The New Providence Farmer’s Market Has Strong Showing

By: Vivek Singh

The New Providence Farmer’s Market just completed its fifth week of business this past Wednesday, July 16, 2008. Many area residents came out to purchase fresh fruits and veggies, as well as other products sold by the stores.

Made with Love is a baked goods store that has attended the New Providence Farmer’s Market for the last four weeks. The store is owned by Celeste Governanti and the goodies are baked by Linda Harley, who also owns a catering business called Abuelinda’s Cuisine. Made with Love has been in business for two years and is located in Hoboken, New Jersey. Commenting on the New Providence Farmer’s Market, Linda Harley told The Alternative Press, “The people here are very friendly and they are open to organic food. They children are delightful and they love to taste our cookies. It’s a nice market and the people here are always looking for new products.”

Next door, Stony Hill Gardens and Farm Market was quite busy. Stony Hill Gardens and Farm Market has been a family owned business for 20 years and has been attending tailgate markets for the past six years. The owner, Brandt Davis, was able to spare some time to tell The Alternative Press about his business. “Well, we only sell what we grow. All of our products are Jersey products,” said Mr. Davis. Mr. Davis also had kind words for the Market stating, “This is one of the nicest markets we have attended all season. Nice people, nice place!”

Melick’s Town Farm also made an appearance at the New Providence Farmer’s Market. Melick’s Town Farm is also a family owned business. It has been in existence for ten generations. The farm is located in Califon, New Jersey, and is one of the few farms that have horse-drawn wagon rides, which are used to take customers around the farm. “The Melicks love growing Jersey fresh produce. They love it when people come to pick the fruit,” said Bonny Terry, a Melick’s Town Farm employee.

Hoboken Farms was also at the New Providence Farmer’s Market selling their trademark mozzarella, bread, and produce. Hoboken Farms has been in business since 1992 and is owned by Brad Finkel. “This is a great market. The town really supports us and considering the fact that we are holding a market in a municipal lot, yet business is going so well really says that this community likes its food,” said a Hoboken Farms employee.

Golden Gourmet was definitely the most unique store at the market. Golden Gourmet sells a variety of pickles, coffees, and assorted trail mixes. Their main goal is to bring the best quality food to the market at low prices. “The people here are very respectful. I have been to 15 different markets and I have never seen such a great community before,” said owner Cem Golden.

The New Providence Farmer’s Market is open on Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. It is located at the intersection between Academy Street and Springfield Avenue, near the New Providence Memorial Library.