On June 4th, the grand opening of the Farmers’ Market in Susanville got off to a great start at its new location at Pancera Plaza. This year’s market is jointly operated by the Lassen Land and Trails Trust and Historic Uptown Susanville Association under a partnership agreement that both nonprofits hope will expand the market, serve more patrons, and benefit nearby uptown businesses.
“We had 14 vendors and lots of customers,” said Laura Medvin, Market Manager. “Of the eight fresh food vendors (produce and meat), five were from the local area and three were from areas such as Roseville and Los Molinos. They obviously believe our market has strong potential to grow. There are still a few kinks to work out, like I don’t have to set up at 5:30a.m.,” she laughed. “But I’m excited to be working with our vendors, shoppers, and all the volunteers who helped make our first market of the season such as success.”
Some stores along Main Street also opened their doors at 8:00a.m. to attract market shoppers. “We know over time the market will generate more foot traffic to these uptown businesses,” said David Teeter, President of HUSA. “And that’s a good thing for Susanville.”
“It takes a lot of work behind the scenes to plan and organize a Farmers’ Market,” Medvin explained. Susanville employee Dow Davis and members of the City’s Public Works Department coordinated the logistics to close Pancera Plaza on Saturday mornings and to clean the Plaza.
Lassen County staff Ellen Cognina and Tina Hilburn from Environmental Health and the Agriculture Commissioner Office also attended the market to share information with vendors.
“I’m especially grateful to David Teeter and HUSA,” said Medvin. “HUSA arranged for use of a storage facility, restrooms, washing stations, trash receptacles, and the other facilities that a public outdoor market needs,” she explained. “And many thanks to Sargent McGarva from the Lassen County Sheriff’s Department for sending the Sheriff’s Explorer program to bring guided crosswalk service to market. They provided a great service.”
The string trio from the Susanville Symphony played to everyone’s enjoyment at the opening market and more live music is scheduled in the weeks ahead. At the Saturday June 11th Farmers’ Market, the cast from J and J Performing Arts Wizard of Oz upcoming recital will be there to meet and greet the community from 8:30 – 10:00a.m.
The market will also welcome Tim Keesey for live music.
“I noticed the kids really seemed to have a good time at the market,” said Medvin. “They loved the music and were very curious about what the vendors were selling. One patron said the market was like a community festival. It’s a happy place to be on Saturday mornings!”
The Farmers’ Market operates every Saturday from 8:00a.m. until noon through September 24th. Come check it out for locally grown fresh produce, meat, prepared foods and unique crafts!
If you are interested in becoming a vendor, you may pick up a vendor’s packet from the Lassen County Chamber of Commerce offices at 75 N. Weatherlow St. or email Laura Medvin at [email protected] or visit www.lassenlandandtrailstrust.org.
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