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Land O' Lakes Saturday Market - In The News
Land O' Lakes Saturday Market was held from
9 to 2 at the Land O' Lakes Community Center from October 3, 2009 to May 29,
2010.
Land O’Lakes Saturday Market had a wonderful 2009-2010 season, with lots of fun,
food, music, and vendors. We are looking for a group of vendors interested in
committing to a two-month trial basis for the 2010-2011 season. We need at least
two produce vendors, one of whom is a local grower. Non-profits will no longer
be free, but will be half price. Payment will be required in advance for the
eight week period from October 2 through November 20. After that, we will decide
as a group if and how to proceed.
Stats for first season:
Two market times appeared with over 500 people
in attendance and four times with over 300 people. Our market was
available to open for 45 weeks and did open 42 of those weeks (we closed twice
for rain and once for snow!). We made 233 vendor contacts of which 79
vendors appeared at our market. Seven farmers showed up to our market with their
local produce. We made 19 signs, had 15 articles in 4 newspapers of which two
were front page articles. We made it to BayNews9 and many local websites.
Our own website had over 35,000 hits. We hosted 23 different musical acts and
only had 8 weeks with no music. We hosted many children's games and fun things
to do here in Pasco County!
We are open to suggestions – for instance – would we rather do a monthly market?
Produce vendors are the key to the market. Our opening day October 3, 2009 was
extremely well attended, and demonstrated a huge degree of local interest in a
real farmer’s market. The fact that we only had one produce vendor, and they ran
out of produce mid-morning, (and another one who did not show up), dealt a huge
blow to the market. We believe we need to wait to start the market again until
we have at least two produce vendors really interested in developing a local
Saturday market.
We will purchase and post a sign on Rt. 41 for the duration of the market to
build local recognition for the Land O’Lakes Saturday Market. Let us know if you
are interested in being part of the start up group. Rates will be $160 for the
eight weeks, $80 for produce and non-profits. Additional people who do not book
for the eight weeks will pay $25 per week per space.
We are very interested in your comments, feedback, and opinions.
Land O’ Lakes Saturday Market evolved from a vision dedicated to promoting
local, green and sustainable culture in Pasco and surrounding counties. We
want to encourage the production of fresh, local food, providing our customers
with the superior nutrition and taste that can only be provided by locally
harvested foods. It is also our intention to provide a venue for local artists
and craftsmen to display their wares in a fun and convenient atmosphere where
our community may become acquainted with them and the wealth of creative talent
in our area. In addition, we have a mission to facilitate the growth of local
and service businesses, especially green enterprises. We believe that this
endeavor will be beneficial in stimulating our local economy while invigorating
a sense of community and cooperation while listening to great local musicians.
We are now on FACEBOOK as LOLSatur Daymkt - become our facebook Friend
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Video's Produced by www.OurTownFLA.com on opening day
Opening of the Land O'Lakes Saturday Farmers Market - Video 1 - includes
theme song by Aaron Cuttoff
Opening Day - Oct 3 - Video 2
Opening Day - Oct 3 - Video 3
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The Laker article - May 19, 2010
WHAT'S HAPPENING in RECREATION
Land O'Lakes Saturday
Market only has two weeks left. Have fun with face painting and a
bounce house May 22, then celebrate the final day May 29. The market us at the
Land O'Lakes Community Center on Land O'Lakes Community Center on Land O'Lakes
Blvd (US 41). There will be live music and of course, fresh produce.
Visit www.LOLSaturdayMkt.com
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St Pete Times article - April 11, 2010
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The Laker article - "Egg" Citing events planned for
Easter Weekend - March 31, 2010
written by Sarah Whitman - senior staff writer
Close by on US 41, families are invited to a jelly
bean jamboree and spring harvest from 10 am to noon at the Land O'Lakes
Community Center, 5401 Land O'Lakes Blvd. There will be an egg scramble for
children 10 and under, children's games, a moonwalk and a visit from the Easter
Bunny. The spring harvest will feature vendors from the Land O'Lakes
Saturday Market, craft vendors and other booths. Admission is free.
