My mother happens to be Executive Director of Portland Farmers Market. She has turned it into one of the most successful farmers markets in US.
This is what they had to say about my mom
In preparation for another year of growth, Portland Farmers Market recently promoted longtime manager Dianne Stefani-Ruff to the newly created position of executive director. Under Stefani-Ruff 's leadership over the past six years, PFM has experienced approximately 300 percent growth in both the number of vendors selling at the market and the overall sales revenues generated for farmers and artisan food purveyors.
Stefani-Ruff is credited with expanding the seasonal market from a five-month venture to a seven-month business. She also developed PFM's Thursday venue, located at the Ecotrust Building, and brought national recognition to Oregon's agricultural community and farmers markets as a speaker at Northwest events and national conferences. Her leadership resulted in a record 2003 season, drawing approximately 350,000 shoppers who spent more than $2.9 million on local agriculture and artisan food products.
"The staff and board work year-round behind the scenes to execute high-quality markets," said Barb Slaughter, PFM board chair. "Dianne's promotion and our staff expansion are recognition of the increased importance of the relationships between small farmers and Portland residents."
Can you believe it....a record of 2.9 million spent in 2003 season! The 2004 season recently ended last Saturday.
I go every Saturdays and Thursday nights. I truly believe in supporting local farmers/vendors. It is well worth investing into local community.
Theres a deaf farmer in the San Diego area who sells his avocadoes at 6 for a dollar. You can try to find him on Bradley street in El Cajon at the lot east of the 2nd 7-11 store from the 67 freeway. If youre lucky enough, it will mean a lot of yummy guacamole!
That's what I usually buy in my local (California). There are lot of small markets & shops for organic foods & materials but I mostly shop at these three markets.
Meg, man that is awesome...
Edit: btw, I bought the foods at WildOats in other state as well when I lived there.
I’ve been buying stuff from Bob’s Red Mill for years, and I’ve never been dissatisfied. They sell a really excellent line of products at rock bottom prices.
