The Time is Ripe

Tis’ the season for fresh, deliciously ripe fruit, yum! Not only do many of us enjoy taking our children shopping at our local farmer’s market purchasing home grown fruits and veggies, but did you know there is a National Farmers Market Week?

Agriculture Secretary, Tom Vilsack, proclaimed Aug. 7-13, 2016 to be National Farmers Market Week, celebrating the role that the country's more than 8,600 farmers markets play in supporting farmers, connecting rural and urban communities, and providing Americans with fresh, healthy food.

"National Farmers Market Week is a great opportunity to recognize the many benefits farmer’s markets bring to communities across the country,” said Administrator Starmer. “They expand local economies by creating opportunities and earning potential for farmers and ranchers, while also serving as a vital link between rural and urban America.”

Supporting farmers markets is a part of the USDA’s KnowYour Farmer, Know Your Food (KYF2) Initiative, which coordinates the Department's work to develop strong local and regional food systems.

Time is not only right to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from our local farmers, but, it’s also the “ripe” time of year to purchase your back-to-school uniforms from your local school uniform retailer, Educational Outfitters and Academic Outfitters. Even though we are open year round, avoid waiting until the last minute to pick up your school dress code items to start school. Whether child has outgrown their khaki shorts and plaid skirts to just freshening up the school wardrobe with a few embroidered polos – avoid the stress of waiting too late.