Making it fresh

Summer has arrived and brought the promise of juicy peaches, red, ripe tomatoes fresh off the vine and cool, sweet watermelon. Those of you who haven’t planted a garden this year (or have, and the results have been less than satisfactory) can enjoy the fruits of other people’s labor starting June 10 with the Sparks Hometowne Farmers’ Market. Farmers and other vendors will present a cornucopia of luscious fruits and crunchy vegetables as well as an assortment of flowers and arts and crafts during the 12th annual summer event. This week’s farmers’ market preps for the Reno Rodeo by offering campfire cooking samples and country music by John Dawson at the Great Basin Brewery’s outdoor stage. Chef Joe Eidem will present cooking demonstrations at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. each day of the market. While parents take a break from shopping, performers will entertain children with balloon sculpting, face painting, juggling and magic acts. The market is open 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Thursday through Aug. 26 (except Aug. 5) and is located along Victorian Avenue in downtown Sparks. Live music will be performed at the Brewery Stage 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Call 353-2291 or visit www.sparksrec.com.—Kelley Lang