BALTIMORE (June 10, 2009) – With State employees and their neighbors from surrounding communities watching, State officials today cut the ribbon opening the new State Center Community Farmers’ Market.  As part of Governor Martin O’Malley’s Smart, Green and Growing initiative, the Departments of General Services (DGS), Agriculture (MDA) and Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) partnered to bring affordable farm-fresh, locally-grown, healthy produce to State Center. Located at 300 West Preston Street, the State Center Community Farmers’ Market will be open from 10 am to 2 pm every Wednesday through October.

“State Center is a vital part of this community and we believe the farmers’market is a good neighbor opportunity,” said DGS Secretary Alvin C. Collins.  “This community-focused event allows State employees and the diverse communities that surround State Center to participate in the Governor’s Smart, Green and Growing initiative which promotes a healthier society, a stronger economy, and a more sustainable future for all Maryland families.”

Farmers’ markets provide an important source of income for farmers and also provide the community with a meeting place where residents can catch up with each other while purchasing farm-fresh, nutritious, local products.

“Buying locally-grown products, especially directly from farmers strengthens our local economies, the health of our environment and our families, and keeps land open and productive,” said MDA Secretary Buddy Hance. “Farmers’ markets across Maryland are increasingly popular sources of farm-fresh, locally-grown, nutritious produce. Every dollar spent on local products supports independent family farmers who contribute to the economic health of the community.”

“The health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables are lifelong,” said DHMH Secretary John M. Colmers. “Studies have shown that people who eat a lot of fruit and vegetables may have a lower risk of chronic disease, such as heart disease and some cancers.”

More than 90 farmers’ markets are currently in operation with at least one in every county and Baltimore City.  State Center – at a confluence of subway, light rail and bus transit – represents the largest concentration of State office buildings in Maryland. Combined, they currently house more than 3,500 State employees representing almost 5 percent of the entire State workforce.