Secretary Ann M. Veneman

As the holidays approach and 2001 draws to a close, I want to thank all USDA employees for all your hard work and dedication during this year of transition and change.

In just a short period, we have accomplished a great deal together. We have assembled a team that values our career employees and released a policy report detailing our hope for the direction of our major program areas. As a team, we advanced a strong trade agenda to help open markets to help farmers and ranchers. We worked to strengthen our rural communities, provide food assistance to families in need, and maintained our vigilance in protecting our food supply against devastating pests and diseases. We also made important strides in research initiatives and continued to protect our forests and encourage good conservation practices.

With all these successes, our Department also found new strength, courage, and teamwork in responding to the devastating events of September 11^th. Our Forest Service aided rescue operations in New York and Virginia. Emergency food assistance was provided to families who lost loved ones or were displaced from work. We worked within our agencies to ensure the protection of our employees, customers, buildings, and programs from potential threats. And, our employees united in volunteering their time to help others or make contributions to charitable groups.

There is a new sense of togetherness in America. A renewed patriotism and strength that really exemplifies why we are such a strong nation which continues to shine and withstand the threat of evil.

As we begin the new year, let’s all work to keep that spirit alive in our workplace, our communities, and our homes. We should give thanks for our blessings and reach out to others in need.

May each of you have a joyous, safe, and fulfilling holiday and only the best wishes for a wonderful new year. ¤