren County, KY. Initially, Dr. Grimes worked out of his truck and provided ambulatory veterinary services; however, the business grew quickly and expanded to a physical location that provides grooming and boarding services, in addition to veterinary care. Being very hands on with the daily operations at SVS, in addition to being co-owners, Dr. Grimes is one of the veterinarians, and Nicole is the human resource manager. Together, they lead a team of more than 10 employees, including a second veterinarian, to meet the animal needs of the community. Since opening its doors, Southcentral Veterinary Services has been recognized by local and industry publications for its outstanding, high-quality veterinary care. Furthermore, for the last 3 years, Southcentral Veterinary Services was recognized as Bowling Green's Best Veterinarian, and in 2020, SVS earned the title of Bowling Green's Best Pet Groomer. Outside of being business owners, Dr. Grimes and Nicole can be found giving back to their community. Southcentral Veterinary Services has sponsored local youth sports teams and regularly hires local high school and college students, providing training and mentoring to students interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. One of these students is the Grimes' son, Garrett, who works part-time as a veterinary assistant and one day aspires to follow in his father's footsteps becoming a veterinarian himself. Dr. Grimes and Nicole's charitable acts don't stop at mentoring students. Notably, the Grimes established 4AnnieGirl, an organization dedicated to raising awareness of Spinal Muscular Atrophy--SMA--after their second child, Annie, who was born with SMA, passed away from the terminal disease that causes weakness and loss of voluntary muscles. After cherishing 9 precious months with their baby girl, the Grimes sought to help other families affected by this disease by promoting early testing, research, and fundraising to combat SMA through 4AnnieGirl. By hosting speaking engagements and fundraisers, 4AnnieGirl has raised over $30,000 for SMA research and awareness. To honor Annie's memory, the Grimes family remains committed to raising awareness for SMA and to advocating for more research. Southcentral Veterinary Services is a remarkable example of the positive role that family-owned small businesses play in their communities. Local veterinary practices, like Southcentral Veterinary Services, form the heart of towns across Kentucky, regularly stepping up to support their communities. Congratulations to Dr. Grimes, Nicole, and the entire team at Southcentral Veterinary Services. I wish SVS the best of luck, and I look forward to watching this small business' continued growth and success in Kentucky.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, the Senate is considering an infrastructure bill, and I am glad we are. For too long, Americans have been compelled to send their tax dollars overseas to improve the infrastructure of other countries. I have been fighting, for several years, to invest in infrastructure here at home, which is why I find it frustrating that the very people who celebrate this package today actually opposed my efforts in the past. We have a short memory here in the Senate. Only 2 years ago, I offered my Penny Plan for Infrastructure for a vote. My plan would have invested nearly $40 billion in infrastructure over those 2 years. In those 2 years, nearly 20,000 miles of roads could have been resurfaced. Instead, those investments weren't made and 2 additional years of wear and tear passed by. The parade of Senators coming to the floor and expounding upon the urgency of this package is nothing less than shocking, particularly when those same Members voted against 20,000 miles of resurfaced roads only a short time ago. The Penny Plan was not my only effort to invest in infrastructure. Six years ago, I worked on a bipartisan package that would have made $ 130 billion available for infrastructure. Had my plan been enacted into law, Americans would now be driving on 130 thousand miles of new roads. So, why for more than 5 years have my infrastructure proposals been stifled? For only one reason: each of my proposals were paid for. And if there is only one thing Congress always agrees on: never pay for any new spending. Ever. Proponents of this bill claim it is paid for. And by using budgetary gimmicks, they hope they will erect enough smoke and mirrors to obscure this bill's enormous price tag. But this $1.2 trillion bill is not paid for. And, perhaps the most alarming part of the cost, is the authors of this bill know it is not paid for. And we know that because they wrote the bill so as to exempt it from rules that require the bill be paid for. You see, Congress passed a law back in 2010 mandating that new spending has to be paid for. That law is called statutory pay-go, or pay as you go. And if Congress can't help itself and refuses to offset the cost of new spending, pay-go is enforced by an automatic cut to spending elsewhere. But Congress rarely adheres to its own rules. Instead, Congress waived pay-go more than 60 times over the past decade and added over $10 trillion to our debt. This time is no different. This bill, which its proponents say is paid for, also carries a provision that says pay-go won't apply to it. The only way to ensure Congress adheres to pay-go is through a point of order. If this bill is actually paid for, then you should have no trouble supporting the point of order. But if you vote to waive the point of order, if you vote to exempt Congress from its own rule requiring that we be good stewards of taxpayer dollars, then stop telling people something you know is not true. The truth is, this bill is not paid for. And every American should ask a simple question: Why won't Congress obey its own rules? This bill plus the next pork-laden bill will add trillions of dollars of new debt. We are adding debt at an unprecedented pace. There will be repercussions. A day of reckoning awaits. But today there is a choice to make. A vote for the point of order is a vote not to keep adding debt. I urge my colleagues to vote with me to stop the bleeding, to stop the red ink that threatens our country's future.