WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a member of his Washington Staff, Joel Leftwich, a native of Wellington, Kansas, was awarded the National Wheat Growers Association’s (NAWG) "2008 Friend of Wheat Award" for his work in support of the wheat industry and Kansas wheat producers.

"During the farm bill debate, and on all issues agriculture, Joel Leftwich’s efforts have both protected and promoted wise farm policies," Roberts said. "I am proud he is recognized by the Wheat Growers for his work in behalf of Kansas farmers and ranchers. His work on my staff in Washington has been nothing short of exceptional."

The Friend of Wheat Award is given annually by NAWG for superior action in support of the goals and policies of the wheat industry. This award is given to Congressional and administrative staff members who have demonstrated support for the wheat industry above and beyond the norm.

Leftwich, Senator Roberts’ Agriculture, Energy and Transportation Legislative Assistant was one of five Congressional staff to be named a "Friend of Wheat." He is a graduate of Friends University, Wichita, and has a Masters degree in Political Science from Loyola University, Chicago. He has worked for Senator Roberts since 2005.

Senator Roberts is a senior member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. Roberts received the 2008 Wheat Advocate Award from NAWG.

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