Farmers market gives good feeling about what is sold

By Ginna Young

Do you like fresh produce and home-crafted items, all from local vendors? Then you will like the newly formed Stacker City Farmers Market, located in the Mill Yard Park pavilion in Cornell.

To avoid coinciding with other markets in the area, the Stacker City venue will take place June 1, through the middle of October, each Tuesday, from 3-7 p.m. The venture looks to enhance the community, and provide a service to citizens and visitors.

“The farmers market is important, because it cuts out the middle man,” said coordinator Ashley Carothers. “It provides a farmer a more profitable way to sell their goods.”

Carothers said it is not only a good feeling to know you’re helping out another family by purchasing the literal fruits of their labors, but is a good feeling to know what the quality is of the food you put on your table.

Not only will fresh produce and fruits be featured at the market, but also locally grown meats and fresh-baked goods. In addition, vendors will offer items such as honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies. There may even be fresh mushrooms and cut flowers, along with succulents to take home and nurture.

On the handmade side, crocheted and knitted items will be available, and wooden or carved things could be a regular part of each week. With the new direction, no direct sales items are allowed; instead, only handcrafted, custom items are accepted.

Vendors are welcome to fill out an application to set up at the market, with the weekly or annual booth fees returning to the city for upkeep of the pavilion (pumping the bathrooms, electrical usage). As for patrons, they are welcome to drop by and see what the new venture is all about.

With a day and time change, as well as new coordinators, the market looks to attract crowds getting out of work and more families. To help showcase the park, coordinators want to bring music acts to perform during the time slot, along with organizations offering meals for purchase.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are also slated to make an appearance for Christmas in July. Coordinators are also excited that the market may draw in people with fresh sweet corn, pumpkins and other seasonal items – the fresher the better, as well as many specialty items.

“Stop down and pick out selections that will fill your entire home,” said coordinator Judy Talbot. “It’s not just for the kitchen anymore.”

To sign up as a vendor, contact Carothers, at 715-8289071, or in person, the day of the market.