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Madam President, Dr. Joseph Peter Cangemi lived a life unmatched in experiences. With his wife Amelia by his side, he traveled throughout the world doing what he loved most: consulting with business professionals on how to be better leaders. This was the perfect profession for Dr. Cangemi, as he was a natural leader. When he spoke, you listened because what was about to be said contained something important, something that could be of value either in that moment or down the road. In addition to consulting services, Dr. Cangemi also had a passion for teaching young people at Western Kentucky University, many of whom are now successful in business as a result of the life lessons he shared. He brought textbooks to life by weaving in his own unique experience. This was what made his classes some of the most sought after at WKU. He wasn't offering theory alone, but real-world experience with actual Fortune 500 companies. Few can gracefully navigate the demands of academia for extended periods of time. Joseph saw egoes come and go, but always stood the test of time at WKU. He had a career spanning over five decades where he won countless awards, including the Excellence in Teaching Award from the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences three times, Distinguished Public Service Award, and the Excellence in Research and Creativity Award. Along with numerous awards, Dr. Cangemi was also editor of the International Journal of Leadership and Change. Aside from his professional feats, Dr. Cangemi was also unmatched as a family man. He and his wife Amelia traveled all over the world bringing back stories and mementos to share with the grandkids. Primary to traveling, they prioritized spending time with family. He and Amelia rarely missed a basketball game his grandson played in, or a recital his granddaughters took part in. It wasn't unusual for Joe to bring his grandchildren to his classes where they would actively participate. They were his pride and joy, and he never missed an opportunity to see them. He and his wife Amelia would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary this year. Dr. Joseph Cangemi was born on June 26, 1936, in Syracuse, NY, and surrounded by his family, died peacefully on June 13, 2021. While we are sad to lose such a valued member of the community, we look at the success of his students and family members and are reminded of the positive impact he had on our world. May Joe rest in peace.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, July 31, 2021, marks the retirement of Rick Shanklin, whose remarkable career with the National Weather Service spans several decades. Though Rick hails from a small farming community near Hopkinsville in Christian County, most of his career has been spent at the NWS office in Paducah, KY, where he was the warning coordination meteorologist. He has served at all three National Weather Service operations in Kentucky, has been a forecaster, worked with countless tornado drills and national assessment teams, and pursued his passion for operational readiness and public severe weather preparedness, earning many honors along the way from the Department of Commerce, various Governors throughout the region, and the Commonwealth of Kentucky's Division of Emergency Management. Rick is also credited with championing the development of Kentucky's ``Mesonet,'' a network of over 70 automated weather monitoring stations, hosted by Western Kentucky University, that is a model for other States. It turns out that Rick is something of a celebrity among those who share his passion for the science and technology of predicting and preparing for the very dynamic weather conditions of the Commonwealth. His fans, local leaders, and county emergency managers will miss his regular updates and his steady, thorough engagement during critical weather events. Most importantly, it would be difficult to calculate the lives saved and property losses mitigated by the work that Rick has performed during his career. I am proud to recognize him for his considerable contribution to the safety of Kentuckians and to families throughout the region.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Three Boys Farm Distillery in Graefenburg, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2011, Ross and Heather Caldwell moved their family from Colorado to Kentucky, and quickly pursued their dream of opening a distillery. Before moving to Kentucky, Ross and Heather purchased a 122-acre farm providing them a space to open a distillery, and have remaining land to graze cattle and grow corn for use in their single barrel bourbon and whiskey. Like many small business owners, the journey to open their business was no easy task, as Ross and Heather navigated redtape and burdensome regulations before getting their business off the ground. After many hurdles, Three Boys Farm Distillery opened its doors in 2013, named in tribute to the Caldwells' triplets: Patrick, Andrew, and Ethan. Over the years, family has remained the foundation of this small business with Ross serving as master distiller, but growth has led to hiring nine additional employees, including another master distiller. Today, Three Boys Farm Distillery is renowned for its bourbon and rye whiskey. Their products are sold throughout the United States and have drawn praise nationwide. The distillery's bourbon and whiskey tastings are a hit among Kentuckians and tour groups alike, drawing visitors from around the United States and abroad. Uniquely, Three Boys Farm