Faz Rahman hit upon an idea. He thought that the local economy had the ability to correct itself from a recession in the world economy, but it needs a shot in the arm to do so. With that in mind, he surmised that a farmer's market in downtown Coe Hill may be a way to draw more people to the community. Well, some time later, Rahman's idea gained legs and the first day for the market has come. On May 16, and on each Friday and Saturday until Oct. 10 the Main Street will be an attraction for natural food enthusiasts.

It is not a new idea, other communities have instituted such a sales device as an alternative to over-produced, over-packaged food goods.

He says the focus will be on locally produced products, that are not necessarily organic, but are created without large farming production methods.

"It is not just about the food, though, I want this to be a show place for artists too," says Rahman, who will exhibit some of his graphic art and digital photography throughout the summer months.

Further, he says that he is prepared to sell some art on consignment for those artists that don't have time to sit all day at a farmer's market with the hope that they might sell a piece.

His target market is tourists and seasonal residents, and he thinks that the market will be a nice addition to the downtown revitalization transformation that the community is undergoing.

To kick off the season, Rahman and company are hosting an open plant sale, where they invite anyone to come out with their plants, seedlings, and seeds to sell.

The market will be open Fridays from 3 to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

So far, there are just a half dozen salesmen ready to hawk their wares, but Rahman says he expects, as word spreads, the number to increase exponentially.

For more information in renting a table, phone Rahman at 613-474-1341.