I started last Sunday at the Skokie Farmers’ Market, like always. This year it has added a couple new elements.

Along with the locally grown produce and other products, there is live music. That day’s performers were a duo who advertised themselves as “a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll,” borrowing a line legendarily used by Donny and Marie Osmond. They entertained shoppers with a mix of soft rock but surprised a few of us with an interesting version of Hanson’s “MMMBop.”

Informational signs are another new feature. A few vendors, like Miss Microgreens, had banners providing more info on the products offered. These informative and decorative signs added a professional touch while serving as additional advertisements.

Debuting in June 1975, Skokie Farmers’ Market serves the community and supports local farming. The farmers’ market is also host to the Skokie Produce Initiative. At the end of each day of the market, farmers donate leftovers to Niles Township Food Pantry. More than 4,000 pounds of food have been donated this season.

As usual, I loaded up on fruits and vegetables for the week. I picked up a some new cheeses and a few jars of apricot and blackberry preserves; I also bought several cloves of garlic. I put garlic in a lot of my meals, and I like roasting it to fill my place with the delightful scent.

— John Wroblewski, online writer