There still remains space for local farmers and growers, processed food vendors, and artisans and crafters to register for a stall.  Last season an average of 1425 customers visited the Market each Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Since the Market will be open this season until 2:00, the potential for customers and purchases is even greater, according to Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market Manager.  “I wish to encourage everyone considering this wonderful opportunity to think about the potential it offers…not only in terms of sales and some added income, but in providing a venue for your talent and hard work, and in helping our community to buy goods in their own backyard. Not only that, but you’ll get a chance to see all of your friends and neighbors at our fabulous Farmers’ Market!”  While all vendor applications are being accepted, the Board is especially looking for artisans/crafters. 

Applications and further information are available at www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org or (425) 463-6751.  Friend us on “Facebook!”   Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas

A Vendor Orientation will be held at Rock Creek Elementary School Saturday, May 18, from 10:00 a.m. to noon. This Orientation is for those vendors already signed up and for potential vendors looking for additional information.   

 Applications and further information are available at www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org or (425) 463-6751.  Friend us on “Facebook!”   Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

            With a projected growth in volunteers, however, the MVFM Board also needs someone to coordinate the volunteers.  This job can be done entirely from home, and consists of entering volunteer information into a database, scheduling the volunteers, and then giving a reminder call or email the week of the scheduled shift.

            Those interested in volunteering in any capacity for the Market should check the website at http://www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org/Volunteer.html.  With only 81 days until the Grand Opening, volunteers are encouraged to sign up without delay.  Maple Valley Farmer’s Market…”It’s the Saturday Morning Place to Be!”Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

A strong Farmers’ Market cannot exist without quality vendors and performers.  The MVFM Board encourages all interested in selling their farm goods, prepared foods, or art/craft products, or in providing musical entertainment to check the website at http://www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org/Vendor-Info.html. The Market also seeks sponsors for the 2013 season; more information is available at http://www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org/untitled1.html.
Questions, comments, and suggestions can be directed to info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org. or by contacting  (425) 463-6751.  NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

Kim and Jack Emmons of 4-Corners John L. Scott, along with their team of friends and colleagues, will kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.Their support of breast cancer will continue all month, as they sell hotdogs each Saturday and Sunday at Safeway 4-Corners, with proceeds directed to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Kim, who is on the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market Board of Directors, has coordinated all four of the MVFM’s Breast Cancer Awareness Days. Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market Manager, said, “We are thankful for all of her efforts and commitment to eradicate breast cancer within our lifetime. Kim has been a long time supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness.”

Another group represented at Saturday’s Market will be MultiCare, who is a founding sponsor of our Farmers’ Market. In addition, many Maple Valleyites are familiar with Kristi Blair, a local Maple Valley resident. Blair started a foundation called “Wings of Karen” in honor of her mom, Karen Denmark, who battled breast cancer for three years before finally succumbing to the disease in 2008. Representing Valley Girls and Guys and the 3-Day will be Karen and Michael Crowe. Karen’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer almost seven years ago, just six weeks before her wedding. Also in attendance will be Sherry Kuzan, RN, who serves as the Breast Health Specialist and Manager of the University of Washington/Valley Medical Clinic Breast Center. In addition to all of the informational booths to feed the brain, Saturday’s Market will feed visitors’ soul with its weekly musical entertainment. This week’s singer is Louisa Benitez, who performs some Brazilian songs in Portuguese.

If that’s not enough to draw visitors to this final Saturday, the cookie-decorating opportunity is certain to appeal. George’s Bakery, a North Bend favorite, and a highly-ranked destination has been a star of MVFM for these last two seasons. Children and adults alike “ooh” and “aah” over the bigger-than-life, dream-come-true baked goods at this booth. On this final Saturday, Joe McKeown , owner of George’s Bakery, will sponsor a gingerbread cookie decorating event, beginning at 9:00 a.m. and lasting until all of the gingerbread cookies disappear. Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market President, urges everyone with a sense of artistry and a child-like adoration of frosting to attend this fun event. Laise-Jonas said, “Joe and his partner Kathy have been so supportive of our Farmers’ Market, and we are so lucky to have them vend at our market. I believe everyone with a sweet tooth would agree! Independent bakers are becoming fewer and fewer, and I am thankful that they have chosen to be part of our Farmers’ Market family.”

Of course, the core of the Market, even in its final hours, is the vendors. Smart shoppers will find the perfect fall treasures among the huge mounds of orange pumpkins, freshly-picked white and yellow corn, apples, squashes, onions, eggplant, peppers, brilliant flower bouquets, and other freshly-harvested harbingers of fall. It’s also visitors’ last weekend until next June to stock up on the array of balsamic vinegars, local honey, meats from Lind’s Meat, biscotti and bakery bread for the freezer, and fresh goat cheese, as well as all of the artistic creations (Christmas shopping, anyone?). Remember that none of these items will be available again until June 2013! All of the processed food vendors will be at the Market on Saturday, as well, offering biscotti, hot soups, wraps, cookies, sandwiches, cupcakes, and more—both breakfast and lunch goodies are plentiful.

It’s the end of a highly successful MVFM season and a day not to be missed. Stop by and savor the experience, on this final Maple Valley Farmers’ Market. It’s the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.   Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas ]]> http://blogs.covingtonreporter.com/mvfarmersmarket/its-the-final-harvest-last-saturday-of-the-maple-valley-farmers-market-october-6-2012/185/feed/ 0 http://blogs.covingtonreporter.com/mvfarmersmarket/third-annual-chili-cook-off-heats-up-the-farmers-market-saturday-september-22nd/182/ http://blogs.covingtonreporter.com/mvfarmersmarket/third-annual-chili-cook-off-heats-up-the-farmers-market-saturday-september-22nd/182/#comments Mon, 17 Sep 2012 23:15:01 +0000 Victoria Laise Jonas http://blogs.covingtonreporter.com/mvfarmersmarket/?p=182      A steaming-hot Chili Cook-off event is a fitting celebration for a summer marked by 48 rainless days and sunshine streaming its way right into September. Local home chefs and cooks are urged to join in this tasty chili-cookin’ competition sponsored by Ross Olive of State Farm Insurance in Maple Valley. 

     While Olive has arranged for prizes, including $100 for 1st place, $75 for 2nd place,  $50 for 3rd place, and $50 for People’s Choice, the chili cook-off also serves as a fundraiser for the Farmers’ Market. For a $5.00 donation, the public will be able to sample all of the competing chili recipes, while helping to fund the operational costs of running a non-profit 501c3 Farmers’ Market. Sampling starts at 11:00 a.m., and interested tasters should plan to arrive early, as last year’s chili sold out way earlier than expected. Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market Manager, commented that she expects this year’s event to be as popular as last year’s, an “event that the community embraced to help sustain our local farmers’ market!”

     Those interested in exercising their culinary muscles should quickly contact Larry Gholston before all of the spots are filled; he can be reached at larry@payrollsolutionswa.com, or at 206.291.5736. More specific information about the chili cook-off, and how to enter, is available at MVFM’s website at www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket, under the “Events” tab.  Those interested in participating should note that they can arrive as early as 6:30 a.m. to set up their space and must turn in their chili for judging at 11:00 a.m.

        As always, nonprofit booths have a standing reservation at the Market, and this weekend Fountain Court Senior Living, an assisted living facility that also offers independent living cottages for seniors, will host a booth.  In addition, Maple Valley City Council will answer questions and provide information, and the ever-popular Master Gardeners will return for a horticultural visit.

       Musical entertainment will keep the chili’s heat blasting with the Maple Valley Big Band, a group of mostly local musicians who enjoy playing the great music from the big band era of the 1930′s and 40′s. Musician Ted Argo says, “We usually have five saxophones, four trumpets, and four trombones, as well as a full rhythm section. It is exciting music that will make you want to get up and dance! We are open to any experienced musicians that want to participate in playing swing and Latin, boogie-woogie and beautiful ballads. Stop by and enjoy the rare opportunity to hear live big band music!”

       Even with so many events taking place, it is impossible to overlook the core of the Market—the farmers with their brilliant array of fresh, local, fall produce; the prepared foods whose tasty aromas drift lazily through the fall air; the artistic creations that lure visitors’ gazes and pocketbooks; the gorgeous armloads of flowers that adorn the flower stalls; and the varied array of unusual and locally-made items including jam, cheese, meat, dairy products, bread, lavender products, hot sauce, and too many more to mention.

      Visitors, however, will want to take special care to visit the Liberty Alpacas booth, a Maple Valley farm new to the MVFM this year. After recognizing the advantages of alpaca ownership and having had prior livestock experience and professional business experience, Jeff and Lorrie Williamson started raising alpacas in 2007. Their website states, “As newer breeders, the ‘alpaca learning curve’ is fresh in our minds, and we can relate to questions and anxieties about starting up an alpaca business. We use a daily hands-on approach with our young stock and intentionally keep our herd small for the best farming practices. Currently, we are raising our herd of Huacaya alpacas, focusing on a colored program with bloodlines such as Premier Absolute, Hemingway, Snowmass and Accoyo Victor. As well as raising these beautiful animals, we are the Pacific Northwest authorized distributor of MSA green panel equipment for small livestock. One can never have too many alpacas or green panels! We invite you to arrange a visit and see what alpaca life is all about.”

       This Saturday is the third-to-last Saturday to enjoy the wonders of Maple Valley’s own Farmers’ Market, so there is no time to waste.  The “Saturday morning place to be” is winding down for the season, but there is still ample time to savor its riches, as the Market continues through October 6 at Rock Creek Elementary School from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. each Saturday. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

      And, so, this Saturday at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is More Herbs, Less Salt Day. Visitors can admire the brilliant colors and flavors of fall produce—tomatillos, an array of bright peppers, succulent honeydew, brilliant tomatoes, juicy peaches, makings for the most delicious salad imaginable, crunchy apples, and much more—all local, fresh, healthy, and much of it organic.  Not feeling like chopping?  Try a fresh loaf of bread from George’s Bakery in North Bend; sample flavor-enhancing oils and vinegars, sauces, or preservative-free jam; buy gluten-free gourmet items, fresh goat cheese and smoked cheese, beef sausage and jerky, or locally-made wine; or treat your mouth to just-picked berries or a bite of sweet potato pie. Visitors can leave the Market laden with bags of produce certain to add bright color and great taste to kitchens that are too often littered instead with fast-food trash, and can help their families gain a renewed appreciation for the meaning of the word “fresh.”

     Lake Wilderness Arboretum will have a booth at the Market this week, as well, offering residents a great chance to learn more about this beautiful treasure right in our own community.  And, Sugar and Spice Alpacas will bring their alpaca family to Saturday’s Market—always a delight for visitors young and old, and adults may want to learn about the classes offered by owner Marisa Dobiash. Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market Manager, said, “I personally took a class from Marisa and made a wool scarf.  I loved learning how to work with the wet wool technique and made a beautiful pink, beige, green and tan scarf.  Marisa was a very patient instructor who shared a wealth of information on working with raw alpaca wool.”

     Music is an essential part of every Market Saturday, and this week will feature a Seattle pop grunge band from Maple Valley. At 11:00, the band Sealth, playing together since 2006, will provide its sweet therapy for tired feet and weary souls. Sealth is comprised of teachers from the Rock ‘n’ More Music Academy: Dace Anderson on guitar, vocals; Arielle Young on guitar, piano, vocals, and Mitchell Fund on vocals. They’ve enjoyed fame in the Seattle area: playing the national anthem for about 4000 people at Key Arena in Seattle before a Rat City Rollergirls bout in June; releasing an album on iTunes called “Vaguely Familiar” in 2009; and producing a film that they played at the Seattle True Independent Film Festival in 2010. The group often plays community festivals including Maple Valley Days, Covington Days, Cornucopia Days, and Kent 4th of July Splash, and fundraisers, including Rock ‘n’ More, Gilda’s Club, Valley Girls and Guys. Interestingly enough, the musicians also work jobs outside of music: Arielle is a graphic designer who has had art shows in Maple Valley, Issaquah, Bellevue, and Redmond; Dace has had columns run in newspapers in Maple Valley, Kent, Black Diamond, Kent, and Tukwila; and both Arielle and Dace are mascots for the Rat City Rollergirls roller derby. Mitch works as a quartz miner.  Visitors to the MVFM won’t want to miss these versatile and talented musicians, and will also want to thank Dace Anderson for supporting the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market this season as an Entertainment Sponsor.

     The joy of Saturday’s Market will be a bit bittersweet, as only three more Saturdays remain before the season ends on October 6.  Stop by and savor the experience, as the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

 Space is limited.  Cooks interested in learning more about this contest are encouraged to contact Larry Gholston at larry@payrollsolutionswa.com or (206) 291-5736.

     In addition to the many businesses located in the gym, the Seattle Humane Society Max Mobile will return for its second appearance this season.  The MaxMobile is a bright yellow, 38-foot, custom-built mobile adoption bus that visits local stores, shopping malls, schools, festivals, and farmers’ markets each week filled with dogs, cats, and other critters ready for on-the-spot-adoption!  More information can be found at http://www.seattlehumane.org/adopt/visit/maxmobile.

