Saturday shopping

A friend of mine recently told me he liked grocery shopping in New York City more than Cape Girardeau because he felt like part of a community.

How could Cape Girardeau fall to New York City in terms of community and friendliness? I thought the notion was ridiculous until I heard the explanation.

He bought his meat from the butcher, his bread from the baker and his fruit and vegetables from the produce stand. He knew each of them by name and could ask for advice on preparation or pairings.

It was a more personal experience, and one I believe exists when you shop at a farmers market.

A Saturday market would provide activity for the family. Instead of screaming for that sugary cereal, perhaps children will dance around to a guitarist in the acoustic corner or learn about honey from our local beekeepers.

Another farmers market would provide more exposure for local business owners who sell food as well as those who make and sell arts and crafts.

I know several artists who piece together jewelry or fashion crafts from found objects, only to sell the items on etsy.com. Those people typically don't have enough merchandise to justify renting a corner in a store or opening their own. But filling a small booth once a week to sell their wares locally seems reasonable.

And the brick-and-mortar businesses benefit as well. Studies show that on farmers market days, traditional stores and restaurants see a 60 percent increase in business.

Judging by Tuesday's public meeting, many people appear to be on board with a downtown Saturday market. I think it adds a valuable asset to Saturday mornings in Cape Girardeau and offers people the chance to eat healthy, enjoy art and meet their neighbors.