TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
Texarkana Farmers’ Market has been open to the public for 12 years. Debbie Benning, a current vendor, has sold her products for the last six years. She sells jams, jellies, various herbal products and hanging baskets. Like many vendors, Benning loves meeting different people on market days. She and her husband have 12 acres in Maud, and six years ago, they became vendors as a way to enjoy their retirement and help pay for their farm. The Texarkana Farmers Market is operated by the City of Texarkana, Texas, and is managed by Rebecca Beckham. Managing the market “is a huge team effort,” Beckham says, and “involves other staff from the planning and community development team, the city manager’s office staff, vendors, farmer’s committee and the sponsors.” Beckham expressed her appreciation of the interaction that managing the market brings. “Getting to interact with my community on a new level makes me feel like I’m giving back to them in
the same ways they did when I was a kid.” She “loves meeting the different people who come and go, understanding the farmers who do this for a living and making lasting connections.” Beckham would “love to
see more customers come out and support the market,” she said. “Bringing more people to downtown Texarkana makes our city feel closer to each other.” Her goal is “more people reaching out to be a part of the market and local businesses getting involved and
is the friendly and welcoming demeanor of their vendors. They are all excited to share their heart about what they do and why they love it, and for some, their love for farming and crafting has
making Texarkana brighter for everyone.” Like Gateway Farmers Market, Texarkana Farmers’ Market is always looking for more vendors. You can find more information about what it takes to get involved at www.texarkanafarmersmarket.com . While both markets offer similar items, each has its own unique experience. Something refreshing shared by both
been passed down for generations. It is infectious. The sun is out on both sides of State Line, the gardens are full, and the time is right. Whether you visit the Texarkana, Texas Farmers’ Market or Gateway Farmers Market in Texarkana, Arkansas, you will not be disappointed; they are now open for business. Shop Local. Eat Local.
22
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs