We are a farmers' market, not a flea market

Recently an individual expressed a desire to see more "stuff" at our market. When asked, "What kind of stuff?" the response was "everything."

I explained our goal is to be a quality farmers' market, providing the freshest produce to our community along with other agiculturally based items. We don't want to be a few produce booths stuck at the end of a flea market. The person asked, "Couldn't we at least have some homemade crafts?" When I indicated that crafts and baked goods have always been a part of our market, they were surprised. (Brutal honesty here -- I was thinking you need to come to the market more often and see all that's offered.)

All the great things offered at the farmers' market is at times a suprise. There are varieties of produce not found in other venues, farm fress eggs, honey, jellies, baked goods and crafts. Come to Skubitz Plaza Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon to check out all the booths.

You might take extra time and explore Main Street or ride Dolly the Trolley to tour the town.

Here is what's fresh at the market this week: gooseberries, zucchini squash, lettuces, spinach, Swiss chard, radishes, green onions, beets, new potatoes, peas, herbs, broccoli, cauliflower and turnips.

Also, the community tent activity is Saturday, May 19. The Josh Woosley, Sounds of America Fundraiser wraps up this weekend. You can still donate and have an opportunity to win one of the following items: two tickets to a Royals home game, a golden willow tree, a beautiful planter, a 4 foot by 6 foot American flag or a gift certificate to 3C's Farm for produce.

Lastly, Nurse Alice Maffett from the SEK Health Deptartment will conduct a free blood pressure clinic from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 22, at the market.

All questions, comments and suggestions are welcome. We are a community market and hope to expand and serve the community. Thank you to all the patrons of the market. Without you, there would be no reason to be there.

See you at the market.

Submitted to the Tribune by Mary Corpstein.