With our 100^th Market event fast approaching, the Harlingen Farmers Market (HFM) has become a weekly focal point for our community.

The HFM has been created, funded and operated by Michael Mascha and Donna Navarro as their contribution to the quality of life in Harlingen. This venue provides our community with dual benefits; residents gain easy reliable access to fresh locally grown produce and small local organic farmers - and other food producers - gain an additional long-term business outlet. These local growers are expanding their operations as a direct result of their participation in the HFM and other Valley markets. Further growth opportunities are being developed as we begin to link local chefs to local growers, thereby creating another layer of positive economic growth throughout our community.

Farmers markets are an important component of life in cities everywhere. Many Valley residents who have traveled and lived in other parts of this country and the world are thrilled to finally have a thriving market in Harlingen. Valley residents are naturally attracted to the easy availability of local produce and many have made the HFM a new part of their weekly shopping routine. Likewise, our substantial winter resident population has made a strong connection to the HFM, and we look forward to their return every year.

Our approach has been different than that if the markets in Brownsville, South Padre Island, and McAllen in that we have not used any public funds or private sponsorship. We have focused the mission of the HFM solely on providing Halringen and area residents with fresh produce sold by local growers. This has led the HFM to have an independent, grass roots spirit which is enjoyed and commented on by vendors and clients, and which has contributed significantly to its strong foundation.