The Farmers' Market

Fall is in the air. The wind off the Lake is cool, holding promise of weather to come. Yesterday was a perfect day. The Sun was fierce but the strong North Wind moderated its influence. The result an ideal day to be out and about. I often think that our society needs to call in well rather than sick. Phone the boss and say it is just too beautiful of a day to spend indoors.

We did finally get some rain the other day so my concerns about the local weather are at rest for now. The conditions across the country and around the world are still cause for concern. We need to give serious thought as to how our daily activities impact upon the planet.

Saturday I had the pleasure of being part of the Second Annual Food Fair. The purpose of this yearly event is to promote locally grown food. A secondary purpose is to inform people about healthy food choices. This event is organized by the Food Action Network (FAN) of which I am a long-time member. I will talk more about FAN in future articles. This year the Fair was held in conjunction with the local Farmer's Market. The Farmers' Market takes place on Saturdays between 8 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The Market is held at the local fairgrounds, the site of the Canadian Lakehead Exhibition in the Dove Building. If you in Thunder Bay drop by. It is worth the visit.

It is exciting and encouraging to see people lined up, waiting for the bell, that sounds the beginning of commerce. The market connects producer and consumer. As a shopper you can talk directly with the people who grow what they are selling. This way not only do you get fresh produce at a reasonable price but you make a direct contribution to the local economy. This means that you shopping dollars act as an investment and not just a purchase.

I not only had the opportunity to spend the day at the Market, I also was able to set up a table and promote my own business. I managed two tables, one informing people about permaculture and the other about heritage seeds and seed saving and storage. I enjoy the give and take of sitting at the booth answering questions and talking with people. The ebb and flow of the crowd is all part of the day. When you consider the excellent music provided by Jim and I, it was an exceptional experience.

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