[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 142 (Thursday, September 22, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1694]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE CRUTCHFIELD FAMILY AS THE 2011 OKALOOSA COUNTY 
                  OUTSTANDING FARM FAMILY OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 22, 2011

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is a great pleasure for me to 
rise today to recognize the Crutchfield family for being selected as 
the 2011 Okaloosa County, Florida Outstanding Farm Family of the Year.
  Reginald Crutchfield is a fifth generation farmer who truly 
understands the value of a strong work ethic and good soil, and he 
instills those values in his family every day. With the help of his 
wife Regina and his son Phillip, Reggie sows and harvests nearly 500 
acres of peanuts, wheat and corn.
  Throughout his life, Reggie has epitomized the true meaning of hard 
work. In 1981, Future Farmers of America (FFA) recognized his 
dedication to the farming industry and awarded him with the title of 
FFA Star State Farmer. Since that time, Reggie has worked independently 
as a farmer among other jobs in order to provide for his family. His 
impressive career includes work as a researcher of beef cattle with the 
University of Florida and as a golf course superintendent overseeing 
grass production. In 2008, Reggie successfully battled cancer and went 
back to work as a full-time farmer, replanting his crops and expanding 
his business.
  Reggie and Regina have raised their children, Jhanna, Phillip, 
Bailey, and Paige, to respect the land and to be active members of 
their community. In addition to helping her husband out on the farm 
throughout their 27 years of marriage, Regina works as a speech 
pathologist for the Okaloosa County School District. The Crutchfields 
are members of First United Methodist Church of Crestview and the 
Okaloosa County Farm Bureau. This outstanding farm family has overcome 
constant challenges and continues to inspire those around them with 
their love of the land and their commitment to family.
  Mr. Speaker, our great nation was built by farmers and their 
families. The Okaloosa County Outstanding Farm Family of the Year award 
is a reflection of the Crutchfield family's tireless work and 
dedication to family, faith and trade. On behalf of the United States 
Congress, I would like to offer my congratulations to the Crutchfield 
family for this great accomplishment. My wife Vicki and I wish them the 
best for continued success.

                          ____________________