Closer to the soil

Before there were grocery stores, people shopped at open-air markets. They arrived carrying their own bags or baskets and knew by name the folks who grew the food or produced the goods they consumed. Farmers and craftspeople aren't as ubiquitous as they used to be, what with leviathan grocery store chains and overseas manufacturing. But Kansas City has its fair share of farmers markets for those of us who want to maintain a connection to the people who toil for our benefit.If you'd like to do your part to eliminate the middle man, visit the Downtown Overland Park Farmers Market (between 79th Street and 80th Street on Marty in Overland Park) and choose from a variety of produce, plants, fresh flowers and craft items. From April through October, the market starts at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesdays and 6:30 a.m. on Saturdays and closes when the vendors sell out. Early birds have the advantage. Call 913-642-2222 or see downtownop.org for information.
Wednesdays, Saturdays, 2008