"We create many jobs in rural Missouri and rural America, so we want to make sure that's not overlooked. And one of the things that you and the first lady have highlighted is this incredible move that's underfoot in which thousands of farmers are producing food for local markets. So we need to make sure that we have the infrastructure in place, from the meat processing to the transportation and storage, to make that a reality. In the past, we have tended to put significant amounts of money into the hands of corporate agribusiness out here in our rural communities, however they have not proven to be the bang for the buck that independent family farmers have in terms creating just, fair and good paying jobs in our communities. So thank you for the steps you are taking to increase competition and local food."

Ben Burkett stated, "I was the only person representing agriculture in the breakout session on entrepreneurial business. On the issue of credit, we discussed banks not lending to small businesses and farmers despite the millions of dollars in stimulus funds dispersed, something noted by everyone in the room. I presented Secretary of the Treasury Tim Geithner a report on credit issues and how credit unions can support rural economies, by Jerry Pennick of the Federation of Southern Cooperatives. Secretary Geithner promised to follow up."

NFFC Executive Director, Kathy Ozer stated, "The National Family Farm Coalition and Rural Coalition appreciate being represented at this important forum. We urge the Obama Administration to address the real needs and the opportunities in rural America to retain family farms, revitalize rural communities and strengthen our nation’s economy."