     In addition, the Market will host another of its popular chef demos, with Cindy Gregory of Cedar Grill Restaurant, who will shop the Market for fresh, seasonal vegetables, from which she will create a soup she is calling “Cream of Many Vegetables.”  Gregory said that she served last year’s soup, the “Farmers’ Market Corn Chowder,” to over 100 shoppers.  One vendor came over to Gregory’s booth, reporting that so many customers were coming by, literally licking the last drops out of the sample, that she knew the soup must be delicious and wanted a sample. In addition, a family visited the Cedar Grill Restaurant after the chef demonstration and were greatly disappointed to find that the Farmers’ Market soup wasn’t available that night, as they had enjoyed it so much.  Gregory looks forward this year to again creating a popular and nutritious soup.

     Music for Saturday’s festivities will be provided by Ted Argo, a talented musician who began taking classical piano lessons at three years old, and who now plays and teaches 24 different musical instruments.  Argo writes his own arrangements and adds his own vocals as accompaniment. Samples of his music can be found at http://tedargo.com/, or, better yet, you can hear him from 11:15-12:30 live on Saturday.

     Never to be forgotten, of course, is the foundation of the Market—the vendors.  In addition to the abundant local, fresh, harvest produce, the stalls are brimming with fresh flowers, cheese, dairy products, organic beef, jam, garlic sauce, bakery products, prepared foods, breakfast and lunch items, beverages, and artisan products.  Visitors may want to pay a special visit to a vendor who has been with the Market since its inception three years ago—4-Ever Memories, owned by Christel Logsdon. Her booth sells an array of her hand-crafted quality gifts, including whimsical decorative solar yard lights, crocheted-top kitchen towels, washable microwave potato bags, hot pads and pot holders, shopping totes and fabric baskets, 100% cotton knitted and crocheted dish cloths, embroidered flour sack dish towels, and an assortment of aprons-half aprons and reversible full-sized ones. Parents and grandparents may want to purchase a child’s apron in bright colors to entice little bakers to join the fun at home. Logsdon’s booth will recall memories of one’s grandmother’s kitchen and will elicit a desire to do some old-fashioned baking.

      The Market’s bounty is a poignant treasure, for the clock is ticking on this fourth season, with only five remaining Saturdays. Open from 9 a.m. – 1:00  p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary, the Market is Maple Valley’s “Saturday morning place to be!” More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”  NOTE: This Article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     While some of the vendors shift from week to week, the MVFM Board wanted to recognize those vendors who will be present on Vendor Day.  They are:  Ayala Farms, Lind Meats, Ze Change Farms, Cher Vang Farms, Outlook Produce, Hayton Farms, Yee Yang Gardens, Calhoun Fruit Farm, Sweet Briar Farm, Cartwright Farm, Jose Bautista Farm, Bees in the Burbs, Illusions Wine, Smith Brothers Farms, Lavender Valley Farms, Thistlewood Farm, Mai Houa Farm, R/P Guerrero Farm, Shao Cha Gardens, Gradwohl’s Farms, Children’s Garden, Chelane’s, Mixed Blessings, A Taste of Eden, Ristretto’s, Ms. Margie’s Sweet Potato Pies, George’s Bakery, Mamma Rizzo’s Biscotti, EJ’s Custom Catering, The Cupcakery, On the Up and Up, Blue Heart Creations, Valley Woodturners, Angela Ramsey Jewelry, Emily’s Sunshine Room, and aYa! Designs.

     As an extra treat on Vendor Appreciation Day, the Market will host its second Chef Demo of the season, featuring Scooter’s Custom Catering.  A very popular local catering business, Scooter’s Catering is dedicated to providing quality, creative, professional services.  Scooter’s Custom Catering is very excited to be invited to demonstrate how we incorporate seasonal foods grown in our community area in all our menu presentations. The Maple Valley Farmers Market is a very important part of our community offering each Saturday great selections of fresh local ingredients. The Most popular request from our clients is our Northwest menu option using fresh local ingredients.    Our company is committed to our involvement in our Maple Valley/Black Diamond community and the Farmers Market is a treasure.   Shoppers are encouraged to join in the fun, as Scooter shops for locally grown ingredients to use in his recipes with free delectable samplings of his prepared dishes for those lucky enough to be at the Farmers’ Market on Saturday.
 
     And, every Market Saturday needs some music, so musician Doug Browning will play a variety of Americana music and hits from all ages beginning at 11:00 a.m.

     Wear your hat, thank the vendors, and come enjoy the beautiful fresh foods and lovingly-handcrafted products, the local entrepreneurs, the music, and the chance to see your neighbors and friends. Don’t miss this twelfth Saturday of the fourth season of your local Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

      The Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is proud to be a 2012 blood drive sponsor and encourages everyone to  donate blood.  Farmers’ Market Manager Victoria Laise Jonas notes “Everyone who  donates blood   at the Farmers’ Market will receive a free piece of locally grown fruit!  This is our way of saying thank you to all of the blood doners  who take time to give the gift of life –life saving blood to patients in need.”    Before you donate, be sure to eat well, drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids and bring picture ID.  Please contact CRBS at 1-877-24-BLOOD to sign up. And lastly, encourage a friend to donate with you!

     Christian Friends of Troops, a mission of the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, will again host their weekly collection box for cell phones for soldiers.  The group was founded in 2003 by Mrs. T.A. (Louise) Brown, who wanted to help military personnel in Iraq.  Starting with the names of five military police, she sent prayers, care packages, and postcards, and held annual “Welcome Home, Hero” celebrations for military personnel who served in war zones.  At the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market entrance each Saturday, Christian Friends of Troops collect unwanted cell phones, which are exchanged for pre-paid calling cards for the troops through “Cell Phones for Soldiers,” founded by teenagers Robbie and Brittany Bergquest from Norwell, Mass.  This organization sends the collected phones to ReCellular, which pays for each phone received – enough to provide an hour of talk time to soldiers abroad.  The Christian Friends of troops will also host a booth at this Saturday’s Market.

     For the first time at our Market, Seattle Humane Society Max Mobile will make an appearance.  The MaxMobile is a bright yellow, 38-foot, custom-built mobile adoption bus that visits local stores, shopping malls, schools, festivals, and farmers’ markets each week filled with dogs, cats, and other critters ready for on-the-spot-adoption!  More information can be found at http://www.seattlehumane.org/adopt/visit/maxmobile.  And, the Light of Life Preschool will also host a booth this week.

            The Farmers’ Market season is well over halfway complete on this tenth Saturday of the season, so Maple Valley residents will certainly want to visit the 40+ booths and stock up on fresh, local produce; cheese; honey; baked goods; meat; fresh flower bouquets; beautiful hand-crafted artisan creations; and delicious prepared foods.

            One popular booth, now in its second year, is A Taste of Eden, operated by Lee Ellis of Issaquah, specializes in specialty extra-virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegar blends. All of the products are 100% natural and gluten-free, and contain no soy, MSG, or added salt. These oils and vinegars can also be purchased online at http://www.atasteofeden.com/aboutus.asp.

      The always-popular weekly entertainment will be Banjo Tom and Alabama Dan. Tom and Dan play American Old Time and Bluegrass music on banjos and guitar. Banjo Tom will be playing and demonstrating six different types of banjos from America’s past when, according to Banjo Tom, “it was the banjo, versus the guitar, that captured America’s hearts and imaginations—long, long before there was rock and roll and the folk movement.”

      More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK,” and to remember that the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday morning place to be.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Visitors to the Market don’t even have to eat breakfast before arriving, as a wide array of breakfast treats is available.  Along with sandwiches and lunch specials, EJ’s Catering offers breakfast frittatas, breakfast burritos, and mango berry coolers –all prepared by local Maple Valley chef Eric Elmer, who utilizes locally grown, organic, natural, and freshly-prepared comfort foods.  His beautiful displays are certain to woo new customers, according to Laise Jonas.

      Another Market favorite is George’s Bakery, owned by Joe McKeown and Kathleen Stohesberry, who have a storefront in North Bend and who began to sell at farmers’ markets four years ago.  Their breakfast delights include plate-sized fresh donuts, assorted breads, and a wide variety of pastries such as cinnamon disks, pear-almond tarts, bran muffins, coffee cake, pan dowdy, and almond tarts.   Laise Jonas commented, “Best of all, they use fresh fruit from Farmers’ Market vendors!”

      New to the Market this year is a coffee booth hosted by Ristretto’s, a coffee and wine bar serving lunch, dinner, and dessert, located at 27203 216^th Ave. SE in Maple Valley. At MVFM, they sell hot coffee and lattes for those who need an extra morning jolt to get them shopping. “Ristretto’s is a perfect complement to our market and to our community.  Over the past few years, our customers have requested, time and time again, for us to recruit a latte stand, and Ristretto’s fits the bill perfectly,” noted Laise Jonas.

       The most senior MVFM participant and most local breakfast establishment of all is Mama Rizzo’s Biscotti and More:  It’s a true family affair that includes parents Loretta and Jules Gommi, along with adult children Lorraine, Julie, and Michael at the booth. An assortment of lovingly-prepared, cooked-right-here-in-Maple Valley biscotti, coffee cake, and mini dessert bread loaves, can satisfy one’s morning sweet tooth at the Gommis’ “outdoor café.”

       Victoria Laise Jonas said, “All of these vendors are local business owners who have committed to the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market.   They signed up for the entire 17-week season and have not missed a Saturday.  Come say ‘hi’ to these wonderful folks!”

        While the breakfast treats fill the stomach and set a happy glow upon the day, the Market offers even more. August 11 is Fresh Fruit Pie Bake-Off, a competition open to youth (ages 17 and under), adults (ages 18-49), and seniors (50 and over). Each participant may submit one completely homemade pie in a disposable tin. The filling must be fresh fruit only–no tarts, crisps, creams, meringues, pumpkins, or custards, etc., will be accepted. Pies, accompanied by the recipe, may be submitted between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. and judging will begin at 11:45 a.m.  Specific rules are available at http://www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org/2012_Pie_Rules.pdf  Prizes range from $25 Market Bucks (1st place in each division) to $5 in Market Bucks (3rd place in each division).

        With over 40 booths to choose from, it is sometimes difficult to know where to begin, but seasoned MVFM visitors might want to wander by one of this year’s new booths—Four Sisters Gourmet Sauces, selling hot chili sauce, spring rolls and spring roll dipping sauce, and frozen egg rolls. Owner Julie Quoch was the oldest of four and learned to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes from her mother and grandmother.  Fascinated with organic fruits and vegetables, she combined those with traditional Vietnamese recipes so that she could share her “love of healthy food with an Asian flare.” She was drawn by the “beautiful colors and variety of peppers” she saw when touring a few organic farms in Eastern Washington and began to make her products fresh and local in Burien about three years ago.   Quoch said, “Patrons of the Maple Valley Market are wonderful and very welcoming–it’s our first year and we have felt nothing but community support. Thank you to those that support local small businesses. We work hard to bring you fresh local products and your support has kept us wanting to be there for you!”

       The amazingly talented Ensemble Ballet Theatre (EBT) will be once again performing at our market beginning at 10:15 a.m.  Music always sweetens the heart, and this week’s music will be provided at 11:00 a.m. Musical entertainment will keep the fruit pie-sweetness bubbling, as Tori Whitten, now in her fourth year of public performing, shares some of her country and pop music repertoire.  Whitten, who has been singing since the age of three, is fifteen years old and travelled to Nashville in 2010 to record four original songs.   More information and samples of her music can be found at http://artistecard.com/ToriWhitten.

          As always, the non-profit booths will be filled at the Market and offering information to interested visitors.  This week’s non-profits include Amy Croan of P.E.O., the Master Gardeners, the Serenity Equine Rescue group, and the Maple Valley Rotary. Another nonprofit group participating will be the Christian Friends of Troops, a mission of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church founded in 2003 by Mrs. T. A. (Louise) Brown.  Brown wanted to help military personnel serving in Iraq, and, starting with the names of five military police, she sent prayers, care packages, and postcards.  Since that time, the group has mailed thousands of care packages and postcards to troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, in addition to praying for them daily. They also hold “Welcome Home, Hero” celebrations for military personnel who served in war zones and collect unwanted cell phones at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market entrance each Saturday, which they then exchange for pre-paid calling cards for the troops through “Cell Phones for Soldiers.”

          With 40+ vendors, the freshest of produce, jewelry and artistic creations, honey, jam, hot sauce, lavender products, dairy products, and organic meat, the Market offers more than can even be sampled in a season!  And, with the season already half over, time is running out to partake of and enjoy even a portion of the offerings.  And, yes, just ask Victoria Laise-Jonas, “The Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the Saturday morning place to be! And, don’t forget to Friend us on FACEBOOK!”  The Market is open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. each Saturday through October 6 at Rock Creek Elementary School.   NOTE:  Article written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas

        With such a strong emphasis on the farmer—the essential backbone of all farmers’ markets–and to further promote awareness of farmers’ markets and of the contributions farmers make to daily life in America, it makes sense that MV Farmers’ Market will celebrate Saturday, August 4, as National Farmers’ Market Day. As our community has experienced for the three previous seasons and the first half of Season Four, our local Farmers’ Market offers affordable and healthful products sold directly from the farm in their freshest possible state, increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables for children and families, which can help promote child health and reduce childhood obesity.  In addition, Farmers’ Markets play a key role in developing local and regional food systems, supporting family farms, revitalizing local communities, providing important outlets for producers, and providing the opportunity for farmers and consumers to interact.   When visitors come to our local Market this Saturday, they should make it a point to introduce themselves to our farmers and thank them for the role they play in sustaining farmland in America and for bringing fresh local produce to our community.

