Chewelah Farmers Market

WSFMA Award Press Release!

2012-02-16T09:46:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chewelah Farmers Market Selected Best in the State for the Second Year in a Row!

February 13, 2012; Chewelah, WA For the second year in a row, the Washington State Farmers Market Association has selected the Chewelah Farmers Market as the Best Small Market in the State. The award was presented to Chewelah Farmers Market President Nils Johnson during the Washington State Farmers Market Association Annual Conference, held February 3-5, 2012, in Leavenworth, WA. All of the nominees were judged by a committee representing WSFMA partners and stakeholders across Washington State. Other award winners include Best Large Farmers Market: Ballard; Best Medium Market: Port Angeles; Manager of the Year: Jennifer Wiecking - Wenatchee Valley; Farmer of the Year: Jason Silvo & Siri Erickson-Brown; Advocate of the Year: Chris Curtis; Lifetime Achievement Award: Terry & Dick Carkner.

The non-profit, all-volunteer run Chewelah Farmers Market is beginning its 5th season this year, and it looks like it will be another great one. In 2011 the market moved to its present location at the beautiful Chewelah City Park. Situated along Hwy. 395, the increased visibility directly resulted in increased sales for the up to 30 vendors that set up every Friday from mid-May through mid-October. In 2010, market vendors grossed a little over $50,000 and just one year later that gross jumped up to over $96,000. That is significant to the local economy of rural Chewelah, with a population of close to 2400.

The Board of Directors for the Chewelah Farmers Market anticipate an increased demand for vendor space this year, but have no plans to increase the size of market. They would like to preserve the atmosphere of a mini-festival every week, with entertainment, music, food and popular special events, such as the World-Class Cherry Splat and the Zucchini Regatta. The market has become a social destination for many on Friday, stocking up on fresh, local food and relaxing in the park.

The mission of the Chewelah Farmers Market is to make available high-quality, locally produced food, and to promote self-sufficiency in the community food systems by providing a venue for local farmers, growers and producers to connect directly with consumers, and to support educational opportunities for a sustainable community.

The Chewelah Farmers Market will open with two special pre-season markets called Salad Days on May 18 and May 25. This will be followed by the Market Season Grand Opening on June 1.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

Shelly Stevens

CFM Marketing & Promotion

509-935-8911

whoabgflla@gotsky.com

www.chewelahfarmersmarket.com

www.facebook.com/ChewelahFarmersMarket

Nils Johnson

President, CFM

509-936-4353

Nils@chewelahfarmersmarket.com

The Chewelah Farmers Market is the WSFMA Best Small Farmers Market- Again!!

2012-02-05T20:27:00.000-08:00

Wow! For the second year in a row the Washington State Farmers Market Association has selected the Chewelah Farmers Market as the Best Small Farmers Market! CFM President Nils Johnson accepted the award at the 2012 WSFMA Annual Conference held February 3rd-5th in Leavenworth, WA. Chewelah Farmers Market Board members Mary Ann Gehman and Shelly Stevens and CFM vendor Meadow Plunkett were also in attendance.

The criteria used in determining this year's exemplary markets in the small, medium and large catagories was as follows:

1. Market is an integral part of its community and brings together farmers and consumers in innovative ways,
facilitating strong sales for farmers/vendors through creative special events and educational programming that
celebrate & promote fresh, locally grown food.
2. Market is a venue that promotes, supports and advocates for small farms, local, sustainable agriculture and
programs that link consumers of all economic levels in their community with fresh, local food.
3. Categories:

Small Market: 5 - 30 vendors per week
Medium Market: 31 - 55 vendors per week
Large Market: 56+ vendors per week
4. Selection process: All nominees will be judged by a committee representing WSFMA partners and stakeholders across Washington State.

Well, we are pretty tickled to be honored again. We couldn't do it without our fabulous vendors and loyal customers. Here's to another great year!

Time to Start Thinking About Soil Blocks!

2012-01-30T10:47:00.000-08:00

Check out Front Porch Farms great video demonstrating how to make soil blocks. Thanks, Dee and Liz!

How to Prune Fruit Trees

2012-01-30T10:42:00.000-08:00

First Harvest of Spring: Asparagus!

2012-01-21T10:43:00.000-08:00

Grow Your Own Sprouts!

2011-12-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

Look What Came in the Mail!

2011-12-04T09:37:00.000-08:00

We knew that we were in the Top Twenty in the country in the America's Favorite Farmers Market contest held last summer, but we didn't expect this nice certificate. This can go along with our proclamation from Gov. Gregoire presented to the market during National Farmers Market Week, held last August. We also received a stack of bumper stickers from the American Farmland Trust. (Those stickers will undoubtedly find their way into the vendor packets for next year!)

5 Ridiculous Myths People Use to Trash Local Food -- And Why They're Wrong | | AlterNet

2011-11-20T09:58:00.000-08:00

5 Ridiculous Myths People Use to Trash Local Food -- And Why They're Wrong | | AlterNet

The 2011 World Champion Leaf Raking Crew

2011-11-06T18:17:00.000-08:00

With fabulous fall weather to work in (there was concern earlier in the week that we'd be raking snow), an intrepid group of workers showed up for Saturday's Work Day in the Park: Rakin' Leaves. With so much great help we were able to knock out our chore pretty quick and get down to the good part: cookies, cocoa and coffee!

