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The Union County Commissioner's Office picked a great day, July 21, 2007, for the first Union County Farmers' Market. Early fog lifted, the sun came out, and people gathered to be a part of the excitement.

The weekly event is expected to become a Saturday morning tradition during summer months. Featuring farmers, gardeners, artists, authors, entertainers, handcrafters, and service providers (such as knife sharpeners), it's the place to buy fresh produce, to support local agriculture, and to have a good time.

Corn, squash, cucumbers, and green beans were sold by the ear, the peck, and the bushel. Custom jewelry, flower arrangements, potted plants, metal art, baked goods, crafts, and fun things for kids (including face painting) were available. Everyone was looking to buy fresh vegetables and many expressed a desire to support local growers.

Nate and R.J. Brown, two of Blairsville youngest farmers, had six bushels of green beans for sale. Wearing bib overalls and ear to ear smiles they peddled their produce under the name of “Brown Brothers' Beans”. The two boys, ages 6 and 10, picked the beans, made up signs, did the selling, and sold out before 9:00 a.m. (They were supervised by Grandmother Jerri Brown.)

Julie, Freddie, and Dakota Collins had white half-runner beans, squash, and some corn. They sold out before 8:30 a.m. (Julie had a backup plan and was also selling handmade beaded earrings.)

Shane Morris and Pat Knight had half a truck load of sweet corn. It lasted a little longer but was gone by 9:15 a.m. Shane said, “We could have sold more if we had brought it. We'll be back next week for sure.”

Bob, Chanel, and Ashley Cordell had a good supply of their “Little Drone Apiary” honey. Bob said, “This place will really get going in a week or two when word gets around. We plan to come back every week until September.”

The Union County Farmers' Market creates a new opportunity for local farmers and crafters to sell fresh produce and hand-made items. It gives area residents and out-of-town visitors the chance to taste the best of what the mountains have to offer.

Lamar Paris, Peggy Deyton, Larry Garrett, and everyone else involved in organizing the 1 st Union County Farmer's Market have provided Union County citizens a chance to go greener. It's an event that's greatly appreciated by many.

The Union County Farmers' Market is located in the back parking lot of the Union County Courthouse and will continue every Saturday until September. The hours are from 7:30 a.m. until Noon. For more information call the Commissioner's Office.