The monthly Good Morning Winslow meeting, hosted by the Winslow Chamber of Commerce, brought a lively preview of the upcoming season at the Mother Road Farmers Market. This month’s meeting was held at the market’s downtown location and led primarily by Laurie Lashomb, the Farmers market manager, who shared a range of exciting updates for the 2024 market season.
Kicking off on April 26, the Mother Road Farmers Market will run every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 115 E. Second St., right next to the Standin’ on the Corner Park, located at the corner of Kinsley Avenue and Second Street. In addition to the Saturday markets, a new Friday Night Market will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. at Eagle Pavilion, located at 523 W. Second St., through July and August. The evening markets are expected to bring a festive energy with live music and themed nights, including a community thrift shop event described as “a little more party, a little less farmer.”
A major focus of the market’s expansion this year is increased accessibility for those on nutrition assistance programs. SNAP recipients will be able to exchange their benefits for SNAP Farm Bucks at the Market Booth, which can be used exclusively at the market for non-prepared food items. To further support food access and healthy choices, the market will also offer Double Up Bucks, which match SNAP dollars dollar-for-dollar specifically for fruits and vegetables. This program not only doubles the purchasing power of shoppers but also directly benefits local produce farmers, creating a win-win for both the community and the vendors. These efforts reflect a broader mission of the Mother Road Farmers Market — to ensure fresh, nutritious food is available to everyone, regardless of income level.
The meeting also featured a guest appearance by Painted Desert Tribune Publisher Shawn White, who shared details about a growing partnership between the local newspaper and the market.
The Tribune is publishing the inaugural Mother Road Farmers Market Guide, a valuable resource for both locals and tourists. Additionally, the new “Better Together” membership program invites the community to support the market while enjoying extra perks. For $100, members receive a tote bag, window decal, and a one-year subscription to the Painted Desert Tribune. Current Tribune subscribers can upgrade to this combined package for $50. The collaboration between the paper and the market underscores the shared commitment to community connection and local engagement, setting the tone for a vibrant and united season ahead.
A highlight of the presentation was a segment by Belinda Boring of Boring Farms, who introduced the Little Roadies Market, a new youth-focused element of the market. Inspired by her own young child, Boring is creating a space where kids can participate in the market experience, whether by running their own booths or engaging in fun, educational activities. “My four-year-old is the boss on our farm,” Boring said, emphasizing the importance of involving children in hands-on learning. Kids will be encouraged to try new fruits and vegetables and will receive Little Roadies Market Coins worth $2 for participating, which they can spend with any vendor.
Carnival-style games and other kid-friendly entertainment will ensure the market is a full family outing.
From meaningful programs to help get local produce into the hands that need it the most, to interactive experiences for children, the market is planting the seeds for a vibrant summer full of connection, celebration, and good food.
