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Toledo Gets a Second Farmer's Market

TOLEDO -- The Farmer's Market has been a Toledo staple since 1832. Demand is pretty steady for fresh produce like beans, lettuce, watermelon, apples, peaches, and more. And now there'll be vendors satisfying that demand in a second location -- in the middle of the week.

On Wednesdays you'll find produce vendors at Westgate in the Elder-Beerman parking lot. It's an idea that's as fresh as the produce offered, but some of those who sell at the original market are holding back, waiting to see how the second location pans out. To start, there'll be about 15 pioneering vendors who'll be at Westgate to cater to your appetite for field-fresh foods.

Norman Keil, president of the Farmer's Market Association, says, "you always gotta have your pioneers, the ones that will go out and see if it works or not."

Keil also says he likes the idea of the market expanding. "If we can expand our business, maybe we can make it a two-day market," he said.

Organizers worked on the plan for a year. They decided the Elder-Beerman parking lot at Secor and Central is the best location. There's ample room for parking -- putting to rest one of the biggest complaints about the downtown location.

Andy Keil, with Andy Keil Greenhouse, told News 11 they'll "try to work more into the Ottawa Hills area -- people that don't like to drive downtown -- be more in their backyard."

Lawrence Helle, of Helle's Farm, said, "I think you gotta keep it going. The first day might not be good, but after that, they get to know it. It will probably be good."

Customers and vendors also think the mid-week market will fit better in some people's schedules. West Toledo resident Jackie Toth said, "It's close, it's during the week. Sometimes -- a lot of times -- I don't have a Saturday morning to come [downtown], so it gives me an alternative."

Diane Rogers, with Syd & Diane's, said, "Actually I think it's a good night because it's mid-week and people need food mid-week. Monday they eat leftovers. Wednesday it's time to restock."

The Westgate market will be open from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. every Wednesday through the fall.

Posted by PJS