Ceretto: new agriculture program a plus for farm to table

Assemblyman John Ceretto, R-I-Lewiston, applauded the announcement Tuesday of the New York Fresh Connect Farmers' Markets (FreshConnect) program, which launches new farmers markets and expands others around New York in order to encourage healthy eating options. Ceretto said the program will help New York farmers sell their locally grown products to consumers in Niagara County.

"By increasing the numbers of local farmers markets throughout our state, we can help promote local farms here and help ensure that residents have access to fresh, locally grown produce," Ceretto said. "Agriculture is an important part of Niagara County's economy and I believe this program will help strengthen this way of life and create new local jobs."

Ceretto noted the program is also designed to bring fresh food to underserved communities and improve nutrition education. During the 2011-12 budget process,

He supported funding that would increase access to locally grown foods.

"By making locally produced food more accessible to all New Yorkers, we can help improve the health and quality of life across the state, while expanding markets for our local produce and dairy farmers," Ceretto said "I am pleased that Niagara County was selected to participate in this program. Our local farmers produce some of the best produce and agricultural products in the state, and this program will help ensure that these terrific products end up on more local tables for dinner."

The local Main Street Fresh Connect Farmers' Market, operated by the Niagara Falls Public Library on North Main and Niagara streets, is open on Thursdays from 3 until 7 p.m.