Mason's Farmers Market will start its 11
th season doing what it does best. They'll just do it with more.
From July through October, the market will bring more vendors, more entertainment and events, and a longer schedule to Maple Street in downtown Mason. And the hope? To attract even more shoppers interested in fresh food, produce, and the farmers who bring it to market.
"It's a great way to spend the morning," says Jeff Collar, the new market master. "You learn a lot. Get to talk to farmers. And get excellent produce. It gives you a chance to get out and meet other people, too."'
Collar is applying ideas and making connections from what he learned by attending training for market masters put on by the Michigan Farmers Market Association. He volunteered to manage the Mason Farmer's Market after long-time market master Elaine Ferris retired. As a vendor and recent retiree from a food service career, Collar is well equipped to oversee operations and explore new ways of doing things.
"We're looking to feature a farmer or grower every week," says Collar. "They'll be able to showcase what they're doing and who they area. We want our customers to get to know the farmers at the market, and we want to make sure farmers get to know their customers, too."
To date, the Mason Farmer's Market has 12 to 15 vendors slated to participate—up from seven vendors in previous years. Collar says the major emphasis will be on produce, with some vendors also offering crafts and baked goods.
"It's a farmer's market after all," laughs Collar. "We want it to be a combination of foods."
The Mason Farmer's Market will kick off July 11 and run through the second or third week of October. Hours of operation are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sources: Jeff Collar, Market Master, Mason Farmer's Market
Writer: Ann Kammerer, News Editor
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