        Always a crowd pleaser, our very own Dan Nichols of the Maple Valley Historical Society will bring in his 1951 John Deere Row Crop Tractor to exhibit.  Children of all ages (and adults, too) always enjoy this feature of celebrating National Farmers’ Market Day!

        The farmers’ stands will be in abundant array this Saturday, as they are on every Market Saturday. Ramon Ayala Farms, Outlook Produce, Hayton Farms, Yee Yang Gardens, Ze Chang Gardens, Jose’ Bautista Farm , Silver Springs Creamery,  Calhoun Fruit Farm, Sweet Briar Farm, Bees in the Burbs, Cartwright Farm,  Sophie’s Blueberry Farm, Thistlewood Farms, Mai Houa Garden, R/P Guerrero Farm, Shao Cha Gardens, and Children’s Gardens will all have booths again this week. They will be selling fresh vegetables, including beets, garlic, squash, lettuce, spinach, cucumbers, and chili peppers; fresh fruits, including berries, peaches, apricots, and plums; eggs; fresh flower bouquets; herb pots; hanging baskets; locally-made wine; honey; cow and goat cheeses, yogurts, and milk; and USDA-approved, grass-fed beef that is farm-grown and free of antibiotics, hormones, and pesticides.  Visitors can chat with the farmers to learn how and where the item is grown, and how recently it was harvested (sometimes that same morning!), while they admire the hard work and great love that farming entails.  With seventeen farmers’ booths, visitors can certainly fulfill their entire week’s produce shopping list before moving on to the 26 stalls displaying processed foods, meats, cheese, wine, tea, milk, arts and crafts, and sugar-laden, hand-baked delights.

        And, if all of that healthy food leaves one longing for something decadent, a trip to Ms. Margie’s Sweet Potato Pie booth might be in order.  After a layoff from his 30-year job as a carpenter, Richard Tynes of Renton took the secret “gold ole Southern family recipe” for sweet potato pie (actually made of yams) that his mom had passed to his wife 28 years ago, and worked and worked until his daughter told him, “Dad, you got it right.  This tastes like Christmas and Thanksgiving wrapped in one.” Tynes named the pies after his mom, began to bake them in Renton and to sell them in 3”, 5”, and 9” sizes. Now being sold at Uwajimaya Stores, and at both Popeye’s Chicken and Original Philly’s Cheese Steaks in Renton, the pies can also be found each week at the Renton Farmers’ Market, the Farm Boat in Seattle, the Madrona Market, the Valley Medical Center Farmers’ Market, and, for the first time this year, at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market. Tynes acknowledged that he was initially concerned about his potential sales out in Maple Valley, but he said that was based on his own lack of knowledge, as he has sold out every weekend, and remarked that it is a “very, very good Market.” Tynes’ next plan is to try to sell the pies flash frozen so that people can bake them at home, but, for now, local visitors can sample a taste each Saturday at Rock Creek.

     Our local non-profit organizations joining in this Saturday festivities include Light of Life Preschool, Amy Croan of P.E.O., and SHADOW.

     At 11:00, the band Sealth, playing together since 2006, will provide its sweet therapy for tired feet and weary souls. Sealth is comprised of teachers from the Rock ‘n’ More Music Academy: Dace Anderson on guitar, vocals; Arielle Young on guitar, piano, vocals, and Mitchell Fund on vocals. They’ve enjoyed fame in the Seattle area: playing the national anthem for about 4000 people at Key Arena in Seattle before a Rat City Rollergirls bout in June; releasing an album on iTunes called “Vaguely Familiar” in 2009; and producing a film that they played at the Seattle True Independent Film Festival in 2010. The group often plays community festivals including Maple Valley Days, Covington Days, Cornucopia Days, and Kent 4th of July Splash, and fundraisers, including Rock ‘n’ More, Gilda’s Club, Valley Girls and Guys. Interestingly enough, the musicians also work jobs outside of music: Arielle is a graphic designer who has had art shows in Maple Valley, Issaquah, Bellevue, and Redmond; Dace has had columns run in newspapers in Maple Valley, Kent, Black Diamond, Kent, and Tukwila; and both Arielle and Dace are mascots for the Rat City Rollergirls roller derby. Mitch works as a quartz miner.  Visitors to the MVFM won’t want to miss these versatile and talented musicians.

     While it’s National Farmers’ Market Day, it’s also a great day for customers, so arrive bright and early this eighth Saturday of the fourth season of your local Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     The 40+ vendors at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market are grateful for customers such as the Bakers, as, without such a strong customer base, the vendors would have little reason to haul their products to Rock Creek Elementary early each Saturday morning, set up their bright displays, and stand for four busy hours under their bright-green awnings. 

     As a token of appreciation to Bakers and others like them, Ross Olive State Farm Insurance  (http://www.statefarm.com/agent/US/WA/Maple-Valley/Ross-Olive-TXMGW1YS000), located in Maple Valley, is sponsoring Customer Appreciation Day. The first 200 customers who spend $40 or more at the Market on Saturday will receive a FREE 2012 collector item Market bag, specially-made to hold the freshest of vegetables and fruits, a jar of jam, some pepperoni sticks, a jar of honey, a hunk of goat cheese, some crunchy biscotti, or a loaf of bread for Sunday’s morning relaxed breakfast.  When winter arrives, and the Market is only a wistful memory, the Market bag can then be used for grocery store visits and a reminder that summer will, indeed, return again.

     Another treat for customers this Saturday is the very popular free bicycle mini-tuneups offered by Dana Parnello, Pat Weiler, and Ron Flores, owner of Bike Masters & Boards, Inc., located in Sawyer Village in Maple Valley.  Flores just celebrated his first year in business in Maple Valley and is excited to bring his knowledge and talents to our customers. As Dana Parnello noted, “We won’t be selling anything more than the love of cycling!”   

     To further celebrate the MVFM customers, the Master Gardeners will make a repeat appearance with complimentary plant and garden advice.

     The MVFM Board also wishes to support those customers who shop at local businesses.  All MVFM customers who bring in sales receipts from businesses within the City of Maple Valley boundaries will receive a raffle ticket (one per receipt, no limit), which will be entered into a drawing at the end of the Market day for a basket of Maple Valley Farmers’ Market goodies.   

     This fourth season has brought several new vendors to MVFM, including Arturo Guerrero’s RIP Guerrero Farm in Quincy. Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market Manager, said, “We were elated to add a farm to our Market that sells certified organic products, as we have had many customer requests for this.  What a tremendous addition for us and for our local community! This year, overall, we have seen an increase in the number of farmers who wanted to be part of our ‘farmers’ market family.’  Our goal has always been, first and foremost, to feature farmers, and with the increase in number, we are well on our way to achieving our goal.” Cherries, peaches, apricots, and nectarines are currently available, and the Guerreros will add plums, pluots, apples, pears, tomatoes, peppers, and fall treats such as pumpkins as they ripen. Guerrero has sold his organic produce for several years at the Federal Way Farmers’ Market.

     Many customers visit each week around 11:00 so that they can enjoy the weekly musical entertainment.  This week’s group, Train Wreck, is a cover band comprised of four friends. Tony Garcia is the designated front man, who plays bass and shares the main vocal work with Brad Naybert, the main guitar player and vocalist. Mark Arnold, percussionist, provides rhythm and drive for the band on his South American Cajon, while Gordy Birse plays guitar and mandolin, and sings harmony. Train Wreck’s music is a mix of country, folk, rock, gospel and bluegrass.

     Come for Customer Appreciation Week, come for the beautiful fresh foods and lovingly-handcrafted products, come to support local entrepreneurs, come for the music, come to see your neighbors…but don’t miss the seventh Saturday of the fourth season of your local Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”   Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas

      Enhancing Maple Valley’s health and wellness were two of the reasons for the creation of the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market four years ago, and, so, it makes perfect sense that Saturday, July 21, is Health and Wellness Day at the Market!  This special day will feature a chef demonstration by our beloved and locally-renowned Soup Lady, Ginger Passarelli of Mama Passarelli’s Dinner House in Black Diamond.  “Mama,” as she is affectionately known, as will arrive early to the Market with her shopping list in hand, and will make the rounds to visit the farmers and other vendors to pick up her fresh local ingredients to whip up some delectable dishes.  Visitors should make sure to stop by her booth to learn some of “Mama’s”  cooking secrets and to sample her fabulously prepared dishes. 

     In addition, Thrive Community Fitness, Dr. Ribellia of Kriss Chiropractic, Joy Supplee of Custom Fit Nutrition, Maple Valley Rotary, and the Maple Valley Food Bank and Emergency Services will host booths, while local Boy Scout Troop #594 will be selling three-day emergency preparedness kits as a fundraiser.  And, last, there will be random healthy give-a-ways throughout the market day promoting our Health and Wellness Day.
 
     No Saturday at the Market is complete without music, and this Saturday will feature the Rhythm Players, a five-piece band playing music ranging from jazz to rock to disco, as well as some original pieces. Their performance will begin at 11:00 a.m.

     Twenty-seven farmers, ranchers and processors will participate in this week’s Market.  New to the Market this year is Sweet Briar Farms of Auburn, Annette Smith’s two-acre farm only 6.8 miles from MVFM. After a job-related injury and months of recovery, Smith realized through research that the farm she had owned for 12 years dated back to 1915, and her dream of selling produce “began to catch fire.”  With help from Puget Sound Fresh, and encouragement from family and friends, Smith decided to start to sell some of her products to Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, a venue that “had such a great feel…and was a good fit for me.” This month Sweet Briar Farms is selling a huge array of  naturally-grown products that travel only a short 6.8 mile trek from farm to market, including beets, bok choy, mixed lettuce with arugula, herbs, peas, squashes, flowers, potatoes, dill, cherries and blueberries, fennel, and much more. Sweet Briar Farm also sells honey and reusable handmade washable produce bags. Smith’s favorite is the fingerling potatoes that are “so sweet and just little bites of pure good!” A 1946 Chevy Flatbed truck, the “Old Blue Belle,” a gift from Smith’s in-laws, graces the farm and carries her goods to market.

     Prepared food is another favorite part of the Market, and E. J.’s Custom Catering is back this year with its always-popular booth.  Specialties include BBQ pulled pork, soups, breakfast frittatas, assorted artisan salads, entrees, mango berry coolers; and other rotating seasonal items. Most menu items are prepared with produce from MVFM, making a visit to EJ’s an even more rewarding taste treat.
    
      Health and Wellness Day is sponsored by Always Best Care Senior Services Eastside, which serves Renton, Bellevue, Issaquah, Mercer Island and other East King County Communities. Locally owned and operated by Patty and Michael Davis of Renton, the business opened in 2010.   Always Best Care Eastside provides two crucial services to the senior community: in-home non-medical care and finding find a suitable retirement community.  Patti Davis said, “Many seniors prefer to stay in their homes, and with the help of our care providers, we can keep them in their homes. Our caregivers provide help ranging from companionship and meal preparation to assistance in the bathroom and showers. But some seniors either cannot or do not want to remain in their home, and our second service helps seniors and their families. We can help families make the right choice.”  Always Best Care was founded in 1996 and operates over 150 locations nationwide.

     With something for all, and the certainty of improved health and wellness, Maple Valley residents should gather up their friends and family, and make the short trek to the sixth Saturday of this fourth season of “the Saturday morning place to be,” from 9:00-1:00 at Rock Creek Elementary. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  MVFM fans are encouraged to “like” us on Facebook!  Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas

      Kids are always drawn toward food, so they should check out George’s Bakery’s plate-sized donuts, certain to open children’s eyes as wide as the donuts themselves; Chelane’s shimmery fresh cane sugar fruit jam; Calhoun Family Fruit’s succulent fresh fruit; Mama Rizzo’s enticing cupcake cones; and the smoked cheese and pepperoni sticks from Lind’s Custom Meats, in addition to the remaining 21 farmers/processors’ booths. Brilliant bouquets of flowers, milk, samples of flavored balsamic vinegar, goat cheese, brilliantly-colored produce, and plants will entrance both the younger and older sets.  EJ’s Custom Catering, with its pulled pork, breakfast burritos, frittatas, assorted artisan salads and soups, and mango berry coolers may start children begging for some change, and the other prepared-food booths will also set stomachs rumbling. Art will abound again on Saturday, with checkbook covers, greeting cards, bookmarks, furniture, bird cages, kids aprons and clothing, cutting boards, dog bow ties, jewelry, wood products, photographs, wall hangings, bug repellant, reusable products, and handmade clothing, and more available. 

      To enhance the focus on the younger set, the Light of Life Preschool, Kinder Swimmer, and MOM’s Club of Maple Valley will have non-profit booths this week, and they will be joined by the Serenity Equine Rescue group, the Master Gardeners, and the Maple Valley City Council, as well. And, if parents or grandparents want to expose the younger generation to live music, they can wander over at 11:00 a.m. to listen to musician Paul Ross, who will perform Native American, Celtic (Irish), and New Age music.

