A young FFM shopper

It's a Saturday morning in Shelby and things are hopping at the Foothills Farmers' Market at the new City Pavilion. Vendors are busy helping customers as children, parents, adults, senior adults and even dogs amble around the busy market, taking in the sights, sounds and smells. Fresh produce beckons the shoppers: tomatoes, squash, okra, watermelons, peaches, and cucumbers are just a few of the fruits and vegetables available on this August morning. A variety of meats are also available, and then there's local honey, handmade soaps, handcrafted jewelry and a variety of flowering and ornamental plants for sale.
While many people associate the market with spring and early summer, "there's lots of produce available all through the late summer and fall seasons as well," says market manager Angie Smith. "I think a lot of people think that once the summer season is finished, that the market closes, but that's not true," Smith says. In fact, the Saturday and Wednesday morning markets continue to operate until November 28.
Late summer crops such as sweet potatoes, crowder peas, apples and kale are just now becoming available, and soon autumn vegetables like pumpkins, winter squash, turnips and a wide selection of greens will join the mix.
Smith estimates that several hundred people attend each Saturday market, with many more participating during special events such as tastings and on festival days. Approximately 35 vendors line the pavilion each week, with as many as 50 during peak times.
Hours for the market are 8 a.m. - 12 noon Wednesdays and Saturdays.
For more information about the market, visit www.foothillsfarmersmarket.com or go to their Facebook page.

By APRIL HOYLE SHAUF
Special to Shelby Shopper