Farming: a great act of optimism to eat

By PAM BUITENVELD

Well, it’s nearly the end of the season again at the Kingston Farmers Market. Thinking back, I remember how up until this point, after having put in so many Saturdays and so much hard work, it would feel like an endless market season. Then October would arrive and it became easier knowing there were only two markets left and soon it would be time to wind the garden down.

On the one hand, not having sold a single vegetable this summer down at the port, I have to admit I have enjoyed sleeping in on Saturdays. On the other hand, I feel the need to be involved in that lively environment. I’ve missed being a part of the social network and the eclectic atmosphere that are part of a farmers market.

We really have established a great market here in Kingston. I remember when people would ask where the produce was and I’m happy to say that you really needn’t bother with that one anymore. We have a steady supple of fruits and vegetables from our fabulous farm vendors every week! I went home with two bags full and a downright chill on opening day, back in April. The snow never stopped these guys!

Have you had a chance to get to know them? It’s such a unique opportunity to be able to talk directly to the farmer and I really think they get a lot of satisfaction watching people enjoy what they grow. When we can accept the fact that we take food for granted – food that comes from Anywhere, U.S.A. and beyond – and learn to appreciate the farmers who grow food locally and want to make it available to you, only then can we be truly thankful for their great optimistic act.

Getting back to our great establishment, have you been picking up your weekly loaves of bread from our two excellent bakeries? Their fresh baked goods will surely compliment your dinner of in-season produce. Long gone are the days of my waking up way too early to bake bread and cinnamon rolls for the market – I still do on occasion for my family – but I can’t come close to those savory focaccia twists available from Morningside Bakery! How about smoked salmon? Flowers? Need a gift? We’ve got so many great artisans to choose from and of course, you’ll want to be thinking about holiday shopping with only two markets left! Well there you have it – just like Mary Poppins said – “Practically perfect in every way.”

For the last two markets you can enjoy some folksy-blues with Stack and Co. playing Oct. 4 and Mike Murray Oct. 11, which is the official last date of the market season. Our next event will be the annual vendor’s meeting Nov. 3, which you will note is one day before you get your chance to cast the right vote for our country!

This meeting serves as an opportunity for vendors to reflect on the market and provide input to help the market grow. New board members are also elected and we are currently looking for some energetic and creative people who are interested in meeting once a month to share ideas and take on tasks to keep our market going strong! If you or someone you know would like information on being a board member, please call Clint Dudley at (360) 297-3489.

The Kingston Farmers Market takes place 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 11 in Mike Wallace Park at the Port of Kingston. For more information, go to www.kingstonfarmersmarket.com.

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