     Several new vendors have joined the Market this year, including Cartwright Farm of Auburn. Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is their first-ever market, selected because it was close to home in a “community that is perfect for us,” according to Amber Vaughn, who, along with her husband and a friend turned a small garden hobby on their ten-acre farm into a business in 2011. Vaughn grew up in Lake Chelan with her mother’s garden, and “every Saturday we would go to the farmers’ market (which consisted of ten booths) and see our friends and buy produce.  I love to garden and being at the farmers’ market is a great way to share our produce and meet other farmers and craftsmen/women.” In addition to produce, Cartwright Farm has “40 chickens, including Americauna, Golden Buff Orpintons, Rhode Island Red, Jersey Giant, Black Austrolope and a few others. We also have 8 turkeys and 6 ducks and lots and lots of chicks.”  Vaughn said that “after being stormed out the first week, we still come back and we have sold out of eggs every time! Unfortunately it will be a late season for our produce, but in the meantime we are expanding the amount of birds we have.”  Victoria Laise-Jonas, MVFM Manager, said, “I am always so thrilled to add new local farmers to our market.  That’s our mission—to help farmers and customers who wish to see local, fresh, delicious produce easily accessible.  Welcome, Cartwright Farms!”

     The MVFM Board wishes to remind all that Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is “the Saturday morning place to be!” this Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School on Maple Valley Highway.  More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Victoria Laise-Jonas, President of the MVFM, urges MVFM fans to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”  NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     These similarities explain why this Saturday, July 7, is Outdoor Quilt Day at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market.  The Market is pleased to welcome Covington Quilt Guild members, who will share their love of quilting with a large booth of hug quilts (charity quilts), a magnificent raffle quilt, and a number of prized quilts.  In addition, Market Manager Victoria Laise Jonas will hang some of her quilts around the Market place.

     As always, 40+ vendors will offer freshly-picked, health-inducing fruits and vegetables; custom meat; milk; just-made baked goods, including freshly baked sweet potato pie, sandwiches, soups, and lattes; dazzling, inexpensive flower bouquets with brilliant peonies to brighten any home; juried and unique artwork, jewelry, furniture, children’s clothing, photos, aprons, and more; bath products, lavender products; locally-bottled wine; garlic spread, and plants.  In addition, homemade jams, spices and vinegars tempt the palate.

     Maple Valley Farmers’ Market has added a “sweet” new booth this year—JudyJo Tyler’s The Cupcakery, featuring made-from-scratch cupcakes, cookies, sandwich cookies, shortbread, double-dipped chocolate brownies, and ice cream cone cupcakes. Cupcakes come in multiple flavors and in three sizes: mini-cupcakes; standard-sized, both plain and filled; and XXX large. This is her first year at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, and she said, “I love this Market. It is very well organized, thanks to Victoria and her crew. I am looking forward to each and every Saturday, but without rain would be a blessing!” Local residents can see Tyler driving her Chevy Equinox around town, decorated happily with cupcake graphics.

     Music is an essential part of every Market Saturday, and this week will feature music by Gary Benson, who plays folk and acoustic rock with reflecting the influence of James Taylor, Karla Bonoff, the Beatles, the Eagles, Kenny Loggins, Shawn Colvin, and Joni Mitchell. Benson, who performs at local events, and whose music can be previewed at http://www.myspace.com/garybensonmusic, said, “I play the songs I grew up with plus some from recent times – come, listen, and enjoy!”

     Along with Covington Quilt Guild, one of the Market sponsors, Dr. Melanie Caviness of Wilderness Animal Hospital will have an information booth set-up.  Wilderness Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary hospital providing care for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and pocket pets.  In addition, Tahoma Cooperative Pre-School and NW International Student Exchange will have information booths set up.

     Whether it’s the freshest produce, fruit, and flowers around town; quilts; the unique products made by local entrepreneurs; the music; the delicious food items; the artwork; or the chance to catch up with neighbors and friends—Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, held from 9:00-1:00 this Saturday at Rock Creek Elementary, is definitely the “Saturday morning place to be!” For more information about the Farmers’ Market, visit our web-site www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org or e-mail us at: info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Friend us on Facebook.   NOTE:  This article was writen by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     To add to the old-fashioned celebration, there will be a Patriotic Hat contest at 10:00 a.m.  Market visitors should create a patriotic hat suitable for Independence Day.  Winners will be determined by audience applause, and 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place winners will receive a winning ribbon and prize in both the adult and children’s division.

    It wouldn’t be a Market Saturday without music, and this week will feature Cliff  Okomato, playing a wide variety of music, including old and new songs with a wide range of appeal for all.

    A very special part of the Market experience is the wisdom and guidance brought by the Master Gardeners, who will be present at Saturday’s Market to answer gardening queries.  Their free expertise and resources are a goldmine for local gardeners.

   While produce is the Market’s mainstay, an abundance of other booths abound each week.  Wine, fresh berries, lavender products, local vinegars, bath products, radiant flower bouquets, locally–made jam, and local beef are all available. Artists are also an integral part of the Market, with photography, jewelry , wood products, , quilted products, and other juried artisan creations available weekly.

   Processed food vendors at the Market can satisfy every palate and whim.  E.J’s Catering, Mama Rizzo’s Biscotti & More, and George’s Bakery return this season, while Ristretto’s Coffee, Ms. Margie’s Sweet Potato Pies, and The Cupcakery all make their premier appearances this season at the Market. There will be more to do and experience than customers can even sample this week at the MVFM.  Maple Valleyites should mark their calendars now for 9:00-1:00 on Saturday at Rock Creek Elementary.  It’s the “Saturday morning place to be!”  Friend us on Facebook.    NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

                      In addition to the 40+ vendor stalls available for browsing, the Market will be celebrating “Green Living Day,” thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cedar Grove Composting. Cedar Grove Composting is proud to sponsor Green Living Day at the Maple Valley Farmers Market.  As an industry-leading environmental solutions company, Cedar Grove harnesses the vitality of organic waste by recycling it into innovative products. In doing so, Cedar Grove helps to “energize cities, businesses and citizens to be a force for good by coming full circle with their organic waste.”  Cedar Grove Composting will have a booth at the market, and visitors can stop by and say thanks for the company’s commitment to the environment.

                      In addition to the fresh “green” produce, some of the especially “green” product vendors include Versatile Designs, a business that fills their garden pots from the bottom up with nutrient-rich compost and perennials that have been raised right here in the Valley. Many bouquets come with shrubs that can be propagated or seeds that can be sowed; custom garden and landscape design are also in their offerings. Another green vendor is Leslie McCann’s My Mama’s Love, which sells certified-organic, all-natural skin remedies for eczema, burns, psoriasis, and acne, as well as bug repellant, lip balms, massage ointments and soothing scalp spray.  McCann was recently featured in Seattle Natural Awakenings Magazine and was also in the running for Startup Nation’s 100 Best Home-Based Businesses.  Other local businesses participating in this special event are CAF Environmental Solutions, a leading manufacturer of outdoor cleaning products; and Republic Services (formerly Allied Waste).   

                      Non-profit groups hold a special place at each week’s Market.  Victoria Laise-Jonas, President of MVFM, said, “Maple Valley enjoys a strong sense of community engagement. Part of our success as a Farmers’ Market is offering a platform for our local non-profit organizations to set up a market stall space for educational/informational or fund-raising activities.” Local non-profits interested in having a stall space are encouraged to contact Laise Jonas directly. To continue with the “Green Living Day” theme, representatives from Master Gardeners, South County Cats, the Tahoma High Green Team, Green Team Glacier Park Elementary School, and Sasha Shaw of King County Noxious Weed Control Program will be on site to answer questions.

                       And, it wouldn’t be the Farmers’ Market without live musical entertainment. This week’s entertainer is Maple Valley’s own beloved Jim Hanna, a local singer/songwriter who plays acoustic folk, rock, country, and original tunes.

                      The Market is located on the grounds of Rock Creek Elementary School, 25700 Maple Valley Black Diamond Road Southeast More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751, or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org. Victoria Laise Jonas, President of MVFM, urges MVFM fans to “Friend us on FACEBOOK,” and to remember that Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday Morning Place to Be!”  NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

            A dreary winter marked by a vicious ice storm that cracked and leveled decades-old trees, a spring with sparse sunbreaks,  and a June that has thus far been marked by monsoon rains—without a doubt, the citizens of Maple Valley are more than ready for the summer promises, the fresh-from-the-ground produce, the hot Ristretto’s coffee, the unique artisan creations, the brilliant flowers, and the freshly-made rhubarb cobbler offered at our own local Farmers’ Market.

            Market doors will open at 9:00 a.m., with Opening Day ceremonies beginning at 10:00 am. with the elegant strains of the Maple Valley Youth Symphony, Girl Scout Troop #42325, led by Kristin Burdge, will conduct the 10:00 a.m. Flag Ceremony, followed by opening remarks by Mayor Bill Allison and the traditional ribbon cutting celebrating the beginning of the Market’s fourth season. The 2012 Farmers’ Market bag, designed by Tahoma High students Bethany Skerritt and Dani Skeldon, will be unveiled and available for purchase, and hourly drawings for give-a-way prizes donated by Johnson’s Home and Garden will be held throughout the day.

            With 19 scheduled farmers/ranchers, four processed food stalls, six prepared food vendors, and thirteen artisans. Karen Haines of Illustriddler will paint the faces of eager chubby-cheeked children , and nonprofit groups Lake Wilderness Arboretum, Master Gardeners, and Bears Soccer Boosters will each host a stall.  While fans of the Market will eagerly welcome returning vendors, many new vendors will also grace the grounds of Rock Creek Elementary.

            Sweet Briar Farm of Auburn will feature an array of vegetables including herbs, three types of peas, kale and tatsoi, sweet peas and snap dragons, cauliflower, beets, and green onions; honey; and reusable handmade washable produce bags.  Another new farmer joining MVFM is Auburn’s Cartwright Farm, selling eggs, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, and beans.  Also new for Season Four is RIP Guerrero Farm of Quincy, bringing organic apricots and cherries for Opening Day.

            For those who can’t start their day without a cup of java, Ristretto’s of Maple Valley will provide lattes and coffee drinks to make the shopping experience even more enjoyable.  Sweet tooth fans will find more than enough to tempt them with this year’s new addition of Ms. Margie’s Sweet Potato Pie—pies ranging in size from 3” to 5” to 9” and made from a “good ole Southern family recipe.”  And, if that’s not enough, MVFM finally catches the cupcake fever sweeping the U.S. with its very own cupcake stand, The Cupcakery. Featuring baked-from-scratch goodies from right down the road in Black Diamond, this new business will woo shoppers with their cupcakes, cupcake pops, ice cream cone cupcakes, sandwich cookies and cookie pops, double dipped chocolate brownies, and shortbread.  And, if spicy food appeals more than caffeine and sugar, the Market will certainly satisfy, with the new Four Sisters Gourmet Sauce booth, selling Vietnamese hot chili sauce, spring roll dipping sauce, fresh spring rolls, and frozen egg rolls.

            A grand total of eight new artisans will also join the Market on Opening Day. These include:  On the Up and Up, with children’s outdoor furniture; Beads on a String, with jewelry, purses, table runners, pot holders, cards, and dolls; Life in Stages, with up-cycled, repurposed and/or restored items and furniture; Blue Heart Creations, with towels, reusable sandwich bags, and fun gifts for dogs and babies; Cathy Brockmueller, with handmade earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and lanyards; Aimee Locke, with little girl dresses, kids’ aprons, and sewn clothes; Nutrition, Naturally, with an educational  game, glass heart pendants, whale tails, and healing stones; and Aya! Designs, with greeting cards, checkbook covers, and bookmarks.

           With something for every shopper and with all items made or grown locally, Maple Valley Farmers’ Market from 9:00-1:00 at Rock Creek Elementary is definitely the Saturday morning place to be! More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Victoria Laise-Jonas, President of the MVFM, urges MVFM fans to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Vendor applications are now available, and residents should consider joining the Market vendors this year.  Are you an artist? A seamstress? A weaver?  Does everyone beg you for your canned green beans or your secret-recipe vegetable dip mix? Do you have local garden space you’ve been dying to plant with herbs or heirloom vegetables or sunny-bright flowers? Join the Market, and become one of 40+ vendors each week visited by an average of 1350 visitors during the four-hour market day.

         You might also want to consider being a busker at this year’s Market. Buskers—a new word for many in our community—are street performers who may be actors, singers, musicians, jugglers, mimes, human statues, magicians, acrobatics, tumblers, cyclists, puppeteers, or other types of performers. Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market Manager, said, “We are absolutely thrilled this year to invite local buskers to share their talents and entertain our shoppers.  While we cannot pay them for their services, they will be allowed to demonstrate their special talents and take tips from grateful fans. We are looking forward to opening up this opportunity to all ages, all talents and skill levels.  Those interested should check the website for details.”

     No time to volunteer? Nothing to sell at the Market?  No talent to perform? Still want to be a part of the Market?  There are 2012 sponsorship opportunities available.  The Market couldn’t function without its sponsorships,  ranging from $50-$2,500.  A list of 2012 sponsors is available on the website.  Information on all of these opportunities is available at  www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Friend us on “Facebook!”   NOTE: This post was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Vendor applications are now available, and residents should consider joining the Market vendors this year.  Do you have a craft?  Do you make a homemade specialty product? Do you have local garden space you’ve been dying to plant? Join the Market, and become one of 40+ vendors each week visited by an average of 1350 visitors during the four-hour market day.

