This crazy 2020 season I was so fortunate to have a place to sell my leather goods. The region of Garden City Idaho allowed The Capitol City Public Market vendors to set up shop on the end of quiet 34th street by the Boise River. The atmosphere was different from the bustling downtown venue. In Boise you would find the streets filled with many people visiting local shops and restaurants, usually several layers thick as they weaved through the many booths.  The downtown market was almost carnival like with wonderful smells of different foods, music on the corner and the constant flow of strollers, laughter and conversation. I love being on 34th street too. It feels like a true neighborhood farmers market. The pace and crowds are slower. Many people were delighted in finding us by accident when seeing us from the greenbelt just a few steps away as they walked their dogs or rode their bikes. The support for buying local has been incredible and I appreciate every person that came into my booth to check out what I do or to make a purchase. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to be at 34th street and to all the people that made that happen this year. Next season? I am hopeful we will be back on the downtown Boise pavement where the market has called home for over 20 years.

This brings me to my story. I have been trying hard this year to support my fellow vendors as best I can. Every week I look forward to that delicious handmade chocolate chip cookie or pastry and fresh vegetables for my dinner. I have purchased gifts from the local artisans and got my lunch from the food trucks. One weekend as I was leaving 34th street I noticed a huge tent and outdoor barbecue smoking up some tasty eats. It was the Big K BBQ. What a wonderful find. It became my habit to stop there after the market and get my take out of delicious ribs and sides to heat up later for dinner. Talking to the owners, much of their business is in catering events which has taken a huge hit this year. They decided to smoke up some great food in the parking lot for take out only. They told me that the 34th street market helped them get some additional business as customers were attracted to the same giant barbecue and tent as I was. My last day for the season at the 34th street location was yesterday. Of course I stopped by one last time to pick up a tasty dinner. I was greeted by the friendly owner and staff and asked, “Do you want your regular order”? That made my day.

I will try and continue to support local as much as possible. I hope others will do the same as it will make a tremendous difference to these small businesses. Just so you know the Big K BBQ is offering a holiday menu, including smoked turkey, prime rib, lots of delicious sides and desserts. Check them out. I’m glad I did…