Farmers Market, A Paramus First

Although Paramus has a rich history as a farming community which dates back to the early 20th century, it held its first farmers market on Wednesday.

Area residents admired the corn, carrots, and the colorful varieties of other fresh vegetables and organic fruits on display. 

New Jersey farmers and one Upstate New York farmer brought in truck loads of produce, but nothing was wasted. Many of the farmers donated unsold items to the Paramus Food Pantry.

"Baker's Bounty gave two bags of bread for the food pantry," said Dina Burke, who co-manages the market with Judith Remiszewski. "She (food pantry representative) had so much in her trunk, she's going to the senior building."

Hensler Farms donated basil, arugula, parsley, lettuce, and corn. And Von Thun’s Country Farm Market contributed corn, cabbage, broccoli, basil, and zucchini.

"They're going to have a nice meal. She's going to have enough to feed a lot of people," said Walt Wenzel from Country Farm Market out of Monmouth Junction. "That's how we roll. We want to feed everybody in town."

Other farmers participating include L&D's Sapore Ravioli & Cheese, Inc, Stefan & Sons, Snoep Winkel Farm, Grounded Coffee Catering, Dr Pickle / Patterson pickle, Bobolink, Passion Fruits Artisanal Ice Pops, The Yellow Dog Bakery, True Food of Nyack, Chumley's BBQ, and Younique Lee Yours.

Burke and Remiszewski previously managed the Washington Township farmers market and were successful, making it easier to convince the farmers to come to Paramus. They worked with the Gerald Anthony, Chairman of Paramus Environmental Committee to put it together.

“The whole Paramus government was super cooperative. All the divisions pushed to make this happen” said Anthony. “It’s really grass roots, and it’s not costing anyone any money. People seem to like it as a social opportunity. The food pantry wins – it’s a win-win.”   

The market received formal approval from the Borough Council April 17. The Paramus Environmental Commission is sponsoring the market.

Low income seniors who visit July 18 can pick up food vouchers to purchase fresh produce at a discount. They can also use WIC vouchers.  

Every week the market will feature special guests. This week it was Produce Pete, the popular farm and produce expert, and now author, who has been spoofed by Steve Carell on The Daily Show. 

On June 27, Fred Behnke from the Fritz Behnke Historical Museum in Paramus will be on site to discuss a new DVD based on the history of Paramus and the museum. And the Bergen County Mosquito Commission will follow in the coming weeks.     

“For five hours a week, Paramus will have a Main Street,” Anthony added.  

Paramus Farmers Market is open for business Wednesdays from June 20th thru September 26th from 3pm - 7pm.

IMPORTANT: Paramus Farmers Market Will Be Closed July 4 and return July 11.

The market is located at Petruska Park - 475 Farview Avenue, a quarter-mile north of Midland Intersection.