     Not a volunteer? No time to become a vendor?  Still want to be a part of the Market?  There are 2012 sponsorship opportunities available.  The Market couldn’t function without its sponsors, and the sponsorships range from $50-$2,500.  A list of 2011 sponsors is available on the website.

     Victoria Laise Jonas, co-founder and Market Manager, is one of the Market’s most ardent fans.  She said, “Our ‘Saturday Morning Place to Be’ Maple Valley Farmers’ Market continues to grow and change, but it remains unique in that it is able to offer a gathering place for local farmers and artisans to provide quality products to our customers. Not only can one shop, but you can actually visit with each vendor face to face.  Where else can you see the person who grew your food, or made your apron, or bottled your jam, or grew your flowers, or crafted your earrings?  Help us continue to keep the Market vibrant and fresh by joining us as a volunteer, vendor, or sponsor.” 

     Information on all of these opportunities is available at  www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Friend us on “Facebook!”    NOTE: Article written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas

     On Saturday, October 1, accompanied by a steady mist of rain and a brilliant array of harvest-time fruits and vegetables, the third season of the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market came to an end. With 80 total vendors and approximately 21,000 visitors during the sixteen-week season, Board President Victoria Laise-Jonas could scarcely contain her enthusiasm.  She said, “This season was by far the best yet. With a record number of vendors at the market this year, the attendance was significantly up, and our overall sales for the market were up.  It was a great third year and it was due to our vendors, customers, volunteers, local non-profit organizations, our local sponsors, and the City of Maple Valley and the Tahoma School District, major co-sponsors of our very own Market.”

      Several new farmers and producers made appearances this year, including Hayton Farms–freshly-picked, succulent berries; Cha Farms–fresh flowers, bouquets, and vegetables; Lind Custom Meats—custom smoked jerky, summer sausage, pepperoni, and smoked cheese; Grapevine Farm Alpacas—gloves, socks, hats, scarves, sweaters, and yarn; Ramon Ayala Farm–fresh fruit and produce; Bees in the Burbs—local honey and honey products; Covington Creek Nursery–trees and shrubs, herbs and vegetables, flowering annuals, perennials and unusual “hard to find” plants;  and a Taste of Eden–oils and vinegars.  New vendors of prepared foods included Mitzel’s–breakfast and lunch items; Theo Dorres Aromatics—hand-blended, flavor-infused artisan teas; G & T Enterprises—shaved ice; and Island Bites—Filipino and Hawaiian food items. New artists this year included Berwyn Smith Alluvion—wood products and planter boxes; Lissy Lou Designs–jewelry, note cards, wood bowls, wooden pens; The Quilter Heron—quilts, table runners, placemats, potholders; Uniquely Yours—feather design jewelry and hair accessories; Palouse Lautrec Woodworking Studio—garden art, wood working, and home accessories; Bohemian Rhapsody—sewn home accessories; Ducky’s Designs—silk-screened t-shirts; Artistry in Wood by Ed–wood bowls, platters and home accessories; and many youth entrepreneurs selling their hand-crafted products for the first time. And, of course, every Market Saturday was enhanced by the live performance of a local musician, many new this year, as well as a wide array of non-profit groups.

     While the addition of a new portable classroom at the Rock Creek Elementary and the corresponding loss of vendor space could have thrown a damper on the Market, the Board just rearranged the vendor tents and kept the Market vibrant and bustling.  Third-year vendor Lori Gommi of Mama Rizzo’s Biscotti, said, “All the vendors were wonderful and by the time the Market was over, we all felt like family.  I miss them already!  Each year the Market gets better.  I have quite a few regulars and therefore look forward to seeing all of them again next year.  There were three babies born during the Market, so it’s increasing whether we want it to or not.  Word is getting out about our Market and more and more and more people are coming to it!” 

     Elizabeth Hooton of Maple Valley’s Lavender Valley Farm noted, “I have been at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market since day one and each year it gets better.  Being a part of the local farmers’ market has not only helped my business grow, but I also love getting to interact with the other vendors and locals who come out to support it.  They have become my second family and I am already looking forward to next year!”

     Laise Jonas notes that the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market Board of Directors played a critical role in the success of this market’s season.  She is appreciative of their commitment to sustaining a local Farmers’ Market and said that their hard work is paying off.  She added, “In addition, there are some amazing volunteers, actually behind-the-scenes-superstars, whose talents and dedication have made the Market what it is today!”

     Plans are already underway for the fourth season of the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, the “Saturday Morning Place to Be,” which will commence on Saturday, June 16, 2012.  Anyone interested in joining in the planning phase for next year’s Market should contact Victoria Laise Jonas, @info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org or (425) 463-6751, or friend us on FACEBOOK.    NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Joining  in the non-profit booths will be Sandy Bruce of Covington Quilt Guild; Stephanie Thomas with King County Master Recycler Composter Program; Clare Nance and the Green Team from Tahoma High; Maple Valley City Council; and the Maple Valley/Enumclaw Master Gardeners. Fortunate MVFM visitors can get their questions answered while they are filling their Market bags with the freshest of produce for the week ahead.

     A highlight of each week’s Market is its musical entertainment.  This week’s foot-tapping music will be provided at 11:00 by Josh’s Junction of Olympia, WA, featuring acoustic resophonic and acoustic guitar, along with a variety of other acoustic instruments. The group plays a mix of folk, country, blues, bluegrass and old-timey music, and enjoys performing at community events.

     If that’s not enough to draw visitors to this final Saturday, the cookie-decorating opportunity is certain to appeal. George’s Bakery, a North Bend favorite, and a highly-ranked destination on Trip Advisor, City Search, and Yelp, has been a star of MVFM for these last two seasons.  Children and adults alike “ooh” and “aah” over the bigger-than-life, dream-come-true baked goods at this booth.  On this final Saturday, Joe and Kathy McKeown , owners of George’s Bakery, will sponsor a gingerbread cookie decorating event, beginning at 9:00 a.m. and lasting until all of the gingerbread cookies disappear. Victoria Laise-Jonas, Market President, urges everyone with a sense of artistry and a child-like adoration of frosting to attend this fun event.  Laise-Jonas said, “Joe and his partner Kathy have been so supportive of our Farmers’ Market, and we are so lucky to have them vend at our market. I believe everyone with a sweet tooth would agree! Independent bakers are becoming fewer and fewer, and I am thankful that they have chosen to be part of our Farmers’ Market family.”

     Of course, the core of the Market, even in its final hours, is the vendors.  A special vendor this week will be Piercy Farms of Moses Lake, who are bringing huge mounds of  orange pumpkins,  freshly-picked white and yellow corn, and other bountiful fall vegetables.  They will join the other farmers selling apples, squashes, onions, eggplant, peppers, and other freshly-harvested harbingers of fall.  It’s also visitors’ last weekend until next June to stock up on the array of balsamic vinegars, local honey, meats from Lind’s Meat, biscotti for your freezer, fresh goat cheese, and organic granola, as well as all of the artistic creations (Christmas shopping, anyone?).  Remember that none of these items will be available again until June 2012!  All of the processed food vendors will be at the Market on Saturday, as well, offering hot soups, hamburgers, cookies, sandwiches, bagels, and more—both breakfast and lunch goodies are plentiful.

     It’s the end of a highly successful MVFM season and a day not to be missed. Stop by and savor the experience, on this final Maple Valley Farmers’ Market.  It’s the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”  NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     The Business Expo, presented by the Greater Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the Lake Wilderness branch of KeyBank, provides an opportunity for the community to browse the products and services of local businesses.  Local businesses will have demonstrations, displays, promotional materials, and door prizes inside the gym at Rock Creek Elementary from 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  Admission is free, and door prizes will be awarded.  Kevin Patterson, Chamber of Commerce President, said, “This is a great opportunity for the community to discover or become reacquainted with many of our local businesses in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. It’s free, there are some great door prizes, and it’s a wonderful way to complete your visit to the Farmers’ Market.  The local businesses who have signed up so far include: Wilderness Animal Hospital, Millwork Outlet, Yummy Tummy, Carol’s Maple Valley Floral, Covington Copy it, Mail it, Fairwood CPA Services, BECU, Just for Them Gift Baskets, Aflac, Bella Fleur of Maple Valley, Junior Junction Day School, Edwards Jones, Vine Maple Place, The Loft Salon & Spa, The Water Distillery, The Blind Lady, Law Offices of David Moe, Party, Etc. John L. Scott, Holiday Inn, Cascades Chiropractic, Woody’s Floor Coverings, Tahoma Athletic Club, Custom Fit Nutrition, Thrive Community Fitness, Rejuve with Massage, Decor & You, Premier Designs Jewelry, Maple Valley Signs, MD Cote’ Medical Laser & Spa, SCSG & ERD Collections, Amway Global, MV Community Center, and Command Computers.

     One of this week’s Market non-profit booths will be hosted by the Tahoma Drama Booster Club.  Initiated in late 2008 by two parents who wanted to build support and help to grow the local drama program, the Boosters provide concessions and flower sales at local youth school productions, coordinate volunteer support, assist with drama production promotion, and apply for grants and financial support for the booming elementary through high school program.

     Another special event on Saturday is the visit by the Maple Valley/Enumclaw Master Gardeners, who arrive armed with multiple resources and a great deal of training to answer even the trickiest of gardening questions. Emily’s Sunshine Room, a business owned by a youth entrepreneur, will also join the  Market this Saturday.

     And, to add a lively spirit to the week, Gary Benson returns to the musical arena with a solo set of original and cover material and the  Pi-R Square Dance Club will entertain all with their square-dancing routines.

    Never to be forgotten, of course, is the foundation of the Market—the vendors.  In addition to the abundant local, fresh, harvest produce, the stalls are brimming with fresh flowers, cheese, dairy products, organic beef, jam, marinated vegetables, hot sauce, bakery products, prepared foods, breakfast and lunch items, beverages, and artisan products.  Visitors may want to pay a special visit to a vendor who has been with the Market since its inception three years ago—4-Ever Memories, owned by Christel Logsdon. Her booth sells an array of her creative hand-made products, including whimsical decorative solar yard lights, crocheted-top kitchen towels, washable microwave potato bags, hot pads and pot holders, shopping totes and fabric baskets, 100% cotton knitted and crocheted dish cloths, embroidered flour sack dish towels, and an assortment of aprons-half aprons and reversible full-sized ones. Logsdon’s booth will recall memories of one’s grandmother’s kitchen and will elicit a desire to do some old-fashioned baking.

       The Market’s bounty is a poignant treasure, for the clock is ticking on this third season, with only three remaining Saturdays. Open from 9 a.m. – 1:00  p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary, the Market is Maple Valley’s “Saturday morning place to be!” More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”    NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     As a sponsor, Olive has arranged for prizes, including $100 for 1st place, $75 for 2nd place, $50 for 3rd place and new this year, $50 for “People’s Choice”. The chili cook-off also serves as a fundraiser for the Farmers’ Market and Olive is proud to partake in this annual fundraiser for the  Market.   For a $5.00 donation, the public will be able to sample all of the competing chili recipes, while helping to fund the operational costs of running a non-profit 501c3 Farmers’ Market.  Sampling starts at 10:00 a.m., and interested tasters should plan to arrive early, as last year’s chili sold out way earlier than expected.  Victoria Laise-Jonas commented that she expects this year’s event to be as popular as last year’s, an “event that the community embraced to help sustain our local farmers’ market!” Specific information about the chili cook-off, and how to enter, is available at MVFM’s web-site at www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket, under the “Events” tab.

      As always, nonprofit booths have a standing reservation at the Market, and this weekend Clare Nance, Tahoma High Science teacher and the school’s “queen” of recycling, will join her Green Team environmental club in a booth with loads of green information.  In addition, Stephanie Thomas of King County Master Recycler Composter Program will be at the Market to solve those tricky composting dilemmas. The Maple Valley City Council will have an information booth set-up and our very own Tahoma Cheer Boosters will have a booth to raise money for their cheering activities.

      Musical entertainment will keep the chili’s heat blasting, as Tori Whitten, now in her third year of public performing, shares some of her country and pop music repertoire.  Whitten, who has been singing since the age of three, is fourteen years old and travelled to Nashville last summer to record four original songs.  More information and samples of her music can be found at ToriWhitten.com.

      With so many events taking place, it would be possible to overlook the core of the Market—the farmers with their brilliant array of fresh, local, fall produce; the prepared foods whose tasty aromas drift lazily through the fall air; the artistic creations that lure visitors’ gazes and pocketbooks; the gorgeous armloads of flowers that adorn the flower stalls; and the varied array of unusual and locally-made items including jam, cheese, meat, dairy products, bread, lavender products, hot sauce, and too many more to mention.  Visitors should also check out the newest artisan, designer Karen Jacobs of Uniquely Yours Feather Design.  Jacobs creates feather earrings, feather necklaces and feather hair clip, adding a new artistic dimension to the Market. 

