​Bervie W.I. learns about the Commonplace Market in downtown Kincardine

The Bervie Women’s Institute met at the Bervie United Church, Wednesday at 10 a.m., and president Bev Berndt opened the meeting with "O Canada."

Convener Diane Wilson then introduced our guest speaker, Andrew Courtney, owner of the Commonplace Market in downtown Kincardine and The Market Stand seasonal produce outlet in the Canadian Tire parking lot.

Andrew was raised in the Ripley area and worked elsewhere in his early years but also grew some produce. He returned to the family farm in 2018 and started growing organic produce there, eventually opening his produce stand in the Canadian Tire parking lot around 2020. He later opened the Commonplace Market downtown and this venture has been quite successful.

He will be expanding to his new location, the former Pierson garage building, in late April – more parking there, for sure. Diane thanked Andrew and presented him with a gift.

President Bev then read the land acknowledgement and we had the usual openings. The Roll Call, “Your favourite vegetable,” was answered by 10 members. Betty Jean White read the minutes of the last meeting and Islay Eby gave the treasurer’s report. Sandra MacDonald reported for the Sunshine committee.

Several were planning to attend the District Director’s meeting in Chesley, March 5. Membership fees for 2026-27 were set at $70 per person. Several will donate pies to the Roots of Bruce which is in Walkerton, April 16-17.

Ellen Waye reported that there are 27 sets of Books, Bears and Blankets ready to be donated to the Bruce County paramedics. Monetary donations will be made to the Kincardine and Tiverton agricultural societies. Program conveners Betty Jean and Diane have reviewed the program ideas for the coming year.

The meeting closed with the closing ode and God Save the King.

The annual meeting will be April 1 which includes a potluck lunch. New members are always welcome.