Distillery allows guests to sample and bottle their own whiskey and bourbon straight from the barrel. Over the years, Three Boys Farm Distillery has also become a popular event venue for weddings and family reunions. Additionally, the distillery supports other local artisans and small businesses by selling their goods at the distillery's on-site gift shop. Like many small businesses, Three Boys Farm Distillery was faced with challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic but overcame them by adapting their business model throughout the ever-changing government regulations. The distillery expanded their shipping operations to provide long-time consumers access to their products and relied on the recommendations from their loyal customers to grow their customer base when distillery tours and tastings were prohibited. Furthermore, Three Boys Farm Distillery expanded its bottling operations to assist outside companies bottle and label their products for sale. While expanding the distillery's operations helped Three Boys Farm Distillery stay afloat during the pandemic, longtime friend of the Caldwells, Walter Zausch, a University of Kentucky alum, provided additional assistance by investing in the business and becoming a majority owner. Rebounding from the pandemic, this summer, Three Boys Farm Distillery began hosting live concerts featuring local artists and continues to provide Kentuckians with a place to relax, build community, and enjoy a glass of bourbon with friends. Three Boys Farm Distillery is a remarkable example of the resilience and adaptability of locally owned small businesses. Small businesses, like Three Boys Farm Distillery, form the heart of towns across Kentucky and play a critical role in Kentucky's bourbon and whiskey industry. Congratulations to Ross, Heather, Walter, and the entire team at Three Boys Farm Distillery. I wish them the best of luck, and I look forward to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Bird Dogs Coffee, a family-owned small business in Owenton, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Located in the heart of Owenton, Kasey Craigmyle Towles opened Bird Dogs Coffee in 2015. Kasey, who grew up in Owenton and was the founder and operator of ``Kasey's Corner,'' a successful gift shop, decided to pursue a different business venture that would uplift her hometown and foster a sense of community. When Bird Dogs Coffee opened its door, Kasey and her husband, Randy, were seizing the opportunity to fill a gap in the Owenton market since there was not a coffee shop in town. Together, Kasey and Randy created a welcoming cafe with delicious food, friendly service, and a hospitable atmosphere. Today, Bird Dogs Coffee has become a local favorite and has consistently received high praise and glowing reviews in local and regional publications for its outstanding service and homemade cuisine. Bird Dogs Coffee welcomes customers from all over northern Kentucky by providing a place for both locals and travelers to catch up over a cup of coffee. Kasey and Randy host a number of events at their coffee shop, including live music and wine and beer tastings. Moreover, Bird Dogs Coffee provides a meeting space for local organizations like the Owenton Rotary Club. Entrepreneurs at heart, Kasey and Randy have continued seeking ways to grow their business while serving their community. They have purchased buildings next to Bird Dogs Coffee's original location and plan to open an event space and expanded gift shop to meet the needs of their hometown. Like many small business owners, Kasey and Randy are actively involved in their community. Bird Dogs Coffee is a member of the Owen County Chamber of Commerce and is an enthusiastic supporter of the Owen County Tourism Commission. For several years, Bird Dogs Coffee has sponsored Owen County School District sports teams and contributed to multiple fundraisers for local organizations. Additionally, Kasey and Randy regularly donate to Owen County Project Graduation, which provides an alcohol- and drug-free graduation celebration for local high school seniors. With Owen County High being close to their hearts, Kasey and Randy are also actively involved with the Owen County High School Alumni Association. Bird Dogs Coffee is a remarkable example of how hard work, ingenuity, and discipline can turn a dream into reality. Small businesses like Bird Dogs Coffee form the heart of towns across Kentucky, regularly stepping up to support their communities. Congratulations to Kasey, Randy, and the entire team at Bird Dogs Coffee. I wish Bird Dogs Coffee the best of luck and look forward to watching this small business's continued growth and success in Kentucky.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the following interns in my office be granted floor privileges for the remainder of the Congress: Ty Sharp, Virginia Smith, Graeme Marshall, and Jack Hartman.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that we go ahead with the previously arranged vote.

Mr. PAUL. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. PAUL

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, reserving the right to object, we have now crossed $28 trillion in debt. We borrow more than $2 million every minute. The deficit last year was over $3 trillion. The deficit this year will be over $3 trillion. There is a $1 trillion wish list out there for everybody. Everybody wants something. Somebody says: Oh, there is money in the Treasury. Guess what. There is not. There is a big hole, a big black hole in the Treasury, 28 trillion dollars' worth. So we do have this one asset, and when we sell it, we should do it to pay down the deficit. We shouldn't do it to expand government further. So I object to this because we are $28 trillion in debt. We don't have any money, and we should be fiscally conservative as we profess to be. I object.

Mr. PAUL. Mr. President.