Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: July 29th Market Report

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market vendors are bringing more and more produce each week: Bird's Haven Farms, Bridgman Farm, Carousel Watergarden Farm, Doran's Family Farm, Flying J Farm, Northridge Organic Farm. Conventional. Chemical-free. Certified Organic.

Sweet corn, melons, green beans, wax beans, summer squashes, cucs, peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, tomatillos, garlic, cabbage, potatoes, okra....

The recipe floating in the air last week... stuffing banana peppers with goat's milk cheese and grilling them. Yum.

Our artisan food vendors feature home-made breads, pies, cookies, brownies, chutneys, raw honey, cheeses, jams & jellies, biscottis, crackers, scones, seasonings, rubs, mixes, and veggie burgers.

And, stop by the market for a selection of fresh eggs, lamb, chicken, and beef.

While we expect rain late Tuesday into Market Wednesday, accuweather shows partly cloudy skies with no precip for most of the market with possible rain around 4 p.m., clearing by 5 p.m. The market is open rain or shine! Bring a parka or pack an umbrella just in case, and come to the market.

Krista Wagner of Nature's Honey is featuring her popular Lavendar Goat Milk soap this week. Stop by Krista's market space and take a whiff!! Ahhhhh, Clean!


Jane Varley reports Varley Valley will be featuring a selection of fresh-baked table breads and jams & jellies.

We will not see Carousel Watergarden Farm today.

While you're Uptown for the market, we hope you have some time to
Shop Uptown Westerville. Meza, 48 N. State, features a $1 wine tasting and great pantry ingredients to compliment your market purchases. Stop by and say Hi to owner, Tatjana Brown.

Check back to this posting (or
visit the market on twitter) for the latest updates!



Use your best judgment in a thunderstorm, in case of lightning, market suspends operations. Photo: Shopping at Doran's Family Farm at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Monday, July 27, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Follow the Market on twitter


follow marketwednesday


The Westerville Uptown Merchants Association is now on twitter!

aplaceforpeople


Follow us!






Uptown Westerville Farmers Market logo is a trademark of the Westerville Uptown Merchants Association. ©2009 Westerville Uptown Merchants Association. All rights reserved. Photo image: Uptown Westerville Gateway Sign by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Westerville Uptown Farmers' Market: Welcome Luna Burger

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market welcomes new market vendor: Luna Burger!

Made from locally-grown ingredients, Luna Burgers are home-grown vegan burgers.

Barbie Luna says Luna Burgers are made from...
Ingredients you can trust. Family farmers in Ohio and community gardeners across Columbus provide the main ingredients for our vegan burgers. From grains and beans to herbs and greens, we strive to bring you great taste by supporting our local economy.

Three Luna Burger Flavors:
▪ The Classic
▪ Farmhouse Chili
▪ Garden Thyme

Perfect for the Grill!


Photo image: The Luna Burger Classic at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: July 22nd Market Report

This week marks Week 12 of the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market. The market meets rain or shine (all vendors have a canopy) and weather reports as of this posting, call for some rain at noon, a cloudy afternoon (without rain), and some precip around 5 p.m.

The Market Photo Tours for week's 10 and 11 are now uploaded to flickr.com.

We are starting to head into the best parts of the produce season -- peppers, tomatoes, green beans, and sweet corn. The colors are vibrant and the flavors rich.

We will not see Bridgman Farm this week, but Mary tells us that she will be here next week with lots of tomatoes. Sweet Thing Gourmet will also not be at this week's market (we'll see Mark and Kyla next week).

Visit these vendors each Wednesday through October from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at N. State and E. Home at The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market:

▪ Arjay Gourmet Foods: Rohini's Chutneys, Garam Marsala, and Baked Goods
▪ Batter & Bowl: Cookies and Confections, including the $1 Cut-Out
▪ Bird's Haven Farms: Produce and Flowers
▪ Blue Jacket Dairy: Cheese, really good cheese!
▪ Bridgman Farm: Chemical-free Produce
▪ Carousel Watergardens Farm &
Cathy's Tasty Treats:
Produce, Fresh Eggs, Seasonings, Rubs, Spreads, Mixes, Pet Treats
▪ Doran's Family Farm: Produce
▪ Flying J Farm: Certified Organic Produce and Grass-Fed Beef
▪ Honey Health Farms: Raw Honey, Pollen, Personal Care
▪ Landrum Cottage: Specialty Breads and Baked Goods
▪ Luna Burger: Vegetarian Burgers
▪ Malabar Acres: Orchard (later in the season)
▪ Nature's Honey: Goat's Milk and Natual Soaps and Care Products
▪ Northridge Organic Farm: Certified Organic Produce and Lamb
▪ Osage Lane Creamery: Goat's Milk Feta Cheese
▪ Pleiades Maple Products: Maple Syrup and Maple Products
▪ Speckled Hen Farm: Fresh Eggs, Chicken, Chicken Brats & Sausage
▪ Sue's Kitchen: Pie, Baked Goods, Cookies
▪ Sweet Thing Gourmet: Jams and Biscottis
▪ Varley Valley: Fresh Table Breads and Jams & Jellies

