[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 22 (Monday, February 8, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S701]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO STEVE PRINGLE

 Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, agriculture is the backbone of our 
country. It is a significant economic driver, and perhaps more 
importantly, it offers our citizens a way of life that is unique in 
today's world. Within agriculture, I often encounter thoughtful, 
committed men and women who work every day to raise their families, run 
their businesses, serve their neighbors, and provide a better future 
for the next generation.
  Those qualities are found in Steve Pringle, who has served on behalf 
of Texas Farm Bureau for over 25 years. Under Steve's leadership, the 
organization has influenced agricultural policy, promoted rural values, 
and worked to show an increasingly urban populace how food is produced.
  I met Steve many years ago, and over those years, we grew to be 
friends. As agricultural issues repeatedly came to the forefront of 
debate in Washington--from trade and energy, to the economy, 
overregulation, and the farm bill--he was always someone whom I could 
count on to give me trustworthy advice and counsel.
  Steve is a veteran, a husband, and a father. His long and 
distinguished career includes stints at the House Agriculture 
Committee, Texas A&M University, and the U.S. Department of 
Agriculture. For over a quarter century however, Steve has been the 
face of Texas Farm Bureau. Steve's passion for improving the lives of 
farmers and ranchers and advocating for the future of rural America has 
always impressed me.
  Steve Pringle embodies many traits we can all admire, including a 
deep gratitude for the hard-working families who provide the food, 
fuel, and fiber Americans rely on. Texas farmers and ranchers found in 
Steve Pringle a true public servant who worked hard to make certain 
their voices were heard on Capitol Hill. These traits have earned Steve 
the respect of his peers in Texas, in my home State of Kansas, and from 
across the country.
  Steve, we are grateful for your service and wish you and your wife, 
Linda, well in the next chapter of your life.

                          ____________________