PARKINSON PROCLAIMS TODAY 
AS THANK A FARMER DAY

     Gov. Mark Parkinson has issued a proclamation declaring today as “Thank a Farmer Day” in Kansas. With Thanksgiving approaching, Parkinson reminded Kansas residents to remember all that farmers and ranchers provide.

     “Kansas farmers not only put food on our table, but tables across America and around the globe,” the governor said.

     Kansas Acting Secretary of Agriculture Josh Svaty echoed the governor’s message. He said Kansans are fortunate that farmers and ranchers fulfill the nation’s food needs and have enough left over to feed others around the world.

     Svaty pointed out Kansas farmers and ranchers not only provide a bountiful food supply, they help sustain rural communities, preserve open space and enhance wildlife habitat.

     Individual livestock producers from Kansas and other states have extended the “Thank a farmer” message this week. Ranchers, feeders and dairymen have written letters to the editor, placed ads in newspapers and circulated e-mails as part of the effort to present an accurate picture of animal agriculture.