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LETTERS: Great season at the farmers markets

The Penticton Farmers’ Market has grown into one of the South Okanagan’s most popular events.

As 2014 draws to a close, on behalf of the Penticton Farmers’ Market Society, I’d like to say thank you to all of our customers for another great year.

We would also like to acknowledge the City of Penticton, the B.C. Association of Farmers’ Markets, the Penticton Boys and Girls Club, the Downtown Penticton Association, the Shatford Centre, our volunteer Lynne Jones and the local media for their continued collaboration and support.

The Penticton Farmers’ Market has grown into one of the South Okanagan’s most popular events. For 26 Saturdays between May and October of this year, the market transformed the 100 block of Main Street into a hive of energy and local commerce. At its peak, we welcomed upwards of 80 vendors per market and thousands of customers.

Since its humble beginnings in 1991, the Penticton Farmers’ Market board has worked diligently to protect the integrity of the farmers’ market and to provide a place for local, small-scale farmers to sell their goods directly to the public. Today, the market’s success is a testament to these efforts. Next year, we will celebrate our 25th anniversary.

2014 was not without its challenges. The introduction of liquor sales part way though the season, summer events competing for downtown space, the inconvenience to some downtown businesses, limited parking and the growing number of vendors wanting to participate kept us busy. However, there is always room for improvement, and moving forward, the PFM board will work with our stakeholders to find creative solutions and compromises.

In the meantime, we invite everyone to our last Winter Market of the season this Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Shatford Centre. Come and shop for fresh vegetables, eggs and baked goods, pick up handmade gifts and holiday decorations and indulge in a sample of local wine. We’re open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We hope to see you there!

Erin Trainer

Manager, Penticton Farmers’ Market