Whistle Stop Q&A: St. Rita's Cakes

1.     What is your name and your business’s name?

Jeanne Dennis, Owner St. Rita's Cakes

2.     What are you selling at this year’s Whistle Stop market?

Cream Cheese Pound Cakes and Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cakes. Plus seasonal breads such as Banana Bread and Pumpkin Bread. All area available in loaves that are wrapped in freezer paper ready to keep on hand.

3.     How long have you been in this business?

Since 2006

4.     Why should people buy at the farmers market vs. the grocery story?

People should buy at a farmers market because it offers the freshest produce and local made products in the city. All my baked goods are made fresh for the market. There is no comparison to the local grocery store. This really is the healthiest way to stock your pantry when crops are naturally producing fruits and vegetables in season.

5.     Why did you start your business?

This is something I love and am gifted at producing. And have done so for many years. Friends and family have always encouraged me to sell my product. So when I lost job in 2009, it was clear this was to be my life's work! 

6.     Tell us about your growing practices or philosophy. Is your produce certified organic? Do you use only natural products to make your product?

All my ingredients are natural and there are no preservatives in my products. I only use nuts when requested.

Editor's note: Whistle Stop is every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. near Thrasher Park.