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Support Local…Shop Farmer’s Markets
By Chris Pagano
Okay, so you’re ready to support local businesses. Since this area is agriculturally rich with two growing seasons, perhaps farmer’s markets are the place to start. There are logical reasons for consumers to make this choice. Dictated by the economy, the rising price of gas is more than likely to affect the cost of shipped market items. So you might see a bit of a discount at local farmers’ markets.
But that is not the only consideration. In order to make deadlines to buyers, produce may be picked before its natural ripening time. This usually compromises on flavor—which may be an important factor in why you’ve decided to buy fresh over frozen in the first place.
Sales representatives are readily available. Notice no waiting in line!
In the immediate area, consumers have a shopping edge. In Cape and Jackson there are at least three opportunities to shop at a farmer’s market—Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Then there are two markets open during regular business hours. Natural Health Organic Foods in Cape-- open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. Jones Heritage Farm and Market-- open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Another perk to shopping farmers’ markets are treasures you encounter that weren’t on your shopping agenda. Aside from items related to nourishment there are other items that relate to your health and well-being. Local artisans and crafters with handmade items like soap, candles, baked goods and pottery are among them.
Be Prepared for a Great Experience
Cash is an important thing to take with you when visiting farmers’ markets. In today’s society many shoppers are inclined to run out the door with a debit card and keys. But, many farmers are not set up for credit or debit cards. So bring cash.
Another item that makes shopping easier is your own shopping bag. Picture this: you’re checking out at one vendor and realize that you don’t have enough hands to make purchases at another vendor and have to run back to your car to store your purchases. When you get back—oh no--the rhubarb pie you wanted to purchase has been sold! If you’d had a shopping bag handy you never would have lost that opportunity! Having your cash handy is advisable because when goods are limited, being a prepared shopper can make the difference in getting hat you want before its gone.
If you’re stocking up on veggies, bread, flowers or other items that could potentially get squished or smashed, consider a basket. It provides protection, is lightweight and has the added advantage of breathability.
Making your shopping experience a pleasurable one is more likely if you’re prepared. Stashing a collapsible tote on wheels in your shopping bag is advisable just in case you find a watermelon, sack of potatoes or great sale and want to purchase lots.
Click image for locations of farmer's markets
If you’re already a farmer’s market enthusiast, chances are you’re out there at the beginning of the season. Don’t forget about April Showers—bring a compact umbrella. And even if you start out early, it won’t be long before the sun is high in the sky. Wear sunscreen and/or bring a cap or hat to stay comfortable.
Always remember to bring a water bottle or several. Staying hydrated is important but what if you’d like to wash an apple before eating it? An insulated drinking water bottle for you and a water reserve for other uses prepares a shopper or most anything!
Visit http://www.iluvlocalplaces.com/Farms_Markets.html for more information on locations and market schedules.
By Chris Pagano
Okay, so you’re ready to support local businesses. Since this area is agriculturally rich with two growing seasons, perhaps farmer’s markets are the place to start. There are logical reasons for consumers to make this choice. Dictated by the economy, the rising price of gas is more than likely to affect the cost of shipped market items. So you might see a bit of a discount at local farmers’ markets.
But that is not the only consideration. In order to make deadlines to buyers, produce may be picked before its natural ripening time. This usually compromises on flavor—which may be an important factor in why you’ve decided to buy fresh over frozen in the first place.
Sales representatives are readily available. Notice no waiting in line!
In the immediate area, consumers have a shopping edge. In Cape and Jackson there are at least three opportunities to shop at a farmer’s market—Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Then there are two markets open during regular business hours. Natural Health Organic Foods in Cape-- open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. Jones Heritage Farm and Market-- open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Another perk to shopping farmers’ markets are treasures you encounter that weren’t on your shopping agenda. Aside from items related to nourishment there are other items that relate to your health and well-being. Local artisans and crafters with handmade items like soap, candles, baked goods and pottery are among them.
Be Prepared for a Great Experience
Cash is an important thing to take with you when visiting farmers’ markets. In today’s society many shoppers are inclined to run out the door with a debit card and keys. But, many farmers are not set up for credit or debit cards. So bring cash.
Another item that makes shopping easier is your own shopping bag. Picture this: you’re checking out at one vendor and realize that you don’t have enough hands to make purchases at another vendor and have to run back to your car to store your purchases. When you get back—oh no--the rhubarb pie you wanted to purchase has been sold! If you’d had a shopping bag handy you never would have lost that opportunity! Having your cash handy is advisable because when goods are limited, being a prepared shopper can make the difference in getting hat you want before its gone.
If you’re stocking up on veggies, bread, flowers or other items that could potentially get squished or smashed, consider a basket. It provides protection, is lightweight and has the added advantage of breathability.
Making your shopping experience a pleasurable one is more likely if you’re prepared. Stashing a collapsible tote on wheels in your shopping bag is advisable just in case you find a watermelon, sack of potatoes or great sale and want to purchase lots.
Click image for locations of farmer's markets
If you’re already a farmer’s market enthusiast, chances are you’re out there at the beginning of the season. Don’t forget about April Showers—bring a compact umbrella. And even if you start out early, it won’t be long before the sun is high in the sky. Wear sunscreen and/or bring a cap or hat to stay comfortable.
Always remember to bring a water bottle or several. Staying hydrated is important but what if you’d like to wash an apple before eating it? An insulated drinking water bottle for you and a water reserve for other uses prepares a shopper or most anything!
Visit http://www.iluvlocalplaces.com/Farms_Markets.html for more information on locations and market schedules.
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