"This is our first year combining our farmer's market and the jellybean
jamboree." said Mike Walcott, recreation supervisor at the community center.
"There will be lots of things to do and see. The vendors will have games
for the kids and be handing out candy. There will be things for the adults
too."
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The Laker article - What's Happening February 24, 2010
Saturday Market
Land O Lakes Saturday Market is held every Saturday 9am to 2
pm at the Community Center, 5401 Land O'Lakes Blvd just 3 1/2 miles north of the
intersection of US 41 and 54. For information contact Pam St.Mary,
813-731-5168, LOLSaturdayMkt@aol.com
or go to the website at www.LOLSaturdayMkt.com
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The Laker article - It's music to Fluffy's ears
January 27, 2010
Lutz composer markets CD to pets - author Sarah Whitman
Dottie Pino tried everything to relax her dog Bandit, a Lhasa
Apsos she rescued from an abusive home two years ago. She gave him long walks.
Still, Bandit was always a little bit on the edge. At a loss, Pino decided
to try something unusual. She purchased Animal Therapy Edition, a CD of
songs to ease pet stress. Composed by Connie Girard, the CD is a mix of
soothing instrumentals and natural sounds. Girard believes animal experience
stress in a way similar to humans. "Their brains respond to calming
effects," she said. Pino agrees. "I put the music on late afternoon and at
night," she said. "I cuddle Bandit and he goes to sleep. I'd recommend the
CD to anyone with a pet who has been abused. Animal Therapy Edition is
currently for sale online at
www.animalmusictherapy.com. The cost is $19.95. Girard is marketing it
to stores and hopes veterinarians in the area will carry it as well. To
get the word out. Girard will play the CD from 9am to noon at the Land
O'Lakes Saturday Market located at the Land O'Lakes Community Center on US 41
across the street from the Land O''Lakes Post Office
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The Laker article - LOL Saturday Market had kids'
bounce house January 9, 2010
In addition to fresh produce and local arts and crafts, the
Land O'Lakes Saturday Market will feature a bounce house for kids on Jan. 9.
"We are very excited to bring this fun for local kids free of charge courtesy of
Victorious Life Church," said Pam St.Mary, market manager. "Victorious Life
Church believes in the mission of the Land O'Lakes Saturday Market promoting
local, green and sustainable culture in Pasco and surrounding counties.
The church is generously supplying the bounce house to help the Saturday Market
grow and raise funds for the Suncoast Harvest Food Bank and the Heritage Park
Foundation." The market is working with Sunset Produce and Pettijohn Plants and
Produce to expand its produce offerings. It has had locally harvested
oranges available since in December. The Saturday Market Free Box, a place
where people can drop off excess clothing and household items is off to a great
start, St.Mary said. "Our hearts are warmed by this exchange, and our
spirits high despite the cool temperatures of the last few weeks," she said.
The market is organized every Saturday through May 29 at the Land O'Lakes
Community Center, three miles north of SR 54 across from the Land O'Lakes Post
Office.
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The
Tampa Tribune December 16, 2009
Celebrating Traditions
Pasco residents came together
Saturday for the Heritage Park Foundation's second Traditions on the Green
celebration in Land O' Lakes.
Music, dancing, games and Santa
on a Harley were highlights of the free community holiday celebration at the
Land O' Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd.
"It's important for the community to
have central traditions going on," said Sandy Graves, president of the
Heritage Park Foundation. "We want Land O' Lakes to keep its community
feel."
Traditions on the Green also was a collection site for a canned food drive.
All donations will go to the Joining Hands Mission, a branch of Metropolitan
Ministries, in Holiday.
Traditions on the Green kicked off with a free breakfast with Santa.