The Leaf Team members are: Joe Santiago, Nils Johnson, Gail Santiago, Ken Anderson, Paul Lubke, Celeste Engell, Gary McNeil, Jean Wilcox, Mary Ann Gehman, Sherry Jansen, Karen Lyson, Andrew Engell and Shelly Stevens (the one behind the camera :) Thanks everyone!!

Many Hands Make Light Work...and eat more cookies.

2011-11-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

BEFORE

AFTER

Chewelah Farmers Market: Rakin' Leaves 2011

2011-11-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

Workday in the Park: Rakin' Leaves!!

2011-10-31T08:58:00.000-07:00

In exchange for letting the Chewelah Farmers Market use the city park this year, we agreed to do a fall cleanup and rake up leaves in the park. The city thinks they're getting cheap labor, but all of us gardener-types know that those leaves are worth their weight in gold in the garden! So, we are putting the word out to all of our vendors, volunteers and farmers market enthusiasts to join us, rakes in hand, in the park this Saturday, November 5th at 1:00. We'll have coffee, cocoa and cookies to keep us motivated, and you're welcome to take whatever you rake, or not- it's up to you! For more information, please call the market phone at 936-4353.

Your 2012 Chewelah Farmers Market Board of Directors

2011-10-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to (back, l-r) President Nils Johnson, Gary McNeil, Andrew Engell (front, l-r) Treasurer Karen Lyson, Secretary Kim Kalua, Mary Ann Gehman and Elizabeth Peterson.

What a Spread at the Vendor Appreciation Dinner!

2011-10-22T12:06:00.000-07:00

Gettin' the Job Done

2011-10-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

Sue Anderson took this cute picture of David Engell giving his dad, Andrew, an assist setting up for market. We're pretty sure David will be managing the Simple Gifts Farm booth all by himself next year. :)

Planting Onions, Leeks and Shallots

2011-10-17T11:48:00.001-07:00

2011 Vendor Appreciation Dinner & Annual Meeting on Thursday!

2011-10-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

The Chewelah Farmers Market will wrap things up for the year at the Vendor Appreciation Dinner and Annual Meeting being held this Thursday, October 20 at 6:00 p.m., at the Abundant Life Fellowship Hall, 203 E. 2^nd St., in Chewelah. The market will provide meatloaf, vegetarian lasagna and beverages and if everyone brings a dish to share, there should be a fabulous spread! After dinner we will hold elections for the board, and get an update on how the market did and what is in store for next year.

2011 Harvest Festival a Smash!

2011-10-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

It was chilly and cloudy last Friday, but that did not stop over 30 bowlers from sending a pumpkin down the grass alley and hopefully taking out a few Indian corn pins in the Chewelah Farmers Market Annual Pumpkin Bowling contest, held during the Harvest Festival on the market’s last day of the 2011 season. Winning the 10 & Under division was Kathleen Anderson; Justin Peterson took home the prize in the 11-15 year old division; and Charles Kessler was victorious in the 16 & Over class. The winners were each presented a $20.00 gift certificate to hone their skills and do some REAL bowling at the Chewelah Bowling Alley. Chef Mary Ann held a ‘Guess the Weight of the Pumpkin’ contest, and there was a tie! Doug McQuain and Kathleen Anderson each guessed correctly and took home a prize. The day culminated with the Biggest Pumpkin Weigh-In, and after Nils Johnson finished weighing the monster squash, the winner was Mr. Charlie Kessler. His pumpkin came in at over 80 pounds.

How to Make a Scarecrow

2011-10-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Harvest Festival Marks the Last Market Day of the Season

2011-10-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

Blowing leaves, gigantic pumpkins and Pumpkin Bowling. It must be fall at the Chewelah Farmers Market! The Annual Harvest Festival is taking place this Friday, October 14 from 11:30 to 5:30. Did you grow a whopper of a pumpkin? Bring it down to the market anytime on Friday. We’ll weigh it right after the Pumpkin Bowling contest to find out who grew the champion squash. Sign-ups for Pumpkin Bowling begin at 3:00 and we’ll start sending pumpkins down the lane at about 3:45. It’s fun, and it’s FREE! This is also our last market day of the year, so don’t miss your chance to stock up on your fall veggies, and do a little Christmas shopping.

2011-10-03T10:53:00.000-07:00

Our Vendor Appreciation Dinner & Annual Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 20 at 6:00 p.m. This year our dinner will be held at the Abundant Life Fellowship Hall, 203 E. 2^nd St. in Chewelah. The Chewelah Farmers Market is providing meatloaf and vegetarian lasagna, prepared by Chef Mary Ann, and beverages. Please bring a dish to share and we’ll be all set! Chewelah Farmers Market Nils Johnson will let everyone know how the market did this year, and what is in store for next year. We will also be holding elections for 3 board positions: Secretary and two board members. Producer members of the Chewelah Farmers Market are entitled to vote. Membership is $25. a year, so if you haven’t joined yet and would like to vote, just click the icon to the right for a membership application. Please RSVP for the dinner to Shelly by Monday, October 17 at 935-8911.

