Market a great success

The opening day of the Lyons Falls Farmer's Market was an unexpected nugget to savor when we find ourselves huddled next to the fire on some cold, snowy north country night that won't be too far off in the future.

It was a day that typifies the idyllic picturesque, old-time market with beautiful displays of produce, plants, crafts, handmade items, music, and something relatively new for this area when thinking of the Farmer's Markets — wine.

Having retired from a career in education last summer, I had the good fortune to fall into one of Northern New York's growing agribusinesses, specifically, Thousand Islands Winery, which I am proud to represent in Lyons Falls every Tuesday in Riverside Park for the rest of the season.

I brought along a chair and a book but never got to use the chair nor did I ever pick up the book. I thought I packed enough product for the Lyons Falls Market as well as the market I do on Wednesday morning without having to make the trip back to Alexandria Bay to restock. You can imagine my surprise as I sold out of many of the 18 varieties we offer.

I can only attribute the success to the efforts made by town Supervisor "Rocky" Faucett out on Route 12 wearing a sandwich board, the strategically placed signs, the gracious hospitality of Gary and Rosita who helped organize all of the vendors into their spots, and the planning on the part of the folks who make up Lyons Falls Alive for bringing this great addition to the community.

I was welcomed and overwhelmed by the eager shoppers who came out in support of the market. The market continues to be a huge success. On that first day, it was six o'clock before I knew it because the day just flew by.

There was also some reluctance to come to Lyons Falls. I hope that this concept continues to grow and prosper.

Donnalee Dodson

Three Mile Bay