[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 16]
[Senate]
[Page 21985]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING ROBERT DUXBURY

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to publicly command 
Robert Duxbury of Wessington, SD, on his selection as one of South 
Dakota State University's Eminent Farmers for 2003.
  The Eminent Farmer and Homemaker Program, which was honored nominees 
since 1927, seeks farmers who have not only made significant 
contributions to their community, State and Nation, but have also given 
unselfishly of their talent, time and leadership to public programs, 
educational institutions, and church.
  Bob has earned the respect and admiration of all those who have had 
the opportunity to work with him. His love for South Dakota and passion 
for agriculture set him apart from other outstanding farmers in the 
State. Bob's friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge have helped him 
develop close relationships in various agriculture groups, including 
the South Dakota 4-H Leaders Association and the State Fair Board. Bob 
has also served South Dakota in additional capacities: as a member in 
the South Dakota Legislature in both the Senate and House of 
Representatives; as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee for 
nearly 20 years; and as South Dakota secretary of agriculture from 1975 
to 1978. Furthermore, after earning a degree from South Dakota State 
College, Bob used his extensive agriculture know-how to teach animal 
science and coach livestock-judging teams from 1956 to 1959.
  Americans are the envy of the world because we enjoy the most 
affordable and the safest food, spending only 10 percent of our 
household income on groceries. Agricultural producers in the U.S. must 
cope with the unpredictability of the weather, markets, and government 
policy, yet time and time again they are the most productive and 
efficient in the entire world. Farming and ranching families provide 
immeasurable contributions to quality of life, economic development, 
and the culture of rural America. Farmers and ranchers are the backbone 
of South Dakota's economy and should be commended for what they do.
  This prestigious honor is a reflection of Bob's extraordinary success 
as a farmer, as well as his commitment to conservation, and 
contributions to the community. I am proud to claim Bob as a good 
personal friend and former colleague in the South Dakota legislature. I 
am pleased that his agricultural leadership is being publicly 
recognized, and that his achievements will serve as a model for 
outstanding agricultural producers throughout the state to emulate. It 
is with great honor that I share his impressive achievements with my 
colleagues.

                          ____________________