Monroe Farmers Market: Opening Day

Families and friends gathered at the town green for the Monroe Farmers Market's opening day on Friday as vendors sold fresh produce, sweets, beauty products and other fare.

"This is our fifth year in Monroe," said Guy Beardsley, a Shelton Farmer.

Beardsley credits market master Sue Muro with putting Monroe's annual market on the map five years ago.

"Sue Muro deserves all the credit," he said.

Beardsley, who helped to start up Shelton and Seymours' markets, said he had tried to start one in Monroe in the early '90s without success.

On Friday he showed Carol Veroczi of Monroe his selection of hot peppers. Veroczi said Beardsley has always helped her with her home garden.

"I was here last year," she said of the Monroe Farmers Market. "I think it's as good as Union Square."

The Monroe Farmers Market is scheduled to be held every Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. through Oct. 26.