Elkhart's Farmers Market off to a good start

[May 30, 2012]  ELKHART -- Elkhart's Farmers Market, located in historic downtown Elkhart at the corner of Gov. Oglesby and Latham streets, began the season on Saturday with fresh produce, baked goods and live plants. The market will be open every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon through Oct. 27.

"People missed having a farmers market in Elkhart," says Sara Gieseke of Elkhart. Taking the task on herself, she was mentored by Susan Wachter of the market in Lincoln's Scully Park, where Sara takes her produce and baked goods on Wednesdays. "I'm looking for more vendors for Elkhart now, especially baked goods," adds Gieseke.

Gieseke, who owns Sara's Produce in Elkhart, has five gardens totaling approximately 2 acres and an 8-by-16-foot greenhouse. Her greenhouse provided an early start for fresh produce for the market, including strawberries, lettuce and green onions. She also has plant starts available for purchase, such as tomatoes, peppers, broccoli and various flowers.

Vowing to stay on their diet, customers Paul and Peggy Lee of Elkhart purchased strawberries at the market. "They are sweet and juicy and taste like the real strawberries I remember as a kid," said Paul Lee.

Banana and zucchini breads, cookies, Texas cake, and muffins are among the baked goods available. Gift boxes of tasty treats can be purchased for those wanting to share with family and friends.

"We have lots of sweet corn coming," exclaims Gieseke. "And tomatoes, cucumbers and zucchini will be probably ready by next weekend."

Customer Carolyn Gaston of Elkhart adds her support of the new market by helping Gieseke with customers.

Market shoppers can also enjoy a cool drink or lunch at Wild Hare Café and shopping at Horsefeathers Antiques and Gift Shop, Little Foxes Shop, and Birdsong Books and Vintage Shoppe, all on Gov. Oglesby Street in historic downtown Elkhart.

[By PEGGY LEE]