Community at the Market....

What a wonderfully busy, community day last Saturday was. It was Father's Day weekend with several events happening around Elgin including the Wings & Wheels Air Show, the Strawberry Socials at the CASO train station and in Sparta. And we had record numbers at the market! Rain did not deter the market crowd and we had vendors selling out of their product before 10am.

The launch of the Horton Breakfast Sandwich combo last weekend was a huge success! Peameal bacon from Farmgate Markets, farm fresh eggs from Frisa Farms, on an english muffin, with coffee from Coffee Culture (or juice or water if you prefer). A portion of proceeds from each sandwich goes directly back to the Horton Market. See the folks at Farmgate Markets for your Horton Breakfast sandwich and have breakfast at one of our indoor or outdoor cafes.

One of the things that help create a true, community oriented farmers' market is the vendors. Each week I will feature one or two of our vendors so you get an opportunity to meet them and hear their stories - which you may not be able to do during market hours.

Farmgate Markets Inc.

Sandy Lyle and Ray Coddington are the business partners behind Farmgate Markets. Sandy is a full-time farmer who previously had a retail store for frozen meats at his family farm on Fingal Line. They did well with the retail portion, running that from the farm from 1992 to 1997, at which point they started to outgrow their space. He and his farm partner decided to focus on the farming business and they closed the retail portion - or rather, put that business plan on the shelf. Fast forward to 2004 where Sandy and a hockey buddy started talking again about the retail meat business and Farmgate Markets Inc was born.

Now, they needed a really good butcher and placed an ad in the papers. As Sandy says: "Ray was our first hire and we got really lucky with him." Ray's credentials as a licensed Canadian Butcher are top notch. He graduated in the top 3 butchers in all Ontario, apprenticed for 6 years, and trained with 3 master butchers from Germany (hence the REALLY good sausage recipes he makes in-shop). His personal recipes are a testament of his training and his passion. Some recipes have come to him on first try, some have been perfected over years of trial and tribulation. At the time of Farmgate's inception, Ray was working in the wholesale meat industry but missed the customer interaction he had gotten from 15 prior years working in butcher shops and markets. He was living in St. Thomas, saw the ad, and answered the call - synchronicity at it's best!

Ray worked for Sandy and his business partner for about a year, at which time, the structure of Farmgate changed to offer Ray the opportunity to join Sandy as full partner in the business. These guys are passionate about fresh meat - drug free, hormone free, 100% corn fed, no phosphates, no bi-products, and all Ontario raised. They make all of their deli meats and sausage in-shop so you know (and can watch) how it's made. There is an increased demand for this type of production in the meat industry as people's allergies and food sensitivities are on the rise. Their product is ideal for a gluten-free diet.

They have truly built their business from scratch. And their passion and committment to their customers is evident. They have seen both their regular customers at the Horton Farmers Market and some new folks who had not yet heard of Farmgate Markets. (the majority of their advertising is word-of-mouth and it is still spreading fast!) You can also visit them at their shop at 310 Wellington St (south-west corner of Wellington and First Ave) for a full selection of meats, deli cuts, sausages and now carrying some local seasonal veggies to help round out that BBQ meal.

We are happy to have them with us every week as a full-season vendor in the newly renovated market building. Both Ray and Sandy have contributed many hours to the market not only with their on-site shop, but also with their expertise and business advice. Kudos of gratitude!

On a closing note......

As we swing into summer riding this heat wave - expect the market tables to be bursting with produce. Come celebrate Canada's Birthday with us on July 4th - strawberries, kids coralle, and sampling for everyone. Also, the St. Thomas Public Library will be at the market the first Saturday of each month with a selection of books related to the market and community. Bring your library card as you can check these books out on-site!

The connectedness and community spirit is alive and flourishing at the market - a cornerstone of our memories and what keeps us grounded during these turbulent times. These are the times when we take a step back and realize what we are grateful for. I am grateful to be a part of this community. Thank you, as always, for all of your feedback and suggestions. I am glad we connected.

See you at the Market!

Tricia Herbert

Market Manager

(p.s. A SPECIAL thank you to my aunt - Patti Kilmer - one of the resident photographers - MANY great pics to share with you over the next few posts)

NEW - Horton Breakfast Sandwich Combo

What happens when like-minded business' get together and start talking?

