Ash Grove farmer’s market finds new home in park

The Ash Grove farmer’s market opened for the season on Saturday, April 8, but its location may be different than you remember. The market has moved its location from the four-way stop at highways 60 and V to a more suitable spot in the city park.
Jasmin Leblanc just took over the position of executive director this winter, she said the goal with this new location is community and safety.
“We really want to focus on being a community gathering,” she said. “This [area] allows for growth.”
The safety aspect cannot be overstated, the old location—which was right next to the road—was not a suitable place for children to play and enjoy themselves.
“It's a safer place, we’re not worried about traffic coming in and out and hitting kids,” LeBlanc said.
Leblanc said that in addition to the market, there will also be events hosted once a month which will include “princesses” in the park and food trucks. But that’s not all, there will also be live music at some of these events.
Manuela Gohn, who has had a booth at the farmer’s market since last year, said that the change of scenery is welcome.
“You can let the kids run,” she said “they can play while their moms look.”
Gohn said that the new location and the events will also be good for business.
“Word gets out, people [will] come and see what's going on,” Gohn said.
The market’s new location has so far succeeded in its mission of safety and the various events planned may keep people coming back for more.