Farm bureau to celebrate `Food Check-Out' week

RUSK - The week before Valentine's Day, Feb.3-9, join the Cherokee County Farm Bureau in the celebration of America's true love - food.

Based on Agriculture Department statistics, Farm Bureau's Food Check-Out Week marks the date when average Americans will have earned enough income to pay for their entire year's food supply.

In recognition of this, Cherokee county Farm Bureau is commemorating the fact that America's food supply is the safest and most affordable in the world.

`Compared to other expenses facing American families, food is a bargain,' said Cherokee County Farm Bureau president Joe Parsley. `While Americans must work only until February to pay for their yearly food supply, they must work much longer to pay for health and medical care, housing and federal taxes.'

`We remain concerned that some Americans cannot afford to buy the food that they need, but we are proud of the role Texas farmers play in producing the most affordable food in the world.' Parsley said.

There are 2.13 million farms in the nation and about 99 percent of farms are operated by individuals, family partnerships or family corporations. `As a farmer, I am producing affordable food for my family and yours,' said Mr. Parsley. `I am proud of what we do and hope Americans will join us in celebration of our agricultural success.'

To mark this success, Cherokee County Farm Bureau will be holding an event, and more information will be released.