I noted in the BDN that farmers were attempting to band together to inform communities of the value of their endeavors.

Farmers are an independent lot, as are fishermen, principally because the profession demands 24 hours a day seven days a week. This holds true whether they raise vegetables or cattle and fish for lobsters or cod. They are further dependent on the whimsy of nature because of weather or the demands of cattle in giving birth or breaking fences.

Farmers markets demand extra time away from projects that never stop, and are costly to market because of time, fuel to get to the location as well as an annual fee for space. The burdens go on but the hope and optimism are ever-present for the vocation they have chosen.

We, as a community, must encourage local farmers to keep their ever-present optimism. Of course, they cannot produce oranges in Maine, but they can produce tomatoes, lettuce and other vegetables that are fresh daily.

We must support them by shopping at farmers markets or going to their place of business. Farmers and fishermen contribute a great deal to our economy and we must keep our investments as local as possible. Locally grown produce is more healthful as well, not being weeks old with “frequent flyer miles” behind it.

Take time to locate and purchase fresh from the farm, and farmers keep unplugging and band together to indoctrinate the locals on your labors and investment, as well as your desire to keep farming at all odds. Your optimism must not be smothered and your persistence must not be diminished.

Kay Lebowitz

Bangor