First Posted: 7/23/2014
Harold Golomb Jr. truly celebrates the summer season, seeing it as an opportunity to share carefully-tended produce with area residents. To Golomb and his family, farming is much more than their livelihood – it’s a way of life.
The Golomb Farm and Greenhouses stand returns to the farmers’ market in Pittston this season and will participate in this year’s Tomato Festival.
The farm, located off McCullough Road in Plains Township near the Susquehanna River, has been in operation for more than 100 years. Golomb’s father, Harry “Buddy” Golomb, took over the family farm in 1957 after the death of his father.
In an ever-changing world, the Golombs say in many ways farming has remained the same, providing a sense of stability and history. Many of the same crops have been harvested and sold year after year because of their consistent quality and taste.
Still, current health trends have greatly influenced sales.
“Many customers now buy vegetables used for juicing or to include in smoothies,” said mother Audrey Golomb. “We’re only too happy to learn about new uses for our products.”
Early summer brings yellow ears of corn, ready for a bit of butter and salt; various types of squash, cucumbers, broccoli, onions, and a crowd favorite: red beets.
Another favorite is tomatoes. These red globes, fresh from the earth, are a common addition to any salad or spaghetti sauce.
The Golombs work well into November when customers are able to enjoy pumpkins and other autumn vegetables on their Thanksgiving table.
For those who seek a little bit of extra flavor or scent, the farm also offers a variety of herbs, including varieties of dill, parsley, basil, rosemary, and lavender.
Flowers and hanging baskets are also available to customers, adding a splash of vibrant color to any home or porch.
The business employs seasonal staff who applaud the spirit and hard work characterizing the farm.
“I love working for this wonderful family,” said employee Mike Olsakowski. “I appreciate meeting area residents as we sell our products in the community.”
The family employs high school and college students during the harvesting season when extra sets of strong and willing hands are needed.
The work, although difficult, is often accompanied by laughter and song as a result of camaraderie among the farm’s workers.
A family affair, daughter Laura Kasco offers help on weekends.
The 52-acre farm has not been without challenges. Farming depends on factors, such as weather ,that are beyond human control. Often a lot of hard work needs to be combined with enough sun and rain to encourage abundant healthy crops, available for area farmers’ markets early in the summer season.
The farm’s proximity to the river, although it is a spot the family treasures, makes flooding a constant threat. In 2011, all their crops were lost to area flooding.
Still, they moved forward, confident that the perseverance of their family and the commitment of their customers would provide the tools for long-term success.
The Golombs are rich in spirit and prosperous in regard to family and work ethic, but they do struggle financially.
“Farming isn’t something you do to get rich,” said Buddy Golomb. “You have to really enjoy what you do, with a long-term focus that goes beyond simply the current season.”
Competition is also a concern for the business. With relatively high overhead costs inherent in small farms, pricing is often an issue.
Still the Golombs believe high quality produce keeps customers coming back and willing to pay a fair cost for a fresh product.
“Fresh produce provides beautiful color, delicious flavor, and an opportunity for truly healthy eating,” Harold Golomb Jr. said. “We are not simply selling food but the opportunity to experience home-grown offerings that cannot be purchased in a supermarket.”
Customers seem to agree. The farm presents its products at three area farmers markets throughout the summer season – Pittston on Tuesday, Wilkes-Barre on Thursday, and Dallas on Saturday. The produce is fresh, as it timely makes its way from field to the marketplace.
The Golombs look to the future with hope. Since 1913, they have been making the “best of” produce available to area residents.
“Buddy” Golomb, patriarch of the business, is temporarily “out of commission” due to recent heart surgery.
“This is the first season my dad hasn’t carefully overseen the planting, harvesting, and selling of his tomatoes,” said Harold Golomb Jr. “But we expect he’ll be back soon.”
As for the future, Harold Golomb Jr. believes careful planning and hard work make it likely the little farm that has survived flood, drought, and economic challenge can look forward with hope.
