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Stamford Neighbors Notes

Saturday was bright, sunny and breezy — perfect weather to meander and enjoy Stamford’s French Market. Located downtown on Spring Street, a side street off Bedford, the market opened this past weekend and will continue weekly until October.

Termed a French market, this farmers' market goes beyond tomatoes and zucchini. Hearty breads, refreshing teas, exotic olives, delectable desserts and tasty gluten-free options are some of the food choices available. Jewelry, soap and clothing have also been represented from time to time.

Amelia Iuliano and her extended family drive down weekly from their Northford farms, bringing an array of fresh produce. While Iuliano was staffing her mother’s farm stand with dog Lily, her cousins were operating the Tony’s Country Farm tent. For them, this farmers' market is truly a family affair.

Two Stamford natives, Michelle Zinsser and Marissa Haynes, were offering samples to hungry customers and proving that gluten-free can be decadent and delicious. Their company, Dream Desserts, which uses all-natural ingredients, was started after Marissa and her mother were both diagnosed with Celiac disease. They launched a business as they attempted to re-create desserts “just like Grandma used to make” — but without wheat. Bread, rolls, cookies, pies and muffins were all neatly arranged on checkerboard-covered tables.

New vendor Josh Rubin of Meredith’s Bread was thrilled to have people sample his baked goods. Those passing Dee Kaye-Silverleaf’s stall downed small cups of Ducky Life Tea. She displays each tea variety so customers can experience the smell and consistency of each mixture. 

Although new at this location, the market was established eight years ago, according to Andrew Munce of the Downtown Special Services District, which oversees its operations. Locals look forward to the opening, and Munce was delighted to let customers know that the Bedford Street Garage offers free parking from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturdays.

To submit information for this column, send an email to Juli at jharris@mainstreetconnect.us.

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