Summer’s bounty is abundant at Mon Valley farmers markets

Jenn Codeluppi / Mon Valley Independent
John Patrick of Belle Vernon purchases a cantaloupe from Tammy Majewski of Carroll Township at the Belle Vernon Farmers Market on Wednesday evening.

By Hannah Hutter
For the Mon Valley Independent
With summer coming to an end and fall quickly approaching, farmers markets are getting ready to finish selling their produce for the season.
Among the many markets, there are several markets in the Mon Valley.
Each market offers the opportunity to buy locally-produced fruits and vegetables, as well as support other local vendors.
Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Gina Lynn said each market features at least one local farm, including Triple B Farms, Christner Farms and others. Other locally-made consumable products include wines, jarred goods, honey, popcorn and more.
“We are very fortunate to have four quality markets in our communities,” Lynn said. “This gives residents plenty of choices and options to purchase locally grown produce.”
Irma Hiller of Monongahela’s market said she believes farmers markets are important to bring in local and fresh fruits and vegetables for those who may not have access to them.
Monongahela’s market is open 3 to 6 p.m. Fridays through Sept. 28 at Chess Park. They have three local farms and about 10 other vendors weekly, including the Lions Club who will be selling brooms. Other goods include pickles, jams, cupcakes, ice cream and more.
Hiller also said she believes communities should be supporting their local farmers markets.
“Why not support local business? It’s right there and easy to get to,” Hiller said. “We have a lot of seniors who don’t have cars that are able to walk and buy fresh produce.”
Lynn agreed with Hiller saying the chamber advocates for shopping local and supporting small businesses, and local farmers are equally important.
“These markets create an opportunity for residents to support local farms and other vendors of consumable products without having to leave their community or drive a far distance,” Lynn said. “The markets provide convenience, quality products, seasonal favorites and tons of variety.”
Belle Vernon Farmers Market is open 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays at J.E. Ted Kuhn Park. Local fruits and vegetables are sold along with eggs, honey, garlic, jewelry and more.
Borough Mayor Gerald Jackson said farmers markets are important because they are the backbone of the country.
“Agriculture is number one in Pennsylvania and tourism is number two,” Jackson said. “I do it to help the town, to promote the town.”
Lower Belle Vernon patron John Patrick said he has always believed in local farmers.
“I believe in the quality of food they give us. The fruits and vegetables are so much better,” Patrick said. “I’d buy all my produce local if I could.”
Senior community members also receive $20 vouchers for the farmers market, and there is a shuttle that can be used if someone can’t drive or it’s too far of a walk to the market.
“Garlic Lady” Francy Angelo from Perryopolis only sells at the Belle Vernon Farmers Market and to private customers. Angelo said she does it for her kids to see how money works.
“I want them to see that they earn money from doing work,” Angelo said.
Honey and egg sellers George and Mary Ann Frich also only sell at the Belle Vernon Farmers Market.
You can support several other Mon Valley markets on the following days:
• Charleroi Farmers Market 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays at the Market House in Charleroi across from Rite Aid.
• Perryopolis Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays at the Perryopolis Circle.
• North Belle Vernon Farmers Market, 3 to 6 p.m. Thursdays 3 to 6 p.m. at North Belle Vernon Community Bank Park.
• The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank’s Glassport Green Grocer Farmer’s Market, located at the Glassport Honor Roll Park, 440 Monongahela Ave. The market is open year round on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and features produce from several area farms.
• Renzie Merchant Market, Renziehausen Park, McKeesport. The farmer’s market is open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays near Lake Emilie and McKeesport Fire Station No. 2.
Hannah Hutter is a student at Mount Pleasant Area High School and editor-in-chief of its student newspaper, The Cymbal. Hutter is serving as a Mon Valley Independent guest writer while completing her graduation project requirements.