By Anita Weier
Northside News
Excitement was in the air, as were enticing smells and sights, as the Northside Farmers Market launched its 20th season in May. Matt Galle, co-manager of the market with his wife Sabrina Hilton, was looking forward to their eighth summer of doing so. They were dating when they started management work, and he proposed to her at the market.
“It has been a really enjoyable experience, getting to know a lot of people,” Galle said. “The market is a social club for some.” Besides seeking vendors, they find musical entertainers, who are paid $25 plus tips for each Sunday session.
Forty vendors, who pay $25 for each Sunday or $300 for a season, had signed up by June, though numbers vary by the week. “We are producer-based. All the farmers grow their own crops,” Galle said on a June Sunday. This summer, crops and prepared food have been expanded. “Quite a few of the prepared food vendors operate out of FEED Kitchens,” he said.
“We are recruiting volunteers. We are always looking for more,” he added. Those interested can email manager.nfm@gmail.com.
The market is led by a seven-member board headed by President Fiona Stoner. Galle credited the Bruns Family, who own the shopping center, the Willy Street Co-op and Old National Bank for their cooperation and support. The market is well-attended by individuals and families. Many also bring their dogs, who must be leashed.
A new program sponsored by Healthy Food for All gives people a chance to buy one basket of food for themselves and another to give to someone in need.
The outdoor market operates through Oct. 20 on Sundays from 8:30–12:30. Sometimes a winter indoor market has also been arranged.
A variety of vendors at the market in June included Capri Cheesery of Richland County. The owner, Felix Thalhammer, makes cheese at Cedar Grove Cheese in Plain. “We have been at this market since 2020. It’s a good market and getting better,” he said.
Jenny Jams LLC offers “Sunshine in a Jam.” A big hit is pepper jam and jelly. Habib Douss of Great Lines, who lives in Browntown near Monroe, offers Colosseum Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Face Painter MetamorFace provides much fun for children, and some adults, at the market. Sarah Olson offers Tarot Readings costing $5 for adults, $1 for kids and free Doggy Divinations “just for fun.” Dogs pick a card and then get a treat.
