Farmers market in season
Suzanne Ewing said it seemed to rain every Thursday from May to October last year. But this year, the president of the Main Street Farmers Market is at ease because the elements can no longer affect the market, thanks to the 15,000-square-foot, double-arch roof covering two city parking lots where the weekly event is held.
“This will be a huge benefit for our vendors and our shoppers,” Ewing said. “And on hot days, (the roof will) keep the sun from baking the folks on the asphalt. It’s a much more comfortable place to shop.”
The first market, in the 100 block of South Main Street, will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, with subsequent markets every Thursday through Oct. 27. This is the 13th year for the market, where vendors sell everything from bread to soap to produce.
Because of the roof and lot paving, which was completed just this week, the market will extend into the upper lot, allowing the 25-plus vendors to spread out.
Most vendors will return, with one exception.
“We had one retirement – the Frank Zrimm Farm from Avella. They have been at our market since the very first,” Ewing said.
A call for produce farmers yielded three new vendors – Conover Organic Farm of Burgettstown, Her Bold Organic Farm of Cadiz, Ohio, and River Valley Farm of Wheeling, W.Va.
Another addition is the installation of a 30-foot mural depicting the city’s history, which was relocated from Washington High School to a building adjacent to the market. The mosaic mural, created by Washington students, has embedded QR codes that can be scanned and linked to online information on the subjects depicted.
“It’s hanging in a perfect place for people to be able to walk up and enjoy,” Ewing said.
Varied musical acts will provide entertainment, starting with Bob Stark and Friends.
Also returning is the EBT benefits program, allowing those who receive supplemental nutrition assistance from the state to purchase food.
“They can use tokens to buy produce, bread and baked goods,” said Ewing. “It’s a great way for people to be able to use their benefits to buy fresh, locally grown, and in some cases, organic food.”
Vendors also will accept Community Circle Food Pantry tokens.
The Main Street Farmers Market will be accepting Community Circle Food Pantry tokens
Ewing said the nine board members and other volunteers are able to host the market thanks to donations from local businesses and residents.
“We have received such wonderful support over the years,” she said. “It’s a real privilege for us to be able to do this every year.”