After a successful five-week “test run” this past spring, Sanibel will getting its very own weekly fresh produce and food specialties showcase that will operate through the entire “season.”

According to organizers Jean Baer and Betsy Ventura, the Sanibel Island Farmers Market begins on Sunday, Nov. 1 at Tahitian Gardens, located at 1975 Periwinkle Way. The market will be held each Sunday – rain or shine – from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. throughout season, ending on April 25, 2010.

“We got such good feedback, everybody was happy and having a great time meeting with old and new friends… it’s a terrific social gathering place,” said Baer. “And people were leaving with armfuls of fresh vegetables and baked goods!”

Baer and Ventura happily reported that they expect to have 30 vendors participating every week this year. A partial list of participants include baked goods, live plants, honey, pasta, cheese, sausages, fresh fish, fresh produce, organic veggies and “many other good things that make a trip to the Sanibel Island Farmer’s Market a delight.” Both women have worked hand-in-hand with the City of Sanibel to insure the Farmers Market remains true to its intent, offering high quality specialized items catering to the needs of the community.

Many vendors who participated in the initial market are returning, including Marianne Ravenna (plant baskets), Gallego’s Farm (locally-grown vegetables and produce), The French Bakery (baked goods and sweet treats) and a vendor of Polish sausages and specialties.

Some of the new vendors include Evis (strudel), Ralph’s Seafood (freshly-caught seafood), Judy Hicks (bromiliads), On A Roll (baked goods and coffee) and Bark Street Bakery (pet treats).

“It’s going to be a great community event, for both residents and visitors,” said Ventura, who noted that they will soon announce the local screening of the movie “Fresh,” which encourages eating healthier and supporting local farmers, at BIG Arts. While a date has yet to be determined, read an upcoming issue of the Island Reporter for event details.

For additional information about the Sanibel Island Farmers Market, a non-profit organization, or to volunteer, send an e-mail to jmbaer@comcast.net or jenningssims@aol.com.