The 2018 Fresh at Five season opens Tuesday, June 5. Local farmers and producers will offer goods at the open-air market on Jefferson Street in Olde Towne from 5 until 7pm.

Fresh spring vegetables and fruits, honey, milk, bread and cheese should be available. Community members can look forward to the arrival of more varieties of prduce available later in the growing season at markets each Tuesday in June, July, and August. Main Street Director, Tara Lytal, reminds community members, “Fresh at Five is a rain or shine event.”

The annual Fire versus Police Cook-Off, a community favorite that pits the firemen and policemen against each other for the title Master of the Grill, kicks off the market on June 5. While it is a friendly competition, bragging rights are at stake. Police Chief Ford Hayman believes his men have what it takes to come out ahead of the firemen. Of course, Fire Chief Jeff Blackledge believes his men have a definite advantage given their experience with fire. Both departments are preparing their best recipes for pulled pork and a side. Communtiy members should arrive early to get a taste and to cast a vote for their favorite dish.

Fresh at Five, a market certified with the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, is in its seventh season. This season, a plan is in place to help “curbside shoppers,” those with physical limitations. Anyone who cannot personally access the market can be assisted by a colunteer shopper. Shoppers who need help should arrive at the south side of City Hall where Jefferson and Main Streets meet beginning at 5pm. The last orders for curbside shopping will be taken at 6:30pm. Curbside shoppers will be greeted by a volunteer who will take their order and shop for them as they wait in their cars. Curbside shoppers must be prepared with cash, and bills no larger than $20 can be accepted. Marsha Barham, Clinton Visitor Center Director and curbside shopper project planner, reminds curbside shoppers that “colunteers will lend good customer service but will wait in line with other customers at each booth when they are shopping.”

A family-friendly event, interacting with farmers and producers is informative and fun for all. On June 5, market shoppers will be entertained by local talent Ralph Miller.

Farmers and producers who wish to participate but have not registered can find an application online at mainstreetclintonms.com/fresh-five. For further information, call Main Street Clinton at 601-924-5472.