A standing-room only crowd gathered to hear USDA Secretary Ann Veneman speak on the importance of international trade, Trade Promotion Authority, and the recently signed 2002 U.S. Farm Bill at a Town Hall Meeting hosted by New Holland. Secretary Veneman was accompanied by Pennsylvania State Secretary of Agriculture, Sam Hayes.

In her remarks, Secretary Veneman emphasized the importance of global marketing and world trade to the future of U.S. agriculture. She also answered questions from the audience of farmers, dealers, students and company employees.

The Town Hall Meeting was held at the world's largest baler manufacturing plant, located in New Holland, Penna. Balers made at the facility are shippped to countries around the world.