Recognizing the Service of Steve Penland

Floor Speech

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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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