A staff report
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The Laker article - Land O'Lakes Saturday Market
features World Vision musician Published Nov 25, 2009
Sean Currier, a World Vision musician, will be playing at the
Land O'Lakes Saturday Market from 10 a.m. to noon at the Land O'Lakes Community
Center across from the post office on US 41. All proceeds benefit orphans
in Africa. There will also be a yard sale booth from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
hosted by a mother and her 6 year old daughter. All proceeds will benefit
the Kids Caring 4 Kids organization, an outreach that is for Kids helping
orphans.
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The Laker article - Land O'Lakes Saturday Market
organizer thanks community Published Oct 21, 2009
Arguably the most satisfying moment of the opening
day of the market was when a man with a long history in farming came up
to me to say that he was going home to plant and get back to his roots.
This is exactly the kind of thing we want to encourage with our market.
On our second Saturday, customers enjoyed an abundance of produce.
Organic veggies and a variety of fresh
Florida produce at affordable prices pleased the eyes, taste buds, and
pocketbook. Carefully crafted woodcrafts were available and custom
orders cheerfully fulfilled for the discriminating buyer. Rosewood
Crafts will be back this week. Culinary Delights supplied delectable
home made pierogies as well as Baabka (Polish bread) and Crusciki
(Polish Cookies) . Cub Scout Pack 323 is selling popcorn to raise funds
for a trip to Kennedy Space Center. Gorgeous hand made jewelry by Custom
Wire Wrap is also returning this week. Pettijohn Plants accents a
healthy and economical selection of
annuals, perennials, herbs, and vegetable
plants with some home made foods as well as an enthusiastic interest in
Pasco history and artifacts. Bill brings his collection and is always
ready to share and talk. Last week a man went home to get his collection
to share with Bill. Herein lies the great joy of the market:
making friends based on common interests, and encountering friends in
the relaxed atmosphere of the market, where time to stop and talk is in
good supply. Gathering people may discuss gardening, food, history, or
crafts. One woman discussed her difficulties with an HOA, and her desire
to sell her house. Another was selling her house due to a change in
relationship status.
Brenda’s Deli brings much appreciated
sandwiches, drinks and snacks to satisfy the hungry shoppers. The food
selection will be supplemented this week by a hot dog cart and Smoothie
King. Guitarist Bill Davis will provide musical entertainment. - Pam
St.Mary - Land O'Lakes Saturday Market Mgr
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The Laker article - The Land O'Lakes Saturday Market Started
- Published October 7, 2009
The Land O'Lakes Saturday Market started on Oct. 3. It
featured fresh produce from the Heirloom Vegetable Gardeners: Rick and Joyce
Fritz, who also had fresh, raw honey. Vegetable plants and decorative plants
were provided by Pettijohn Nursery. Music was provided by Jim Cummins and Aaron
Cuttoff. There were also performances by the Hoola Monsters, a hula hoop
troop. Food was provided by Culinary Delights. Featured artists, crafters
and non profit groups included: Our Sweet Whimsy, functional art; Baskets by
Francis, Custom Wire Wrap jewelry, Victorious Life Church, Master Gardeners.
Film makers Sir Rebel Films, Resorce Recycling, Bernie's Woodcarvings, Ray Mason's
chairs and Connie G's music. The market will be set up every Saturday 9-2
through the end of May at the Land O'Lakes Community Center, located on US 41
across from the post office.
Over 500 people attended this opening day event !!!!
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Pasco Times article - Grand Opening for the Saturday
Market - Published October 2, 2009
Looking for locally grown produce and handmade arts and
crafts? The Land O'Lakes Saturday Market is having its grand opening from 9am to
2pm Saturday at the Land O'Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O'Lakes Blvd.
The event also will feature food vendors, music and performances by the Hoola
Monsters.
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Pasco Trib
article good for all involved. Published: October
2, 2009
Fresh, local food cultivated
By GEOFF FOX of
gfox@tampatrib.com
LAND O' LAKES - Part of the large tract of land that used to
hold the popular Flapjack Festival will, starting this
weekend, be the home of the Land O' Lakes Saturday Market.