Stop by, taste, shop, visit, ask questions... know where your foods come from and shake the hand of the person who grew your produce and baked your bread! The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market is a shopping experience! See you at the market!


Use your best judgment in a thunderstorm, in case of lightning, market suspends operations. Photo image: Organic peppers from Flying J Farm at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Thanks Uptown Westerville's Dairy Queen!

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market says Thank You in a big way to Sonny and Rose D'Andrea and the staff of Uptown Westerville's Dairy Queen at 84 S. State.

Not only do we get top billing on the DQ sign each Wednesday, but Sonny and Rose have generously supported the WARM Fresh Green program as well.

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market is the result of a perfect recipe of support from our customers, our market vendors, Uptown Westerville merchants, and our community.

We encourage you throughout the week, and especially on Wednesdays, to buy local and Shop Uptown Westerville.

Click here for the Dairy Queen menu. (Cool on the go... remember, on our warm summer days that DQ has a drive-thru!)


Photo image: Uptown Westerville Dairy Queen Wednesday sign by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Blue Jacket Dairy's July 15th Market Report

Angel King from Blue Jacket Dairy offers this week's market report:

We will be bringing Fresh Mozzarella with us to market along with two recipe suggestions.

My personal favorite is the Fresh Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil Pizza. It is such a favorite that we make it every Wednesday for lunch.

Angel
Blue Jacket Dairy


Market insider tip:
Blue Jacket Dairy is a market fav for tasting! Stop by and talk to Blue Jacket's Julie and try the cheddar curds, chevre, and, by all means, the Gretna Grillin' Cheese! Gretna Grillin' tastes like a grilled cheese sandwich without the bread! Trust us -- you'll taste, you'll want to buy!


Photo image: Shopping for cheese at Blue Jacket Dairy at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Varley Valley's July 15th Market Report

Jane Varley of Varley Valley sends this week's market report, and explains how Varley Valley jellies are made from selecting ingredients to jelly in the jar, ready for purchase... ready to spread!


Hello from Varley Valley,

We have the following new jams today:

- Pesticide free, spiced Mulberry Jam --$8.00
- Wild, pesticide free Blackberry Jelly (NO Seeds!) --$9.00 for 8 fluid ounces, $5.00 for 4 fluid ounces
- Wild, pesticide free Blackberry Triple Sec Jelly (NO Seeds!) -- $9.50 for 8 fluid ounces, $5.25 for 4 fluid ounces
- Wild, pesticide free, low sugar Blackberry Jelly (NO Seeds!) -- $9.50 for 8 fluid ounces, $5.25 for 4 fluid ounces
- Wild, pesticide free, low sugar Blackberry Triple Sec Jelly (NO Seeds!) -- $10 for 8 fluid ounces, $5.50 for 4 fluid ounces
- Wild, pesticide free, low sugar Black Raspberry Jelly (NO Seeds!) --$10.50 for 8 fluid ounces, $5.75 for 4 fluid ounces
- Wild, pesticide free, very low sugar Black Raspberry Jelly (NO Seeds!) -- $11.00 for 8 fluid ounces, $6.00 for 4 fluid ounces
- Wild, pesticide free, no sugar Black Raspberry Jelly (NO Seeds!) -- $7.00 for 4 fluid ounces

As you can see, we have been very busy picking berries and turning them into luscious jelly. We like using wild berries because the flavors are so much more concentrated. Picking wild berries is an arduous task. We have to push through thickets while wearing lots of clothing to help protect us from the thorns. Even so, we usually are quite covered in scratches by the end of the day. When we are done, we know we’ve worked hard – a very good feeling. It is delightful to be out in the country, with all the sounds of the birds, the insects, and the frogs. For me, it makes me feel connected to the past. I can imagine my ancestors, and the Native Americans before them, spending the day in the exact same manner. My berry picking outfit is probably a bit different than theirs though. When you stop by my booth, ask me for a description – I must look hilarious to others.

