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“NATIONAL FARMERS' MARKET MONTH” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E1665 on Sept. 4, 1997.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
NATIONAL FARMERS' MARKET MONTH
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HON. BRAD SHERMAN
of california
in the house of representatives
Thursday, September 4, 1997
Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate August as the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Farmers' Market Month. I would like to take this time to recognize the successes of Southern California's farmers' markets, particularly the Southland Farmers' Market.
Each year more than a million and a half people visit Southland Farmers' Markets to purchase the finest and freshest produce in town. At these markets the consumer buys directly from the farmer, purchasing the freshest food at competitive prices. These farmers also help people select the juiciest and ripest produce while offering tips on preparation and cooking--services not available in most grocery stores.
In addition to offering spectacular services, these markets are extraordinarily important to both farmers and citizens in our community. The majority of participants are small farmers who desperately need access to public markets in order to survive. They therefore rely upon selling their products at these markets and would find it difficult to market their crops if they could no longer participate in farmers' markets.
Besides helping farmers, these markets also benefit citizens in our community. They provide an opportunity for farmers to supply surplus produce for the hungry and have helped to revitalize downtown communities in our area. The success of these markets would not be possible without the backing of the Department of Agriculture and citizens of our community.
Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in commemorating August as National Farmers' Market Month. I wish great success for all farmers' markets here in our community and throughout the United States.
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