Farmers market opening day a success
Northampton Farmers Market opened for the 2022 season May 3.
A small but mighty group of independent, enterprising marketeers were present.
A steady stream of customers kept the vendors busy with sales and conversation.
Consumers can find grain-free beef, organic vegetables, eggs, peanut butter, organic pork, smoked cheeses, fresh baked goods, flowers and much more.
Karen and Allen Smith, of AK Farms, on Snyders Church Road in East Allen Township, provide a full line of fresh, organic and GMO-free pork products freshly packaged and ready for pickup. They also have smoked cheese and bologna. This is their first time at this market and say they are thrilled with the community’s support.
Looking for some foliage? Flowers, garden plants and seasonal vegetables, such as rhubarb and asparagus, were being sold by the Sensenig family, of Bernsville. Cindy Sensenig does all the baking, providing an assortment of breads and pies also for sale.
A new twist on traditional favorites can be found at Healthy Delight, such as cooking oils and organic, all-natural peanut butter. Co-owner David Diaz and his wife provide 24 flavors of olive oil and 32 flavors of peanut butter.
Diaz said he “looks forward to seeing repeat customers from the four years he has been coming to the market.” He said his peanut butter “is creamier than commercial peanut butter” because it is made from Spanish peanuts. The raw peanuts are grown in North Carolina.
Thirsty? Ce-Ce’s Lemonade is not only refreshing, but also supports women’s re-entry efforts in Allentown. Founder and owner Cecilia Gerlach started the lemonade business in 2021 and donated $1,000 to the homeless student fund in Allentown School District in December 2021.
“This time around, I’m aiming to raise $1,000 for SELF Women’s Re-entry,” Gerlach said. “They have a shelter in Allentown for women who are getting back on their feet after being incarcerated. This shelter provides women with assistance getting employment, permanent housing, mental health support and reconnecting with their children and family.”
The market is open 3-6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Municipal Park complex, under the pavilions, at Smith Lane and Laubach Avenue.