JAMESBURG — Locals turned out in droves as the town’s new Farmers Market unfurled its tents and made its debut on West Railroad Avenue this month.
The market opened with four local vendors and according to Diane Lemelman, chairwoman of the Jamesburg Revitalization Coalition’s Market Committee, everything went right.
“We had great weather and awesome vendors, with a very nice selection of fruits, vegetables, flowers, honey products and kettle corn,” Lemelman said. “We even had a live beehive demonstration. The visitors to the market told us they were very happy.”
JRC President Elliott Stroul said at least 600 visitors came to the market on July 12.
“This far exceeded our initial expectations for opening day,” he said. “Farmer Al’s had to make two restocking runs, and Von Thun Farms went back for more goods once. Rachel Douglas sold out of honey for the day, and a lot of people bought a lot of kettle corn. The market vendors were pleased and are looking forward to the rest of the season.”
The Farmers Market is being held on West Railroad Avenue each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Oct. 18.
“I was pleased with the traffic flow and the presence of the Jamesburg Police Department. Everything went without a hitch,” Stroul said.
Visitors also stopped by the JRC/JHA (Jamesburg Historical Association) booth to speak with Borough Historian and Councilman Thomas Bodall.
The second market date, July 19, brought out similar crowds and enthusiastic responses, organizers said. Signage around the borough, local newspaper coverage and word-of-mouth helped publicize the market.
“The project is gaining momentum and will start building on itself as word spreads,” said Brian Blatz, co-owner of Fiddleheads Restaurant and chairman of the JRC’s media committee.
For more information, call Stroul at 732- 512-7417 or visit the JRC Web site at www.ilovejamesburg.com.