[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 66 (Tuesday, May 15, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E797]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             THE 42ND ANNUAL CASTROVILLE ARTICHOKE FESTIVAL

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                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 15, 2001

  Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 42nd 
Annual Castroville Artichoke Festival, taking place May 19th and 20th. 
While quite unknown to many people outside of my district in 
California, Castroville is the self-declared ``Artichoke Capital of the 
World,'' and this delicious thistle is one of the largest crops in 
northern Monterey County.
  The Artichoke Festival is an annual two-day event that celebrates the 
culture of the Salinas Valley, specifically the growing, harvesting and 
many uses of the artichoke itself. Every year new events are planned, 
but the most popular ones include a classic car show, a parade, and, of 
course, the food. This year will surely be more exciting, with the 
addition of a 10K/half marathon race and an artichoke recipe contest.
  The artichoke first came to central California in 1921, when four 
families with close ties to Italy decided to grow the thistle that was 
so popular in Europe right in Castroville. With a climate that is 
perfect for this crop, the artichoke has become a rich part of the 
heritage and culture of our area.
  Because of this importance in the life and economy of my district, 
and because it is such a delicious treat for anyone familiar with this 
thistle, I am pleased to be able to honor the 42nd Annual Castroville 
Artichoke Festival.

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