Jerry Beyer bags up corn for a customer at the Downtown Farm Market on Columbus

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Fresh Vegetable Sales in Full Swing During National Farmers Market Week

Produce Bonanza Turns Out Crowds Seeking Freshness, Bargains

August 5, 2008
By: Dave Rogers

At least half a dozen farmers markets in the tri-county area are getting fresh with customers.

And, the favor is being returned more than ever before.

Customers love the outdoor food bazaars and are flocking to them in ever greater numbers.

Donuts are a tasty, sugary treat that draw some customers interest.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)

Bay City leads the area list with not one, but two, farmers markets: the traditional Bay County Market on Columbus Avenue, run by the inimitable Chuckie Militello, and the newcomer, the Downtown Farmers Market on Water Street run by Jan Rise for the Downtown Management Board.

The United States Department of Agriculture weighs in on the market phenomenon:

Customers flock around the booth of Paul's Produce Farm.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)

"Farmers markets are gaining popularity as consumers increasingly appreciate locally grown foods and other products. In addition to finding fresh, good-tasting foods like handmade cheeses, organic fruits and vegetables, and humanely raised meats, customers can get to know their local farmers and engage in their community.

Market day is a good time to catch up on news with old friends.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)

"National Farmers Market Week, which is recognized August 3-9, seems like a good time to find a farmers market near you!"

Be sure to get there early to be "the firstest with the mostest" for bargain veggies often fly off the shelf and the growing season comes to an end faster than you can say harvest moon.

Other farm markets in the area include:

Frankenmuth Farmers Market, open 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturdays;

Downtown Saginaw Farmers Market, Mondays 2-6 p.m.; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays; and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Saturdays;

Midland Farmers Market, 7 a.m. - noon, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Shopping can be done while riding a bicycle, as this pair proves.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)

Garden Gate Farm offers a wealth of fresh varieties at the downtown market.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)

Chuckie Militello, manager of the Bay County Market, left, jaws with a customer.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)

An onion buyer finds some selections to his liking.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)

Bay County area tomatoes are the best in Michigan, some say.
(MyBayCity Photo by Dave Rogers)