From: Whipple, Deb (GOV)
Sent: Friday, July 16, 2010 4:09
PM
Subject: What the governor is talking about today
What the Governor’s Talking about
Today
Friday, July 16, 2010
Governor Urges Residents to Buy Michigan
Agricultural Products, Visit Local Farmers Markets
In her weekly radio address, the governor today
said people seeking the healthiest, freshest and best-tasting fruits and
vegetables should look for ones grown in Michigan.
“Local food is
fresher, tastes better and comes from farmland near you,” the governor
said. “And because many fruits and vegetables can lose up to 50 percent of
their nutrients in just five days’ time, buying locally grown food is a
healthier choice.”
The governor said Michigan’s wide variety of
agricultural products will be showcased at two upcoming farmers markets on the
lawn of the State Capitol. The first farmers market will be Thursday, July
22 and the second September 16. She said people also should check out the
200 community farmers markets across the state. For a list of farmers
markets, visit the Michigan Farmers Market Association website at www.mifma.org.
“The next time you
go grocery shopping, look for Michigan-grown blueberries, peaches, corn,
tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables,” the governor said. “Not only
will the food be fresher, healthier and better tasting, you’ll be helping your
neighbors, your community and the Michigan economy. For a Pure Michigan
experience, buy Michigan-grown and produced foods.”
Key messages:
• Michigan’s agri-food sector employs one
million people and contributes more than $71 billion annually to the state
economy.
• When you purchase locally-produced food,
you’re helping to support Michigan farmers who provide beautiful and productive
open spaces and habitat, contribute to our tax base and employ local
workers.
• Buying local foods also boosts the Michigan
economy. If every Michigan household spent just $10 a week of its current
grocery budget on locally-grown and produced foods, it would generate almost $2
billion to circulate within our state economy every year.
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