Letter: Creole Farmers’ Market takes first steps

Published 11:45 pm Friday, February 20, 2015

The Creole Farmers’ Market is a product of the St. John the Baptist Parish Council, Parish President Natalie Robottom and the Economic Development Committee.

The concept for this Farmers’ Market was first conceived in September 2009. The first committee, under the direction of then Councilman Haston Lewis and School Board member Leroy Mitchell, did an outstanding job of selecting a site, getting fencing around the site, putting up electricity poles and surveying the farmers to get a feel for what they, the farmers, wanted.

After going through many battles, many mountains and numerous stops on the battlefield, the committee grew tired and weary.

Then, Mr. Rodney Nicholas, the newly elected chairman of the Economic Development Committee, came forward with renewed interest and energy. He appointed Nora Pierre and Leroy Mitchell to lead a committee whose main focus would be to get the stagnated Farmers’ Market off the ground.

The first thing that needed to be done was to get committed community members on board and to re-survey the farmers to determine if the interest was still there.

Much to their surprise and delight, the farmers were still interested, although doubtful as to the Farmers’ Market becoming a reality.

With the cooperation and interest of Robottom, the uncompromising dedication of Larry Sorapura, Whitney Jasmine, Silas Cook, Daryl Chauvin, Virgie Johnson and Pierre, the project took its first step. Then along came Eddie “Poppa Duke” Edwards and Catherine Schons of Pleasure Bend, who added additional insight and interest.

The Creole Farmers’ Market is now a reality and going through its toddler stage. Although it is going well, there are still bumps in the road which must be addressed.

Thank you for your support and your help in making the Creole Farmers/ Market the place to be. The Creole Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 5793 River Road in Wallace, at the foot of the Veterans Memorial Bridge.

Nora Pierre

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