I know it's late in the year, but the Twin City Farmers Market is open year-round! While some items are summer dependent, there are a lot more goodies that aren't. I was especially inspired to mention the Farmers Market after having some amazing brats this weekend. Holy cow were those great. It's not just corn and beans, you can find a variety there, especially through out the summer, but even now as autumn sets in, you can still buy a variety of meats, sweets and other treats. Some vendors also start focusing on seasonal gifts and crafts that are locally created.

"Year round offerings include locally grown beef, pork, bison, free range chicken and eggs. Locally grown organic herbs (fresh in the summer, dried in the winter) and Illinois made jams, jellies, and sauces are available year round.

Rural entrepreneurs also offer toffee, baked goods (pies, breads, cookies, cakes), soaps, spun wool, forged metalwork, soy candles, rag rugs, black walnuts, homemade noodles, baskets, sunflower seeds and corn for wildlife feeding, home decor and crafts."

We have one of the very few indoor Farmer Markets in Illinois. What a gem to have here! So whether you want to be a customer or a vendor, be sure and check them out in person at the old Twin City Market building at 106 Avenue A (just southwest of the Chamber) or stop first on the web at www.tcmarket.org