It's Harvest Festival Time!

2011-10-03T10:50:00.000-07:00

As the growing season comes to a close, so does the Chewelah Farmers Market. Only two more market days are left for 2011. There is still an abundance of produce and other local food available, as well as many handcrafted items perfect for Christmas gift giving. As always, we will celebrate a successful year with our annual Harvest Festival being held on our last market day, Friday, October 14. This is the day of the Biggest Pumpkin Weigh-In, so if you have a contender get it down to the market anyway you can! We will start tipping the scales immediately following our other fun event, Pumpkin Bowling! Three age divisions will vie for fun prizes as they roll a pumpkin down the ‘alley’ at the Indian corn ‘pins’. This is more fun than you think! Sign-ups start at 3:00, and the bowling gets underway about 3:40. Of course this event is FREE and open to ALL ages.

Great Fun at the 2011 Apple Blast!

2011-10-03T09:30:00.000-07:00

The first day of fall brought spectacular weather to the Chewelah Farmers Market last Friday, and with it came that other sign of autumn, the Apple Blast!, the market’s homage to the official fruit of Washington State. The highlight of the day was the always-popular Apple Pie Eating Contest. Over 35 contestants rose to the challenge of consuming a slice of homemade apple pie topped with a mountain of whipped cream. Several celebrity contestants took part in the free-for-all, including Chewelah Citizen of the Year Tom Bristol; favorite Jenkins Middle School teacher of many, Becky Washington; Jenkins Middle School principal Jon Symonds; and president of the Chewelah Chamber of Commerce, Tracy Ferrell. Eric Stevens handled the microphone during the pre-contest festivities, and then handed it over to KCHW 102.7 radio professional Scott Schlaffman when it was time to get down to business. The contestants were given the signal, and in a flurry of apples and whipped cream, two winners emerged. The 12 & Under victor was Ryan Erickson, and the 13 & Over winner was Meije Tiersma, each taking home a homemade apple pie; a gift certificate to the Farmers Market Café; and a gift certificate to the Farmers Market. We can’t wait to do it all again next year!

Sherri Hansen Wins the Farmers Market Basket at the Chamber Auction!

2011-09-26T21:52:00.000-07:00

The Chewelah Chamber of Commerce held their Annual Auction last Saturday, and the Chewelah Farmers Market provided a huge basket filled with items contributed by the wonderful vendors of the market. The lucky high bidder and winner of the basket was Sherri Hansen of Chewelah.

The Chewelah Farmers Market would like to thank the following vendors for their donations to the basket: Front Porch Farm; Little Shadow Creations; Betteridge Farms; Sweet Meadows Farm; Anderson Farms; Lost Valley Orchard; Norm's Birdhouses; Emma's Cottage Garden; Simple Gifts Farm; Autumn Creek Ranch; Monica's Craft Corner; Heather's Fairytale Bakery; Sweet E's; Burnt Valley Woodcrafts; Cozy Nook Honey Farm; The Leather Guy; Creager Creations; KCHW 102.7; Debra Ransom, the European Kitchen and the Farmers Market Cafe.

Chewelah Farmers Market Named as one of Top 20 Favorite Farmers Markets in America’s Favorite Farmer’s Markets™ Contest

2011-09-26T21:25:00.000-07:00

The Chewelah Farmers Market was recently voted as one of 20 leading farmers markets across the nation vying for the title of America’s Favorite Farmers Market in the small market category. In this year’s contest more than 90,000 farmers market shoppers voted for more than 1,700 participating farmers markets in American Farmland Trust’s third annual contest.

The Chewelah Farmers Market is held Fridays in the Chewelah City Park from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You can learn more about the market by visiting www.chewelahfarmersmarket.com or by calling the market phone at 509-936-4353.

The Chewelah Farmers Market received 210 votes from supportive shoppers. Here is what one voter for the Chewelah Farmers Market had to say about why it should be named one of America’s Favorite Farmers Markets:

“The Chewelah Farmers Market is friendly and relaxed. It's full of a variety of good things that you just can't find in the homogenized chain grocer. The people that run the market truly love the land and the way of life that keeps us close to the dirt. They work hard and understand that the reward is not just gauged by the dollars. The sense of community that comes from that weekly gathering is priceless. The Chewelah Farmers Market works some kind of magic that makes you feel like you belong to something important by just being at home”.

According to the recent release of the updated U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s farmers market directory, the number of farmers markets across the nation increased by 17 percent between 2010 and 2011. Support for farmers markets helps to provide income opportunities for farmers. The rising interest for local food from nearby farms highlights the value of protecting farmland to meet demand.

The America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest is a part of American Farmland Trust’s No Farms No Food® campaign, which raises awareness of the dangers of farmland loss by making connections to food. Farms near metropolitan areas produce 91 percent of the nation’s market value of fruit, 78 percent of vegetables, and 67 percent of dairy products.

