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G ETTING YOUR GROCERIES FROM LOCAL GROCERS AND FARMSTEADS IS A MEANS TO SUPPORT NOT JUST YOUR LOCAL FARMS , BUT ALSO A WAY TO ASSURE A STRONG COMMUNITY IN WHICH TO LIVE , AND THE HEALTHIEST OPTION FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY . hen you shop local, 60 cents of every dollar stays in your local community. Buying from a local farmer allows these growers to continue providing fresh, healthy products to our fami- lies,” according to Ellie Watson, Director of Sweet Grown Ala- bama. “Farmers support local hardware and feed stores, send their children to local schools and hire members of the community. These farmers and their employees provide an economic ripple ef- fect on the community by doing things like sending their children to the local dance studio, buying homes and cars in your commu- nity and supporting local churches and schools.” DonWambles, Director of Ag Promotions Division with the Al- abama Department of Agriculture & Industries, emphasizes why the success of local farms is intimately tied to our individual health as well as that of the community in which we live: “When local farms are successful, our communities are healthier and more eco- nomically vibrant. Every dollar spent with a local farmer turns over in the local community about seven times. Farmers spend their money locally, too.” Also, by purchasing groceries from your local grocers and farmers markets, you are not only giving back to your community, you are also making healthier choices for your self and your family. Renfroe’s Market has been serving the Montgomery community for over 35 years and has expanded with stores in Dadeville, LaFayette and Alexander. Their focus has always been — and re- mains even more importantly today — hospitality, cleanliness, and value. Part of the reason for Renfroe’s success is their commitment to maintaining their founding values: “Our customers should feel welcome upon entering the store and have a clean atmosphere in which to shop. We strive each day to focus on giving our customers a value for their dollar. Value would mean nothing without quality so we are constantly trying to keep the freshest perishable items possible along with a wide selection of grocery items.” According to Wright’s Grocery in Opelika, shopping family owned grocery stores helps keep your money in the local commu- 38 AL/ Metro 360 www.almetro360.com ........................................................................................................................................ b OF ALAB eat AMA ETH “W Home Grown and Healthy S TAFF R EPORT P HOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF F ARMER ’ S M ARKET A UTHORITY