[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 131 (Friday, September 28, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE BARTON FAMILY AS THE HOLMES COUNTY, FLORIDA, 2012 FARM 
                           FAMILY OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 28, 2012

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I 
rise to recognize the Barton family for being selected as the 2012 
Holmes County, Florida, Farm Family of the Year.
  Ken and Rhonda Barton are Northwest Florida natives with a deep 
connection to the local farming community. Farming became a part of 
their childhood and way of life. Thirty-three years ago, they were 
married, and it then became a love they have since shared as husband 
and wife and one that they now share with their children and 
grandchildren. Together, they successfully operate a 1,200 acre farm, 
where they raise livestock and grow peanuts, cotton, oats, and hay. The 
success of the farm is largely due to the way in which the Barton 
family operates. Each plays a supporting role, while embracing the best 
management practices. It is through their tireless work and dedication 
that the Barton Family demonstrates a true love of agriculture and 
family.
  Outside of the farm, the family plays an active role in the 
community. Ken and Rhonda are heavily involved in numerous state 
agriculture associations, including the Florida Peanut Producers 
Association, the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation, the Florida 
Cattlemen's Association, and the Florida Farm Bureau. In 2003, Ken 
became the Executive Director of the Florida Peanut Producers 
Association, where he proudly represents the peanut farmers of the 
state of Florida in both Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. He also 
dedicates his time to research, promotion, and education in Florida 
peanut production.
  Their daughter Tonya is an elementary school teacher at Bethlehem 
School and is married to Kevin Amerson, who is a field representative 
with Dothan Livestock. They have instilled in their two young children, 
Kason and Kolton, a dedication and appreciation for farming, as they 
are always eager to assist with hay operations or working the cattle. 
And Ken and Rhonda's son, Chad, is an aircraft mechanic at Fort Rucker 
and is active with the row-crop operation of the farm. He is married to 
Ashley Miller who assists with the daily workings of the farm. One of 
the greatest joys of their two young children, Kenny and Kaylee, is 
spending time in the field or on a tractor with Ken and Rhonda.
  In addition to their love for farming and love of family, as great 
stewards of the land, Ken and Rhonda are devoted Christians who are 
ever grateful to the Lord.
  Mr. Speaker, our great nation was built by the hard work of farmers 
and their families. The Holmes County Farm Family of the Year Award is 
a true reflection of the Barton family's tireless work and dedication 
to country, faith, and family. On behalf of the United States Congress, 
I would like to offer my congratulations to the Barton family for this 
great accomplishment. My wife, Vicki, and I wish them the best for 
continued success.

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