[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 115 (Thursday, September 4, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1665]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     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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