To view the top 20 leader-boards or to vote in the America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest, visit www.farmland.org/vote.

Pies in Progress for the Apple Pie Eating Contest!

2011-09-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

Fall's Bounty is Here!

2011-09-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

With fall comes new selections at the market, including many varieties of apples. You can still get tomatoes, cucumbers and melons as well as garlic, corn and eggplant. You’ll find artisan breads, fresh-made goat cheeses and specialty jams and jellies. Looking for a great place for lunch? How about homemade soup, from-scratch pierogies filled with potato and other good things, and delicious Greek yogurt and berry parfaits? And while you’re there, you can get a little early Christmas shopping done. There is an array of lovely hand-crafted jewelry, colorful hand-stitched handbags and beautifully crafted inlaid wood vases, among many other items.

Let Them Eat Pie!

2011-09-18T16:10:00.000-07:00

The first day of fall is officially Friday, September 23^rd, and as luck would have it, that day coincides perfectly with Apple Blast! at the Chewelah Farmers Market. What is Apple Blast! you say? It’s a special day at the market when we celebrate, well, apples. And the highlight of Apple Blast! is the Apple Pie Eating Contest. Picture big slices of homemade apple pie topped with roughly 10 ½ inches of whipped cream, give or take. Now picture hungry competitors doing a face-plant into all that apple-y goodness to see who will be victorious and win, you guessed it, a homemade apple pie! And a gift certificate to the market. Sweet! This year we will be doing something new- we will have winners in two age divisions: 12 & under and 13 & over. Everyone will gorge at the same time, but we can all cheer for two winners! And, there will be celebrity contestants… you’ll just have to come down to the market to find out who. Sign-ups start at 3:00, and the competition will start about 3:40 or so. Of course it’s FREE, and all ages are invited. There is a limited number of pies, so get there early!

Get Ready to Stuff Your Face

2011-09-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

The market is gearing up for our next fun event, Apple Blast!, featuring the ever-popular Apple Pie Eating Contest. You can get your first hint of fall on Friday, September 23 when we celebrate the quintessential fruit of the season, apples. The Apple Pie Eating contest is the perfect after-school snack, so come to the market to sign up starting at 3:00, and the gorging will commence at 3:30. The contest is, of course, FREE and we will be serving slices of homemade apple pie topped with much whipped cream. Does it get any better than that?

Your Favorite Farmers Market!!

2011-09-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

The votes are in and the results tallied in the America’s Favorite Farmers Market contest, sponsored by the American Farmland Trust. The Chewelah Farmers Market garnered the most votes in the small farmers market category in the state of Washington, and was in the top twenty nationwide! The online competition had over 1700 farmers markets entered. Thank you to all who voted and made the Chewelah Farmers Market your favorite!

Scenes from the 2011 Zucchini Regatta!

2011-08-24T10:44:00.003-07:00

3rd Annual Zucchini Regatta a Splashing Success!

2011-08-24T08:46:00.000-07:00

It was clear sailing last Friday at the 3^rd Annual Zucchini Regatta held during Squash Bash!, the Chewelah Farmers Market’s celebration of all things squash-y. Twenty seven zucchini boat captains vied for the gift baskets presented to the winners in each of three age divisions. All manner of squash-crafts took to the water, many built on site at the Greenwood Institute D’Art Shipyard. Plenty of zucchinis (and other summer squash) were on hand to be transformed into sleek watercraft, thanks to contributions from Front Porch Farm, Anderson Produce and Simple Gifts Farm. Eric Stevens provided the play-by-play on the action in the creek as each heat hit the waterway. In the end the victors were: 10 & Under Division Samantha Schlafman (6 yrs.); 11-15 yr. Division Joe Lacey (11 yrs.); and in the 16 & Over Division Doug McQuain (way more than 16 yrs.). The winners all received a gift basket with an official Squash Bash t-shirt silk screened by Shannon McNeil; a Gift Certificate for the Farmers Market; a Gift Certificate for the Farmers Market Café; and a cool lunch box or tote bag. We are already looking forward to next year’s Regatta, it’s that much fun!

A Cornucopia of Goodness! Even Huckleberries!

2011-08-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

The Chewelah Farmers Market is brimming with all of the fresh, local produce and food that summer provides. Green beans, many varieties of juicy melons, corn, tomatoes, peppers, squash, potatoes, artisan bread, USDA pork and chicken, honey and garlic. You’ll find lovely hand-crafted items perfect for gift-giving (did someone say Christmas?!) and plenty of picnic tables placed in the shade so that you might enjoy lunch from one of several food vendors. The market is a great place to relax and visit.

Scenes From the Market: National Farmers Market Week

2011-08-15T17:08:00.000-07:00

WSFMA V. P. Visits Chewelah!

