Following a very successful soft opening at their spacious new location at 4557 Main St. in Snyder, Farmers & Artisans will host a grand opening celebration from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 4. Guests will have an opportunity to meet several local food producers and sample many of their products during the day-long event.

A local food market and artisan bakery, Farmers & Artisans was previously located at 78 East Spring St. in Williamsville. The new location places even greater focus on local and sustainable food products provided by smaller producers and growers, according to owner Julie Blackman. Blackman’s family also owns Blackman Homestead Farm in Lockport.

Erie County Legislator Lynne Dixon announces that the fourth annual Prom Dress Drive has collected numerous dresses for local high school girls to “shop” through during one of the two upcoming Shopping Days. Held in cooperation with Urban Valet Dry Cleaners, the Prom Dress Drive helps girls find a free gown for the big dance or event.

New this year, the Shopping Days will be held at Performing Arts Dance Academy, located at 206 Lake St., Hamburg. Girls are invited to come and “shop” for a free gown from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 13 and noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 14.

Farmers & Artisans, a unique Williamsville store moving soon to Snyder, offers a delicious mix of local produce, bakery items, meats and farm market products. And, they are now offering sign-up for their popular vegetable, fruit and flower shares for a second consecutive growing season.

These shares are similar to traditional Community Supported Agriculture programs, with consumers subscribing to a weekly portion of fresh and local produce and flowers throughout the summer and fall seasons. It’s a great way to support Western New York farms, enjoy fresh and delicious produce, and save time and money. Customers may sign up for one, two or all three shares, and discounts are available when signing up for multiple shares.