Bill Clinton

“ This week, as we gather with our families in thanks for the bounty bestowed upon us, let us remember with gratitude the hardworking men and women in rural and urban communities who devote their lives to producing, processing, and delivering the world's safest, most abundant supply of food and fiber. ”

“ By providing their fellow Americans with an abundant supply of safe, high-quality food and fiber, our country's farmers and ranchers help sustain a quality of life that is unmatched around the world. In this new century, their role is becoming even more important as they strive to meet the challenge of feeding the world's people while preserving our fertile land, clean water, and other precious natural resources. ”

“ While America has changed from an agricultural to an industrial society, the American farm has remained a vital thread in the fabric of our national life. Farmers and ranchers exemplify the values on which our country was founded`hard work, faith, family, and devotion to community and to the land—and they have made American agriculture a leading global industry and a source of pride for our Nation. ”