A new sign is being installed at the Hartselle Farmers Market to replace the old one.| Andrea Williamson

Andrea Williamson

Hartselle Enquirer

The Hartselle Farmers Market received a new sign Thur., July 30, and has enjoyed an abundance of customers throughout the summer.

The new sign was placed near the Sparkman Street entrance. According to Mayor Don Hall, the new sign was purchased to replace the old sign that was peeling and faded.

The new sign, however, has not been the only gain for the Hartselle Farmers Market this summer. The customer traffic has also been higher than usual. Glenn Coker, a fifth-year vendor at the market, said that the number of customers has been exceptional.

“This is the best year we’ve had,” Coker said. “This is the most traffic that I have seen. We’ve also had a variety of fruits and vegetables from our vendors that we haven’t had before.”

While he said he did not think it was the main factor, Hall said the large number of customers could have a small relation to a new method of payment that is being accepted. The Hartselle Farmers Market recently began accepting USDA issued coupons.

Whatever the cause of the large crowds, vendor Betty Sanders said that the people are a fun part of the experience. Sanders, who has participated with her husband, Ray, for approximately 15 years, said the customers make it worth sitting in the heat.

“The people make this worth it,” Sanders said. “We meet so many people.”

The vendors, however, are not the only ones to appreciate the farmers market. Customer Janice Brown said she and her husband, Buddy, enjoy buying their produce from the vendors.

“We’re glad it’s here,” Brown said, “and we’re proud of it. I am able to get the best okra here.”

Hall also expressed his appreciation for the farmers market and its impact on the city.

“This gives people a place to come and buy locally-grown fresh produce,” he said. “I’ve always said that there’s nothing like a backyard tomato, and this is where you get it.”