Every Saturday in Lehighton there's a farmers market along Sgt. Stanley Hoffman Boulevard (Route 209).

The weekly event, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., features local farmers selling produce. The farmers market was a concept of Frank Potoczak, a local merchant.It's meant to fill a void in which there are no other such open farmers markets in Carbon County. There had been two other ones which closed.Besides providing an outlet for farmers to sell their goods, it also gets transients to stop in the community and potentially patronize other merchants.Although the number of farms in Carbon County has diminished drastically in the past few decades, the trade is still vital to the local economy.The open farmers market on Saturday mornings is appealing for getting fresh string beans, tomatoes, corn, and other products locally grown.The event is staged across the street from the Lehighton Hi-Rise, giving residents there who have limited mobility to show and purchase fresh fruits and vegetables.The farmers market is an example of the community working together. The Lehighton Borough Council showed support by giving virtually blanket approval of the venture to allow what could be called an experiment to work.If you haven't visited the farmers market, you're missing out on the opportunity not only to patronize fellow Carbon Countians, but to enjoy the freshest produce you can get.It's also great to see such a great amount of participation by the local rural community.It's always great to see something positive in the community. The farmers market definitely a good thing.By RON GOWERrgower@tnonline.com