HoustonFarmersMarketProject

The organization is taking several steps to expand the Houston Farmers Market, which is situated at the Lone Star Plaza in downtown Houston. Earlier, a copper canopy was installed to add shelter for ven-dors. (See http://www.melbaperformingartscenter.com/pages/about/ for a picture of the installation)

Downtown Houston Inc. realizes the availability of fresh produce is key to improving the diets of area residents, many of whom live in poverty in Texas County.

These Houston Farmers Market projects are being undertaken by Downtown Houston Inc., a 501 (c) 3 organization:• A board recently met and named a market man-

ager, Steve Wilson of Houston, who will guide the market for an additional day. Hours are Tuesday afternoon and Friday morning. Other members of the board are Verlin Altom, Steve Wilson, Le-roy Motzkus Jr., Frank Coleman, non-profit New Life USA, Brad Hinkle, Downtown Houston Inc. representative, Jim Milby and David Hutsell.

• The group has adopted plans to add a shade on the canopy to protect vendors and custom-ers during extreme heat and weather conditions. Plans call for the addition of refrigeration equip-ment and development of a commercial kitchen that will be used for classes to teach residents how to can garden produce.

Currently there is no such space available in Tex-as County, Mo. This is planned at a Downtown Houston Inc. owned building that is situated north of the Lone Star Plaza, home of the Houston Farmers Market. The site will be known as Lone Star Annex.

• The organization is working with Houston Farmers Market to add a high tunnel — a greenhouse like structure — to extend the growing season at a community garden situ-ated at the Texas County. Excess produce is shared with the Texas County Food Pantry and Texas County Jail.

• Downtown Houston Inc. is working with sev-eral community organizations and with Ru-ral Development to create opportunities to expand healthy eating options at Houston, which is the county-seat of Texas, and sur-rounding areas.

• The 2014 growing season has arrived with the market board updating rules and fees, market days and hours and establishing a live animal sale policy.

• Missouri Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits also are eligible for qualified do-nors of the Houston Farmers Market. Through the state of Missouri, donors receive 70 cents for each $1 donated to the effort. Additionally, the contribution can be deducted on federal tax returns.