2011-08-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

The Chewelah Farmers Market was pleased to host a visit by Washington State Farmers Market Association Vice-president Lori Musgrave last Friday in honor of National Farmers Market Week. Lori read a proclamation from the governor declaring the week of August 7-13 National Farmers Market Week, and she also read a letter from the Farmers Market Coalition congratulating the Chewelah Farmers Market for being one of 12 markets chosen nationwide to be highlighted during National Farmers Market Week. Exciting times for the Chewelah Farmers Market, and the board of directors thanks the community and city of Chewelah for their support.

And speaking of exciting, Squash Bash! is this Friday, August 19th, and that means it’s time for the 3^rd Annual Zucchini Regatta! All ages are invited to enter this FREE and always popular event. You can bring your own squash vessel down to the market, or build your own in the Greenwood Institute D’Art Shipyard. The building starts at 11:30, sign-ups at begin at 1:00, and the single-elimination heats start at 2:00. Be prepared to get wet- the skippers of each craft must wade into the creek to launch!

We are at the height of the produce season, it’s all here! Corn, melons, peppers, peaches, apricots, berries, tomatoes and more! Are you planning on doing a little canning? You can purchase tomatoes, green beans, peaches and other produce by the box from several farmers at the market. And Sety’s Ace Hardware is having a great sale on canning supplies! It’s always wonderful to open a jar of peaches in the middle of winter to savor a little taste of summer.

The Chewelah Farmers Market is open every Friday through October 14^th in the Chewelah City Park, from 11:30-5:30. For more information, please call 936-4353.

Celebrate National Farmers Market Week With Us!

2011-08-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

The Chewelah Farmers Market is one of twelve markets nationwide selected by the Farmers Market Coalition to be highlighted for community and civic engagement during National Farmers Market Week , August 7-13. Join us at the market on Friday, August 12 and help us celebrate! Representatives from the Washington State Farmers Market Association and other special guests will be visiting the market from 11:30-12:30. Greenwood Institute D'Art will feature a fun veggie art project for kids, and everyone can sign the big banner proclaiming what they love about farmers markets!

U.S. Farmers Markets on the Rise

2011-08-07T15:16:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON, Aug. 6 (UPI) -- More than 1,000 new farmers markets dot the U.S. landscape this year, bringing the total number to more than 7,000, federal officials say.
The current U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Farmers Market Directory says a total of 7,175 farmers markets operate throughout the United States as more farmers are marketing their products directly to consumers -- a 17 percent increase from last year.
This year's National Farmers Market Directory was released in advance of National Farmers Market Week, which begins Sunday.

Farmers Market Coalition Highlights Chewelah Farmers Market

2011-08-07T14:46:00.000-07:00

Located in the rural Northeast corner of Washington State, Chewelah is a small town of approximately 2,200 people. Far from tourist destinations, the town came together in early 2008 to discuss a model of community-based sustainable agriculture. Choosing from many ideas, the group focused on one they felt could be implemented rather quickly – a community-focused farmers market. In late July 2008, the Chewelah Farmers Market first opened and immediately set off on a trajectory of vibrant growth in this small community. (Full story here)

Scenes from the Market

2011-08-04T09:32:00.000-07:00

National Farmers Market Week, August 7-12, 2011

2011-08-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

The week of August 7-12 is National Farmers Market week. We’ll be at the height of our growing season and the market will be overflowing with locally-grown goodness. What a great time to check out the Chewelah Farmers Market if you haven’t had a chance yet. The market is open Fridays through October 14, from 11:30- 5:30. For more information, please call the market phone at 509-936-4353.

It's Almost Time for the Annual Zucchini Regatta!

2011-08-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

It is almost time for one of the most popular events at the Chewelah Farmers Market- the 3rd Annual Zucchini Regatta, held during Squash Bash!- our celebration of that prolific summer staple, zucchini. This year the green vessels will take to the water on Friday, August 19th. Carve your own at home, or come down to the market early to build one in the shipyard. As always, it’s FREE, open to all ages, and loads of fun. Stay tuned for sign-up and start times.

Vegetable Garden Tour This Saturday!

2011-08-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Are you new to the wonderful world of vegetable gardening? Or are you a seasoned gardener that likes to get new ideas from other gardeners? There will be ideas and information for everyone who comes along on the Farmers Market Garden Tour. This casual (and free!) tour will be held this Saturday, August 6th. Meet in the park at 11:00 and then head out to visit the gardens of Nils Johnson (out Quarry Browns way), Karin Freeman (up Flowery Trail) and Celeste and Andrew Engells’ Simple Gifts Farm (in Addy), where there will also be produce available for purchase. Call the market phone, 936-4353, for more information.

Growing a Fall Garden

2011-08-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

Robin Koger Wins the Guess the Number of Cherries in the Jar Contest

2011-07-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

Chef Mary Ann of the Farmers Market Café held her own cherry-contest: guess the number of cherries in the jar. The winner of the lovely gift basket was Robin Koger with a guess of 96 cherries. The actual count was 98. Pretty darn close!

Chewelah Farmers Market Vendors Contribute Fabulous Prizes!

