by Edward Lynn, Editor
Every day that passes moves the world one day more away from the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, and one day closer to a more normal new normal. And this is true as much here in Eagle Grove as it is everywhere else in the country, and around the world. And the latest example of that is the return of a Farmers Market to Eagle Grove!
The new Farmer’s Market is the brainchild of Jill Torkelson, who owns the vacant lot at the Corner of S. Lucas and SW 1st that now serves as the regular site for the Farmers Market along with her husband Bob Torkelson, a local contractor and developer. “It was pretty cheap rent,” she joked, adding that rent is cheap for vendors as well, as they are not charging any at this time. “I just want it to be fun. And if people make some money at it, even better.”
As to why she decided to start it, Torkelson said “I thought Eagle Grove needed something,” adding that she just had the idea about a month ago. She then checked with the city and state to learn the rules and filed the necessary paperwork.
Next, Torkelson turned to Sara Middleton of Studio Sol who she figured, having recently filed non-profit paperwork and having experience in government and in the Chamber of Commerce, could help with the paperwork and organizing. And help she did, serving as a co-organizer of the new Farmers Market. It was such a good idea I was like, ‘heck yeah’,” Middleton said, adding, “I’m so excited for Eagle Grove to have a Farmer’s Market again,” said Middleton. “It’s a great asset to the community, and we hope to see more and more people at them for many Saturdays to come.”
Some very creative products were available. “Cat Splat Slime,” from Kat’s Creative, was described as “not a sticky slime,” but one that will “come right off.” “It kinda smells like the sunscreen you’d put on a child,” added its creator, and is made with essential oils.
Pink’s Apothecary was offering natural body sprays, bug spray, lip gloss, dandelion and beeswax muscle rub, and other hand made natural products, which are designed to be delightful for everyone, and useable by people with sensitive skin who “can’t have certain things on their body,”
Ashley Bosch, daughter in law of the Torkelsons’ and currently a candidate for the County Supervisor District 5 seat, currently held by incumbent candidate Karl Helgevold, was offering baked goods under the moniker Mama B’s, alongside her Mother in-law whose stand went by the moniker Mama Cow.
Diane Kraft of Goldfield and Donna Smith of Eagle Grove were selling jams, jellies and other items, and plan to sell produce later in the season. They didn’t have a name for their business, but they made up “Jams, Jellies & More” on the spot.
Some of the other fun products that were available were fancy bejeweled garden stakes, home baked dog treats, breads, cinnamon rolls, brownies, mini-cakes, cupcakes, artworks, crafts and more.
There was lots of room left for more vendors, and Torkelson encouraged interested vendors to participate. “Come join, have fun, make a little money, spend a little money…” she said. “And support your community,” Middleton added.
The farmer’s market will run from 9 am to 11 am, every Saturday, unless otherwise announced, through the summer, at least.
(Photos by Edward Lynn)
