To Be Frank: Love thy farmers

To be frank, I am growing a bit weary of listening to the complainers amongst us, specifically regarding the so-called “farmers market.” Island residents have been vocal about their disdain for the titling of the aforementioned farmers market and the lack of produce vendors contained therein. Perhaps there is a minimum requirement of produce vendors that meets the generally accepted criteria for a festival, event or gathering, if you will, to be deemed a farmers market.

I am unsure of this particular number so let us focus on the issue at hand – the complainants.

There are those amongst us who protest the seemingly fast and loose usage of “farmers market” for our third Thursday of the month assembly of local vendors at our island’s recreation center. To these whiners I say this: What difference does it make? Many products, aside from fruits and vegetables, come from farms. Nuts, honey, cotton, woodworkings, fresh-cut flowers and the like are all natural products originating from local and national farming communities.

Calling this local event a farmers market not only advises our local produce growers, beekeepers and fabric makers that they are welcome and wanted, but also alludes to the hope that one day we might, perhaps, have more farmers willing and able to participate in the market at our public square.

Furthermore, whilst the complainers bleat on about the proper usage of terminology, they are missing out on something rather wonderful. Whether the market contains one actual farmer or 50, it always has some fun, festive and fantastic vendors. Not only do marvelous treasures abound, but there is also a vast array of food trucks for a casual dining experience, live music, friends, information and for yours truly, a much-needed respite from my normal routine of working and supervising.

Call it what you want: farmers market, artisan farmers market, festival, craft festival, marketplace, social gathering, relaxation station or whatever keeps your spirit and your soul at peace. I will call it what it is: delightful.