2011-07-18T13:48:00.000-07:00

Special thanks goes out to Front Porch Farm (for providing all of our ammunition); the Washington State Fruit Commission/Northwest Cherry Growers; Little Shadow Soaps; Kalua’s Garden; Reber & Rhodes; Simple Gifts Farm; Dolly’s jewels; The Leather Belt Guy; Earl Evans; Autumn Creek Ranch; Freeman Kettle Corn Company; Jan’s Custom Scroll; Eensy-Teeniny Donuts; Indiana Ludwick; Monica’s Crafty Corner; Cozy Nook Honey; Bill Smith; Charmed Designs; Debra Ransom; Shannon, Stacy, Allie & Harmony McNeil and the Farmers Market Café. And thank you to Michael Barone for acting as our Master of Ceremonies.

2011 World-Class Cherry Splat has Record Attendance!

2011-07-18T13:38:00.000-07:00

The competition was fierce at the World-Class Cherry Splat, held last Friday at the Chewelah Farmers Market. Forty would-be marksmen (and women) took aim and fired their cherry ammunition at the target set up alongside the Chewelah Creek. When the last splat finally made contact, the victors were announced. Eight year-old Isaac Cook took the spoils in the 10 & Under Division, twelve year-old Jake Kenney proved his aim was straight and true, firing the only bulls-eye of the day, in the 11-15 Division, and winning one for the ladies, Andrea Arnold kept her cool and nailed it on her last shot in the 16 & Over Division. The winners were all presented with huge gift bags filled with items donated by the wonderful vendors of the Chewelah Farmers Market.

It's Time for the World Class Cherry Splat!

2011-07-10T21:46:00.000-07:00

We’ve hit 80 degrees, Chataqua has come and gone and there are cherries at the market. That must mean it is time for the Cherry Berry Bonanza at the Chewelah Farmers Market! Stop by the market on Friday, July 15^th, between 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and help celebrate all things cherry and berry! You won’t want to miss the main event- the World Class Cherry Splat. A slingshot, a target and a bunch of cherries. That is all we’re going to need to have a cherry-tastic time. This FREE event is open to all ages, and sign-ups begin when the market opens at 11:30. Contestants can start warming up their shootin’ arm at about 2:00 p.m., when the World Class Cherry Splat will get underway. The victors of each of the three age divisions will receive a gift basket filled with wonderful items that vendors from the Chewelah Farmers Market have donated. Come on down to the beautiful Chewelah City Park and have a fun afternoon.

In keeping with our berry-licious theme, vendors will be featuring all of the cherry goodness that they can come up with. How about a nice, cold cherry lemonade? Or, a pulled pork quesadilla with cherry salsa? Or just a big bag of fresh Washington Cherries? There is sure to a cherry-berry something to please everyone.

The Chewelah Farmers Market is open Fridays through October 15 in the northwest corner of the Chewelah City Park, from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., rain or shine. For more information, please call the market phone at 936-4353.

Summertime, Summertime...

2011-06-28T11:21:00.000-07:00

The amount and variety of fresh, local produce continues to grow with each passing week. And, the first sign that summer is well and truly here has arrived, cherries! And just in time, because some of those cherries (the not-so-great ones) will be turned into ammunition during the Second Annual World-Class Cherry Splat, held during the Cherry Berry Bonanza at the market on July 15^th. This FREE event will have three age divisions (grown-ups can play, too) and would-be marksmen will get an opportunity to take three shots at the target with a cherry fired by a slingshot. Hopefully, there will be a satisfying splat as the juicy red orb makes contact. There will be great prizes and lots of fun. Stay tuned for sign-up and contest times.

Along with cherries, you will find all sorts of local goodness at the market this week. Have you tried one of Heather’s delicious meat and cheese paninis? How about tender new potatoes? Blue ones, too! Crisp heads of cabbage, succulent strawberries and rhubarb to go with them are just some of the healthful offerings the Chewelah Farmers Market will have for you.

If you haven’t yet voted in the America’s Favorite Market contest, there is still time! Just go to www.farmland.org/vote. We appreciate your vote.

The Chewelah Farmers Market is open every Friday, rain or shine, in the Chewelah City Park. The market opens at 11:30 a.m. (vendors are not allowed to sell before that time, please give them a chance to set up!) and closes at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call the market phone at 936-4353.

Scenes From the Market on June 23rd, 2011

2011-06-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

Is Summer Really Coming?!

2011-06-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

If the National Weather Service’s best efforts are to be trusted, Chewelah may actually be in store for some summer weather, just in time for the summer solstice! What does that mean for the Chewelah Farmers Market? All those rows of crops that have been laying around waiting for some nice, warm weather are going to start cranking out the goodies! You will find sun-ripened strawberries, sugar-snap peas and there was even a zucchini-sighting at last week’s market. We are officially ramping up to the best part of the growing season, so be sure and swing by the market to see what is fresh.

And, it is almost time for the World-Class Cherry Splat, being held during the Chewelah Farmers Market Cherry Berry Bonanza on July 14^th. A sling shot, a target and a bunch of cherries. Need we say more? Stay tuned for sign-up information for this free contest with great prizes!

