[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 163 (Wednesday, November 17, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2419]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO SHARON BECK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GREG WALDEN

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 16, 1999

  Mr. WALDEN of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a woman who 
is nearing the end of her tenure as president of the Oregon Cattlemen's 
Association. Sharon Beck is a remarkable woman who deserves the 
appreciation of all of those whose livelihoods depend on their ability 
to till the soil and raise cattle. She is a woman who has devoted a 
significant portion of her life to defending the farmers and ranchers 
of both Oregon and the United States and preserving their rural way of 
life.
  Sharon's election by her peers as president of the OCA is merely one 
reflection of the respect and admiration she has garnered throughout 
her years of tireless devotion on behalf of the agricultural community. 
In 1984 the Beck family was named producers of the year by the Beef 
Improvement Federation. Sharon and her husband appeared on the cover of 
Beef Today in 1995. This year her family's farm received the high honor 
of being named the Oregon Wheat Growers League ``State Conservation 
Farm of the Year.'' Sharon Beck has received awards from the Oregon 
Cattlewomen, has twice received the President's award from the Oregon 
Cattlemen's Association, and was named Union County's ``Agricultural 
Woman of the Year.'' These awards represent not only Sharon's 
dedication to agriculture, but also that of her family and especially 
her husband Bob, who deserves a recognition of his own.
  Sharon's son Rob summed up her life of achievement perfectly by 
noting that her commitment and dedication have allowed her to excel at 
any endeavor she undertakes, and that no matter what the odds, she is 
never overwhelmed. That's why farmers and ranchers turn to Sharon in 
times of trouble. And Mr. Speaker, that's why I rise today to recognize 
Sharon Beck--a true American rancher and a true friend of mine.

                          ____________________