In the early 20th century, residents of the rural town of Oakhaven faced a severe lack of access to fresh produce. To _______ this situation, the community council established a cooperative farm and weekly market in 1910, which provided healthy food options to families for decades.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
prolong
remedy
retain
highlight
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text describes a problem ("lack of access to fresh produce") and an action taken to help (establishing a farm/market). To "remedy" means to set right or correct an undesirable situation.
Choice A is incorrect because "prolong" means to extend the duration of, which would make the problem worse. Choice C is incorrect because "retain" means to keep, which would maintain the bad situation. Choice D is incorrect because "highlight" means to draw attention to, but the council took action to solve the problem, not just show it.