Put to the Test
In the Market
September 8, 2018
By Robin Fendya
I’m really only here for the food
When you have a “rain or shine” market, the weather can wreak havoc with even the best laid plans. Saturday’s torrential rain, put both our vendors and our loyal market patrons to the test, but I am pleased to report that many or our regular vendors…and our weekly shoppers, braved the elements and prevailed.
Hot and tasty breakfast sandwiches were still being served up by Susan at Café Fiore (bacon, egg and cheese on a homemade biscuit for me!), and her seasonal pumpkin bread was a hit all around.
As with every Saturday, a line of eager people were waiting for their beautifully crafted bouquets from Maryellen at Muth Flower Farm’s tent. Colorful and healthy local produce was being purchased for family meals for the week ahead, from Sorbello Girls, Sara’s and Blenhiem’s bountiful displays. Lucio, from Sara’s, also brought a small selection of mums as promised, to brighten our entryways on such a dreary weekend.
Valente’s was there selling a variety of pastas and Italian specialties, as was Just.No.3, with their signature plant based insect repellent. Delicious breads and fresh baked goods were being snapped up at both Respond Bakery (much appreciated hot coffee too!), and Dulce Artisanal Pastry. Have I mentioned how addicted I am to their sourdough? Perfect for a Jersey tomato sandwich or a sublime grilled cheese.
Talented musician Frank Cervantes delighted us with his songs from the Gazebo and the Haddonfield Public Library joined us for their monthly visit, dispensing information about the many wonderful programs for all ages at the library, free books, and selling large embroidered Friends of the Library tote bags, perfect for both library materials and Farmers Market purchases.
A day like Saturday, really brings into focus why we are all here each week. The vendors, the shoppers, the market managers and volunteers, the sponsors, the people who just stroll down to have a cup of coffee and chat with their friends and neighbors or to enjoy the live music. We care. We care about the sense of community that our little market has created. We care about bringing you the freshest and best local produce, baked goods, prepared food items and quality handcrafted non food items to enhance your meals, your homes, your lives (and ours). We care, that you care enough to show up “rain or shine”. So, thank you. And see you next week at the market! Maybe the sun will show up too.