As appear in The Bugle-Observer ~ February 18, 2015
The start of a new chapter in the life of the Woodstock market
Farm market report Keith Helmuth
A new chapter in the life of the Woodstock Farm and Craft Market has begun. But first, a correction from last week’s report; I gave an incorrect phone number for Pam Burpee. Her correct number is 328-3706. As reported, Pam is now offering a muffin, coffee, and tea service on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.. This makes the Farm Market a new place for coffee klatch groups to get together. Pam is happy to expand this service to other days of the week (except Friday) and will do so on request, which is why it’s important to get her phone number right.
It’s the new chapter in the Farm Market’s life that makes this opportunity possible. The Market now has convenient seating for at least 15 to 20 people depending on the arrangement of tables and chairs. The muffin, coffee, and tea service was set up as scheduled on Valentine’s Day despite the extremely low morning temperature. The draw for the Valentine’s Day cake was held at 1 p.m. on Saturday and the winner was Portia Lynn. Thanks to the many folks who entered the draw while shopping at the Market last week.
Even though the snow is still piling up and swirling along the river bank, there is always easy parking at the Market, the ground level entrance on the north side is always well plowed out, and inside the Market Building it’s always warm and cozy.
The interior renovations in the Market are now almost complete. Last week added a new shelving unit for used books at one end and a new unit for regional authors’ books at the other end. Several new books from local authors are now on the shelves, including an upbeat illustrated children’s book by Keith Lyon on dealing with mental illness. The book is titled Princess Madison and Princess Haley. For more information go to www.keithlyonbooks.com Book events for Keith Lyon and other regional authors will be scheduled in the future. This is another way the new arrangements in the Woodstock Farm Market can be used for special events.
There is a sad note for the Farm Market this past week as well; long time vendor Dick Cougle passed away. Dick has been well known for his log cabin birdhouses and furniture for children. We will miss Dick’s visits to the Market and remember fondly his contribution to its growing success.
KEITH HELMUTH
One of the founders and a long-time member of the Woodstock Farm Market