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 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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