The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
A Proclamation
by His Excellency
Governor Deval L. Patrick
Whereas Farmers Markets are essential to the vitalaity of Massacusetts farms and are part of the cultural tradition of the Commonwealth; and
Whereas Farmers Markets create a festive open air setting which enhances community spirit and civic pride by offering a natural place for community gathering; and
Whereas The Commonwealth is home to more than 130 Farmers Markets; and
Whereas With increasing consumer demand for fresh fruits and vegetables, Farmers Markets ensure both urban and rural citizens access to a wide variety of high quality nutritious produce that is locally grown using environmentally sound methods; and
Whereas Farmers Markets help heighten public awareness of the agricultural diversity of Massachusetts and the benefits of buying local and preserving open space; and
Whereas It is befitting for the citizens of Massachusetts to recognize the continued contribution of Farmers Markets to consumers, as well as their positive impact on the economy of the Commonwealth,
Now, Therefore, I, Deval L. Patrick, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim August 19th-25th, 2007, to be
Farmers Market Week
And urge all the citizens of the Commonwealth to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance.
Given at the Executive Chamber in Boston, this seventeenth day of July, in the year two thousand and seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the two hundred and thirty-first.
By His Excellency
Deval L. Patrick
Governor of the Commonwealth
William Francis Galvin
Secretary of the Commonwealth