Pat Petersen bought a few fruits and vegetables from Greer Farms Saturday at the first farmers’ market at Bell West Shopping Center in Surprise.
Petersen said she always has loved farmers’ markets and hoped one would open close to her home. This weekend the Surprise resident received what she wanted.
“I’ve always adored farmers’ markets because you can find fresh items, and it’s an opportunity to really help out local folks,” she said.
Edward Buchala, owner of White Eagle Deli & Restaurant and coordinator of the farmers market, said 16 vendors participated in the opening weekend. There are 40 spots available, and he expects more vendors to be added over the next few weeks.
“It was a little slow this weekend because of the holiday, but I’m sure it will pick up,” Buchala said.
He and fellow coordinator Steve Ehman, who owns Coyote Alley Bar, said they want to continue the farmers’ market as long as possible and in return promote the shopping center.
“The more vendors we have, the more exposure we’ll get for the center,” Buchala said.
Debra McDonald, who works with Greer Farms in Waddell, said she was happy to participate in the market and looks forward to it continuing.
“We’re very happy to be here and this gives people the chance to know more about us,” she said.
Karen Natasi, a Sun City Festival resident, said she enjoyed the farmers’ market and hopes more fruit and vegetable vendors attend the next event.
“There are so many farms that I’m sure they can get more variety of fruits and vegetables,” she said. “But I’m very grateful a farmers’ market has been started, and I’m sure it will get bigger and even better. This is still a wonderful start.”
