New Oak Park farmers market manager Colleen McNichols, 54, of Chicago answered a few questions for the Oak Leaves on June 24 about the market, in its 42nd season this year, and what makes it unique.
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Q: What makes this farmers market stand out?
A: The variety and the diversity is what we’re trying to bring. The guest vendor thing is really exciting. Guest vendors like Brian Severson Farms, who has organic corn and flour, share their products each week. I love the vendors. I’m so proud of them. One of our vendors has the total perfect Oak Park story: she grew up here, and now she vends here and her dad performs with the farmers market band. We’re just trying to complement all the vendors we already have.
Q: How does the community respond to the market?
A: People are very loyal here. This could not exist without the incredible support of the people of Oak Park. People give great feedback. They tell you what they like and they don’t like. Without village support, I don’t think it would be this robust and successful. … It’s completely worth getting up at 3 a.m. for.
Q: What do you make of the popularity of the doughnuts at the market?
A: Anything that becomes a tradition here, it’s great. It always draws a few people that might not come here otherwise. If it brings them in, I fully support it. And it raises money for community groups.
Q: What’s something you feel more people should be aware of related to the market?
A: People often don’t know they can use their Link card. If they use Link and spend $25, we will match it with $25 worth of coupons like cash. They can be used with any farmer. They can use it now or save it for sweet corn, or cherries. This market is for everyone, for every single person of every income. This is a real movement from the USDA, it’s about fresh produce and accessibility.
Caitlin Mullen is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.