While the weather certainly doesn’t seem like spring yet, Maple Valley Farmers’ Market season is only 81 days from opening for its fourth season. In preparation for the June 16 Opening Day, the Maple Valley Farmers’ Market is currently looking for individuals interested in being part of the 2012 Maple Valley Farmers’ Market. There are plenty of opportunities for residents to help this volunteer-run Market flourish—the Board of Directors loves to help match potential volunteers’ talents with the needs of the Market.

     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.