Vendors, vendors, and more vendors will have their wares on display–both inside and out–as the Clover Valley Farmers’ Market opens for the season here Saturday.
Kim Mose, who is taking over the reins as market manager this year, said things will be pretty jam-packed when the doors open at 8 a.m.
“I’ve got more than I can put in there,” she remarked. “Hopefully, it will be a fine day so we can fit everybody in there and outside.”
“People have all come out of the woodwork in the last month to book spaces and develop displays,” noted Deb Cornell, president the local farmers’ market association.
“It sounds like we’re going to be squeezed full for the first market,” she added.
This year’s list of vendors should be a mix of old and new for most market regulars. New this year is Cornell’s booth from the Rainy River Elk Company, which will feature elk meat, sausages, and pepperettes as well as some antler capsules.
Lowey’s Greenhouse and Produce will be moving back to the lean-to on the east side of the building after renting one-quarter of the building last year and keeping it open through the week.
But the biggest change at the market this year will be the absence of the Rainy River Preserves Company, which was formerly run by Trish Neilson.
Cornell said Neilson continues to be active on the market association’s board, and is a shareholder in the corporation, but has given up the preserves business to pursue other things–not the least of which is being a parent.
“Change has happened in the past,” Cornell said. “It was a big change when Ansen Martin left the market but we had to adjust. Change doesn’t stop as we go.”
One thing Neilson’s departure does is leave the market without a bulk maple syrup distributor. Cornell is hoping one can be found soon.
“There’s an opportunity for someone right now,” she said. “If there’s anybody in the community who wants to take on bringing some maple syrup in, that would be something that would be appreciated.”
“Elmo” and “Big Bird” also will be on hand for the kids on opening day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., said Mose, who encouraged parents to bring along their cameras.
“I don’t see any problems coming up on Saturday,” she added. “I just hope the weather is on our side.”
Looking ahead to next week’s market, it will be in recognition of Mother’s Day. There will be a draw prize for all the mother and dad’s can enter too if they purchase something for that special day.
For kids aged 2-12, there is a contest. In 25 words or less, describe why your mom is the “Best Mom.” Then on Saturday, May 8 at 1 p.m., at the market, the winner will be announced.
There are two categories, “Girls” and “Boys,” with prizes awarded to both the child and their mom.
Deadline for entry is May 6. Mail your entry to Clover Valley Farmers’ Market, P.O. Box 15, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M5.
