[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 11 (Tuesday, January 18, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E45]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF STEVE PENLAND

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                           HON. RALPH NORMAN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 18, 2022

  Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding 
service of Steve Penland. Steve has spent most of his life as a 
Christmas tree farmer in York, South Carolina and is a dedicated and 
compassionate member of our community.
  Steve is a true friend of the public, having served his community and 
our state for over fifty years. In his career as a preeminent Christmas 
tree farmer in South Carolina and a leader of the South Carolina 
Christmas Tree Association (SCCTA), Steve has exceeded expectations in 
service to our state, which is highlighted by his organizing of the 
annual placement of Christmas trees in the Governor's mansion. 
Additionally, Steve has served as President of the SCCTA numerous 
times, is a regular participant in the South Carolina State Fair, and 
was a pioneer in enhancing Virginia Pine seedlings. Steve remains 
involved in his community today.
  While Steve has officially retired, his legacy continues to be felt 
throughout our state with the success of South Carolina's Christmas 
tree industry and his children's commitment to the family tradition 
that Steve started. On behalf of the 5th District of South Carolina, it 
is my most sincere pleasure to recognize Steve for his lifelong service 
to our great state and congratulate him on his receipt of the Order of 
the Palmetto.

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