The Hope Farmers' Market held the first market of the season this morning, and many citizens turned out for a chance at fresh fruit and veggies, plus baked goods, canned goods, fresh meat, eggs, and other homemade wares. To kick off the season, a ribbon cutting was held and the Hope Farmers' Market Board was in attendance for the ceremony.

Mayor Don Still spoke a few words when he welcomed participants and shared his appreciation for the hard work of board members and those who spent years making the Farmers' Market a possibility. "What a great kickoff, what a good crowd," Mayor Still said. "This is what a dream will start out as and what it can turn into. I want to thank Jodi and everyone involved for having the dream, and let's celebrate everyone today. I hope you have a really good season."

In attendance today were a few fan-favorites from previous years like the Mint Man, Carolyn's Kitchen, Farm on the Hill, Salinas Farm, Solomon's Farm, as well as Sharon Wilson, Sylvie Farms, the Kirkpatrick family, and HAPS. HAPS students worked the table and answered questions for patrons about the items they have planted and tended for months now. "This is fun," HAPS student Konner Moore said. "A lot of schools don't do this type of stuff, hands-on with the garden. I think it gives a lot of kids an opportunity to get out and do something new and learn something different."

A few new vendors were at Farmers' Market this morning: Darlene Beasley with baked goods and the Fitch Family with fresh eggs and baked goods. Both Darlene Beasley and young Haylei Fitch said they was enjoying their first Farmers' Market and looked forward to coming back. Another new addition to Farmers' Market this year is the inclusion of items like canned salsa and pickles.

Hosting the first Hospitality Table of the year was Civitan with fresh fruit cups and individually wrapped goodies, plus water and coffee. Civitan secretary Twyla Pruden said she and fellow Civitan members were thrilled to be at the first market of the season. "This is always one of our favorite events to attend," Pruden said. "We really enjoy getting to know the famers and vendors, plus all the people in the community who participate. It's also a great opportunity to share with others about our local Civitan, Civitan International Research Center, and all of the things our organization does."

Market Manger Deanna Gilbert said the first market of the season was a success. "Its been awesome," Gilbert said. "We had a great turnout for the first market, especially since many of our farmers' produce isn’t quite ready yet. We are all looking forward to this whole season."

Hope Farmers' Market occurs every Tuesday morning from 7am to 11am at the Hub in downtown Hope. Any and all are welcome to browse the fresh, locally-grown produce, baked goods, homemade wares, fresh meat and eggs, plus much more.