DALLAS — The Back Mountain Memorial Library’s annual farmers market kicked off its 2018 season July 14, drawing nearly 20 vendors to the grounds of Dallas High School, with homegrown items ranging from honey to root vegetables to colorful flowers.
Jen Baer, of Dallas, said the market is an opportunity not only to purchase quality food items, but also to fellowship with neighbors and to fit in a bit of extra exercise.
“We live close by, so we walk over,” she said. “We get exercise. We get vegetables. It doesn’t get any better than this.”
Natalie Baer, 6, was all smiles as she made her way to her favorite food item, donuts.
“They’re apple cider donuts, with a bit of cinnamon,” said Jen Baer. “She loves them.”
K & L Farm and Greenhouses was a vendor at the event for the very first time, with this harvest season being its first.
Ken Stephens, of Plains, an owner of the business, heard about the event and its strong following for a long time and was very happy to be a part of it.
Not only was Stephens manning the business’ booth which sold a variety of vegetables, he was also quick to offer tips about preparation.
Kohlrabi, he told customers, could be eaten raw like an apple or pan fried.
“It’s a cross between cauliflower and broccoli,” he said. “It’s really versatile.”
Lee Faatz, of Dallas, also an owner of the business, said the event wass a combination of two things a farmer hopes for.
“We have good weather and good crops,” he said.
John Tosi, of Tosi Farms in Dallas, sold honey at the event, a family tradition that was almost lost.
“My grandfather used to keep bees 30 years ago,” he said, “and I’ve gotten back into it.”
His children Matthew, 13, and Juliana, 9, were on hand, providing customers with information.
“It can help with allergies,” said Matthew.
John Tosi said honey tastes good, is great for teas and is thought to be healthier than table sugar.
Event coordinator Harold Koehler said the event is both a great fundraiser and community event.
“This year, we’ve found a new spot at the high school,” he said. “And it’s working out well.”
Koehler said last summer the event raised over $8,000, an amount that could pay a part-time salary at the library.
He added the market, limited to homegrown and home baked items, welcomes new vendors.
“We have everything from fruits and vegetables, baked goods, pickles, honey, and bread,” he said.
Hannah Burgess, owner of the Beekeeper’s Daughter, said attendance at the event has become a tradition.
“We enjoy our customers,” she said. “Many of them come back every year.”
