The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Paula Amsbaugh and Donita Darlington are co-sponsors of the newly formed Big Sandy Farmers Market and Vendors Fair. It runs every Tuesday from 5:00-7:00 till the end of September.Seeing both of them give the other credit for the event was interesting. So the picture is the only picture I have with both of them. I wanted to support the event and give credit where credit is due. They had an idea and didn't just sit around and talk about it over coffee. They did the work, and the market became a reality. That is to be celebrated. Going to the market and fair to celebrate rural life and those who make it positive is worth celebrating. I visited with Donita Darlington, because Paula wanted her to get the credit. Donita laughed when I told her, and she made sure I knew that Paula was a major reason it got off the ground.

They didn't have any vegetables this time because those who sell veggies had their items sold that were ready to sell.

You must jump through some hoops to have a farmer's market. Amazing how many hoops they must jump through legally to have a true farmers market. Yes, this one was a short notice and a busy time of year, but it got it all started. It's a way to help local vendors too. A way to help support them and give them a little extra cash during these trying times.

"We were pleased we had a handful of vendors. We do have more coming. The Vendors list is growing. The whole thing will expand--more vendors and more attendees."

It's terrific to get together. "There are notable benefits for the community."

"If people need to go to town, maybe they'll come to town on Tuesday, get some groceries, go to the bank, get a pizza, and come to the market."

"We have amazingly talented people in Big Sandy. We made a list of 30 vendors in Big Sandy. We've been busy calling, contacting people on Facebook, emailing, and texting. Because of the short notice and the busy harvest season or last-minute vacations, they couldn't attend the first one."

People grow flowers, bake, can, make soap, quilt, fabric creations, candles, lotions, craft, candy, desserts, pies, and cakes.

It was interesting to work through the multiple state guidelines.

They went to the town council and were approved. They had to buy insurance. "But overall, the response has been very very positive. People are glad they have made an effort.

Last week we did have out-of-town traffic. They stopped because it looked like people were selling something. A couple stopped from Saskatchewan. They had just crossed the border on their way to Las Vegas for a vacation. It was fun to visit them. We were the only ones still packing up, but they stopped and bought several things. They stopped with only one table still up. It was enjoyable to talk to them.

They are working on getting food vendors and have put out a call to some people. Some are still working on their food trucks.

They are hoping everyone will get motivated and take a chance at putting their goods on a table in the future.

"We were pleased for the first time even though it was kind of short notice."

Please call Donitia Darlington at 1-406-270-4716.