First-ever farmers market deemed a success
By Julie Rossman
Correspondent
A slight drop in temperature on Tuesday brought a hint of autumn to the air, resulting in perfect weather for the first farmers market at Village Square Park in Union Grove.
The event was organized by the Village of Union Grove, along with a committee comprised of community members.
“It went very well,” said Village Trustee Teresa Holm. “The vendors were very happy – we had very good traffic.”
The committee has worked hard to get the word out about this new community event, which will continue for the next five Tuesdays, from 3 – 7 p.m.
Holm said people stopped because they had heard about it in advance and others just stopped on their way by when they saw the vendors.
There were eight different vendors at Tuesday’s market, selling items like fresh garden produce, honey, jellies and jams, recycled garden art, fresh cheese and more. All of the vendors are from the local area.
Holm said a Clue Group Study of the area recommended a farmers market to draw people to downtown.
“We want to create traffic and excitement in the downtown area,” she said.
Marlene Schauer, Union Grove, stocked up on fresh produce. She’d like to see even more vendors.
“It’s great! I hope it increases and they’re able to keep on with it,” she said. “We need something like this.”
“I like the idea of buying local,” said union Grove resident Renee Miller. “I love the local stores and I think it’s a great idea.”
Kathy White is a vendor who sells Amish goods from Wisconsin. She travels to a number of different markets and was impressed with Union Grove’s first.
“I think it’s fabulous,” she said.
White was pleasantly surprised with the turnout of shoppers. “Once the word gets out there will be more vendors, too.”
Gail Hack of Hack Farms, Union Grove, was glad to see the event happen and plans to continue selling produce throughout the remaining five weeks. In the coming weeks, she’ll also be selling pumpkins, Indian corn and squash.
“All the fall stuff,” she said.
The cost for a vendor booth is $10 per event or $50 for the season. For more information call 878-4606.
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