[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 131 (Wednesday, August 2, 2017)]
[Senate]
[Page S4714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
Tribute to Bill Reed
Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Bill Reed, an
Arkansan who is retiring after more than 34 years of dedicated service
at Riceland Foods, the world's largest miller and marketer of rice.
Bill is a member of the company's senior management team whose
responsibilities include government affairs, public relations, and the
Riceland Sustainability Initiative. His interest in agriculture at a
young age led him to pursue degrees in this field. Bill earned a
bachelor's degree with honors in plant and soil science from the
University of Tennessee and a master's degree in agricultural
journalism from the University of Wisconsin.
In 1976, he moved to the Natural State to work as a State specialist
with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. He has
continued his commitment not only to Arkansas but to Arkansas
agriculture for more than 40 years.
Bill is recognized as one of the most passionate advocates on behalf
of the Arkansas rice industry. Bill is constantly looking out for the
rice farmers and businesses by promoting policies to grow the industry
and pushing for expanding markets. His advocacy extended beyond the
boundaries of agriculture. He was always ready to lend a hand to me or
to my staff on any issue important to Arkansas.
He shares his passion for agriculture throughout the State, country,
and the world as a representative of Riceland on numerous boards and
trade associations, including the USA Rice Federation and the National
Council of Farmer Cooperatives. In addition, Bill serves as chairman of
the Associated Industries of Arkansas, vice president for agriculture
of the Arkansas State Council on Economic Education, and vice chairman
of the board of visitors of Phillips Community College of the
University of Arkansas.
He is a faithful servant of Jesus Christ and is leading his life as
Christ calls us to do. In recent years, Bill began seminary school, and
his retirement from Riceland will allow him to pursue the ministry full
time and help people in need.
I appreciate Bill's friendship, and I am confident that he will excel
in this role, just as he had done as an advocate for Arkansas rice. I
wish him well in all of his future endeavors and look forward to the
great work he will continue to do in helping the great State of
Arkansas.
I yield the floor.
I suggest the absence of a quorum.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll.
The assistant bill clerk proceeded to call the roll.
Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order
for the quorum call be rescinded.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
____________________