Bill Clinton

“ Strengthening our economy and providing food for people around the world, American agriculture is a leading global industry and a source of pride for our Nation. While producing an abundance of safe and affordable food and fiber, America's farmers and ranchers also provide a rich source of jobs in the United States. American agriculture employs more than 21 million people today, and agriculture-related industries continue to expand, pumping a trillion dollars into the American economy each year. ”

“ When Americans sit down to a meal each day, we sometimes take for granted the quality and variety of the food we eat. Our grocery stores, supermarkets, and restaurants offer us an enormous volume and selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and other food items, but we too often forget the hardworking men and women whose skill and effort put that food on our tables. ”

“ This week, as Americans gather with family and friends around the dinner table to give thanks for their many blessings, it is fitting that we count amount those blessings the vital farm-city partnerships that have done so much to improve the quality of our lives. ”