new market pg 1 8-6-20
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- Category: Current Issue
By Linda Lemmon
Town Crier Editor
PUTNAM --- Emily Barnes, the new Putnam Saturday Farmers Market "market manager," said she is "excited to bring new ideas" to one of the top farmers markets.
Barnes said: "Tim and Renee were great managers, and they gave their time and energy to the Market for over 9 years. I know that their efforts are greatly appreciated and I will be making sure that this stays one of the best farmers markets in our area. Many in our community depend on the market, both consumers and vendors alike, and it’s vital to keep it running smoothly and allow growth. I am currently working on expanding the variety of products offered at the Market, by bringing in some new farmers and artisans and working with current vendors for their ideas, input, and opinions."
She said "I’m excited to bring new thoughts and ideas to the Market, while also continuing some procedures and traditions from the previous market managers.
Barnes said she took the volunteer position "as I find it very important to be active in my community and help wherever possible. I was born and raised in Putnam, and feel very strongly about giving back to my town." She's come to the farmers market as often as she could, she added.
She takes market safety very seriously in these COVID-19 days. "COVID-19 has impacted the market in a few ways, and will continue to do so until restrictions are lifted by authorities and until it is safe. We have reorganized how shopping is done at the market, by turning it “inside out” - vendor spaces face outwards in the pavilion, facing the road or the river, and shoppers may enter the vendor space one at a time and do their shopping. Lines to each vendor are spaced out by markers on the pavement, to ensure proper social distancing. All guests are also asked to wear face masks, and whenever possible - we ask that they only send one family member to shop. We are adhering to the State of CT and Department of Agriculture guidelines for farmers markets, and it’s important to follow these instructions to ensure we remain open."
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