Have you voted for your Favorite Farmers Market? Visit www.farmland.org/vote to choose you fav! We certainly hope it’s the Chewelah Farmers Market! At press time, we were in second place in the country for markets our size, with almost 100 votes! Let your friends know to make the Chewelah Farmers Market their favorite.

2011-06-13T10:07:00.000-07:00

Things are growing at the Chewelah Farmers Market! There are many beautiful plants and vegetable starts to choose from, including unusual varieties of Iris, Columbine and various herbs. It’s not too late to pick up beautiful Heirloom Tomato plants (some with tomatoes already on them!) to plunk right into your garden. This week you will also find locally grown Kohlrabi, Bok Choy, Spinach, Swiss Chard, Kale, Romaine Lettuce, Leaf Lettuce and Rhubarb. Pick up a loaf of crusty fresh-baked bread, some local honey and some all-natural soap. As the season progresses, the amount and variety of what is offered at the market will surprise you every week.
 

   The market is the perfect place to grab some lunch and relax in the park. Enjoy a Pulled-Pork sandwich; try a handmade Pierogi or a bowl of delicious homemade soup.  How about a gourmet Panini? Or a quesadilla filled with something good, last week it was cheese, spinach and bacon. Yum! While you’re eating, the McNeil’s Mountain Melodies band will entertain you with their fiddles and guitars. Kids will love to visit the Greenwood Institute D’Art booth, where this week they can learn origami and make delicate paper butterflies, birds and boats.

Don’t forget to vote for the Chewelah Farmers Market in America’s Favorite Market contest at www.farmland.org/vote! The Chewelah Farmers Market is open every Friday, rain or shine, from 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 a.m. in the Chewelah City Park.

We are off to a Great "Fresh Start!"

2011-06-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day in the park on Friday, perfect for celebrating the Fresh Start Grand Opening of the Chewelah Farmers Market. City Administrator Curt Kelling, various City Council members and local business owners, along with patrons of the market, watched City Councilwoman Krisan LeHew cut the ‘twine’ (with hedge trimmers, of course) to officially welcome the Chewelah Farmers Market to the City Park. As market Chairperson Nils Johnson stated during his remarks to the crowd “We probably have the nicest location of any farmers market around. I have never been to a market in a prettier spot”. After the official ceremonies completed, the Engell’s Family Band broke out the fiddles and guitars, homemade cookies were handed out for free at the Consignment Table, and visitors were urged to take home some free Dill’s Giant Pumpkin Seeds and grow their own monster for the Biggest Pumpkin Contest in October.

Next week’s offerings at the market will include lettuce, spinach, radishes, bok choy, various plant starts, local honey, eggs, handmade soap, artisanal breads and asparagus. Over in the Greenwood Institute D’Art booth, kids can make beaded bracelets. Donations for supplies are much appreciated!

And don’t forget to go online and vote for your favorite farmers market at www.farmland.org/vote. You can vote for as many markets as you like, but only for each market once. Help make the Chewelah Farmers Market become one of America’s Favorite Farmers Markets!

The Chewelah Farmers Market is located in the northwest corner of the park, and is open from 11:30 (no earlier, please!!) to 5:30 every Friday through October 14. For more information, please visit www.chewelahfarmersmarket.com or call 509-936-4353.

The Voting Has Begun!

2011-06-01T12:12:00.000-07:00

Please cast your vote for the Chewelah Farmers Market in the 'America's Favorite Market' contest. We need your help! Let your friends know that they can help the Chewelah Farmers Market become one of America's Favorite Markets! You can vote here: www.farmland.org/vote. We appreciate your help!

Help Chewelah Farmers Market Be America’s Favorite Farmers Market!

2011-05-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

It’s summertime and that means two things: 1) There are loads of delicious farm fresh produce available at the Chewelah Farmers Market every week; and 2) American Farmland Trust’s America’s Favorite Farmers Markets™ contest starts June 1st, and we need your votes to win!

The process is simple. To vote for our market, all you have to do is:

1.) Go to www.farmland.org/vote

2.) Type in Chewelah Farmers Market and,

3.) Click “Vote”

That’s it. That’s all it takes to bring the Chewelah Farmers Market one step closer to being America’s favorite farmers market!

Now American Farmland Trust has introduced leader boards where you can keep track of the Top 5 markets receiving votes in Washington.

According to American Farmland Trust (AFT), the purpose of this contest is to re-connect local consumers to local farms, with the ultimate goal of keeping our nation’s farm and ranch land productive and healthy! Buying at the farmers market keeps money in the local community and helps farms and ranches remain economically viable. By voting, you’re helping support farms and communities across the nation. As American Farmland Trust says, “No Farms No Food™!”

So don’t forget to vote for the Chewelah Farmers Market at www.farmland.org/vote and spread the word!

Get Ready for a Fresh Start!

2011-05-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

The Chewelah Farmers Market is getting ready for the official Fresh Start Grand Opening this Friday, June 3rd. We will hold a ribbon-cutting celebrating our new location in the park, feature special musical guests, and give away delicious home-baked cookies. And don’t forget to pick up your free Dill’s Giant Pumpkin seeds so you can take them home and grow a whopper to enter in the Biggest Pumpkin contest at our last market on October 14. Swing by the park between 11:30 and 5:30 and see all of the wonderful produce and products available (and get a cookie!).

