After nearly a year of diligently planning, Montair is ecstatic to announce the official launch of the Solomon Farmers Market & Mercantile to be held weekly at the Solomon City Park starting Tuesday, June 4th, 2019 from 4:30-6:30 PM.
Organizers say the Solomon Farmers Market & Mercantile (SFM&M) will be working in conjunction with Solomon’s hometown grocery store, Bush’s Market and the KState Research & Extension Office in Abilene, to bring the small rural town and the surrounding communities together for this new and exciting venture. Caveman Liquor in Solomon will also bring to light new recipes that involve incorporating their wines, beers and spirits such as BBQ Bourbon Chicken, beer breads and Kahlúa Chocolate Cake through the SFM&M.
The Solomon FFA and local 4-Hers will be showcasing their produce, plants, flowers and projects throughout the selling season as well. They invite vendors of all ages to apply to showcase their garden produce, jams, homemade goods, crafts and one-of-a-kind merchandise. They intend to draw individuals, micro-businesses, female entrepreneurs, small local agribusiness enterprises and retailers from Dickinson and the surrounding Counties to showcase their premium products.
Not limited to just produce, the curated SFM&M intends to create a destination for customers of all ages to enjoy a fun and welcoming shopping environment Tuesday evenings, with some organic and non-GMO foods featured.
Centrally located in the heart of Solomon at the City Park, the kids can play on the playground while parents and grandparents shop with the various vendors.
SNAP, SFMNP Friendly
Through the help of the Extension Office, we will be able to offer the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the State of Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) participants fresh and locally grown foods. The SFM&M is a direct-to-consumer venture that will provide access to affordable, fresh, locally grown produce, meats, nuts, dairy and
eggs, as well as made in USA and made in Kansas products.
The USDA places a high priority on expanding SNAP so participants are able to access fresh and healthy foods — including heirloom tomatoes and other produce — through farmers markets.
The SFM&M hopes to incorporate the Women Infants and Children (WIC) program as well.
Creating new opportunities for Youth
Research shows that 4-H is the country’s largest youth development organization, which assists in developing citizenship, youth leadership and enhancing decision-making skills. The SFM&M has reached out to various 4-H groups and already received great interest. They will be working with local youth to showcase their talents and 4-H projects. Several 4-Hers have already begun planning their vendor spaces, and have mentioned bringing baked goods, eggs, craft projects and garden produce to sell during the SFM&M. The Solomon FFA plans to sell their locally grown produce and plants while supplies last.
Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, school groups, sports teams, and other similar groups are encouraged to reach out as well to discuss the endless possibilities, such as fundraising, available to them at the SFM&M.
Educating the public
To further impact the community through education, the SFM&M will pair with the K-State Research & Extension-Dickinson County Office to advocate nutritional health by way of cooking and eating healthy while sticking to a budget. Tips on choosing quick and nutritious snacks and healthy recipes will also be provided. Heart-healthy and diabetic-friendly seminars and cooking
demonstrations will also be provided throughout the season during the SFM&M.
More information can be found at www.facebook.com/solomonfarmersmarket.
For more information about the Solomon Farmers Market & Mercantile or an interview, please write to [email protected].
About the SFM&M
The SFM&M was created by a small group of ladies who saw a need for a farmers market in the rural town of Solomon. Working in conjunction with the local grocery store, Bush’s Market, they intend to bring the community together and provide access to affordable and local produce while giving local youth and small businesses new opportunities to showcase their products
