Market gives local businesses, farms opportunity to showcase produce and products, and shows residents what’s in their backyards
By Olivia Tattory
With rising fuel costs, concerns about pesticide use mounting and recent food contamination recalls, many think there is no better solution than to go local.
Hopewell followed suit and has done just that. From now through October, weather permitting, a Farmer’s Market will be held every Wednesday from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Hopewell Railroad Station on Railroad Place.
Mike Rassweiler owner and operator of North Slope Farm, one of the area’s oldest certified organic farms is the driving force behind the Farmer’s Market. His farm is located off Linvale-Harbourton Road, Lambertville.
What originally began as a small market in front of Failte Coffeehouse in 2000, moved to the restored railroad station site to allow for more space. The market finished last season at the station and began its first full year there the third week of May.
"A lot of people still seem to be hearing about it," said Mr. Rassweiler. "It’s been doing really good and I think the market has a lot of potential in this location."
Not only does the market give local businesses and farms the opportunity to showcase their produce and products, but more importantly shows residents what is basically in their backyards.
"The whole idea is to have people start thinking about what’s available locally," said Pam Flory, a local farmer. "People will make the effort to seek out local stuff as long as they know it’s there."
For Bo Child, owner of The Village Bakery, which specializes in artisan breads, in Lawrence, the business from local markets really makes the difference during the slow summer months. The organic craze in recent years has definitely sparked the interest in local markets, he said.
"I’ve also noticed the many educated consumers that are shopping," said Mr. Child. "People are really looking for quality in what they are buying."
Cherry Grove Organic Farm also participates in the market, selling a variety of vegetables. Griggstown Farm offers locals access to chickens, poussins, quail and duck breast as well as fresh fruit pies and, mozzarella, eggs and quiche.
Olsson’s of Lawrence, a fine food retailer, offers the store’s best selling cheese and olive selection as well as fruit spreads and olive oil at the market. Owners and Hopewell residents Rudie and Jennifer Smit, who bought the store in February, said the market benefits the community in many ways.
"It serves as a social function to the community and you don’t see that as often anymore, said Mr. Smit. "People meet each other here and talk about things going on in the town," he said.

