By MOLLIE BROWN / Community Columnist

Can you name a fruit that has its seeds on the outside?

If you guessed strawberries, you’re right. Strawberries are packed in vitamin C, low in calories and practically fat and sodium free. They don’t ripen after picking, so buy firm, solid red berries with bright green caps. Strawberries should be refrigerated unwashed until ready to eat.

This time of year people anticipate the strawberry crop with the fervored excitement of kids waiting for Santa. Boozer Farms in Thorsby reports they planted several thousand additional strawberry plants this year in anticipation of a large crowd at this year’s Calera Farmers Market Strawberry Festival. Calera Park and Recreation Director Seth Gandy said the festival will be held Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

“We will have three times the strawberries we had last year. There will be a variety of vendors that day — growers, artisans, non-profit groups and food. This is a great opportunity for our community to join together for some fun and fellowship,” he said. Bluegrass music will fill the air, and the Calera High School choir will perform. Sav Mor Food and Central State Bank will sponsor a kids free zone, pony rides will be offered for a small charge and the upcoming fire museum will be represented.

Rebecca Krueger has stepped down as market manager, but remains on the board. “Seth is a fantastic asset to our city.

“He’s committed to nurturing the market and carrying on its mission to build community, strongly support the farmers and encourage us all to be aware of, and involved in, the needs of those who live in our great city.”

The city of Calera Farmers Market has the goal to provide fresh foods and products, and direct marketing of farm products. The market has experienced three successful seasons due to the support of the city government, residents and surrounding communities. It was voted number one in the State of Alabama at the 2010 America’s Favorite Farmers Market competition and was in the top for the 2011 and 2012 competitions.

 

Mollie Brown is a community columnist and can be reached at dmjhb1@bellsouth.net.