>DON BURTENSHAW: COMMUNITY SERVANT AND STATESMAN

(Senate - June 28, 2006)

Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I pay tribute today to a very special Idahoan. Don Burtenshaw, a farmer and rancher from Terreton, is retiring from the Idaho State Senate after serving five terms representing the 35th district. Having served in the Idaho State Legislature myself, I can attest to the work that this public office entails, and I would be pleased to be honoring him today if just for that. But Don's accomplishments and influence in and around Jefferson County went far beyond a seat in the State legislature.

   Don is an active member of his church and owns Burtenshaw Cattle Company. He served as a partner in the Rexburg Livestock Auction, Salmon Livestock Auction, and the Bozeman Livestock Auction. According to the West Jefferson Lions Club, who has awarded Don its prestigious Spirit of Service Award this year, his long and selfless service to the community has touched the lives of many youth and adults alike. Don served on the Jefferson County districts 251 and 253 school boards for 24 years. He also served on the board of directors for the Owsley Canal.

   Over the years, he has placed particular emphasis on the children of Jefferson County. And I am sure that with the time saved from having to drive to Boise 2 or 3 months a year, he will be able to focus more on the youth in his own family, including 38 grandchildren, with another coming very soon, and 23 great grandchildren.

   I congratulate Don on his dedication to his fellow Idahoans, and Susan and I wish him well as he leaves State-level public service. I am certain his public commitment will continue in other ways at home in eastern Idaho.