Community Corner
Farmers Market Find: Warm August Weather Keeps Market Stocked; Aids Walk 2011
You know about the fresh produce and flowers, but there's much more. Every week, we will share what's new, interesting and in season at the Royal Oak Farmers Market
The season's not over yet. Thanks to a long, cool spring and warmer-than-usual summer, Royal Oak Farmers Market visitors will reap the rewards of an extended growing season.
“The late start to summer and warmer temperatures is keeping the market full of tomatoes, corn and other fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Shelly Mazur, who will step into the market master position full time at the end of September.
"Even watermelon that grows well in hotter, southern climates will be available longer this year at the market," she said.
Find out what's happening in Royal Oakwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
To select the best fruits and vegetables, be sure that they have been kept relatively cool after picking or harvesting. Other tips:
- Tomatoes should be bright red, yellow or orange, depending on the type. They should be free of bruises and blemishes. Even the tiniest spot can mean the tomato contains some rot on the inside. A good tomato is firm. Some may be picked before they ripened and can be left on a kitchen counter to become fully ripe.
- For corn, look for husks that are bright green, bruise-free and completely cover the ear of corn. The silk should be moist and flowing. When examining the kernels, be sure they are plump and contain a milky substance.
- Watermelons should be bruise-free, and the core should be bright yellow. Do not knock or bang your watermelon as bruising and damage will occur.
The Royal Oak Farmers Market hours are 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
Find out what's happening in Royal Oakwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Aids Walk Detroit 2011
Aids Walk Detroit will once again begin and end at the Royal Oak Farmers Market, starting at 9 a.m. Sunday. This is the 20th anniversary of Aids Walk Detroit.
“The walk festivities are held in the west parking lot of the market,” said Mazur. “We are honored to have it here.”
is an organized 5K walkathon that raises funds to benefit Metro Detroit HIV/AIDS agencies. Those agencies provide support and services to those living with HIV/AIDS in the community.
For more information and to participate in the walk, visit aidswalkdetroit.org.