Here is a quick rundown on the jelly making process: It takes a minimum of 20 minutes to pick a pint of berries (much more time if the berries are sparse). It takes almost 3 cups of berries to make a cup of full sugar berry jelly. It takes about 5 cups of berries to make a cup of no sugar jelly. This does not include the time involved in cleaning the berries, cooking them down, squeezing the berries through a jelly bag to remove the seeds, making the jelly, and processing the jars. As you can tell, it is a very labor intensive product. An 8 ounce jar of Very Low Sugar Black Raspberry Jelly takes between 60 and 90 minutes to pick the berries, and another 30 minutes to turn them into jarred jelly – a total of 1 ½ to 2 hours per jar. The good news is that it only takes a very small amount of jelly to create a big taste. You can cover a slice of bread with just a teaspoon (at most 2 teaspoons) of Very Low Sugar Black Raspberry Jelly and be quite satisfied. This adds just a little over a gram of sugar to your toast.

We are planning to pick blueberries in the coming week or two. We will be adding some blueberry jam to our selection shortly thereafter.

Today's Breads:

Challah
Cinnamon Swirl
Cinnamon Raisin Swirl
Orange Swirl
Lemon Swirl
Totally Wheat
Birdseed Nut
Garlic Onion Wheat
Parmesan Peppercorn Wheat
Orange Rosettes
Jalapeno Cheddar Garlic

We will also have just a few pints of wild blackberries to sell.

I look forward to seeing you at the market.

Jane



Photo image:Visiting Varley Valley at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Open for Business at 3 p.m.

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market hours are 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. each Wednesday from May to October.

The market has few rules, but the big one: We don't allow early sales, so 3 p.m. is the absolute open-for-business time.

So, you may be thinking, "Geez louise, Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market management team, why so tough?" We say, "Good question!"


We want the market to be easy-going and fun for our patrons and our vendors!

Market vendors arrive early to set up and prep for the market. And, some market vendors are leaving their farms with fresh-picked produce and driving a good 2-hours to get to Uptown Westerville. Some are still pulling fresh baked goods out of the oven right before they head out! So, we give our market vendors an hour to arrive (still gotta deal with traffic, and surprises -- last week we had a vendor lose a trailer wheel on the way to market!) and set up. We also have safety concerns, including vehicles passing in and out of the market space during set up. (Once market opens, the area is vehicle free.) Some market vendors are ready to go before others, but... we want to be fair to our customers and fair to our vendors, so we open market when all vendors are ready to go.

So, the market opens at 3 p.m. so everyone starts on a level playing field -- each market vendor is open for business and ready to serve you and you can walk from vendor-to-vendor ready to visit, taste, shop, buy and... enjoy!

And... market vendors start to close up and load out at 6 p.m. (we did test extended hours per customer requests and found minimal customer response -- bottom-line: we are seeing our customers before 6 p.m.) most vendors will be happy to serve you while they load out. It's up to each vendor, but if you are running late, just stop and ask!

Market insider tip: Want to know more about the market behind-the-scenes, including our standards? Check out the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market web page and read our market vendor rules and regulations.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: July 15th Market Report

This week at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market,

We thought we'd have sweet corn but we just heard from Doran's and as of this a.m., no sweet corn today. And, while Doran's thought this week was it, it's not corn yet! So corn next week! Sorry. It'll be worth the wait.

As the sunny days continue (partly cloudy and low 80s for the market today), the fresh market produce selection continues to grow -- we are starting to see summer squash, tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant.

Last week, market patrons made new vendor, Speckled Hen Farm, featuring fresh eggs, chicken, and chicken sausage feel very welcome, and this week we welcome new market vendor Luna Burger! Luna Burger features a selection of delicious, great-for-the-grill veggie burgers!

Market fav, Carousel Watergarden Farm is featuring more and more produce each week and they've added fresh eggs to their selection.

We will not see Z Blueberry and Bridgman Farm.

Sue's Kitchen will have 30 small pies today (no blackberries yet) along with cookie stacks and coffee bread of the week. Check out this week's installment of From Sue's Kitchen on Sue's blog, click here.

Batter and Bowl's weekly cut-out cookie last week was... a palm tree! Tropical! What will Sara Yates bring this week?! Sara's weekly cut-out is just $1 and a fun purchase for kids and grown-ups! Sara features delicious confections each week - take a notalgic trip back to those school cafeteria days -- Sara has No Bakes!

Now, WARM Fresh Green vouchers are accepted at ALL food vendors at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' market. To learn more about WARM and WARM Fresh Green, check out the market web page.

