To market

To market

to market Virginia has a long history of farmers’ markets dating back to the 17th century in Colonial Jamestown. The consumer’s quest for fresh produce continues today as new markets open throughout the Commonwealth. Fresh fruits and vegetables will be available at 40 different locations this season. The majority of the farmers’ markets listed in toe 1987 guide just published by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services are growers only markets. You will find some Virginia farm markets are open year round while others vary their hours according to the harvest season. Each location lists hours of operation and gives directions to their sites. Three new sites have opened this year - two in Prince William County and the Farmville Open Air. The feature of all Virginia farm markets is, of course, locally grown produce. Other products available include greenhouse plants, ornamentals, baked goods, eggs, preserves and craft items. Some markets hold special activities throughout the season at their market locations. Request the 1987 Virginia Farmers’ Market Guide by sending a self-addressed, stamped, business-size envelope to VDACS, Division of Markets, Room 801,1100 Bank Street, Richmond, VA 23219.

Now Hear This! -u ------

HEARING .LOSS—

OUR NATION’S

NO. 1 HANDICAP Q. I hear a lot about other illnesses — cancer, heart disease, muscular dystrophy, etc. — but not much about hearing loss. Does that mean fewer people are having hearing problems? Is the number decreasing due to medical advances? A. Although most people don’t know it, hearing loss is our nation’s number one handicapping disability. Statistically, more Americans — nearly 20 million — suffer from impaired hearing than frortj any other physical handicap. You probably don’t hear as much' about it because it is not a dramatic ailment. No one ever died from a hearing loss. But it is crippling. It can separate its victims from friends, family, even jobs; it can take away the joy and pleasure of communicating with others. And the number of people who suffer from hearing disorders is almost certainly increasing. This is due to several reasons. For one, doctors are saving more and more babies who have difficult births or are bom prematurely. Some of these babies have defective hearing. Another factor is noise pollution. More of us are being exposed to extremely loud noise than ever before. This is a common cause of hearing damage. And then, of couse, people are living longer and age is one of the two biggest causes of hearing loss. But there have been significant medical advances — progress in prevention, earlier diagnosis, and improved treatment make today a much more fortunate time for the hearing-impaired person. Through modem medical techniques or the use of high-technology hearing aids, today most hearing problems can be helped. If you think you or someone you know may have impaired hearing, plan to get a hearing test. It takes only 30 minutes and is offered as a free service by your local Beltone Hearing Aid Center.