Several hundred ecstatic FLOTUS fans gathered in the street amid the stands, including some of the vendors and other organic enthusiasts.
As part of her ongoing effort to focus on healthy eating, FLOTUS was there to celebrate the opening of the FRESHFARM farmer's market, aimed at selling healthy locally grown produce to people who work in the neighborhood.
"I have never seen so many people so excited about fruits and vegetables," she said to wild cheers. A transcript of her remarks will follow.
Other speakers included USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and DC mayor Fenty. Politico
Secretary of Ag's Tom Vilsack's press release:
As part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 'Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food' initiative, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the awardees of the 2009 Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) at the opening of the FRESHFARM Market by the White House on Vermont Avenue with First Lady Michelle Obama. Deputy Secretary Merrigan, who chairs USDA's 'Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food' initiative, was also in attendance at the event. Reaching into communities across America, 86 grants totaling more than $4.5 million were awarded to encourage and support the viability of farmers markets and direct marketing projects nationwide. A national directory of farmers markets is available at www.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets.
"Farmers markets have an important role in local and regional food systems by helping consumers have access to healthy, nutritious foods," said Vilsack. "These grants will help continue the recent expansion of farmers markets across the country to increase access to locally grown foods for consumers, and increase incomes for farmers." Read the rest