Pam St. Mary, and her husband, Lee St. Mary, came up
with the market idea as a way to promote locally grown
produce and healthful eating, and as a vehicle to raise
money for a local food bank and historical organization. The
market opens at 9 a.m. Saturday behind the Land O' Lakes
Community Center on the west side of U.S. 41, about three
miles north of State Road 54. "It's something we've been
working on for about a year," Pam St. Mary said. "We com e
from New England, where these kinds of markets are much more
common. We've raised our own vegetables and meat for years.
It's very economical and healthy."Portions of the profits
will go to the Suncoast Harvest Food Bank on Ehren Cutoff
and to the Heritage Park Foundation, which wants to
establish a historical park and center where residents can
gather for events, public forums and recreation. Opening day
festivities include live music, Hula-Hoop performers, belly
dancers, arts and crafts, and food vendors."The market will
not only provide the community with fresh, locally grown
produce, it will provide our local growers with a venue to
connect with local consumers, promoting a 'buy fresh, buy
local' opportunity," said Kurt Conover, a member of the
Heritage Park Foundation."We have hopes that the market will
promote the development of local green businesses, and
eventually attract local artists and craftsmen, with hopes
of bringing our community together for shopping, networking
and fun in a relaxed, festive, entertaining atmosphere."St.
Mary said the farmers market also hopes to establish a "food
self-sufficiency" program where people are encouraged and
taught to raise their own food."We've talked about doing it
with" the food bank, St. Mary said. "Hopefully they could
find a few families interested in producing their own
food."The market is expected to be open rain or shine and
vendor spaces are available. The first season will end May
29.Something people should not expect to find at the market,
St. Mary said, are "items of mass-production.""We could
probably hold 100 vendors pretty comfortably," she said.
"It's amazing how much room there is out there."The time is
right for this. We're meeting enthusiasm and positive
response every time we turn around."
GROW YOUR OWN
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The Laker - Published: July 29, 2009 - by Ashley Dunn
'Saturday Market' will provide fresh, local produce
If Pam St.Mary wants fresh, home-grown produce, she has to
drive more than 20 miles from her Lutz home to Masarytown in Hernando County.
She, her husband and members of the Heritage Park Foundation hope to change that
in October when they plan to open the Land O'Lakes Saturday Market at Heritage
Park, three miles north of State Road 54 at the Land O'Lakes Community Center
across from the post office. The goal is to encourage people to grow their
own food and sell it locally to help support sustainable practices in the
community, St.Mary said. Locally grown produce available at a community market
is usually picked the day before it's sold, she said. "It tastes a lot
better and that's neck and neck with the fact that it's more nutritious," she
said. "You're lucky if you get it two weeks (after it's harvested) if you get it
at a grocery store." Buying fruits and vegetables locally also decreases our
carbon footprint, St.Mary said, because it cuts down on transportation and fuel
usage associated with the distribution of produce found in large supermarkets.
And, eating local foods helps boost your immune system to local allergens, she
said. Plus, the market should stimulate the local economy. St.Mary and her
husband, who grow their own vegetables and raise rabbits, have been working for
months to start up the Land O'Lakes Saturday Market. Their first order of
business was finding a space, and they got in touch with the Heritage Park
Foundation, a group whose goal is to turn the Land O'Lakes Community Center Park
into a historical park and center where the community can gather for events,
public forums and recreation. Together, and with the help of Suncoast
Harvest Food Bank, the groups have been striving to make the Land O'Lakes
Saturday Market a reality. It's scheduled to be held from 9 am to 2 pm each
Saturday from Oct. 3 to May 29, 2010. St.Mary who is serving as market manager,
is now looking for vendors. Those who apply will be screened for type and
quality of product and presentation. Preference will be given to farmers
who provide fresh, healthy foods that customers can take home or enjoy at the
market on picnic tables that will be provided. Fresh produce vendors can
participate for free during the month of October. Those who would like to sell
Florida native plants and hand-made arts and crafts are also welcome, as are
businesses that are environmentally friendly. The cost for these vendors is $25
per 12-foot-by-12-foot space. Nonprofit organizations in the community can
participate for free. St.Mary said she hopes to draw vendors and consumers from
throughout Pasco County. "Producing food locally - it's the best thing for
us, and it's the best thing for our planet," she said. For more
information about the Land O'Lakes Saturday Market, visit
www.lolsaturdaymkt.com.