Nature's Honey, Varley Valley, Blue Jacket Dairy all have special market report postings on blog.

Church of the Messiah
(they provide the parking lot!) features a hospitality area called The Front Porch -- just a place in the shade to "take a load off," and they offer free water and lemonade.

And, the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market loves dogs! Stop by the NorthStar Pet Services dog watering station near The Front Porch for fresh water and treats for our puppy patrons.

We encourage all market patrons to Shop Uptown Westerville each Wednesday afternoon during their market visit. Meza, 48 N. State, always features a special Market Wednesday $1 wine tasting along with pantry and serving suggestions to compliment your market buys. Meza features a lot of made-in-Ohio foods! Stop by Meza and meet owner, Tatjana Brown on Wednesday afternoons!

As always, a big shout out and thank you to Sonny and Rose D'Andrea of Dairy Queen (84 S. State) - we appreciate the sign each week!!!

3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesdays through October, N. State and E. Home -- the market is a great place to try new flavors and foods, meet friends (sometimes on-purpose, sometimes a pleasant surprise!), and just have a great time. A great place for people!



Photo image: Shopping at Northridge Organic Farm the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Nature's Honey July 15th Market Report

Krista Wagner of Nature's Honey sends us her market report...

Nature's Honey will be back at the Farmers' Market this week with a vengeance!

I have a great returning favorite; shaving soap! My shaving soaps are a blend of oils that really moisturize and lather well, with bentonite clay for a smooth shave. The shaving soap I will be offering this week is a Lavender Chamomile blend; really great essential oils that sooth your skin.

Another returning favorite is Make-Your-Own Laundry Soap. At only $3.00, you have everything you need to make 2 gallons of laundry soap, enough for 32 - 64 loads of laundry! I will also be offering Laundry Bars, great for hand-washing and spot treatment. These bars are 4 oz and also $3.00.

I also have a fresh supply of sugar scrubs and bath salts ($4.00), including my very popular Honey Almond Sugar Scrub, make with real honey!

I am really excited about my new bath soap this week! I feel in love with this scent and couldn't resist offering it to all of you! My Orange, Cinnamon, and Clove is a spicy bar that both men and women will love. Made with Valencia Orange Essential Oil, Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil, Madagascar Clove Essential Oil, Ground Cinnamon, and Vitamin E Oil. Please stop by and smell this bar, you will love it!

Krista Wagner's soaps smell... great!! Stop by Nature's Honey on your market visit today!



Photo image: Coffee Clean hand soap from Nature's Honey by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Westerville Ranked 15th Best Place to Live in America!

Money Magazine ranks Westerville, Ohio as the No. 15 Best Place to Live in America for 2009!

Money says:

The heart of this Columbus suburb is the historic Uptown District, whose buildings look much as they did in 1858. Original 19th-century homes are interspersed with cozy bed and breakfasts; nearby Otterbein College offers quiet walkways and shade trees.

Many residents make the 15-minute commute to the city, although Westerville has also brought businesses into the area by providing tax abatements for new construction.

A community center built in 2001, plus more than 40 parks and recreational facilities, offer entertainment for every age.


WBNS Eyewitness News featured Westerville's ranking on July 14th, click here.

Source: cnnmoney.com


Photo image: Uptown Westerville City Government by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Arjay Gourmet's July 8th Market Report

Rohini Mulchandani of Arjay Gourmet Foods shares her July 8th Market Report:

In addition to the usual array of fruit and vegetable-based chutneys in mild and hot versions, I will have the following baked goods and snacks:

Cardamom Cookie - lite and deliciously cardamom flavored

Crispy Rice Snack Mix - crunchy cereal based snack lightly seasoned with "Indian" spices

Indian Crackers (Farsi Puri) - a new "baked not fried" introduction this week

Pumpkin Nut Bread - an American confection made with wholesome ingredients

Strawberry Cupcakes - a lowfat version, lightly sweetened and made with fresh berries

Whole Wheat Cookies - whole grain goodness laced with the flavor of cinnamon and nutmeg

Zucchini Halvah - an Indian style "pudding" made with an American vegetable currently in plentiful supply at area farm markets.

I invite everyone to an "out of the box" experience at the Arjay Gourmet Foods booth! Samples available of most of these items and all chutneys.

Rohini

Market insider tip: Arjay Gourmet is a great place to taste new and interesting flavors. Kids love chutney and so do grown-ups once they've tried it! Rohini's baked goods are a regular customer favorite. A pleasant, tasty summer surprise -- try the zucchini halvah.

