On the recordMarch 19, 2013
On National Agriculture Day, we honor the hardworking efforts of America's farmers, farm workers and processors who provide our family with safe and affordable healthy foods. As a third-generation San Joaquin Valley farmer, I'm proud to represent our agricultural way of life that drives our economy. More than half of the Nation's fruits and vegetables are grown in California. The San Joaquin Valley produces over $25 billion in gross value per year, which creates jobs and helps feed our Nation. Each American farmer needs over 144 people, and they're doing it environmentally safer than ever before. It's more important than ever to remind people that our agricultural economy still touches every part of our lives. Take a moment today to think about the hand that picked the tomato, or the dairyman, and thank them for that glass of milk. These are among the hardest working Americans that I know. Let me, again, thank the farmers, the farm workers, and the food processors on National Agriculture Day for your hard work in putting the food that we eat on America's dinner tables. ____________________
