Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a fine American, a great father and a good friend, Paul Hoshiko of Eaton, Colorado. Paul recently passed away, but left behind him a legacy of accomplishment and achievement that deserves to be recognized by all Americans.

To many, Paul Hoshiko was known as a leader in the agricultural arena. To others he was known for his civic involvement and his donation of time and money for various charities. I knew him not only in those regards, but also as a moral man who put his family first; who had a deep and abiding faith in his God; and one who was an unabashed patriot. But in all regards and to all who knew him, Paul Hoshiko, was admired and respected.

He served on numerous boards and committees throughout his life which showed his standing in the community. One of the most prestigious positions he held was his appointment by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to the Colorado State Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Committee. Some other organizations he was involved with were the Extension Advisory Committee, Colorado Seed Growers Association, Central Weld Water District, member of Kersey & Greeley area Chamber of Commerce, member of Weld County Farm Bureau, Director of Lower Latham Reservoir for over 30 years, and the hospital foundation, among others. He received countless awards from these associations which illustrate his leadership and influence.

Paul was perhaps best known around the country as the onion king''. In fact, his sole appearance on commercial television (at least so far as I know) was standing in an onion field explaining to a future U.S. Senator what it took,to be a good onion man''. He was elected to the Board of the National Onion Association and served as president for five years. During his tenure the national office was moved to Greeley, Colorado. He served on the board of directors of this association until his death.

However, perhaps most notable and dearest to his heart, Paul should be recognized for his lifelong devotion to the 4-H program. He actively participated in this organization his entire life, both as a member and as a leader. He was continuously taking strides to make 4-H an astronomical success, including but not limited to his active involvement in the International Farm Youth Exchange program, the National Western Stock Show, an annual State 4-H golf tournament, and a 4-H lighted softball field. He made a tremendous impact on those lives he touched while partaking in the 4-H program. His devotion is reflected in the faces of those youth who had the opportunity to work with him in these projects.

In summary, Mr. President, as you can see by my remarks, Paul was a born leader. He gave to his family, community, church and region unselfishly. He was the kind of man who only comes along every so often . . . and his life deserves to be recognized.