      Only three more Saturdays remain to enjoy the wonders of Maple Valley’s own Farmers’ Market, so there is no time to waste.  The “Saturday morning place to be” is winding down for the season, but there is still ample time to savor its riches, as the Market continues through October 1 at Rock Creek Elementary School from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. each Saturday. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”  NOTE:  Article written by Brooke Dillon and posted  by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     To support the healthy eating component of the Market, visitors will want to visit their favorite of the farmers’ booths, offering fresh, ripe late-summer harvest bounty; bright flower arrangements; cheeses; eggs; milk; organic meat; and more; but they may especially want to check out the newest vendors.  A Taste of Eden offers northwest premier specialty olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars and blends. 

     In addition, the prepared food booths are always popular, and the newest booth will make you think that you’ve just washed up on the Hawaiian Islands or in the Phillippines.  Island Bites is owned by Maple Valley’s own Marites Descargar,  who grew up cooking Philipino foods and then married a Hawaiian, adding even more island recipes to her culinary repertoire. A first-time entrepreneur, Descargar offers meat/veggie  and banana lumpia, an item similar to spring rolls and popular in Indonesia and the Philippines.  Additionally, she offers ensaymada, a sweet bread served with whipped butter and sugar; marinated chicken skewers; a plate lunch including rice, macaroni salad, and Kalua pork, which has been slow-cooked for 10 hours with Hawaiian rock salt and liquid smoke ; and pansit, a Philipino noodle dish with shredded pork or chicken , that is served with one lumpia.  Her foods will make you smell a tropical breeze!

     In the non-food category, Michelle Young of Black Diamond will join the Market vendors with her U Rockit! Hair Trends booth.   Young’s feather hair extensions and hair tinsel extensions will add a glamorous note to  even the most chlorine-laden or summer-dry hair.

     Non-profit groups participating in the Saturday Market include  Maple Valley/Enumclaw Master Gardeners, who will help to solve visitors’ plant and garden puzzles; Cedar Grove Composting, one of the Market’s corporate sponsors, who will provide advice and answer questions such as, “Can I put my Starbucks cup in my compost?”; and St. George Episcopal Church, with information about their programs and church services.

     Market day would be incomplete without music, and this week’s group is Down the Road, a trio of bluegrass and American Roots music veterans from the Snoqualmie Valley area that includes husband/wife duo Cathi and Gary Davidson on guitars and vocals, and John Tubbs on mandolin and vocals.  According to their website, “the trio blends signature duet and trio harmony singing, a little yodeling, and clean, tasteful guitar-mandolin interplay to add a fresh, honest, straight-ahead voice to the world of old-time country, bluegrass, and folk music.

     With only four weeks remaining in the Market season  after this Saturday, Maple Valleyites should make certain that their Labor Day Saturday includes a trip to the MVFM.  The Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday morning place to be”  from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. each Saturday through October 1 at Rock Creek Elementary School. For more information, please visit www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Visitors to the Market don’t even have to eat breakfast before arriving, as a wide array of breakfast treats is available.  Along with sandwiches and lunch specials, EJ’s Catering offers breakfast frittatas, breakfast burritos, and mango berry coolers –all prepared by local Maple Valley chef Eric Elmer, who utilizes locally grown, organic, natural, and freshly-prepared comfort foods.  His beautiful displays are certain to woo new customers, according to Laise-Jonas.

      Another breakfast option is The Daily Bagel, operated by local husband and wife team Mark and Laureen Dunning of Enumclaw.  The Dunnings began selling at other farmers’ markets in 2009, and added Maple Valley as a venue during the 2010 season. Laise-Jonas exudes, “There is nothing better than a hand-rolled, boiled and then hearthstone-baked warm bagel and cream cheese for breakfast—yes, they boil and bake their bagels right at the Farmers’ Market!”  The Daily Bagel’s morning menu consists of a variety of fresh baked bagels and bagel sandwiches.

      Another Market favorite is George’s Bakery, owned by Joe McKeown and Kathleen Stohesberry, who have a storefront in North Bend and who began to sell at farmers’ markets three years ago.  Their breakfast delights include plate-sized fresh donuts, assorted breads, and a wide variety of pastries such as cinnamon disks, pear-almond tarts, bran muffins, coffee cake, pan dowdy, and coffee cake.   Laise-Jonas commented, “Best of all, they use fresh fruit from our Farmers’ Market vendors!”

      New this year at the Market is Jack and Kim Emmons’ Mitzel’s American Kitchen.  The Emmons’ are the new owners of the longtime favorite Kent restaurant, and sell special Mitzel’s breakfast treats at the Market: fresh strawberry waffle bites, raspberry and cheezy bacon scones, and quiche lorraine.

      The most local breakfast establishment of all is Mama Rizzo’s Biscotti and More:  It’s a true family affair that includes parents Loretta and Jules Gommi, along with adult children Lorraine, Julie, and Michael at the booth. An assortment of lovingly-prepared, cooked-right-here-in-Maple Valley biscotti, coffee cake, and mini dessert bread loaves, can satisfy one’s morning sweet tooth at the Gommi’s “outdoor café.”

      Victoria Laise Jonas said, “All of these vendors are local business owners to the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market.   They signed up for the entire 16-week season and have not missed a Saturday.  Come say ‘hi’ to these wonderful folks!”

     While the breakfast treats fill the stomach and set a happy glow upon the day, the Market offers even more. August 27 is Fresh Fruit Pie Bake-Off, a competition open to youth (ages 17 and under), adults (ages 18-49), and seniors (50 and over). Each participant may submit one completely homemade pie in a disposable tin. The filling must be fresh fruit only–no tarts, crisps, creams, meringues, pumpkins, or custards, etc., will be accepted. Pies, accompanied by the recipe, may be submitted between 9:30 and 11:45 (Note:  pies will not be accepted after 11:45 a.m.), and judging will begin at noon.  Specific rules are available at http://www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org/Events.html.  Prizes range from $25 Market Bucks (1st place in each division) to $5 in Market Bucks (3rd place in each division).

     Music always sweetens the heart, and this week’s music will be provided at 11:00 a.m. by Ryegrass, a five-man band that has been performing a mix of traditional bluegrass, country, and contemporary music arranged for bluegrass instrumentation for the last decade. Band members include Lynn Oliver on banjo, dobro, and vocal; John Burke on fiddle and vocals; Paul Michel on mandolin and vocals; Chip Diemond on bass; and Maple Valley’s own Jim Hanna on guitar and vocals.

     As always, the non-profit booths will be filled at the Market and offering information to interested visitors.  This week SHADOW will have a booth and Kelin Doner, a young local entrepreneur will be selling her jewelry and other hand-made items.

     With 40+ vendors, the freshest of produce, jewelry and artistic creations, jam,  hot sauce, lavender products, beef jerky, gluten-free pasta, dairy products, and organic meat, the Market offers more than can even be sampled in a season!  And, with only five Saturdays remaining, time is running out to partake of and enjoy even a portion of the offerings.  And, yes, just ask Victoria Laise-Jonas, “The Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the Saturday morning place to be!”  The Market is open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. each Saturday through October 1 at Rock Creek Elementary School.   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Headlining the festivities, beginning at 10:00 a.m., will be the Master of Ceremonies for this special ceremony–retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Chuck Hardaway, locally renowned for his career as a military pilot.  Hardaway flew 104 combat missions in Vietnam and received the Distinguished Flying Cross, seven Air Medals, the Meritorious Service Medal, three Air Force Commendation Medals, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. He retired in 1977 after 22 years of military service, and then volunteered for seven years on the Area Council, ten years on the Maple Valley School Board, and two years on the Maple Valley City Council; he also served as chairman of the Seattle-King County Private Industry Council.  Additionally, for the past thirteen years Hardaway has written a popular weekly editorial column for the Voice of the Valley entitled “One Man’s Opinion.” On Saturday Hardaway will introduce the veterans and will speak about “The Cost of War.”

     In addition to conducting the opening ceremonies and flag ceremony, Maple Valley/Black Diamond VFW Post 50502 will host an information booth. And, Market visitors should make certain to see the City of Maple Valley Wall of Honor, a tribute to veterans and soldiers from the Maple Valley region, which will be on display at the Market.

     In addition to the recognition events specifically geared toward Veterans/ and Troops Day, Maple Valley Historical Society will host an information booth.  The Historical Society is an all-volunteer organization formed over 35 years ago, with a current paid membership of over 300 people and organizations. Its goals are to “teach people about the history of the Greater Maple Valley area, provide a means for people to do research on their heritage, and to showcase the history of the area through maintaining three museums with displays of the past” (http://maplevalleyhistorical.com/).

     Other participating non-profit groups include King County Master Recycler Composter Program, Maple Valley/Enumclaw Master Gardeners, and Peace Lutheran Church Preschool is planning special crafts for the youngsters.

     The Farmers’ Market season is over halfway complete on this tenth Saturday of the season, so Maple Valley residents will certainly want to visit the 40+ booths and stock up on fresh, local produce; cheese; baked goods; meat; fresh flower bouquets; beautiful hand-crafted artisan creations; and delicious prepared booths from the six booths selling breakfast and lunch items, organic tea, soup, and salad, and much more.

     The always-popular weekly entertainment will be provided by a return visit from Sealth, a pop grunge band from Maple Valley.  According to the group’s Facebook page, the band “blends a potentially dangerous cocktail made of equal parts hometown grunge and classic rock with a heavy dose of hairspray. Combining musical influences ranging from Poison to Pearl Jam and Yes to Neil Young, Sealth can at one moment be seen in the middle of a choreographed ‘dance move,’ then be heard wailing an angsty shriek just before exploding into an epic blues-inspired guitar solo the next.”

     More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK,” and to remember that the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday morning place to be.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Carol’s Maple Valley Floral & Gifts, Inc.  a long-time Maple Valley business, will host a floral design booth to show shoppers how to beautify their homes and hearts.  Shop owner, Robin Erickson,  will shop the Market and make floral arrangements that will be given away to random shoppers.  Additional booths will feature Maple Valley City Council, the Maple Valley Police Department,  Maple Valley Library Guild and the Maple Valley Community Center will share information and answer questions. In addition, Maple Valley In Focus a new local website which showcases stories  that make our town a great community through personal community member narratives will have a booth. This web-site also has available a community calendar which you can update with your events, post a job, or get in on a discussion about Maple Valley development.  And finally, the Jennifer Beach Foundation, a group that provides training, education, advocacy, and teaching tools to strengthen victims of child abuse and domestic violence, will also host an informational booth.

     Two of the Market’s major sponsors, the Voice of the Valley newspaper and Cedar Grove Composting, will have booths, providing information about their business and services.  The MVFM Board is grateful for its sponsors, from the many volunteers to its generous business donors. 

     Visitors will certainly want to stop at the Fountain Court Assisted Living booth, where senior residents will sell their handmade crafts, and then can wander on to the other artists’ booths—including Kim Lewis’ jewelry, beaded bags, rocks and rocks of all kinds; 4-Ever Memories fabric art and outdoor lights;  Pepo Park Soap and balms, all made by hand with natural, plant-based ingredients ; Bohemian Wrapsody’s home accessories;  Ducky’s Design silk screening; Yorkpatty Clothes, and Angela Ramsey’s jewelry. A new vendor, Three Lady Bugs Ceramics and Glass, will round out the artistic creations for sale.

     And, of course, every Market is rooted in its farm products—vegetables, fruits and berries, milk, flowers, lavender and alpaca products, fresh goat cheese, herbs and spices, organic meat, milk—complemented by prepared foods such as a freshly-baked bagel and a ice-cold organic iced tea with mint and lemon–to fuel the shopper as he/she makes the rounds of the 40+ booths.

     To fuel shoppers’ souls and aesthetic sensibilities, Ensemble Ballet Theatre will be performing at 11:00 a.m. Located in Maple Valley, WA, Ensemble Ballet Theatre is a non-profit youth dance company that emphasizes professional style productions, continuing dance education, and a positive atmosphere. Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, the “Saturday morning place to be,” is open from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”  Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

        To qualify for membership benefits in the Washington State Farmers’ Market Association (WSFMA), Maple Valley Farmers’ Market must submit a yearly vendor roster showing at least five vendors who are classified as “farmers.”  These farmers must raise the produce, plants, or animals that they sell on land they own or lease/rent in Washington or in counties bordering Washington. The farmers also may process produce grown on their property into a value-added product, such as jam, cider, or salsa. To further insure that farmers are the main thrust of the Maple Valley’s Farmers’ Market, the WSFMA requires that the total combined gross annual sales of processors and/or resellers not exceed the total gross annual Market sales of the farmers.

        With such a strong emphasis on the farmer—the essential backbone of all farmers’ markets–and to further promote awareness of farmers markets and of the contributions farmers make to daily life in America, it makes sense that MV Farmers’ Market will celebrate Saturday, August 6, as National Farmers’ Market Day. As our community has experienced over the past three years, our local Farmers’ Market offers affordable and healthful products sold directly from the farm in their freshest possible state, increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables for children and families, which can help promote child health and reduce childhood obesity.  In addition, Farmers’ Markets play a key role in developing local and regional food systems, support family farms, revitalize local communities, provide important outlets for producers and the opportunity for farmers and consumers to interact.   When you come to our Market this Saturday, please make it a point to introduce yourself to our Farmers’ and thank them for the role they play in sustaining farmland in America and for bringing fresh local produce to our community.

