national farmer’s market week

michele — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 06:31:26 +0000

Here in the U.S.A. we are right in the middle of the National Farmer’s Market Week. This August 2 – 8, 2009 marks the 10th annual celebration of the more than 4,800 farmer’s markets here in the United States. More than 94% of all farms are what the U.S. government refers to as Small Farm Operators (those with receipts of less $250,000 years and are operator owned and managed). In addition to supplementing the income of farmers, farmer’s market provide a much needed community service to those who many not have fresh fruits or vegetables readily available in their area. Special programs for seniors and WIC (Women, Infants and Children) are also available at many of the markets.

Three of my favorite farmer’s markets are the at the Ferry Building in San Francisco, the Lake Merritt market in Oakland and the Downtown Berkeley market. So many tasty treats! For a list of local food sources go here. If you would like to add a farmer’s market to your area, go to Growing for Market for advice and resources. For management resources and seller locations go to Manage My Market. To find out more:

Farmer’s Market Hotline: 1-800-384-8704
Farmer’s Market Coalition: http://www.farmersmarketcoalition.org
American Farmland Trust: http://www.farmland.org/
Center for Urban Education and Sustainable Agriculture: http://www.cuesa.org/
The Inadvertent Gardener’s blog: http://www.theinadvertentgardener.com/
Food Routes: http://www.foodroutes.org/
U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service: http://www.ams.usda.gov/WholesaleFarmersMarkets

food justice, community and equality 2 by bryant terry

michele — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 20:59:58 +0000

As many of you know, today – July 17, 2009 – is “Bloggers Unite for Human Rights” day. While the focus of this particular day is censorship, torture, journalistic freedom and crime among others, food is a crucial element in equality and human rights. Megacorporations, GMOs, the uneven distribution of food and food resources the list goes on. So… how about an example of local, community-based healthy food that is locally grown and also vegan! Are you are familiar with Oakland, California based Bryant Terry? Terry is a soul food chef and a community leader in the “food justice” movement.

Bryant Terry’s philosophy:

Now for a recipe.

les violettes » community

national farmer’s market week

food justice, community and equality 2 by bryant terry