Thursday, May 15, 2014
 
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Illinois Products Farmer’s Market opens for seventh season on the state fairgrounds

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[May 15, 2014]  SPRINGFIELD - A record 36 vendors have registered for the Illinois Products Farmers’ Market, which opens its seventh season today on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

The market will be held every Thursday evening through Oct. 16, except during the Illinois State Fair (Aug.7 and Aug. 14). It is located, as in years past, in the Commodities Pavilion across the street from the Grandstand. The hours are from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“I'm proud to see the growth in this market year after year,” Agriculture Director Bob Flider said. “Opportunities like this benefit everyone, the local farmers and food producers who sell products, the consumers who shop their produce stands, and the local economy, which is strengthened from the business activity. And with Springfield Clinic returning as our title sponsor for the third year, the market now is much more than just a great source of fresh produce and local food products, it is a source of health and wellness information as well.”

Physicians and staff from Springfield Clinic will offer market-goers weekly health screenings, as well as educational programs related to nutrition, fitness and wellness throughout the summer.

“At Springfield Clinic, we are committed to reaching out beyond the exam room to help improve the health and wellness of our patients and our community,” Mark Kuhn, Chief Administrative Officer at Springfield Clinic, said. “The Illinois Products Farmers’ Market offers wholesome, locally-grown and produced foods, making it an ideal venue for us to help patients achieve a healthier lifestyle.”

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“Project Get Fit!” will participate in the market for a second straight year. The program, a partnership between Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and the Springfield YMCA, offers incentives to youngsters ages 5 through 18 to participate in recreational programs at either of Springfield’s YMCA branches. Those who do can earn “Healthy Bucks” for completing various Y activities and use the “cash” to buy fresh produce at the market.

[Text received; JEFF SQUIBB, ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE]

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