Many outer East Portland farmers markets have closed for the season. But these vendors are still ready to help with Holiday meal shopping, through November …
Even with a cool nip in the air, shoppers continue to enjoy getting fresh local produce and prepared foods at the Lents International Farmers Market.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although it’s moved from place to place since it was started in 2006 by community volunteers, it looks like the Lents International Farmers Market (LIFM) has found a good and permanent home in the parking lot on SE 92nd Avenue, across the street from Portland Fire & Rescue Lents Station 11.
Since its 2020 opening market took place on June 9, shoppers and vendors continued to meet every Sunday at the LIFM, even during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic: So Market Manager David Oberstein told East Portland News at the November 11 market.
LIFM Market manager David Oberstein says he’s pleased to learn that the market’s location finally seems secure.
“Without a doubt, this is been a challenging season, but also a very rewarding one,” Oberstein reflected. “We’ve had a lot of community members coming out every Sunday, consistently supporting our local farms and vendors – that’s been really encouraging for all of us; especially during the time we were uncertain if we would even be able to keep operating.”
Part of what has helped is the perception among shoppers that, due to the sanitation steps taken by the Market, and being outdoors, it’s a safer option to shopping inside a building, he remarked. “We’ve built a really safe space; and many shoppers say they really appreciate that they can still get their fresh local product here.
“We probably see between 600 and 1,000 customers coming through the Market each Sunday; that keeps our vendors happy,” grinned Oberstein.
Shoppers talk with vendors to learn how their products are made.
Stock up for Holiday meals
At the last two markets of the season, on November 15 and November 22, shoppers will find growers bringing in their farm-fresh end-of-season produce.
“We’re seeing some beautiful winter squash, some storage root crops, and perhaps some dried beans coming through – with mushrooms and honey to come in the last couple of weeks, Oberstein said. “Plus we have hot prepared foods, freshly-roasted coffee beans, locally-made hot sauce, and ginger beer – all great things for the Holidays!”
At the ever-popular N & N Amaro Produce stand, shoppers are ready to buy; socially-distanced, of course.
Market’s location is secure
The LIFM’s nomadic ways in the past have been attributed to the Lents Town Center renewal projects that gobbled up one empty lot after another.
“There is still the potential of some development of the vacant property, just north of where the Lents International Farmers Market operates; in the giant field between us and the Wattles Boys & Girls Club Center.
“But, we’re working with the development company; and they say that the LIFM will be permanently-located in this space; in fact, they have included this Farmers Market as part of their development plan package,” Oberstein announced. “We expect to be here for many years yet to come, even to those changes in the area!”
A customer buys a traditional savory potato pastry at Happy Moment Farm stand.
Manager gives thanks
Oberstein reflected, “We’re thankful for our community of regular shoppers who keep this Market vital; and we’re also thankful for our vendors, who want to keep supplying good, fresh food to the local customers. We expect to have all of our vendors to come back next season.”
And, there wouldn’t be a market without the venue, he added. “So we’re grateful to be partnered with Palindrome Communities – their investments include Zoiglhaus Brewing Company – that provide us with this parking lot, in which to run this farmers market.”
Lents International Farmers Market
+ Open Sunday, November 15 and November 22
+ 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
+ On SE 92nd Avenue near SE Reedway Street, between SE Foster Road and Harold Street – and across the street from Portland Fire & Rescue Station 11
Learn more at their website: CLICK HERE
© 2020 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
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