Secretary Vilsack's Holiday Message

Holiday Message from USDA Secretary Vilsack

I’m KayDee Gilkey with the Market Line Report for Christmas Day.

Here is USDA Secretary Vilsack sharing his Christmas message.

Vilsack: “As we celebrate the holiday season, it is important for all of us to take time and catch up with family and friends and reflect on a nation that we all hold dear. Looking back on 2012, I’m proud of those across rural America that stayed resliant in the face of disaster. They manage farms, ranches and main street businesses through a record drought and a historic hurricane and more. Ultimately their hard work, kept the momentum of rural America going strong. I’m thankful for the thousand of men and women who in and year out step up year to serve our nation. Many of these members of the armed forces are from rural America and all of them are heroes. They are stationed around the world today, and many will spend their holidays away from family and friends, so we that we can be safe at home with ours. I’m further grateful for the service of our 22 million American veterans, more than 6 million who live, work, and raise their families in rural America. Finally I’m heartened that so many Americans stand up during the holidays to help those who are struggling. Volunteers from our smallest towns to our biggest cities are helping to ensure no one goes hungry over the holidays -- especially our children. They are making sure that everyone has a warm place to sleep. they are working hard to give every family the chance to have a special holiday celebration. I hope that you too plan to give some of your time over the holidays and beyond. Every minute you give strengthens our nation. As we celebrate the holiday season, we have much to be thankful for. Where ever you are today, I wish you and your family and happy and safe holiday.”