   News Flash!! The Chewelah Farmers Market is a contestant in the American Farmland Trust’s ‘America’s Favorite Farmers Market’ contest. The contest starts June 1st and runs through August 31st. You can vote for the Chewelah Farmers Market online at www.farmland.org/vote. Spread the word! Vote early and often!

The Chewelah Farmers Market is open every Friday through October 14, rain or shine, in the northwest corner of the Chewelah City Park.

A Fantastic Day in the Park!

2011-05-22T12:04:00.000-07:00

What a spectacular start for the 2011 Chewelah Farmers Market season! The weather was glorious, the ground only slightly squishy from the flooding mere days before and the vibe was relaxed and fun for the first market day in the Chewelah City Park. This was the first of two special pre-season market days dubbed ‘Salad Days’ because of the abundance of lettuces and greens. Eighteen vendors set up shop along Hwy. 395 in the park and the customers were steady all day, making it one of the markets’ best days yet. Both vendors and patrons had positive feedback on the new location for the Chewelah Farmers Market.

Friday, May 27 will be the second installment of ‘Salad Days’, and then the following week we will hold our Fresh Start Grand Opening. We will officially commence the new season and location with special guests and give-aways, including homemade cookies. And be sure to pick up your free Giant Pumpkin seeds so you can grow your own monster pumpkin and enter it in the Biggest Pumpkin contest during the Harvest Festival in October!

Here is just a partial list of what you will find at the market on Friday: Plant Starts, Lettuce, Seed Potatoes, Artisan Breads, Handcrafted Birdhouses, Hand-made Soap, Barnwood Furniture, Rhubarb, Iced-Coffee, Gluten-free Cake, USDA Pork, Farm-Fresh Eggs, Hand-sewn Baby Items, Strawberry Plants, Honey, Onions…and plenty more.

Kids will want to visit the Children’s Booth run by the Greenwood Institute D’Art. This week’s fun projects include handmade flower garlands and centerpieces and drawing with pastels and chalk. For a small donation, kids can come and get creative in the park!

For more information, please call the market phone at 509-936-4353, or visit us online at www.chewelahfarmersmarket.blogspot.com and at www.facebook.com/ChewelahFarmersMarket.

The Market is a Go!

2011-05-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

The flood waters have receded and the sunshine today helped to dry up the grass, so we have the thumbs-up from the city to hold our opening market tomorrow, Friday, May 20. Questions? Call the market phone at 509-936-4353. See you in the park!

Fingers are Crossed for This Friday's Market

2011-05-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

Things are a little soggy down at the Chewelah City Park where the first market day is scheduled to be held this Friday, May 20. At this time things are still a go- but it is a little tenuous. If we must cancel due to flooding, we will send an email and post both here on the blog and Facebook...you can also call the market phone at 509-936-4353 for the latest info. Maybe we set up canopies on pontoon boats?

2011 Vendor Applications & Vendor Rules Now Available!

2011-05-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

You'll find the newly polished Chewelah Farmers Market 2011 Rules and Vendor Application available online by clicking the sidebar icons on the blog. Our rules have changed slightly to address our new location for 2011, the Chewelah City Park.

Our first market day, Friday May 20, is fast approaching! It would help the volunteers of the market out a lot if vendors filled out their form and mailed in ahead of time. We look forward to seeing you in the park!

Popularity of Local Produce Subscriptions Grow

2011-04-30T12:36:00.000-07:00

Consumer interest in buying food locally is prompting growth in farm-direct sales for Washington producers, reports the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
The increase in activity includes farms delivering boxes of freshly harvested local fruits and vegetables to workplaces.
WSDA estimates that more than 200 Community Sponsored Agriculture operations are in business across the state this year. Farmers often have customers pick up their weekly produce boxes at their farm or at a central drop point, but increasingly growers are offering to come to the worksites, making it even more convenient for clients.
Members of a CSA subscription buy a share of the farm's crops early in the year, well before harvest or even before planting. Produce subscribers pay for the entire season – which typically covers 18-24 weeks – or make a down payment and then monthly payments.
Small produce shares range in costs from $18-$25 a week. Large shares run about $30-$38 a week. Typical boxes include a variety of seasonal produce such as lettuce, peas, tomatoes, carrots, strawberries and chard.
Some growers include flowers. Farmers often include a weekly newsletter of farm happenings, a list of what is in the boxes, and recipes for the contents.
"Paying in advance allows growers to get working capital directly without a loan," says Patrice Barrentine, WSDA direct marketing coordinator with the Small Farm & Direct Marketing Program. "The presales allow farmers to plan production and have a secure market for their harvest."
A state-sponsored pilot project in 2010 shows how popular this marketing tool is becoming. Farmers achieved sales of $150,000 through weekly produce box deliveries to the Natural Resources Building in Olympia, Wash., and other state facilities.
For more information, go to http://www.washingtonwellness.gov/resources_nutrition_csa.shtml.