We don’t just vacation here along the Alabama/Florida Gulf Coast. We live here, work here, go to school here, and do all the things people in any other city do. We just happen to also have the world’s greatest backyard to play in, and we love to share it.

And now, on Saturday mornings through June, everyone is encouraged to mingle our incredible variety of personalities and individual tastes, and share a world-wide common ground. Residents and guests. Young and old. Working public and retired folks. Beginners and seasoned veterans.

What is it that we all have in common, regardless of who we are? We need to EAT! And our bodies crave fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables most of all – okay, maybe with a few treats thrown in.

Starting Saturday, May 30, 2009, from 7 until 11 a.m., and running for five consecutive Saturdays (through June 27), the Gulf Coast Green Market will be open for business at Lake Shelby in Gulf State Park. You’ll find this on the north side of the beach road, Hwy. 182, at a stoplight just a short distance east of Hwy. 59 in Gulf Shores.

Area farmers and other merchants will be proudly offering their wares, including a large variety of fresh vegetables and fruits (including some organic produce), local shrimp, cut flowers, native plants, rice, locally harvested honey, and fresh-baked items made with locally produced ingredients.

Part of the Alabama Farmer’s Market Authority Buy Fresh-Buy Local campaign, the Gulf Coast Green Market has expanded its participation this year. Come pick up your fresh, local items each Saturday through June and also enjoy the beauty of the only waterfront market of its type.