Thomas Daschle: “today I want to offer my warmest regards and sincere congratulations to Laird Larson of Clark, SD, and Bob Duxbury of…”

“today I want to offer my warmest regards and sincere congratulations to Laird Larson of Clark, SD, and Bob Duxbury of Wessington, South Dakota, on their receipt of South Dakota State University's Eminent Farmer award for 2003 in Brookings last Friday night. Laird Larson and Bob Duxbury are well known and highly respected within SD, not only as dedicated farmers, but also as innovative community leaders. I know of no individuals more deserving of this recognition than Laird and Bob. Laird and his wife, Kathy, have farmed in Clark County, SD, for almost 30 years. They are active in a number of farm organizations, including the South Dakota Crop Improvement Association, SDCIA, where Laird has served on the county board of directors for nearly 20 years and as State president. This year the SDCIA recognized Laird as is its Premier Certified Seed Grower. Laird also has a long history promoting agricultural education. He has raised funds for renovating greenhouses at South Dakota State University and is currently working to develop a seed science center at the school.”