The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“REMEMBERING PAT TAKASUGI” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the Senate section on pages S7364-S7365 on Nov. 10, 2011.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
REMEMBERING PAT TAKASUGI
Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, today I wish to honor the life of Idaho State Representative Pat Takasugi. I join his family and friends in mourning the passing of this great Idahoan.
Pat's efforts and input on behalf of Idaho agriculture were indispensible. He had the experience and association through his role as the director of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture and a number of agricultural organizations and the on-the-ground knowledge of an innovative farmer that were instrumental in improving agricultural policy. His advocacy for Idaho agriculture advanced its position in domestic and foreign markets, and he leaves behind a legacy of skilled support.
We are all better for having known Pat Takasugi. His intelligence, humility and dedication were exemplary. He added the right amount of humor to every situation and approached challenges with optimism. He really liked people, and he took his time to give everyone his full attention. That quality along with his sincerity contributed to the vast number of friends and acquaintances who respect and adore him.
Pat led a life of service to our State and Nation. After graduating from the College of Idaho and obtaining post graduate credits from the University of Idaho and Boise State University, Pat joined the U.S. Army through which he served 5 years in Active service and another 5 years in Reserve service. During his military service, Pat was promoted to the rank of captain and qualified for Airborne wings, the Ranger tab and Special Forces green beret. After returning to Wilder, he grew a farm of 32 acres into a more than 1,500-acre-farm and was a partner in Snake River Produce. He also served for 10 years as the director of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture before he was elected in 2008 to represent Idaho's District 10 in the State legislature.
His list of accomplishments and associations with a number of Idaho and national organizations, including his service as past president of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, is extensive. He advocated for good jobs, a healthy rural economy, business development, lower taxes, less regulation, parental involvement in education, protection of private property and water rights and a lean and accountable government. His principles included belief that ``promoting strong families and renewing an individual sense of responsibility are key to reversing the erosion of our nation's foundation.'' He worked considerately to advance these and other objectives on behalf of Idahoans.
I extend my condolences and prayers to Pat's family, friends and loved ones, including his wife Suzanne his three children and his parents Michio and Ayako. Pat was a great friend to many, and he was very proud of his family. He was a talented farmer and public servant. Pat Takasugi's contribution to our State will not be forgotten.
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