[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 50 (Friday, March 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE CARTER FAMILY AS THE 2013 ESCAMBIA COUNTY, FLORIDA, 
                        FARM FAMILY OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 28, 2014

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I 
rise to recognize the Carter Family for being selected as the 2013 
Escambia County, Florida, Farm Family of the Year.
   Matt Carter discovered his love of both farming and quality produce 
at an early age while working alongside his father, Lance, at Crary 
Dairy. Matt also gained additional agricultural knowledge and 
experience as a member of the Northview Chapter of Future Farmers of 
America, where he served as chapter president.
   In 2008, Matt established his own farming business to provide fresh 
and high quality vegetables to the Northwest Florida community. As a 
result of the Carter Family's dedication, their farming operation 
experienced great success and expanded from their first farmstand on 
Byrneville Road to a larger venue at the Palafox Farmer's Market.
   Matt, his wife of nine years, Dawn, along with their daughters, 
Emily and Jayden, all contribute to the Carter family farming operation 
to help sell fresh vegetables at their farmstand, Matt's Produce. The 
variety of produce at the Carter Farm has grown over the years and now 
boasts a bountiful collection including: peppers, tomatoes, squash, 
potatoes, onions, zucchini, turnips, mustards, collards, cabbage, 
broccoli, cauliflower, peas, and butter beans. For the past five years, 
the Carter Family Farm has increased in acreage, new crops have been 
added, and plans for certifying their farmstand's kitchen are in place. 
There is no question that the success of the Carter Family Farm and its 
expansion is largely attributed to the family's hard work and joint 
effort.
   In addition to overseeing the family's farming operation, Matt 
continues to play an active role in the agricultural community as a 
member of the EscaRosa Young Farmers and Ranchers.
   Mr. Speaker, our great Nation was built in part by the tireless work 
of farmers and their families. The Escambia County Farm Family of the 
Year Award is a true reflection of the Carter family's devotion to both 
farming and family. On behalf of the United States Congress, I would 
like to offer my congratulations to the Carter family for this great 
accomplishment. My wife Vicki and I wish them the best for continued 
success.

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