Governor Proclaims August as Pennsylvania Produce Month

Whereas, Pennsylvania is a national leader in the production of a variety of high-quality, nutritious and affordable fruits and vegetables that contribute more than $200 million to the Commonwealth’s economy; and

Whereas, each year, Pennsylvania’s fruit and vegetable growers produce more than 540,000 tons for fresh market and processing; and

Whereas, Pennsylvania’s fruit and vegetable growers are national leaders in the production of mushrooms (1st), peaches (3rd), apples (4th), pumpkins (5th), grapes (5th), pears (5th), processing snap beans (5th), tart cherries (6th), fresh market sweet corn (7th), cantaloupes (7th), and fresh market tomatoes (8th); and

Whereas, health authorities have long encouraged increased consumption of fruits and vegetables for their nutritional benefits and disease prevention qualities because they provide important vitamins, fiber, and other dietary components that are essential to a healthy, balanced diet; and

Whereas, locally-grown and nutrient-dense produce is made available and earmarked “PA Preferred,” helping ensure consumers they have chosen food grown and processed to meet the world’s highest quality and safety standards for a healthier lifestyle; and

Whereas, fresh Pennsylvania fruits and vegetables are readily available in abundant supply and peak quality at farmer’s markets and supermarkets throughout the Commonwealth.

Therefore, In recognition of our thriving fruit and vegetable industries, I, Edward G. Rendell, Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, do hereby proclaim August 2009 Produce Month in Pennsylvania, and urge all citizens to enjoy the Commonwealth’s plentiful supply of fresh and processed fruits and vegetables while recognizing the industry’s contributions to our economy and health.Given under my hand and the Seal of the Governor at the City of Harrisburg, on this thirty-first day of August in the year of our Lord two thousand and nine, and of the Commonwealth the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

EDWARD G. RENDELL
Governor