"Mitt Romney and the Luckiest People in the World"

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More than 1,000 New Farmers Markets Recorded Across Country as USDA Directory Reveals 17 Percent Growth

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2011 – More than 1,000 new farmers markets have been recorded across the country, according to results released today in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2011 National Farmers Market Directory. The annual report indicates a total of 7,175 farmers markets operate throughout the United States as more farmers are marketing their products directly to consumers than ever before. Last year, the USDA reported that 6,132 markets were operating across the country.

"The remarkable growth in farmers markets is an excellent indicator of the staying power of local and regional foods," said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan. "These outlets provide economic benefits for producers to grow their businesses and also to communities by providing increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables and other foods. In short, they are a critical ingredient in our nation's food system."

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DOE Offers Loan Guarantee for Cellulosic Bio-Refinery in Iowa

Washington D.C. - U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced the offer of a conditional commitment for a $105 million loan guarantee to support the development of the nation's first commercial-scale cellulosic ethanol plant.  Project LIBERTY, sponsored by POET, LLC, will produce up to 25 million gallons of ethanol per year and will be located in Emmetsburg, Iowa.  POET estimates the project will generate approximately 200 jobs during construction and 40 permanent jobs at the plant.  POET estimates the project will also bring approximately $14 million in new revenue to area farmers.

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