By PHYLLIS ZORN

Staff writer

Paul and Gladys Klassen have high hopes for their first season as vendors at Hillsboro Farmers Market.

As the couple, recently relocated from Oklahoma City, set up wood creations at their display table in Memorial Park, they set out a display board of earrings crafted from exotic woods, crosses, and inlaid wall hangings.

Paul, who has a business called Carpenter’s Apprentice, also makes cheese boards, tea boxes, cremation boxes, chess boards, and checker boards.

“We don’t have those tonight,” Gladys said. “Mainly we have his specialty earrings and wall hangings.”

Not only does Paul market his creations at farmers markets. He also takes custom orders.

“Lots of his business comes in,” Gladys said.

The couple moved to Hillsboro after retirement because two of their grandchildren are attending Tabor College. Two others already have graduated.

Both Paul and Gladys attended Tabor. That’s where the boy from Minnesota and the girl from California met.

“My dad spent some growing-up years here in Hillsboro,” Gladys said. “I feel like I’ve come full circle.”

Eight vendors offered wares at the market Thursday. Items included plants, jellies and jams, breads, pastries, pies, flowers, dish scrubbies, reusable water balloons, hair scrunchies, pot handle holders, wool dryer balls, and gooseberries.

On the other side of the central sidewalk at the market, Angela Margritz offered an assortment of children’s toys, glassware, and craft supplies.

“I have a make-an-offer table,” Margritz said.