THE SOUTH VALLEY FARMERS HAVE MOVED THEIR MARKET INDOORS INTO THE COTTAGE GROVE ARMORY AND WILL BE OPEN EACH SATURDAY UNTIL DEC. 22. PHOTO PROVIDED/DANA MERRYDAY
I am pretty sure you have seen signs or heard it said: Shop local. Well this holiday season, I would like to encourage you to really take that to heart; to put your money where your heart, or more like, your home is.
The word ”economy” comes from the Greek meaning to manage the household. So why enrich some corporation, located states or even countries away when we have businesses, farmers, artists and residents locally that are part of our community? Let’s keep that green energy circulating right here in the Creswell-Cottage Grove economic zone.
No doubt there are many events and wonderful places to patronize in Creswell, and I encourage you to do so; however, I am going to share a few possibilities happening in your southernly sister city should you want to cast your net further.
Each Saturday until Dec. 22 – the day after Winter Solstice – the South Valley Farmers Market will be indoors at the the Cottage Grove Armory. Besides great field fresh produce, the local farmers are joined by artisans, musicians and local bakers. There are also kids’ activities and workshops.
When I was there on Saturday, a steady stream of visitors were coming through and getting some great items for dinner or gifts. I had a moment to speak with Karen Bentson, market manager.
”This is our third year hosting a winter market at the Armory,” Bentson said. ”Having the market in the Armory allows us to provide a place for local farmers and artisans to sell their goods, as the weather turns to winter. Experiencing the amazing fall harvest that happens in the Willamette Valley, we just couldn’t let October be the end of our market season.”
She also let me know that on Saturday, Dec.1, there is going to be a very special addition to market. Crewell resident Fode Sylla – world class West African Drummer and Cultural Arts performer – will bring an exciting performance with friends and his students joining him. That will be at 4 p.m., free admission, thanks to sponsorship from the market and Music Money 501.(C)(3), a local organization dedicated to providing local, diverse musical experiences.
The Winter Market will have extended hours that day and will be just one of many things happening in the Grove on the first of December.
The Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce, City of Cottage Grove, as well as many local businesses and organizations are coming together the first Saturday of December to kick off the holiday season.
There will be the Jingle Rush 5K Run/Walk, downtown scavenger hunt, concerts, Caroling Hayrides and Tree Lighting. Santa will be there both for breakfast at the Firehouse and at City Hall in the evening for photo opportunities and a chance for the kids to whisper a few words in St. Nick’s ear. Dr. Snapp’s house will be decorated and hosting the Prospector’s Holiday Bazaar. The Village Green will have their annual light show and more.
For a schedule check the CG Chamber website, www.cgchamber.com, under events.
South Lane Wheels will have shuttle service to get you around town that day so you can park and ride.
So won’t you join us in Cottage Grove that day? It is really the place to be Dec. 1.
Again, I would encourage you to keep things local this year, both at home in Creswell and nearby Cottage Grove. Why fight the crowds and traffic in the big city when you can support your friends and neighbors right where you live.
Don’t be tempted by the bright lights of city or an offer for something cheap made overseas when you can keep your hard earned money right where it belongs in our local economy.
Buy Local!
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Contact Dana Merryday at
541-942-7037 or by emailing [email protected]
