Independent Bank hosts event to promote products grown and produced in Michigan on September 12
September 03, 2008
On Friday, September 12, Independent Bank offices across the state will celebrate locally-grown and produced Michigan foods during an event promoting the state’s Select Michigan(SM) program.
As part of the celebration, Independent Bank banking offices throughout the state will serve fresh-from-the-orchard Michigan apples, as well as Michigan mints. Free materials and literature such U-Pick farm directories, Michigan produce recipe cards and copies of “Wine Country Magazine” will be available. In addition to giveaways, everyone who comes to an Independent Bank office will have a chance to register to win an American Spoon gift box. Independent Bank operates more than 100 banking offices in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. A complete list of Independent Bank locations can be found at IndependentBank.com or by calling 1.888.300.3193.
“We are proud to promote the Select Michigan program because we believe in the importance of choosing products that are grown and produced locally,” said Michael M. Magee, Jr., Independent Bank president and CEO. “Many of the products that make Michigan so unique are produced in the communities we serve, by customers, friends and neighbors we know. Buying locally helps support our state and keeps dollars here.”
“Buying locally means consumers receive fresher foods, while supporting local farmers, agri-businesses and growing Michigan’s economy,” said Don Koivisto, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director. “In fact, if every Michigan household spent just $10 per week on Michigan-produced food, it would generate nearly $40 million each and every week in economic activity for our state. So, I encourage consumers to Select Michigan – it’s good for you, our growers and our state’s economy.”
Agriculture is Michigan’s second largest economic driver generating $63.7 billion for the state annually. Michigan grows more than 200 agricultural commodities, making it the second-most diverse state in the nation. It is also home to more than 160 community farmers’ markets statewide, with more starting every season as the demand for local products grows.
“Select Michigan,” administered by MDA, is the State of Michigan’s brand identification program to promote the sale of Michigan grown, processed and manufactured food and agricultural products. The Select Michigan logo can be found on products sold at retail grocery stores and farm markets, statewide.
For a listing of community farmers’ markets, visit the Michigan Farmers’ Market Association Web site at www.farmersmarkets.msu.edu. For a listing of local on-farm markets and u-pick establishments, visit www.michiganfarmfun.com. For more information about the Select Michigan Program, visit www.SelectMichigan.org.
