[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 157 (Thursday, December 8, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2498]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING PASTOR JEROME BRIMMAGE AND THE FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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                          HON. JEB HENSARLING

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 8, 2005

  Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to honor Pastor 
Jerome Brimmage and the congregation of First United Methodist Church 
of Mineola. In the hours and days before Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, 
the First United Methodist Church began preparing, so when the time 
came they were able to offer assistance, shelter, and other words of 
help to victims of these 2 devastating hurricanes.
  Members of the First United Methodist Church stockpiled relief 
supplies for victims, including over 150 hygiene kits. The church 
itself opened its doors to house evacuees and volunteers and within 
hours, residents of Mineola began arriving with towels, sheets, 
blankets, as well as other items for those in need. More than 40 
businesses, churches and civic organizations helped by donating money, 
food, and clothing. Approximately 450 volunteers also gave their time 
to make the evacuees' stay as pleasant as possible.
  I am proud of the residents of the Fifth District who gave their time 
and energy to help those in need--from individuals cooking meals in the 
church kitchen to local health care facilities providing free supplies 
and services to evacuees.
  Today, I am pleased to honor Pastor Jerome Brimmage of the First 
United Methodist Church, and the entire community of Mineola, Texas, 
for their part in providing relief to the victims of Hurricanes Katrina 
and Rita.

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