[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 96 (Thursday, June 24, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1208]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        IN HONOR OF BILL RAMSEY

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                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 24, 2010

  Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a modern 
agriculture pioneer, Mr. Bill Ramsey of Salinas, California, on the 
occasion of his recognition by the Grower-Shipper Association of 
Central California with its E.E. ``Gene'' Harden Award for Lifetime 
Achievement. Bill is a quiet, unassuming, and humble man. One would 
know by looking at him that he is a giant among men for his business 
and civic leadership.
  Beginning in the 1960s, when he assumed key leadership positions 
within the Mann Packing produce company, Bill helped lead the growth of 
the U.S. fresh produce industry. Alongside his business partner and 
friend, the late Don Nucci, Bill helped expand the U.S. market for 
broccoli and all manner of value added and ready to eat fresh produce. 
If you have ever eaten broccoli, you can credit Bill's leadership with 
helping to get it to your plate fresh, safe, and at a reasonable price.
  Mr. Ramsey's peers in the agricultural industry have recognized him 
in several ways. Mr. Ramsey served as both the Chairman of the Board of 
Western Growers Association and as President of the Grower-Shipper 
Association of Central California. Mr. Ramsey has also been honored as 
the Salinas Jaycees Outstanding Young Farmer, as well as receiving the 
Harden Award which recognizes leadership qualities, devotion to the 
betterment of the agricultural industry, community service, and those 
with a high level of ethics and integrity.
  Mr. Ramsey's devotion to his community goes well beyond the 
agricultural aspects. His contributions to the community of Salinas 
include being the President of the Salinas City School District Board 
of Trustees, Founder and Chairman of Valley of the World Awards for the 
National Steinbeck Center, Director of the California Rodeo, 
Distinguished Fellow (Agriculture) of CSU Monterey Bay, YMCA, Boys & 
Girls Club, Sun Street Center, and Salinas Rotary (Rotarian of the 
Year). Bill Ramsey has also honored his country by serving in the 
United States Navy.
  Madam Speaker, I hope my fellow members of the House will join me in 
honoring Bill Ramsey for his many contributions to the agricultural 
industry, his local community, and his country. And while Bill will not 
hesitate to credit those around him for his success, it is appropriate 
that our Nation recognize what an important contribution that he has 
made to our health, economy, and culture.

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