I wanted to take a moment during this holiday season to extend my sincere thanks for your service to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and my wishes for good health, happiness, and prosperity for you and your family in the coming New Year.

The people of HUD have enthusiastically met the challenges of 2003 and inspired hope in millions of Americans. As we look ahead to 2004, I am excited about the opportunities to not only continue our work together, but to build upon it in service to others.

The generosity of the HUD family continues to impress me. Thank you for your contributions to the Combined Federal Campaign, and for maintaining HUD's reputation as an agency of givers. I also appreciate your donations to the Toys for Tots program. At this time of the year, our thoughts turn naturally to those who must make do with less, and you have made their holidays brighter.

As you gather with your family, please take a moment to remember the many families that remain separated by the War Against Terrorism and the military missions underway in Afghanistan and Iraq. Our servicemen and women stationed far from home are making a tremendous sacrifice. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

I want to invite all Headquarters employees to a special Holiday Open House today in my offices (Room 10100). We will serve holiday treats and take photographs, and I hope to meet as many of you as possible. A schedule for the Open House has been delivered to all program offices.

May you and your family enjoy the warmest and happiest of holidays.