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St Pete Times - Pasco Times - Saturday, August 15,
2009 - by Camille C. Spencer - photo by Keri Wiginton
Link to St Pete Times article
Market goes fresh, green
The soon-to-open Land O'Lakes market will promote
local goods.
Pam St.Mary and her husband, Lee St.Mary discuss layout
options for the farmers market they plan to setup behind the Land O'Lakes
Community Center.
Behind the Land O'Lakes Community Center off busy U.S. 41 sits an empty
2-acre plot of grass. But starting Oct. 3, Pam St. Mary envisions the area
bustling with vendors selling fresh, locally grown produce, arts and crafts and
organic sandwiches at the Land O'Lakes Saturday Market. "We're trying to
encourage the primary consumption of local food," said St. Mary, 57. "The
average farmers market has things fresh-picked the day before, so there's great
nutritional value." St. Mary, a special education teacher from Lutz, has been
frequenting farmers markets for decades. She wanted to start one in a centrally
located area in Pasco. Her goal: to encourage people to buy fresh and local, to
promote local "green" businesses, artists and musicians, and to create
networking and fun in a relaxed atmosphere. To get the ball rolling, St. Mary
and husband, Lee, a computer software engineer, began looking for locations for
the market a few months back. They stumbled across the county-owned land behind
the community center and figured it was perfect for the market. St. Mary began
spending her spare time talking to local farmers, artists and "green" businesses
in the area - companies selling solar-powered water heaters and other
eco-friendly products - to drum up interested vendors for the market. Then, St.
Mary formed a partnership with the Heritage Park Foundation, a member of the
community center's "Friends of the Park." Through her affiliation with that
group, she won the county's blessing to use the land at no cost. Once the market
begins operating, St. Mary plans to donate 20 percent of the proceeds to the
foundation to improve the park. An additional 20 percent of the market's
proceeds will be donated to the Suncoast Harvest Food Bank. St. Mary hopes the
food bank will use the money to develop a "food self-sufficiency program" so
families can grow their own produce. "That way, they can grow their own food,
instead of getting it at the food bank," St. Mary said. Elizabeth Fields,
executive director of the food bank, said she supports St. Mary's idea to
promote healthy eating in Pasco by starting a farmers market. "It will take
awhile to catch on because it's a re-education of people," Fields said. "They
are used to buying cheap food (at the store). When people realize they don't
have to, they will see it's more cheap and beneficial to them" to buy from the
farmers market. The market would join a dozen others in the Tampa Bay area that
are open from Thursdays to Sundays selling fresh fruits and vegetables. In
Pasco, the New Port Richey farmers market opened in April 2008, running each
weekend through April of this year. Now, the market is open once a month. Judy
DeBella Thomas, executive director of the Main Street organization, said it's
challenging to start a farmers market from scratch, but worth the effort in the
long run. "Because it's an outdoor venue, you wonder, 'Is it too hot, cold or
windy?'" she said. "Each time, we've come against those problems." Until her
market opens in October, St. Mary's to-do list includes looking for banners and
directional signs to place near the market, checking costs of liability
insurance and finding people and organizations willing to donate money to
support the market. "It takes a lot of dedication to find people who can bring
in produce," St. Mary said. "But, we're willing to put in the work." The Land O'Lakes Saturday
Market will run from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturdays from Oct. 3 through May 29 at
5401 Land O'Lakes Blvd. Food vendors will pay $20 per week to rent a
space. The cost will be $10 for smaller food vendors, and $25 for non-food
vendors. For information, or to sign up as a vendor, go to
www.lolsaturdaymkt.com.
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