Political Quotes

“The author Henry Miller wrote: ``The ordinary man is involved in action, the hero acts, an immense difference.'' Mr. Speaker, having grown up the son of a rural electric lineman, I am more than a little familiar with the not so ordinary actions of these rather ordinary people. They do a job most of us won't or can't do, often putting themselves in danger's way as they carry out their duties in all kinds of weather conditions. They earn a paycheck for their work for sure, but their contribution to the quality of life of rural America is to the benefit of millions of people. But today, Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the extraordinary efforts of two rural electric linemen from North Dakota who stepped beyond being involved in the action to act. Jody Bruce from Minot, who works for Verendrye Electric Cooperative, and Josh Hoffman from Carrington, who works for Northern Plains Electric Cooperative, left the comfort zone of middle America to facilitate the advent of safe, reliable, and affordable electricity in a community in Haiti. Their service and sacrifice will improve the lives of many people because electricity is a critical element to improve quality of life, health care, education, clean water, and other vital services. Volunteering their time and expertise, they both spent 2 weeks in the town of Caracol, providing safety training and mentoring for local linemen. They also assisted with installing power for residents located next to an industrial park.…”