For Immediate Release: May 2, 2008

Contact: Ann Frescura, Downtown Springfield (217) 544-1723

8th annual Old Capitol Farmers' Market opens May 21

SPRINGFIELD -- Representatives from St. John’s Hospital and other market sponsors will cut the ribbon to officially open the Old Capitol Farmers’ Market, presented by St. John’s Hospital, on Wednesday, May 21 at 10 a.m. The public is invited to join in the opening day festivities, complete with free live music and cake (while it lasts) made especially for the occasion by Incredibly Delicious.

As always, the freshness and variety of the produce offered at this growers-only market has been the secret of its success, along with the friendly atmosphere and genuine camaraderie enjoyed by the farmers. As in past years a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, eggs, plants, flowers and baked goods will be available for purchase.  Additional programming includes Celebrity Chef Demonstrations by Michael Higgins of Maldaner’s Restaurant (3rd Saturdays), Grower of the Week radio program, hosted by Bob Murray of WTAX (Wednesdays at 8:45 a.m.), a reusable shopping bag program, coordinated by Wynne Coplea of the City of Springfield Waste Management Program, and a new Artisan Area, featuring original local artwork, in conjunction with live music performances coordinated by Music in Communities & Education (1st & 3rd Saturdays).

St. John’s Hospital promotes healthy lifestyle activities, distributes informational materials and offers health screenings and programs such as a body fat analysis and an interactive educational game, which helps children, learn about the importance of proper nutrition. St. John’s will also provide free blood pressure and other tests periodically throughout the season.

In addition to presenting sponsor, St. John’s Hospital, the Farmers’ Market is generously supported by the City of Springfield, Maldaner’s Restaurant, Illinois Main Street, Music in Communities & Education, Capitol Radio Group and the Illinois Times. For more information, contact Ann Frescura, Downtown Springfield, Inc.,at (217) 544-1723 or www.downtownspringfield.org.