‘Definitely is challenging’: Extreme heat closes Malcolm Farmers’ Market

MALCOLM, Neb. (KLKN) — Southeast Nebraska’s dangerous heat is casting a shadow on local vendors’ chances to shine.

The Malcolm Farmers’ Market decided to close on Monday because of the high temperatures.

“It was kind of just agreed upon with all of the vendors,” coordinator Allea Eckert said. “They were willing to take a break for this week and not put everybody else through the heat, but also the loss of their product as well.”

The farmers market is usually open every other Monday from 4 to 7 p.m.

And for businesses like the Monnier Meat Market, it’s their main source for advertising.

Owner Nick Monnier said this impacts his sales greatly.

“It definitely is challenging when you miss a week because of the high temperatures and things like that,” he said. “Now you’re waiting a month to get back in front of some people that are maybe waiting to catch up with you there rather than having to put an order in, or go out to the farm or find a place to meet.”

Eckert said it’s not easy to close up because she knows so many of the community members also rely on these items.

But she said they have to think about safety and keeping products secure.

When organizers went outside, it was clear it was too hot.

“When we were on the blacktop, it was a terrible amount of heat, and we would do it right in the middle of the day, right when that sun was at its highest,” she said. “Those products that we have, specifically candles from Oak Creek Farm House, it’s just so hot that the candles are melting.”