The Farmer's Market is coming back
Tuesday, May 19, 2009 | Omineca Express
The Vanderhoof Farmers’ Market is being revived! Organizers hope it will become an integrated part of the community providing opportunities for farmers, artisans, musicians, students, mentors and young entrepreneurs.
This latest initiative has seen strong support from would-be consumers and vendors alike.
“Today, there is a growing trend with consumers to strengthen ties to their local farmers and artisans. People want to buy local food and other goods. It is a consumer choice worth supporting,” said organizer Susie Blattner. “I feel the time is right to again offer this type of market to Vanderhoof and area.”
The Vanderhoof Farmers’ Market is aiming to have its first market day in mid to late June 2009.
More vendors are still needed. Blattner is hopeful that more artisans and produce growers will seize the opportunity and bring their wares to the market at Riverside Park in Vanderhoof.
It’s a wonderful location for all involved, she said. It’s family friendly and a perfect place to grab a snack from a market stand and have lunch on the grass or by the river.
“The market will be held once a week throughout the summer months on Thursdays, from noon to 5 p.m. or so.”
The Vanderhoof Farmers’ Market hopes to join the successful summer line-up of markets throughout the area and to complement the businesses in Vanderhoof by drawing people through town to the park.
The market will aim to offer anything from farm-fresh eggs to cheese kits and baked goods, frozen meats and sausages to tomatoes, pottery to knitted wares, rustic wooden furniture to art and body and bath products.
“There is a broad range of goods potentially available in the line-up so far. This market aims to benefit the whole community,” said Blattner.
Farmers’ Markets support the future of family farms and food security in town and area, encourage knowledge of food growing, preparation and storage to be passed down to the younger generations, and make available to local consumers and tourists fresher food produced with fewer chemicals. As well, youth who wish to participate and learn entrepreneurial skills will be encouraged and supported by veteran vendors.
“The market will be lots of fun and will aim to offer something for the whole community,”ˇ said Blattner. “The more vendors we have the better the variety of homemade goods. And, in a time of economic downturn, what better way to diversify the local economy than to support small business and eat fresh while you’re at it? This initiative is for the community, by the community.”
See you there.
“Thank you to the Nechako Valley Food Network for all their help and support,” she said.
Interested Vendors may contact Susie Blattner at 250-567-6792 or at susiewig@yahoo.com.
