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thevalleyadvantage.com
June 17, 2016
Downtown Carbondale to host weekly farmers market by Christopher Cornell
ADVANTAGE EDITOR
The idea of fresh, locally sourced food intrigues you, but does the question of where to get it have you stumped? For folks living in the Carbondale area, an answer is coming in the form of a weekly farmers market Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Memorial Park on Main Street beginning next weekend and running into November. Doug Calzola, the manger of the market, is a third-generation Carbondale resident who said his goal is to provide the freshest and tastiest produce available. The fruits and vegetables you’ll buy at the farmers market will be allowed to ripen fully in the field and then brought directly to the market — no long-distance shipping, no gassing to simulate the ripening process, no sitting for weeks in storage. “Family farmers need your support now that large agribusiness dominates food production in the U.S.,” Calzola said. “Small family farms have a hard time competing in the food marketplace. Buying directly from our local farmers gives them a better return for their produce and gives them a fighting chance in today’s globalized economy.” Calzola said he is responsible for the day-today operation of the market, and part of his job is to provide constantly open lines of communication between the farmers market, the stand holders and the shopping public. To that end, Calzola will be available during market hours to handle any problems and issues that may arise and to be a welcoming ambassador to every person who enters the market. The Farmers Market in Memo-
Get Grillin'
Members of the Farmers Market on Main Committee include, from left, Michele Bannon, Christine Tocki-Mulvey and Laure Carlo.
rial Park and Main Street is operated by the City of Carbondale in cooperation with the Greater Carbondale Chamber of Commerce and other civic groups. “Farmers markets serve not only as a way for people to purchase locally grown produce but also as a chance for them to connect with others within their communities,” said Michele Bannon, city clerk and committee member. “Purchasing local goods is an experience that promotes a sense of place, important in making individuals feel tied to their communities.” “I love the Market on Main Street concept and the chamber didn’t hesitate to jump on board. This market will bring customers not only to the market but to the surrounding businesses as well as playing a crucial role between the customers and local farmers. Nothing beats farm
Your Weber Grill Headquarters *Free Assembly!
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fresh,” said Laure Carlo, executive director of the Greater Carbondale Chamber of Commerce.” Officials say there will also be plenty of parking because the meters are not active on Saturdays. “Memorial Park and Main Street will achieve the perfect social setting for people to meet and greet while they purchase their goods,” Bannon added. “I want the farmers market to bring back Carbondale to the old days like my grandparents remember when the streets were bustling with people,” Calzola said. Area farmers and vendors interested in participating in the farmers market are asked to contact Calzola at 570-479-4933 or dcalzy626@echoes.net. Call 570-282-4633 for entry forms.
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