By Caitlyn Austin, Staff Writer
On Sept. 9th, Armstrong hosted its very first farmer’s market in the courtyard just outside the Student Union. The farmer’s market was organized and presented by the Recreation and Wellness Department and the Office of Multicultural Affairs. Megan Feasel, the director of the Student Recreational Center, said “We think it’s important for students to have access to healthy food and information about how to eat healthy and local.”
A selection of vendors, information tables, and live entertainment were available for students to take part in. Local Farm Bag, Step up Savannah, the Forsyth Farmer’s Market, and the Wilmington Island Farmer’s Market were ready and willing to provide information about their respective programs to anyone who was interested. The Health Science Department of Armstrong also had a booth offering tips for living a healthy lifestyle with great cooking techniques and recipes.
Food venders had a strong presence at the market, selling everything from produce to coffee. Alak Georgia Pecans provided different varieties of its namesake nut. Adams Farms and Jacobs Produce offered up a variation of in-season fruits and vegetables. Andrea Morganson brought honey and a mobile bee unit. Frali Gourmet LLC came armed with pasta in all shapes and sizes, and a colorful assortment of marinated vegetables. The King of Pops served up popsicles; perfect to cool off with on a hot day. Sonja Rota arrived with heaps of bread and cheese to sample. Joe’s Homemade Catering tempted everyone’s sweet tooth with their delicious baked goods, and Perc Coffee provided everyone a jolt and a geography lesson as they sold coffee from all over the world.
Seven Willows attracted customers with its handmade, delicately perfumed soaps, candles, and lotions. The Oatland Island Wildlife Center was also in attendance giving out information about its preserve and inviting students to their annual Halloween Hike. A canned food drive for Second Harvest took place during the farmer’s market and, due to generosity from students and faculty, was very successful.
Live music was the entertainment of the day, with performers Al Harris, Jason Salzer, and Melanie Mirande using their incredible talents to attract and regale viewers. Their music could actually be heard to the far corners of campus, grabbing the curiosity of students.
When asked about their experience, most vendors said they enjoyed being at the farmer’s market and they were glad Armstrong sent invites. The Jacob’s Produce representatives commented that, “We sold a lot of peaches. We would definitely come back for another farmer’s market.” Second Harvest said, “those who knew, donated” with regards to their food-drive. The ladies over at the Joe’s Homemade Catering booth said, “It was a wonderful experience.”
