[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 176 (Wednesday, November 19, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2272]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE TISON FAMILY AS THE HOLMS COUNTY, FLORIDA FARM FAMILY 
                              OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2008

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the U.S. Congress, 
it is an honor for me to rise today to extend congratulations to the 
Tison family for being selected as the Holms County 2008 Outstanding 
Farm Family of the Year.
  Tison Blueberry farm is a bit of an establishment in the Southeast 
and it is well known that some of the best blueberries can be found 
there in Bonifay, FL. The entire operation is family run and the 
picking is done almost entirely by hand. In a time of growing concern 
over food safety, Tison Blueberry farm offers a unique alternative to 
the traditional grocery store as its customers enjoy the added comfort 
of knowing exactly where and how their produce is grown.
  After retiring from teaching vocational agriculture for 34 years, 
Jack Tison was searching for something that would employ his extensive 
knowledge and occupy his time. But it wasn't until visiting a ``u-
pick'' operation in Gainesville, FL that he became interested in 
growing blueberries. In the fall of 1984, Jack and his wife Hazel 
prepped five acres of land for planting; the subsequent harvest began 
just 3 years later. Over the years, the production has increased 
exponentially. The farm now grows muscadine grapes and prepares various 
jellies, jams, and syrups.
  Every year, the north Florida Fair Association honors farm families 
in counties throughout north Florida that display leadership through 
farming techniques and agricultural production. The Farm Family of the 
Year award conveys the importance of farm families' contributions to 
some of society's largest needs including food, clothing, and building 
supplies. Recognition of their work, as conveyed by this award, 
encourages others in the community to become involved and support local 
agriculture.
  On behalf of all residents of northwest Florida, I hope this family 
tradition continues for many future generations.

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