[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 179 (Tuesday, October 28, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1011]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATING KYLE WELK ON BEING NAMED THE 2025 MERLE HOWARD AWARD 
                                 WINNER

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. LLOYD SMUCKER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 28, 2025

  Mr. SMUCKER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize and congratulate 
Kyle Welk of Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania, on being named the 2025 Merle 
Howard Award winner at the 58th World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin.
  Having grown up on a dairy farm, Kyle has dedicated his life to the 
dairy industry from a young age. On October 3, 2025, he received the 
Merle Howard Award, which is one of the highest honors a young person 
can achieve in the dairy industry.
  Kyle's work ethic is demonstrated by his steady determination and 
pursuit of excellence. He began by showing cattle at local shows and 
progressed to state, regional, and national competitions. His 
commitment took him from working on a prestigious farm in Lancaster 
County to traveling across the United States and even to New Zealand. 
Kyle also won numerous state awards for his homebred cattle and swept 
the fitting contest at the 2024 World Dairy Expo.
  Dairy farming is not an easy profession, but Kyle approached every 
task--from washing animals to packing their bedding--with passion, 
drive, and humility. These same qualities have made him stand out as 
one of the very best in fitting, raising, and breeding cattle.
  Agriculture is the backbone of Pennsylvania's 11th District, and we 
are fortunate to have a strong dairy industry. The grit and 
perseverance of individuals like Kyle Welk make this possible. His 
character and grit have earned him well-deserved recognition as the 
2025 Merle Howard Award winner.
  Through his achievements, Kyle sets an excellent example for young 
people in Pennsylvania's 11th District and beyond who aspire to careers 
in dairy and agriculture. I congratulate him and look forward to seeing 
all that his bright future holds.

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