Introducing the new HORTON BREAKFAST SANDWICH combo! The folks from Farmgate Markets, Frisa Farms, and Coffee Cultures have cooked up a new, fresh idea to serve breakfast at the market. Farmgate's will be making breakfast sandwiches using their bacon, eggs from Frisa Farms, and coffee from Coffee Cultures to make this combo - all for $5. Or, if you prefer, you can have it with juice instead. A portion of proceeds from the sale of this combo goes back to the Market for promotional funds!
(pssst - Farmgate Markets will be our vendor feature next week)
This weekend is Father's Day - why not barbeque for Dad for a change? Or bring your Dad to the market for breakfast and a coffee?

Strawberry season is here! Berry Hill Fruit Farms is back with their selection of quarts or flats of berries.

McSmiths Organics will have organic strawberries along with loads of lettuce, spinach and bunched beets.

And the Senior Centre folks are back this week with Strawberry Pies! These always sell -out quick so come early!

Green Leaf Pastry is back this week and for the remainder of the market season. Kim, along with her four adorable kids, brings organic specialty baked goods, lemonade, and products from her art studio, Green Fusion.

Be sure to check the NEW "Horton Market Happenings" board in the back lobby of the market building. It lists all upcoming events, contests, and special guests for the market season. We will be asking you - the consumer - to participate in these events by sharing your ideas, your recipes, and your best practices for all kinds of activies from canning & preserving to growing a really big pumpkin.

Look for the customer appreciation draw at a different location throughout the market each Saturday. Follow the 'Foodland Ontario' green and white balloons. This past weeks winner was Lily Lang - Congratulations!

As a friendly reminder, there are no Pets allowed in the market building (signs now posted at entrances). Please continue to send your feedback and comments or track me down at the market - I welcome them all!

See you at the market!

Tricia Herbert
Market Manager

Summary of Market Season so far....

Sorry All - Resending the correct version - I am learning quickly about admin of this valuable tool.

For June 13th at the market….



STRAWBERRIES are HERE!!!! See Berry Hill Fruit Farms for the first pick of the crop!



I remember studying the term Work-In-Progress (WIP) during my university years and thinking then that it was odd to have an actual term for something not quite finished. The more I apply the WIP theory, the more I question: Is anything ever really finished? This year at the Horton Farmers Market is most accurately defined as a WIP year. With the re-opening of the building after many years of inactivity and the shift in our value system to a more locally defined community, we see the work progress forward to a constantly shifting end-product. As we continue to re-define the terms: local, sustainable, producer-based, and healthy eating, so to do the boundaries shift of our local farmers market. So to is this blog a WIP. You may notice changes as we go along - just me getting used to communicating via this method. So after a month of operation this season, here is a brief summary of one of our most valuable inputs -the vendors. After this post, I will start to profile the vendors individually so you can get to know them and their stories. I will continue to announce new vendors, market specials, and upcoming events.


See you at the Market,



Tricia Herbert
Market Manager

Our Indoor Vendors

Farmgate Markets Inc. - this week's special is Old Fashion Summer Sausage! They will not have the gluten free organic breads this week at the market but you can still pick that up at their shop.
Frisa Farms Eggs - pick your own eggs! Bring your own cartons as they are not able to supply recycled cartons. I have a few cartons in the lobby if you would like to recycle those.
Oegema’s Turkey Shoppe - turkey is a great BBQ treat and so good for your diet. Their variety of turkey items is unbeatable - something for every type of cook from BBQ to gourmet!
Coffee Cultures- aside from coffee they sell meal-size muffins, tarts, cookies, and scones. Enjoy your coffee and treat at our indoor cafe.
Jaydancin- Vickie will be making STRAWBERRY and GARDENERS soap this weekend.
Three.Two.Three - a new business venture by two ladies, Jane and Kate. They make herbal teas, lavendar packs, and chakra pillows, using all recycled and organic materials.
Donna Susi Jewellery- beautiful austrian crystal jewelry and other bead work.
Distinctively Tea - bringing a wide selection of loose teas for you to sample and purchase.



Our Outdoor Vendors

Janis McGregor Smith is getting married this weekend so Cathy and Gary from McSmiths Organics will not be at the market. And, newlyweds, Janis & Mark will be back at the market with fresh cut flowers - all AFTER THE WEDDING

Shitake Mushrooms - Carl and Judy Lindsay brought mushrooms to to the market last week and sold out by 10am - they had to rush in another load so they will be ready this week with a full supply.



