[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13405]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


                          HONORING MASON SMOAK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TIM MAHONEY

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 23, 2008

  Mr. MAHONEY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay my deepest 
condolence to the Smoak family and to honor the passing of a great 
American and close friend. Mason Smoak was an outstanding human being, 
whose bravery and character left lasting impressions on all who knew 
him. This kind gentleman exemplified the meaning of leadership. Mason 
was loved by all in his community, a lifelong resident of Lake Placid, 
Florida who dedicated his life to his wife, children, and church, as 
well as the University of Florida his alma mater. Unfortunately, Mason 
passed away on Friday, June 20, 2008 at the age of 33.
  His accomplishments within the agricultural community will serve as 
inspiration and guidance for aspiring citrus growers. Mason promoted 
awareness of agriculture and citrus issues in both Washington and 
Tallahassee, often testifying at the request of elected officials. He 
enjoyed fruitful partnerships with UF/IFAS and served the community as 
the current President of the Highlands County Citrus Growers. He was 
also the Chairman of the Heartland Agricultural Coalition, a Board 
Member of the Highlands County Habitat for Humanity and Florida Citrus 
Mutual's Federal Political Action Committee, and Past President of 
Highlands County Farm Bureau and the Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers 
and Ranchers.
  Florida will miss Mason's dedication and dogged determination to 
Florida citrus. Madam Speaker, I will miss Mason as a true friend.

                          ____________________