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We’re talking about the Midwest Farmers’ Market. It will become the
largest farmers’ market in the Midwest, over 51,000 square feet, two
stories, and more than 400 vendors’ booths, 100 of which will be inside
the heated/air conditioned building that will be open year round.
The market is part of the dream of four businessmen who ultimately plan
to build an ethnic theme park called American Countryside. Much of the
land, more than 400 acres, was owned by Kenny Bemiller who is a member
of the partnership. Others include Art Moser, a local contractor, Mick
Tuesley, an attorney in the firm Tuesley and Hall, and LeRoy Troyer,
president of the Troyer Group, one of the largest architectural
companies in the area.
Think about these booths as exhibits, just like you’d find in a living
museum. They'll raise many questions that their vendors can answer.
What’s organic farming about? How are you raising your chickens to avoid
chances of bird flu? How can you offer such great stuff at such low
prices? What makes Polish sausage special? How much time does it take to
complete a quilt like the ones for sale? How do you, an Amish family,
turn out such beautiful furniture? And the questions could go on and on.
The Midwest Farmer’s Market will also have an International Food Court.
Choices will represent the heritage of the region from Polish, Greek,
Italian, Asian, Hispanic, African-American, and others. From their foods
you can learn much about what makes each group special in the area. You
will find a taste of our history and of the geography of the homelands
from which our families emigrated.
The Market plans to attract families from at least a radius of 150
miles, representing a population of 22 million people. Ron Schmanske,
vice president of marketing and public relations, draws a similarity to
St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market in Kitchener, Ontario. It’s smaller than the
planned Midwest Farmers’ Market here, but it still draws up to 25,000
visitors on weekends.
Schmanske also mentions that there will be special events such as
festivals that will offer additional learning opportunities. We’ve got
to remember that learning can be FUN! And Healthy! And valuable to bring
family members together! In just over a year you can add The Midwest
Farmers’ Market to your places to visit. Whether you plan on a day trip,
a weekend or longer, you’ll find Michiana, as this region is called, a
great place to be!
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