It’s springtime and it’s back. After a three-month winter hiatus, the Bainbridge Farmers Market has returned to the west side of the square on Saturday mornings. It is bigger and better than last fall, according to a board member Amy Wells, who spoke to Rotary this week about the market.

Not only does it give producers a place to sell their wares, it is a gathering spot for the community to come together and greet their neighbors. This last Saturday there were 12 vendors and  even a pilates in the park class from the YMCA being taught in Willis Park. Wells said she anticipates the future may also see yoga and zumba classes.

Wells said how much she enjoyed working with the other board members, that although they were a very diverse group, they really worked well together.

Their slogan, “Come grow with us,” has a double meaning. Wells said it helps entrepreneurs get their businesses started, but it is also seen as a unifier for helping the community. It brings people downtown on Saturdays and aides the downtown businesses.

Partnering with the schools has resulted in the Bainbridge High School bringing their remaining plants from their plant sale to last week’s market. All of the elementary schools are growing gardens this year as part of their STEM teaching curriculum. Last week students from John Johnson Elementary School brought their products (sunflowers, beans, peppers, etc.) and sold them at the market. They learned some marketing techniques as well as how to make change.

Hutto Middle School is growing squash. On May 11 they will harvest it and with help from Farmers Market volunteers, they will be preparing squash recipes to be served at school.

The market is held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon and the board welcomes people from the community to come help out. There are several committees where volunteers can be helpful.

More information can be found at www.thebainbridgefarmersmarket.com; or www.facebook.com/bainbridgemkt or by calling 229-329-3135.