Ellington

Now in its second season, the Signal Mountain Farmers Market has already gained many loyal customers eager to scoop up fresh produce, handcrafted items and baked goods at Bachman Community Center each Thursday from 4-6:30 p.m.

“I love it and I think we’re so fortunate to have it up here,” said Suzanne Caplenor, who said she loves the convenient access to fresh produce, especially arugula for salads and heirloom tomatoes.

“I notice more and more people coming,” said Jenny Richards. “I think it’s growing — at least I hope it’s growing, because I want it to stay.”

Market manager Alison Hoffman is expressing her gratitude for the community support with a special Customer Appreciation Day Thursday, Aug. 16. Shoppers that day can enter a drawing to win one of two baskets full of goodies and coupons from each of the market vendors. The drawing will take place at 5:30 p.m., though shoppers need not remain at Bachman until that time to win.

“I very seldom go to the grocery store, unless I’m buying something like canned beans,” said Bobbie Morrison. “I literally eat from the farmers market, this one being my favorite.”

She also shops at the Wednesday Main Street Market, but she prefers the shady setting at Bachman.

“I like supporting people on Signal Mountain,” she said. “As our market grows, I feel this market up here will fill all our produce needs.”

“This is just really convenient,” said Kathy Owens. “You can see all your neighbors and friends; it’s really kind of an event.”

Morrison said Alex McGregor of Walden Farm has the best arugula she has ever tasted and buys all she can whenever it’s available at the market.

“All the vendors up there are very knowledgeable about what they’re growing,” she said. “They are proud of what they grow and excited about selling their produce.”

Among other favorite items of frequent shoppers are tomato tarts from Terri Farmer’s “local.” line of baked goods, baskets by Bill Haley and soap from Dixie Soaps.

“It was the best bar of soap I’d ever had,” said Richards of her Dixie Soaps purchase. “It just lasted and lasted.”

She said she buys her produce at Bachman every week.

“I like the fact that it’s picked that morning, and most is organic or at least sustainable,” said Richards.