         Always a crowd pleaser, our very own Dan Nichols, of the Maple Valley Historical Society, will bring in his 1951 John Deere Row Crop Tractor to exhibit.  Children of all ages (and adults too) always enjoy this feature of celebrating National Farmers’ Market Day!  This year, Dan’s selected choice of his 1951 vintage tractor has special meaning to our Farmers’ Market Manager, Victoria Laise Jonas, as both the tractor and Victoria will be celebrating their 60th birthday! 

         The farmers’ stands will be in abundant array this Saturday, as they are on every Market Saturday.  Xee Yahn Garden, Outlook Produce, Hayton Farms, Mai Garden, Ze Chang Gardens, Calhoun Family Fruit Farm, Cha Farm, Thistlewood Farms, Lavender Valley Farm, Cha and Shao Farm, Shong Chao’s Farm, Lara Farm, and Ramon Ayala Farms will have booths again this Saturday, selling fresh vegetables, including beets, squash, lettuce, spinach, cucumbers, and chili peppers; fresh fruits, including berries, plums; alpaca products; fresh flower bouquets; herb pots; and lavender plants.  Visitors can chat with the farmers to learn how and where the item is grown, and how recently it was harvested (sometimes that same morning!), while they admire the hard work and great love that farming entails.  With thirteen farmers’ booths, visitors can certainly fulfill their entire week’s produce list before moving on to the 30 stalls displaying processed foods, meats, cheese, milk, art, and sugar-laden, hand-baked delights.

         Third year MVFM sponsor, Dr. Caviness, owner of Wilderness Animal Hospital in Maple Valley, will be joining us on Saturday with an informational/educational booth set-up. Dr. Caviness is a Washington State graduate and has practiced veterinary medicine, in Western Washington for the past twenty-three years (23 years).  Dr. Caviness is especially interested in preventative care, dentistry and internal medicine.  Her  mission is to provide quality medical care for your pets by their compassionate staff.  Wilderness Animal Hospital is a full service veterinary facility, offering preventative  medicine, disease treatment, dentistry, surgery and digital radiology. 

        At 11:00, the band Cheap Therapy will provide its sweet therapy for tired feet and weary souls with their acoustic songs from the 1960s to today, including some original tunes. With over 30 years’ experience between them, they can create a memorable musical experience for Market visitors.

        Our local non-profit organizations joining in this Saturday festivities include Valley Girls & Guys, Maple Valley/Enumclaw Master Gardeners, Maple Valley Food Bank & Emergency Services and Serenity Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation.  

        While it’s National Farmers’ Market Day, it’s also a great day for customers, so don’t miss this eighth Saturday of the third season of your local Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”  NOTE: This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

     Also, the MVFM Board  wishes to reward  those customers who shop at our local Maple Valley businesses.  All MVFM customers who bring in sales receipts from local businesses will receive a raffle ticket (one per receipt, no limit), which will be entered into a drawing at the end of the Market day for two give-a-way baskets filled with Maple Valley Farmers’ Market goodies from our fabulous vendors!  The “Vendor Coupon” for the 2011 FREE Market bag and raffle tickets will be at the Information Booth and/or at both main entrances into the Market. Hope to see you on Saturday and don’t forget to bring your receipts!     

     We are thankful to the following vendors who donated  items to fill up our raffle baskets:  Hayton Farms, Calhoun Family Fruit Farm, Xee Yanh Garden, Lind Custom Meats, Mai Haua Gardens, Shao & Cha Farm, Ze Change Garden, Raymon Ayala Farms, Thistlewood Farm, Chelane’s Jams, George’s Bakery, Outlook Produce, Silver Springs Creamery, Chong Chao’s Farm, Uncle Dennis Foods, Mama Rizzo’s Biscotti & More, Mixed Blessings, Theo Dorres Aromatic Teas, EJ’s Catering, Mitzel’s American Kitchen,  Daily Bagel, Illusions Wine, Reigning Kettle Korn, Lavender Valley Farms, Tefft’s Cellars, Angela Ramsey, Ducky’s Design, 4-Ever Memories, Bob Schillereff Photography, Stone Quilters and the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market.

     Weekly attendance at the Farmers’ Market is consistently higher this year, with many folks choosing to make the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market part of their “staycation” and their weekly entertainment and shopping. Larry Baumgart, a faithful Farmers’ Market shopper, said, “My spouse, Johann, and I try to be at the market every week.  We enjoy talking with the vendors and meeting up with friends who happen to be there at the same time.  It’s a great place to have a Saturday morning cup of coffee with a biscotti or breakfast burrito, while picking up locally-grown organic produce.  A farmers’ market creates a stronger sense of community and inspires community sustainability, something that we’re becoming more and more acutely aware of in this adverse economy. If only we had facilities to have a farmers’ market year round regardless of weather! 

    The  vendors at the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market are grateful for customers such as the Baumgarts, as, without such a strong customer base, the vendors would have little reason to haul their products to Rock Creek Elementary early each Saturday morning, set up their bright displays, and stand for four hours under their bright-green awnings. 

     While the third season is well underway, new vendors still continue to appear. Sofie’s Blueberry Farm out of Puyallup will sell freshly-picked blueberries through early September, and Tefft Cellars Winery, a family-owned vineyard and winery in Outlook, Washington, with tasting rooms in Outlook and Woodinville, will sell some of its 4000 cases of estate Syrah, Nebbiolo, Cabernet, Viognier, Marsanne, Snagiovese, and Chenin Blanc. 

     Many customers visit each week around 11:00 so that they can enjoy the weekly musical entertainment.  This week’s group, Train Wreck, is a cover band comprised of four friends. Tony Garcia is the designated front man, who plays bass and shares the main vocal work with Brad Naybert, the main guitar player and vocalist. Mark Arnold, percussionist, provides rhythm and drive for the band on his South American Cajon, while Gordy Birse plays guitar and mandolin, and sings harmony. Train Wreck’s music is a mix of country, folk, rock, gospel and bluegrass.   In addition, South County Cat’s will have a booth set-up with informational materials about spay/neutering pet options within the community. 

     Come for Customer Appreciation Week, come for the beautiful fresh foods and lovingly-handcrafted products, come to support local entrepreneurs, come for the music, come to see your neighbors…but don’t miss the seventh Saturday of the third season of your local Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, the “Saturday morning place to be” from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  All MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

      This special day will feature a chef demonstration by our beloved and locally-renowned Soup Lady,  Ginger Passarelli of Mama Passarelli’s Dinner House in Black Diamond.  “Mama” as she is affectionately known as will arrive early to the market with her shopping list in-hand and will make the rounds to visit our farmers and other vendors to pick up her local and fresh ingredients to whip up some delectable dishes.  Make sure to stop by her booth to learn some of “Mama’s”  cooking secrets and to sample her fabulously prepared dishes. 

     In addition,  Thrive Community Fitness and  Kriss Chiropractic will host booths, while a local group will provide information about Parkinson’s Disease. Puget Sound Energy “Rock the Bulb” volunteers will have a booth to promote energy-efficiency, where they’re giving out FREE CFL light bulbs! And, lastly, there will be random give-a-ways throughout the market day promoting our Health and Wellness Day.

     No Saturday at the Market is complete without music, and this Saturday will feature the Burwell Brothers, Stephen and Seth, local bluegrass musicians who have won multiple picking contests in the Northwest.  Their performance will begin at 11:00 a.m.

     Twenty-two farmers and processors will participate in this week’s Market.  New to the Market this year is Hayton Farms of Mt. Vernon, which sells organic berries. Owner Angelica Hayton is the fifth generation to live and work on her Fir Island farm established in 1876.  The farm recently transitioned to all Certified Organic berries, and Hayton is “proud of the end product [that was] well worth the extra work.”  Hayton also commented on the fact that the great variety of berries she grows allows for an array of berries from June through October.

     Prepared food is another favorite part of the Market, and E. J.’s Custom Catering is back this year with its always-popular booth.  Specialties include BBQ pulled pork sandwiches/slides; chicken coconut curry soup, known to sell out on cool days; breakfast burritos and frittatas; mango berry coolers; and other rotating seasonal items. Most menu items are prepared with produce from MVFM, making a visit to EJ’s an even more rewarding taste treat.

     If both stomach and cupboard are full, visitors will want to meander over to the artists’ booths.  An ever-popular booth is Bob Shillereff’s Photograph.  Shillereff, a Maple Valley resident, specializes in wildlife and nature photos.

     With something for all, and the certainty of improved health and wellness, Maple Valley residents should gather up their friends and family, and make the short trek to the sixth Saturday of this third season of “the Saturday morning place to be,” from 9:00-1:00 at Rock Creek Elementary. More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.   MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”    Note:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

             Kids are always drawn toward food, so they should check out George’s Bakery’s plate-sized donuts, certain to open children’s eyes as wide as the donuts themselves; Chelane’s shimmery fresh cane sugar fruit jam; Hayton Farm’s fresh organic berries; and the smoked cheese and pepperoni sticks from Lind’s Custom Meats, in addition to the remaining 15 farmers/processors’ booths. Bright bouquets of flowers, alpaca and lavender products, goat cheese, brilliantly-colored produce, plants, and gluten-free products will entrance both the younger and older sets.  The Daily Bagel, with its traditional handmade and freshly baked bagels, bagel sandwiches, cookies, and soft drinks may start children begging for some change, and the other prepared-food booths will also set stomachs rumbling. Art will abound again on Saturday, with jewelry, wood products, photographs, soap/balms, garden stones, silk screening, reusable products, and handmade clothing all available. 

            To enhance the focus on the younger set, MOM’s Club of Maple Valley will have a informational and activities booth,  along with Bounce it Up, a Black Diamond business.  St. George’s Episcopal Church will also have a non-profit booth this week.

           If parents or grandparents want to expose the younger generation to music from their youth, they can wander over at 11:00 a.m. to listen to musician Gary Benson, who will play music parents both recognize and love, including James Taylor; the Beatles; and Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young.  Benson, who performs at coffee shops and farmers’ markets, and whose music can be previewed at http://www.myspace.com/garybensonmusic, said, “I play the songs I grew up with plus some from recent times – come, listen, and enjoy!”

           The MVFM Board wishes to thank volunteer Board Member Dottie  Garza, for organizing this Saturday’s events, and wishes to remind all that Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is “the Saturday morning place to be!” this Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Rock Creek Elementary School on Maple Valley Highway.  More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.   MVFM fans are encouraged to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.”   NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

As always, 40+ vendors will offer freshly-picked, health-inducing fruits and vegetables; custom meat; milk; newly-lain eggs; just-made baked goods, sandwiches,  soups, waffles, bagels, and hot aromatic tea; dazzling, inexpensive flower bouquets to brighten any home; juried, unique artwork, jewelry, furniture, photos, handbags, and more; bath products, lavender products, locally-bottled wine, and plants.  In addition, homemade jams, spices and warm kettle corn tempt the palate. In addition we will be showcasing two youth entrepreneurs, Kelin Doner and Lost in the Thicket Artisan Group will pay a return visit to the Market. 

Along with Covington Quilt Guild, Emily Weisenburger & Girl Scout Troop #42431 will host an informational/educational booth on the benefits that bats bring to our community.  Music is an essential part of every Market Saturday, and this week will feature a  Seattle pop grunge band from Maple Valley. Mascots for the Rat City Rollergirls, Dace and Arielle Anderson run a 501(c)3 nonprofit music school, Dace’s Rock ‘n’ More Music Academy. Their band, Sealth,  blends a potentially dangerous cocktail made of equal parts hometown grunge and classic rock with a heavy dose of hairspray.  In addition Dace Anderson is the exclusive Entertainment Sponsor for this year’s market season.

Whether it’s the freshest produce, fruit and flowers around town; quilts; the unique products made by local entrepreneurs; the music; the delicious food items; the artwork;  or the chance to catch up with neighbors and friends—Maple Valley Farmers’ Market, held from 9:00-1:00 this Saturday at Rock Creek Elementary, is definitely the “Saturday morning place to be!”

More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Victoria Laise-Jonas, President of the MVFM, urges MVFM fans to “Friend us on FACEBOOK.” NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

          To add to the old-fashioned celebration, there will be a Patriotic Hat contest at 10:10 a.m.  Market visitors are encouraged to create a patriotic hat suitable for Independence Day.  Winners will be determined by audience applause, and 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place winners will receive a prize in both the adult and children’s division.

         In addition, an old-fashioned watermelon eating contest will take place at 12:00 p.m.  Participants can register for the contest right up to the time it begins, and then can gulp and inhale their way through their piece of watermelon into a prize-winning category. The speediest eater will walk away with a 1st place winning ribbon, a Market Bag and $5 Market Bucks, the second-place winner will also receive a ribbon and  $5 in Market Bucks, and the third-speediest will receive a fruit pie and a winning ribbon.

          It wouldn’t be a Market Saturday without music, and this week’s group, Acoustic Coutie, defies narrow categorization. They describe themselves as: “The Beatles follow Fats Waller chasing Gershwin on the way to Woodstock.  The Couti draw from a vast pallet of musical styles and influences spanning more than a century of popular music.”  While they offer few clues as to what they’ll mix into their next bottle of musical moonshine, they guarantee it will be strong, smooth, intoxicating, and likely lead to a partying atmosphere for the July 4 weekend.

