Submitted Photo Harriet “Harry” Summers, Families in Transition Program coordinator, left, accepts donated backpacks and gas cards from Carolyn Bodell, Minot Elks secretary. The Minot Elks Lodge #1089 donated 32 backpacks and 61 gas cards to the Families in Transition Program. The lodge utilized a Spotlight Grant from the Elks National Foundation to fund the donation.

WHITE SHIELD – White Shield has a new platform for the community to have local fresh food, fresh garden produce and for local members to showcase their talents.

The grand opening of the White Shield Farmers Market, located in the Ralph Wells Complex, was held Aug. 4.

According to Lloree Dickens-Two Crow, director of the White Shield Wellness & Sustainability Department/Farmers Market, the farmers market that day was the first of many to come.

“White Shield has such a short growing season. My department is focusing on local food systems and community sustainability,” she said.

Taking part in the farmers market included those offering fresh produce, baked and canned goods to artisans.

Dickens-Two Crow said the farmers market will be firming up a calendar soon.

“Right now we are looking at the end of August and all of September Wednesdays and Saturdays. October depends on the weather,” she said.