FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2000
MEDIA ADVISORY
Columbia State Farmers Market---Long-Awaited Report to be Presented
(COLUMBIA)–Les Tindal, Commissioner of Agriculture, invites market users (customers and sellers) and state leaders to hear the results of an impartial feasibility study on the Columbia State Farmers Market. The results of the study will be revealed by Carter-Goble Associates on Wednesday, March 8, 2000, at 9 AM in the Dan Ramage Conference Center, located just outside the main gate of the Farmers Market on Bluff Road.
Tindal said, “I am looking forward to seeing and hearing this report. I turned down the opportunity to see and get briefed on the findings. I want the study to be totally unbiased, so I purposely have not read or listened to the findings. In fact, my first insight into the results will be on March 8th along with everyone else.”
Because a feasibility study was requested last fall, Tindal enlisted the assistance of Carter-Goble Associates, a nationally recognized leader in comprehensive research and planning. Tindal says that he has not made any attempt to sway anyone involved in the study effort, even though he adamantly opposes moving the market for a variety of reasons. He said, “For thousands of South Carolinians who use the Market, it is imperative that we move forward. Let’s put politics aside and work together to rebuild a Farmers Market in our Capitol City of which everyone can be proud.”
Tindal has been trying for years to "rebuild" the Columbia State Farmers Market at its current location to make it safer for pedestrians and traffic and more attractive for conducting business. But, forces have attempted to undermine his effort to provide better services for the people of the state.
Tindal said that he hopes the Carter-Goble Feasibility Study will reveal what the people of South Carolina think is best for the Columbia State Farmers Market and its users.
For the long-awaited feasibility study and detailed information on the public’s perception of the Columbia State Farmers Market, attend the presentation on Wednesday, March 8 at 9 AM.
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