Many made market work

The Vicksburg Farmers’ Market ended Sept. 13, and I’m writing to express my personal appreciation to the Vicksburg Mayor and Board of Aldermen for the support offered by the city for this program.

I’ve lived in Vicksburg for over 25 years and, during this time, there have been several attempts to organize a farmers’ market. What contributed so much to the success of the 2008 Vicksburg Farmers’ Market was the support received from the city, from city employees and a tireless cadre of volunteers.

Market attendees represented the rich diversity of our city — younger, older, couples with small children, singles, every ethnic group, regulars and occasional visitors and were from the city as well as tourists other states and countries. I had a booth at the market and met travelers from Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Japan, England and Scotland — all enjoying and exploring the culture of Vicksburg and the South. In my opinion, and talking with other vendors and volunteers, the market fostered a tremendous sense of community.

As a vendor who set up every Saturday at the crack of dawn, rain or shine, and sweated through the summer heat with everyone else, I’m grateful for the experience for many reasons:  The market volunteers and organizers and the city volunteers were the best I’ve ever worked with; the live music was a weekly treat for me and for shoppers and travelers; the location afforded easy access; set up and clean up by city employees was professional and smooth.  The 2008 Vicksburg Farmers’ Market was a “Vicksburg Success,” a great addition to the summer season and one that I hope will be repeated again next year.

Heather Burns-Garcia

Vicksburg