Hertiage Line Herbs -have a variety of potted herbs to create your own herb garden at home plus dried seasonings for all your cooking requirements.


Berry Hill Fruit Farms - STRAWBERRIES!!!!! The season starts this saturday for Alice of Berry Hill Fruit Farms - I know she is going to be busy!



Erie Gardens - Mary Joicus brings potted plants, flowers, basket arrangements, and loads of gardening expertise each week.


Kids Kraft Korner - The girls think up a creative new craft each week for kids to do, requesting only a small donation to help cover costs.

Janssens Farms - one of our seasoned vendors bringing a variety of fresh veggies, fruit, and apple cider.


Spring Spear-it - Asparagus season is winding down - great your fresh asparagus while it lasts.
Kosciks Greenhouse- Tomatoes that are ground-grown in the greenhouse AND pesticide free! Stan and Rob will be in the North Pavilion.

Leslie Smale - she has several variety of Dalia Tubers - $1 each!!!! This will be her last week so be sure to see her in the North Pavilion and check out her photos of how the daliahs will look in full bloom.

Empire Valley Farms - brings potted plants and herbs

Shasta Dolphin - handcrafted kids hair accessories, knitted hats and kids clothing.

Village Pantry of Belmont - Dilly Dally Bean Dip, Banana Chocolate Chip cookies, and gluten free almond cookies all homemade with only the finest ingredients.

Bonnie Doon Beach Glass Artistry - handcrafted glass jewelry and houseware items

Ethel Mitrovic Pottery - dragonflies & whimsy in her work. Her pottery is both decorative and practical.


Lotus Thai - fresh spring rolls, sticky rice and pad thai!



Sin-O-Buns - baked before your eyes!


Palmers Maple Syrup - maple syrup and different treats to hit that sweet tooth!


Gibsons Honey - bringing honey and beeswax candles.

June brings sunshine,

... shorts, and farm fresh summer produce.

Kosciks tomatoes were a big hit this past Saturday. They will be located in the North pavilion this Saturday along with Empire Farms, Lotus Thai and Sin-o-buns. As the produce grows, so to do the number of vendors at the market. Some of our vendors are full-time vendors, some only come during their product-specific growing season, and some come on an occasional basis. So we get a mix of what’s growing and what creative people are selling. Be sure to visit all three buildings of the market to see what’s happening and who’s selling where.

The interior vendors are a bit of a different story. With the coolers designated to specific spots, those vendors are anchored there. Farmgate Markets, Frisa Farm Eggs, and Oegama’s Turkey Shoppe are there every Saturday with a variety of BBQ needs. Did you try the gluten-free breads yet from Farmgate? Look for Coffee Culture in a new location down a little closer to the indoor café. We can better service your sit-down coffee needs by being a little closer to the café.

Jaydancin soap-making demo’s are a big hit! They show you how easy it is to make your own all-natural soap and adjust the ingredients to suit your needs and preferences. Depending on what kind she is making, you can smell spearmint, sweet orange, or lemon basil drifting in the air.

The herbal products from Three.Two.Three are fun and functional! The Snuggy poos were adorable and very friendly on the environment. All made from recycled materials.

And the family from McSmiths Organics are preparing for a wedding – their daughter Janis (who is also a market vendor for flowers but not till after the wedding) is marrying Mark. So they are using the spinach at the wedding, which is at their farm by the way. They will have loads of lettuce, green onions, and beet greens as they were a big seller. Next Saturday, June 13 is the wedding so McSmiths will not be at the market but look for them returning on June 20^th.

Our customer appreciation draw winner was Tammy Shaw. This is one of my most enjoyed activities of being the market manager – I get to give the presents every Saturday morning. Be sure to sign up – I leave the basket at the indoor café.

My role of market manager is diverse.

The St. Thomas Horton Farmers Market is governed by a board of management that reports to City Council. Once per month we all get together to discuss the on-going improvement of the market and what it offers to our community. The are several people who volunteer their time and effort and nameless support to see the market prosper.

Thank you to everyone involved! It is no small task to bring the market to you each week even for the short 4 hour period that it currently operates.

Be seeing you at the market,

Cheers,
Tricia