In addition to browsing the usual selection of garden-fresh vegetables, meats from locally-raised livestock and various artwork, soaps and other products, visitors to the Columbus Farmers Market had the chance to spend their money in another unique way on Saturday — to help support local growers in need. Growing Rural Opportunities, a local nonprofit that supports farmers and agriculture in Polk County, hosted a fundraiser in conjunction with the market that day, with proceeds going to support area farmers who lost crops due to last month’s torrential rainfalls. Around 30 businesses and residents donated items for a silent auction, while a special breakfast menu, also intended to raise money, quickly sold out of most of its selection that morning. (Photos by Ted Yoakum/Tryon Daily Bulletin)