Jazz and Scouts at the Morton Grove Farmers' Market

With cool jazz playing in the background on a cool, sunny morning and a surfeit of Scouts making themselves useful at the Morton Grove Farmers’ Market, last Saturday was one of the most successful days in recent history. It started early with troops of Morton Grove Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts demonstrating their skills and patches and then marching through the Market to present the American flag in front of the American Legion, Morton Grove Post 134 as well as Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky.

The Scouts were on hand the rest of the morning not only to help clean up the Market after it closed, but to assist patrons with carrying their groceries to the car and other activities. Rep. Schakowsky, for her part, helped support the local economy by filling her bags with plenty of fresh, local produce.

The Jim Jacobs Quintet was on hand to entertain the crowd with their sax- and trumpet-driven jazz music. Many patrons enjoyed a beverage from SuperCup along with hot tamales, an English banger sandwich or pastries from Sweety Pies as they sat in the shade of the Entertainment Pavilion to listen to music, visit with community groups or take their children to the kids’ station.

Many kids, however, enjoyed the zany balloon antics of RC Juggles, a perennial favorite at the market, who outfitted many youngsters and adults with lightweight hats and other accessories.

The weather cooperated and shoppers’ bags were filled with bread from Maier’s Bakery, tomatoes and corn from Providence Farm and Blankenship Farm, jellies from Katydids and natural cosmetics from the Featured Vendor of the Day, Laz Cosmetics.

With the intense heat behind us, the village looks forward to enjoying some more perfect Saturdays at the Market, including the upcoming judged Pie Contest on September 22.