The rebirth of the Sunday drive.

A5

Jim Lavoie

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It used to be part of Sunday routines to hop in the family wagon and head out for a Sunday outing to parts unknown. Starting July 5, the Country Market hopes to rekindle that family outing with a definite destination in mind. Head out the Nashwaak River Scenic Route to Stanley, New Brunswick where a true country atmosphere awaits.

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Being held on the Agricultural Grounds in central Stanley, "this is more than just a market" enthuses Jessika Mackenzie, founder of the Country Market, a non-profit organization. "Sit down for breakfast, listen to music, shop around, and even go for a walk after on the River View Walking Trail and just enjoy the area.

"We are going to have vendors from all over the province, some familiar and some brand new, an eclectic mix for all tastes and ages," says Mackenzie. "The great thing about it, is that you can still go to church on Sunday, and have your market too. People can come to the market before or after their Sunday services, because the gates are open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m."

Starting up a venture of this scope and nature is no small task, but Mackenzie did her due diligence through extensive planning and research. Applying her successful employment experience in sales and marketing, she started branding the market by creating and developing a log, talking about, advertising it and created the Country Market.

"I grew up in Stanley, left in 2003, and returned with a growing family in 2007," said Mackenzie. "I felt compelled to do something for the community."

She created the website VillageofStanley.com to not only inform Stanley residents of the latest news, events and general information but also give those outside the area a feel for what Stanley has to offer. The summer and winter offers a wide range of outdoor activities like canoeing, fishing, snowmobiling and cross country skiing. The website also features real estate, services, and other topics of interest for those contemplating possible relocation. The Country Market, with the assistance of friends, was born out of Mackenzie's passion to draw people to the area and help those already living there to take pride in what they have to offer.

"We are doing everything we can, to get the word out about this market," says Mackenzie. "With all the current quality issues on store bought products, I think people want something they can count on to be safe and durable for their family. It is also an opportunity to look into the face and maybe shake the hand of the second family benefiting from a purchase made from someone putting their time and effort into an item."

As this is about being a family outing, the Country Market has the kids in mind too. They hope to be offering at least two distinct craft lessons in 30 minute sessions. "The crafts that we are gearing towards are definitely something a parent would be proud to display and the child alike, proud of their creation," says Mackenzie. "We are counting on volunteers to make this happen. The more volunteers we get, the more workshops we are able to do."

One of the musical guests is Fredericton's very own Jenn Munn-Moulton. She recently qualified to perform on TV in the 2009 CMT TV Karaoke Contest which begins in August. Take this great chance to listen to and meet Jenn as she performs some of her Karaoke magic at the Country Market at 11 a.m., July 5. She will have the chance to win first prize of $10,000 dollars at the CMT Karaoke Finals in Banff Alberta. Once the contest begins you will be able to vote (as many times as you can) for Jen after she appears on TV.

Many market favorites such as samosas, donairs, original artwork, woodworkers, and others will be on hand. In addition there will be handmade jewelry, plants, pet treats, antiques and many more. To see a full list of the vendors check out their Face book group, 'The Country Market', or www.villageofstanley.com. For more information, or to book a space for your goods, phone 506-367-2133.