One out of every 12 jobs in the economy is connected in some way, shape or form to what happens on the farm.

I think President Barack Obama is going to be treated very, very well by history in terms of his ability to save the economy. And that's certainly true in rural areas. The unemployment rate is substantially reduced, the poverty rate is down, and in large part because of the investments that were made during the Recovery Act and thereafter, historic investments.

In 2011, agricultural exports hit a record high and producers saw their best incomes in nearly 40 years.

Over the past two years, the Obama Administration and USDA have worked to build a foundation for sustainable economic growth in rural America. At the center of our vision is an effort to increase domestic production and use of renewable energy.

When you've paid your debt to society, you need to be reconnected and re-engaged in society.

If we are to transition to a new economy and to lead it, we must start by transforming our schools.

To amplify our efforts, USDA is joining with First Lady Michelle Obama in aggressively promoting the 'Let's Move' campaign, which will combat the epidemic of childhood obesity through a comprehensive approach that builds on effective strategies, and mobilizes public and private sector resources.