Students and staff show support for a local farmers market

It’s a warm Sunday morning in Kansas City, the kind of morning that gives early City Market shoppers a small reprieve from the excessive heat and humidity that surely will come later in the July summer day. Corner musicians play their guitars and flutes for any spare change, and fragrant spices from the international spice market intermingle with the smell of the Italian sausages sizzling on the grill a few stalls down.

The River Market is a historic neighborhood located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Since its start in 1857, the City Market has become the largest farmers market in the region and boasts produce, flowers and other items every Saturday

and Sunday.

“My favorite thing at the farmers market would have to be seeing all the cool people selling things and the live music that they have going on there,” sophomore Grace Atkins said. “It’s also very interesting to people watch there.”

Vendors tend to their flea market stations, selling kitschy antiques and vintage clothing. Children squeal in delight as they exit the bounce house. Flower peddlers, grabbing stems tucked in the back of their vans, arrange floral bouquets, and local farmers proudly display seasonal fruits and vegetables.

“I like how it’s filled with color and antique things,” sophomore Kennedy Smith said. “My favorite thing to buy is flowers because they are a summertime tradition and symbol for me. I highly suggest going to the River Market.”

Smith said she enjoys the market not only for the physical appeals, such as the different stands and merchandise, but also for the diverse atmosphere. With homegrown goods and fresh produce, Smith is able to enjoy an array of food items while experiencing different cultures and avoiding the stereotypical grocery store.

“I think because local people sell it, it really shows that where we live, everything is kind of the same and when you go to the market you see different types of things and different cultures and different kinds of food there,” Smith said.

Similar to Smith, assistant lead custodian Robert Perez said he visits the farmers market for the unique atmosphere. He enjoys spending time with friends and family at the market and supporting local farmers by using fresh produce to make his own salsa.

“It’s good to give back to the community, making sure that we keep it here instead of going to outside sources,” Perez said. “I think it’s a great place to take your kids, take your family, friends, first date, whatever. Just go enjoy yourself.”

With access to a variety of fresh produce from local farmers at the market, Atkins has a new appreciation for what the farmers do to help the community.

“I think the work they do is worth the time and effort because many people appreciate their work and what they do for the local farmers market,” Atkins said. “It’s better to support local farmers than supporting food and produce that is shipped in from somewhere else.”

In supporting local farmers, by buying local products, Atkins said one can leave a positive impact on the community as a whole. She encourages other students to try new things like the River Market for a fun, meaningful experience.

“It gives our community fresh and new foods to try that are healthier than things you would buy at the grocery store,” Atkins said. “I think most people at Southwest know about the farmers market, but I’m not sure that everyone’s given it a try. I think it’s something they should definitely try.”