          A very special part of the Market experience is the wisdom brought by the Enumclaw Master Gardeners, who will be present to answer gardening queries.  Their expertise and resources are a goldmine for local gardeners.

          While produce is the Market’s mainstay, an abundance of other booths abound each week.  Wine, alpaca products, spices, lavender products, freshly-made cheese, bath products, fresh eggs, locally–made jam, and local beef products are all available.  New this year is Theo Dorres Aromatics, a hand-blended, flavor-infused artisan tea processed and packaged in Renton.  From Passionate tea to Lemon Flower Berry, Theo Dorres Aromatics offers ten different caffeine and caffeine-free teas.  Their stall will be present three of the Saturdays in July, including July 2, 16, and 23.

         Artists are also an integral part of the Market, with photography, jewelry , wood products, outdoor lights, quilted products, and other juried artisan creations available weekly.

         Processed food vendors at the Market can satisfy every palate and whim.  E.J’s Catering, The Daily Bagel, Mama Rizzo’s Biscotti & More, and George’s Bakery return for this third season, while Mitzel’s American Kitchen makes its first appearance. Owned since October by Maple Valley residents Jack and Kim Emmons. Market offerings  include fresh strawberry bites, raspberry and cheezy bacon scones, and quiche lorraine, while their lunch offerings feature strawberry lemonade and strawberry shortcake, along with Farmers’ Market burgers and dogs. 

         There will be more to do and experience than customers can even sample this week at the MVFM.  Maple Valleyites should mark their calendars now for 9:00-1:00 on Saturday at Rock Creek Elementary School.  More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Victoria Laise-Jonas, President of the MVFM, urges MVFM fans to “Friend us on FACEBOOK” and to remember that Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday Morning Place to Be!”

          NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillon and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

            The market will be celebrating “Green Living Day” thanks to the generous sponsorship of our local Cedar Grove Composting. Cedar Grove Composting is part of a family owned, 400 employee business with roots in the waste management business going back to 1938.  As the Pacific Northwest’s leading organic recycling company, Cedar Grove transforms grass, leaves, yard trimmings, food waste and wood waste into the finest nutrient-rich compost.   From a humble beginning, Cedar Grove has developed a full line of healthy soils with a loyal following and has grown to become the largest single dedicated yard waste composting facility in the United States! Cedar Grove Composting will have a booth at the market, come by their booth and say “thanks” for their commitment to the environment.

            To help celebrate “Green Living Day”, we will be offering $2.00 Maple Valley Farmers’ Market Bucks to individuals who bicycle or $1.00 Market Buck who walk to our Market on Saturday. There will be FREE MINOR BIKE ADJUSTMENTS by Dana Parnello (Maple Valley City Councilmember) and Pat Weiler (Inaugural City of Maple Valley Parks Commissioner).  Parnello and Weiler are dedicated to public service, active in our Maple Valley community, avid cyclists, ardent cycling advocates and professionally trained bicycle mechanics.  To help everyone start the cycling season off right, Parnello and Weiler will be offering free minor bicycle, from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. while you shop and enjoy the festival atmosphere.  And best of all, it is a free community service!  

          Non-profit groups hold a special place at each week’s Market.  Victoria Laise-Jonas, President of MVFM, said that “Maple Valley enjoys a strong sense of community engagement and part of our success as a Farmers’ Market is offering a platform for our local non-profit organizations to set up a market stall space for educational/informational, or fund-raising activities.” Local non-profits interested in having a stall space are encouraged to contact Laise Jonas directly. Present this Saturday are: King County Noxious Weed Program, King County Master Recycler Composter Program and South County Cats.

         And, it wouldn’t be the Farmers’ Market without live musical entertainment. This week’s entertainer is Maple Valley’s own Ron Porzio, an acoustic/folk rock singer and songwriter. An opener in the mid 1970s for acts such as Jesse Colin Young of the Youngbloods, Melissa Manchester, and Jonathan Edwards (“Sunshine, Go Away Today”). Porzio plays for the troops at the USO SEATAC Center in Seattle on a regular basis.  Both his tour schedule and his songs are available on his website (http://porziotunes.com/).

         More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Laise-Jonas urges MVFM fans to “Friend us on FACEBOOK” and to remember that Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday Morning Place to Be!”

NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillion and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

Fifty-three vendors will participate in one or more weekend Markets this year, thirteen of whom are new to MVFM.  Returning favorites include 25 farmers/processors, 22 of whom will have a booth every Saturday.  While there are too many to list, the farmers include Xee Yanh Garden and Outlook Produce Farms, both carrying an array of fresh, local vegetables, and Mai Garden, with fresh flowers, bouquets, and produce.  New to the Market this year is Hayton Farms with strawberries and organic raspberries. Food processor James McCaslin of McSweet’s returns with his popular pickled gourmet specialties, including olives, garlic, beets, and dilly beans, and Silver Springs Creamery of Buckley will again feature cow and goat cheeses, cow and goat milk, fromage and chevre. Meats, wine, alpaca and lavender products, along with freshly-made kettle corn, will also be offered for sale. 

For those who can’t wait to get home and prepare their food, six food vendors will offer fresh delicious treats on opening weekend, including the returning E.J’s Catering, Mama Rizzo’s Biscotti & More, George’s Bakery of North Bend, the Daily Bagel and, new to the Market this year, Mitzel’s American Kitchen and Theo Dorres Aromatic Tea. 

To feed the soul, returning artists will again share their creative talents, featuring wood art, jewelry, rocks planters, fabric art, photography, soaps and bath products.  New this year are Berwyn Smith Alluvion, with furniture; Dan & Marge Scott with planters and wood arts; Lizzy Lou Designs, selling jewelry; and The Quilter Heron, with quilted works of art.

Opening Day will feature the King County Master Recycler Composter Program, along with Maple Valley/Enumclaw Master Gardeners.

More information on Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is available at (425) 463-6751 or at  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org.  Victoria Laise-Jonas, President of the MVFM, urges MVFM fans to “Friend us on FACEBOOK” and to remember that Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is the “Saturday Morning Place to Be!”

NOTE:  This article was written by Brooke Dillion and posted by Victoria Laise Jonas.

I have been experiencing some trepidation of late, wondering whether our farmers will have produce, fruit and flowers to bring to our market in two weeks.  Wondering whether some of our farmer stalls will be empty as we begin our third season.  It’s really hard to anticipate what “Mother Nature” will bring us over the next few weeks – I am hopeful that it’s lots of warm and sunny weather to ripen up all of those crops. God only knows that our farmers deserve it!   I recently called one of our Eastern Washington soft fruit farmers to learn how his crops were doing.   I was told that his cherry orchards are about two to three weeks late but he hopes to have cherries at our market on Opening Day.  One of our Western soft berry farmers called me a few weeks back and informed me that they were  two weeks out before they would  have ripe berries to bring to market.  I told her that I was pleased with her news because our market didn’t open up for three weeks – she laughed!   Fresh cherries and berries at our market – cherries and berries picked on Friday and delivered fresh to our Market Saturday morning.   I know this too be true and I can hardly wait!

Today I ventured out and visited three Farmers’ Markets to learn firsthand whether farmers were in fact  attending Farmers’ Market with their produce and flowers piled high on the tables in their 10×10 piece of real estate aka stall space.  I was told by the Farmers’ Market Managers that some farmers have delayed coming to market, however there were a number of both Western and Eastern Washington farmers in attendance with fresh herbs,  apples, asparagus,  leeks, radishes and lots of flowers on display.  As we progress into the growing season, the market stall spaces will become  more and more bountiful with the fresh produce, fruit and flowers that we are all eagerly waiting for.  We have to remember that all of the produce, fruit and flowers sold at our Farmers’ Market is  grown in Washington  State, we do not allow produce from California, Mexico or any other  far off places.  So I would say to our customers, be prepared for perhaps less quantify and diversity of product but the quality and freshness of what our farmers offer us will be unbeatable!

Two weeks from tonight, all of our preparations and planning will be pretty much completed and we will be ready to go.  Hopefully I’ll be going to bed early and getting a good night’s rest in anticipation of an amazing opening of our third season of our Market.  A 16 week market run of “It’s the Saturday Morning Place to Be!”

Maple Valley Farmers’ Market Contact Information:  (425) 463-6751  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarkt.org.  “friend us on FACEBOOK”

The interest in being part of our “It’s the Saturday Morning Place to Be!”community gathering spot is strong and continues to grow.  This is a sign of a healthy, successful  and sustainable farmers’ market.  It  takes community’s support to sustain a successful farmers’ market and we are well on our way.  We have all worked very hard to get to this point in our infancy of farmers’ market stature and our future does looks bright!

This year so far, we have 26 farmers, ranchers and food processors; 6 prepared food vendors; 23 artisans (Note: we would like more artisans to apply to our market); 18 entertainers; 1 Young Entrepreneur (Note: we would like more young entrepreneur’s to apply); 12 non-profits and amazingly 17 local business sponsors!  17 local businesses stepped up to the ” fresh & locally grown produce basket” to support our cause because they believe in what we are trying to bring to our community and they want to be part of this amazing journey. 

 It is interesting to reflect back to the time when we were just starting to talk about bringing a farmers’ market to our City (four+ years now) and we were faced with some  visible resistance, notably by a very few, clamoring together and chanting that we would be taking away business from the “brick and mortar” local businesses.  However the contrary has been proven to have happened -  on Saturday mornings during our Farmers’ Market season (June 18th – October 1st), our local businesses have seen an increase in their number of customers and in their sales.  Now that is what I call successful partnering with local businesses! 

I would like to recognize  our local businesses/organizations who support our efforts in bringing the best Farmers’ Market possible to our City.  They support us….we, in turn,  need to support them!  So, a drum-roll please:  Tahoma School District, the City of Maple Valley, Johnson’s Home & Garden Do-It Center, Wilderness Animal Hospital, Voice of the Valley Newspaper, Money Mailer of the Cascade Valley,  Maple Valley/Black Diamond Chamber of Commerce,  Cedar Grove Composting, Multi-Care Maple Valley Clinic, Ross Olive State Farm Insurance and Financial Service,  Maple Valley Properties, Dace’s Rock ‘n’ More Music Academy,  Always Best Care Senior Services, Maple Valley Signs,  Able Embroidery, Just for Them Gift Baskets, Party Etc/Dollar Etc.

Three weeks to go……

Maple Valley Farmers’ Market Contact Information:  (425) 463-6751  info@maplevalleyfarmersmarkt.org.  “friend us on FACEBOOK”

So I thought I’d take advantage of my “quiet time” this Friday evening and send out acceptance letters to our 2011 Maple Valley Farmers’ Market vendors.  I have received a significant number of applications so far from returning vendors along with new vendors (farmers, prepared food  and artisans) interested in joining our farmers’ market family.  Note:  Application deadline is the end of April.

As I review the returned applications, especially from our local produce and flower farmers, I must confess that I am very concerned for them and for the sustainability of their livelihood. In particular, our northwest weather has been very cold and wet of late which is not conducive to growing abundant crops. And then there is recent flooding that has occurred alongside the Snoqualmie River where a number of local farmers have secured farmland to grow their crops.  A farmer friend of mine told me that many local farmers have been hit pretty hard with early crop damage and/or failure  this year. But in his next breathe, my friend also tells me that “they are farmers and they will persevere!”  I agree, farmers are rare soles, they are the salt of the earth and they will persevere.  I am hopeful that all of my farmers will have an overabundance of quality of produce and will experience a very profitable market season – they deserve it!

As the third season of the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market nears, it seems a good time to reflect on the success of the first two seasons.  In fact, it seems that the farmers’ market has integrated so well into our community that it’s a challenge to think of summer Saturday mornings without the farmers’ market.  It appears that our community has truly discovered the social benefits of our farmers’ market and have embraced our motto “It’s the Saturday Morning Place to Be!”  We are very fortunate to have acquired a strong partnership with the Tahoma School District and the City of Maple Valley as they both have been co-sponsors of our market from the very beginning. All of us embrace the sense of community that our very own farmers’ market has to offer our local residents.

I want to give a “shout out” to my friend Jim Hanna who has once again volunteered to recruit and line up our live entertainment for our 16 week run.  Jim has been with our Farmers’ Market from day one and I am so appreciative of his support, efforts and of his talent too!  It’s amazing that we have live entertainment every single week,  16 weeks, simply amazing!

And lastly, I do want to get the word out about our Young Entrepreneur vending opportunities.  As a service to our community, with a specific emphasis to our youth, we offer vending opportunities to our local young entrepreneurs (students who attend school within the Tahoma School District boundaries).   We have many incredibly talented youth, who live in our community and  we want to provide them with an avenue to sell their hand-made items.  To obtain additional information, please visit our web-site: www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org or contact me at (425) 463-6751.

We are currently accepting applications from farmers, processors, prepared food vendors, artisans and entertainers. To become a vendor, volunteer, sponsor or to learn more about our market, please visit: www.maplevalleyfarmersmarket.org or call (425) 463-6751.  In addition, sign up and follow us on FACEBOOK!

Official opening day of the 2011 Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is  Saturday June 18th at Rock Creek Elementary School.

Maple Valley Farmers’ Market

“It’s the Saturday Morning Place to Be!”