Vote for the Best Farmers Market

Vote for the Best Farmer's Market

As you may know, I live in beautiful Bend, Oregon.  Here in my hometown, there are 3 “official” farmers markets each week during the summer months (June-October), plus a “Saturday Market,” which includes arts and crafts and perhaps even a display from the Humane Society if you want to adopt a new friend.

If you have one – or more- markets in your hometown, then I encourage you to vote for the Best Farmer’s Market at care2.com.  That being said, I’m looking to my Bend and Oregon friends to help boost the standing of the Bend Farmer’s Market.  Come on everyone!  Let’s get the vote out!

The market with the most votes by September 17, 2009, will win $5,000, under the “Love Your Farmers Market” program, sponsored by care2.com in a partnership with LocalHarvest.org.  Even if you don’t win the grand prize, each week, a randomly-selected farmer’s market will win $250.  That sounds Peachy to me!  I would be remiss if I didn’t also point out that the top 20 recruiters for farmers markets each week stand to win $50.  And, lest you think its all about the competitors, each individual voter may win a reusable canvas care2.com tote bag on a weekly basis.

Here’s a great looking market in San Marin County, California:

Local food movement is tasty!

Why shop at farmers markets? Here’s the low-down:

• Centrally-located.  You can walk or bike in the fresh air
• Food is locally-produced, which saves fuel and cuts down on CO2 emissions
• Offerings are usually organic – grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or insecticides
• Fun!  Live music, face-painting for the kids and overall a great way to connect to your community in a relaxed, healthy location

Be sure to vote for the best farmers market!  And I dare you to visit your local market and leave without a smile on your face.

What’s going on at your local market this weekend?