ISHPEMING, Mich. (WLUC) – Crafts and baked goods lined the booths at Ishpeming’s first farmers’ market on Sunday.

Fresh goods like vegetables, jams and cookies are made from scratch by locals. Organizers said the market filled a need for vendors to share their trade with the community.

Farmers’ Market Coordinator Kelly Milano said it’s difficult for some residents to travel to Marquette to participate in its farmer’s market.

“This means a lot to the community,” Milano said. “We can see that by the people that are out here. This community is ready for growth, it’s ready for change, and hopefully, this is the start of that.”

About 30 vendors set up shop. There was a variety of goods such as plants, dog treats, crocheted crafts and candy.

“I woke up, and I had said, ‘I hope that we have what people are looking for,’” Milano added. “And so, getting that assortment gives a little bit of everything, so hopefully we’re reaching as many people as possible.”

Local Vendor Pamela Perkins makes homemade jams from hand-grown fruit. She said fruits like red currants are unavailable in stores. She added she wanted to support everything farming and local.

“Stuff closed lately, so we need to reinvent Ishpeming and get people coming, shopping, visiting, staying,” Perkins said.

Perkins explained healthy foods are expensive in supermarkets. Market Shopper Rosemary Aho said local produce is not readily available in the area.

“I just happened to know that a lot of lettuce you get at the supermarket, and that got picked weeks ago, so I know that this is really fresh, and it’s going to hold those nutrients,” Aho said.

Aho bought hand-picked lettuce and said it was the perfect amount to last for the week. When the weather is warmer, she’ll bike to the market. She added she’s glad the market bridges the gap between farmers and locals.

The Ishpeming Farmers Market is held every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Message Milano on the market’s Facebook page to become a vendor.

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