To the Editor:

A Farmers Market can say much about its city. Local residents come to make their purchases and form relationships with the farmers and vendors. Tourists come to the area, eat in the restaurants, which use locally grown food, and shop in unique shops.

In 2006, there were 88 Farmers Markets in Virginia. In 2016, there were around 250 local farmers markets. Virginia Cooperative Extension estimates that if each household spent $100 a week on local produce, consumers could invest $1.65 billion back into the local economy. This is a very good reason to support our local Farmers Market

Franklin has the wonderful pavilion downtown. It is a great place to meet and become aware of all this area has to offer. There is a wealth of product which is grown here and unique to Franklin and the surrounding area. Because of our length of growing season here, we have strawberries in May to collards in January. In between, there are sweet potatoes, broccoli and cabbage. There are several local farms that raise their own beef and poultry. Year round, there are eggs, honey, local mushrooms, peanuts, baked goods, homemade soaps, lotions, flowers, artisans and musicians, all of which Franklin can call their own.

One goal will be to engage with a number of local organizations to promote and make people aware of the benefits of healthy eating habits and exercise. A local fitness shop will promote walking as a simple health benefit. We have an excellent nutrition department at our local hospital. They can also make people aware of their nutrition program and educate on healthy eating and its benefits of buying fresh and local.

Our special summer Wednesday Market will begin on Wednesday, May 30, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the pavilion, located at 210 S. Main St. People can come by and make their purchases for the weekend before heading to the beach or lake. They may want to stay for the car show, listen to some music and take a midweek break. Saturday’s regular Market will start on June 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

We have many returning vendors: We have locally grown produce, jams, jellies, baked goods, local honey, herb infused vinegars and rubs, Hubs peanuts, goat milk soaps and lotions and gourmet popcorn. We also have several local artisans who have crocheted items, handmade baskets and artwork.

In addition, we have some new ones who will bring coffee and ice cream, locally grown beef, eggs, barbeque, gluten free baked goods, plants and even a pizza oven! Balloons for the little ones.

Hope to see everyone at the pavilion on May 30.

Karen Cobb
Franklin