04/05/07 Family banquet

Family Banquet My belief that agriculture is one of the pillars of America's success and showcase of American family values just got another boost last week. I'm Jeff Keane; I'll be back right after this to tell you about it. A week ago, respect for a way of life was celebrated. Senior citizens were honored, young adults were encouraged, and achievements were recognized. My wife and I attended the Klickitat County Livestock Association banquet in White Salmon, Washington and my faith in American cattle producers and American agriculture was renewed. I was invited to the banquet as the evening speaker, but my wife and I were the ones entertained and humbled by being part of the program. Banquet organizers provided us with a nice room at an inn that has been part of the community since 1937. The antique styling of the inn was very relaxing and let me rest just enough to be able to easily handle the slice of prime rib we were served that most people couldn't have jumped over. The rest of the evening was one example after another of rural life traditions that make it so special to me. A grand lady was honored and received a standing ovation for her lifetime of work establishing and supporting a ranch side-by-side with her husband. A bunch of young people were brought forward to receive awards and be assured that their hard work was respected. State legislators took time from their schedules to let these livestock producers know how much they respect their input on critical issues. You know, this wasn't just a livestock group banquet it was a way of life and family banquet. I'm Jeff Keane.