In response to the question how to define a farmers market, three speakers highlighted the differing definitions attributed to markets by their operators. For example, some farmers markets' in Philadelphia have produce vendors who are not farmers. Ellen Haas was the next speaker. She said that public markets strengthen the nations health in the face of our growing, technologically-driven distance. She said that USDA's programs are devoted primarily to children who unfortunately are still learning more about 'fast food'' than 'fresh food'.
Public markets link farm and town.
She challenged the audience to further these efforts to improve the lives of the nation's children. She highlighted USDA programs, including the 'Team Nutrition' program, to educate children in nutrition. She urged the audience to inquire whether their children's schools were part of those programs, and to insure that school children visited and learned about farmers markets. He advised that aisles be narrow to enlarge the crowded feel of the market. He also does not pay much attention to vendor features.