Recognizing the Service of Matthew Everett Grenlee, Mark Allan Greene, and Robert Wayne Von Bokern

Floor Speech

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Mr. MASSIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three of my constituents from Owenton, Kentucky: Matthew Everett Greenlee, Mark Allen Greene, and Robert Wayne Von Bokern. These three outstanding power linemen from Owen Electric Cooperative recently volunteered for a project in Haiti that, when completed, will provide safe, affordable, and reliable power to 1600 consumers.

The goal of the project is to build a distribution system that will connect three towns in Haiti and establish its first electric cooperative, the Cooperative Electrique de l'Arrondisement des Côteaux. Upon completion, this diesel-solar hybrid electricity distribution system will provide safe, affordable, and reliable power to rural consumers.

Tragically, less than 15 percent of Haiti has regular access to electricity. So, Mr. Greenlee, Mr. Greene, and Mr. Von Bokern generously gave of their time for two weeks in the town of Roche-a 2-Bateaux to help solve this terrible problem. My constituents upgraded and installed new lines and service drops. They also trained locally hired linemen in proper construction methods, pole climbing techniques, proper handline use, and important safety practices.

Electricity is essential to the quality of life for those in Haiti's rural communities. It assists in the provision of clean water, healthcare, education, and general economic opportunity. Therefore, I salute my constituents for contributing their time and efforts in Haiti on this critical project. Their selfless service for others truly helps make this world a better place.

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