[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 181 (Wednesday, November 15, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S17059]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RETIREMENT OF RICHARD EKSTRUM, SOUTH DAKOTA FARM BUREAU PRESIDENT

  Mr. DASCHLE. Mr. President, this week South Dakota Farm Bureau 
president Richard Ekstrum will step down after 20 years of dedicated 
service. During those two decades, his service to South Dakota and 
American agriculture has been immeasurable. I have had the privilege of 
working with Richard and the Farm Bureau for many years and have 
appreciated his invaluable advice and thoughtful discussions on farm 
policies and the future of rural America.
  Throughout his 10 consecutive terms as president of the South Dakota 
Farm Bureau, Richard has been an effective advocate and promoter of 
free market policies for agriculture. Under his leadership, the South 
Dakota Farm Bureau has more than doubled its membership, from 4,700 to 
10,000 members. He has donated over 100 days per year in service to 
Farm Bureau. His commitment to advancing the needs of rural America 
cannot be underestimated.
  As a hog producer for 30 years Richard knows full well the rewards 
and challenges of American agriculture. During his tenure as president, 
agriculture has undergone tremendous changes. It is the mark of a true 
leader that he has effectively adapted to those changes and moved his 
organization forward. He understands the critical needs facing rural 
communities and the necessary steps we must take to ensure farmers and 
ranchers remain on the land to produce the food and fiber for our 
Nation.
  Not only has Richard been a successful leader and farmer, but he also 
has traveled the world as an ambassador for South Dakota and American 
farmers and ranchers. I am sure the people of the many nations he has 
visited in his 20 years as Farm Bureau president have been benefited 
from his experience and expertise.
  The South Dakota Farm Bureau will dearly miss the leadership of 
Richard Ekstrum, as will I. There is no doubt in my mind that he will 
continue to be an active advocate for South Dakota agriculture. I wish 
him all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for all his 
assistance over the years.

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