[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 207 (Tuesday, December 8, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Pages S7276-S7277]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING ERNIE BAPTISTA

 Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, we recently lost a great Rhode 
Islander, Ernie Baptista.
  Ernie was immensely successful in his professional life; his wise 
counsel was sought not just around the country but around the globe. 
Ernie was also a civic-minded community leader at home, with a passion 
for politics. He immersed himself in Rhode Island's political whirl, 
where he was well liked and well regarded by people of many different 
political perspectives. Ernie's keen insight and advice was relied upon 
by many candidates, including myself and Senator Reed. We both 
treasured Ernie's quick wit, sharp intellect, and great sense of humor. 
He was bright, insightful, and loyal and always provided wise counsel.
  Ernie enjoyed the good things in life: good friends, good meals, and 
good

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works. We will fondly remember Ernie with a trademark cigar in hand and 
a smile on his face and the way his presence filled every room he 
entered. We will remember his generous and kind spirit, which lifted us 
all.
  Our deepest condolences go to Ernie's beloved family, Sharon, Peter, 
and Jennifer. We mourn your great loss.
  To Ernie, rest in peace, dear friend.

                          ____________________