[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 19 (Thursday, February 13, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E268]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          ADOPT A FARM FAMILY

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                          HON. JO ANN EMERSON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 13, 1997

  Mr. EMERSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an 
organization that is working hard to bring about economic and spiritual 
renewal in rural America. Headquartered in Sikeston, MO in my 
congressional district, the Adopt a Farm Family of America organization 
has been a tremendous force for good in southern Missouri and 
throughout the country. The volunteers and coordinators of Adopt a Farm 
Family are sponsoring a rural restoration conference in Sikeston next 
week, continuing their tradition of spiritual outreach and support for 
farm families.
  America's farmers and ranchers are the best in the world, but they 
face an increasingly complex set of challenges. Uncertain markets, 
changing environmental conditions, and new government policies all 
contribute to the challenge of operating a farm in rural America. The 
job calls for long hours, old-fashioned values, and a strong faith in 
God. Adopt a Farm Family has stood by our Nation's farmers since its 
inception in 1988. Today, it continues to provide the kind of 
assistance and expertise that makes a real difference in the lives of 
thousands of Americans.
  At next week's rural restoration conference, from Sunday February 16 
to Tuesday February 18, Adopt a Farm Family will invite farmers to come 
together as a group to discuss methods of improving farm life. The 
entire Sikeston community, many of whom are providing financial and 
other support to the conference, is participating in a concerted effort 
to make the event educational and rewarding. Seminars and speakers will 
address a broad variety of topics, including farm finances, soil 
nutrition, marketing techniques, and family issues. I should also note 
that I have the high honor of speaking at the conference, and I am 
looking forward to contributing to the special purpose of the occasion.
  Mr. Speaker, Adopt a Farm Family of America is one of the best 
examples in America of a group of people determined to help, and who 
then make it happen. You can see it in founder and current director of 
ministry, Mrs. Mary W. Myers, in her husband and current President 
Peter, and in the many folks who play a part in Adopt a Farm Family 
programs--the belief in the idea that through hard work and faith in 
God, good things are possible. I commend the people who are part of the 
Adopt a Farm Family of America organization, and express the hope that 
we can help them fulfill their mission of fighting to keep farm and 
ranch families on the land.

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