What the heck is chutney? Click here to learn more.



Photo image: Shopping at Arjay Gourmet at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Varley Valley July 8th Market Report

Jane Varley of Varley Valley sends this week's market report. Jane was recently featured in Westerville Magazine!

Hello from Varley Valley,

I hope you have seen the article in the Westerville Magazine about our products. If not, you can read the article here:

http://www.columbuscityscene.org/bred_to_bake.html

This week I am featuring the Orange Rosette Rolls that are mentioned in the article. Stop by and have a taste. Buy some at the market or try your hand at making them yourself following the recipe in the magazine.

Here are today’s items:

Breads:

Challah
Cinnamon Swirl
Cinnamon Raisin Swirl
Orange Swirl
Lemon Swirl
Oatmeal Raisin
Totally Wheat
Birdseed Nut
Garlic Onion Wheat
Parmesan Peppercorn Wheat
Orange Rosettes

Jams:

Pesticide Free Jams and Jellies
Crabapple Jelly -- $6.50
Spiced Crabapple Jelly -- $6.75
Rhubarb Jam -- $6.50
Wild Rosehip Jelly -- $4.50 (4 oz)

Lower Sugar Pesticide Free Jams and Jellies
Apple Butter -- $6.50
Sweet Apple Butter -- $6.50
Gingered Apple Pear Butter -- $6.50
Spiced Crabapple -- $6.75
Pear Jelly -- $6.50
Gingered Pear Jelly -- $6.75
Strawberry -- $6.50
Strawberry Margarita -- $6.75
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam -- $6.75
Very Low Sugar Rhubarb Pear -- $6.75
Rhubarb -- $6.75
Tomato Basil -- $6.50

No Sugar Added Pesticide Free Jams and Jellies
Apple Butter -- $6.50
Spiced Crabapple -- $6.75
Pear Jam -- $6.50
Gingered Pear Jam -- $6.75
Strawberry Jam -- $6.50
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam -- $6.75

Conventional Jams and Jellies
Brandied Plum -- $6.50
Spiced Plum -- $6.50
Hot Plum -- $6.50
Strawberry Rhubarb -- $6.25

Lower Sugar Conventional Jams and Jellies
Cranberry Apple Butter -- $6.75
Mango Chutney -- $6.50
Spiced Plum -- $6.50
Hot Mango Chutney -- $6.50

Next week we will have some Spiced Mulberry Jam, Low Sugar Black Raspberry Jelly, and some Blackberry Triple Sec Jelly.

See you at the Market!

Jane



Photo image: Jellies and jams from Varley Valley at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: How Does a Garden Grow? A Glossary of Basic Market Terms

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market features produce that is certified organic, chemical-free, and conventionally grown. Just what does all that mean?

Here are some market terms you may hear and see at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market:

Organic: The original principles of organic farming are based on the minimal use of off-farm inputs and on practices that restore, maintain, and enhance ecological harmony. When ecological harmony is achieved, the need for measures to control pest damage is reduced because the plants are healthier and do not attract the pests. Organic farming practices do not ensure that products are free of residues; it stresses methods to minimize pollution to the air, soil, and water by using products that readily break down in the soil. Organic is a method used to produce food, not the food product itself.


Certified Organic: Under the USDA National Organic Program, all products sold as “organic” must be certified. Certification requires a farm to submit a production plan and be inspected annually by a certifying organization. The organic certification process is designed to assure customers that the organic products they purchase have been produced using appropriate organic practices, with records that allow traceability.

Conventional Methods: Refers to typical, widespread farming practices that may use synthetically produced fertilizer and pesticides. This doesn't mean conventional farmers are not concerned about the health and environmental considerations of using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Many have adopted sustainable growing methods, such as beneficial insects, cover cropping and reduced chemical usage.

Organic, Not Certified (Chemical-free): All products sold as "organic" must be certified. Certification includes annual submission of an organic system plan and inspection of farm fields and processing facilities to verify that organic practices and record keeping are being followed. Certification is carried out by organizations accredited by the USDA. Organic farmers are not allowed to use synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, genetically modified crops, growth hormones, or antibiotics. Organic meat and poultry can be fed only organically-grown feed.

Note: Some farmers adhere to accepted organic practices but are not certified. Possible reasons for not pursuing certification include the cost, time, or paperwork involved in certification. Under USDA law, farmers cannot call their produce organic unless they are certified.

Artisan/Artisanal: The terms "artisan" and "artisanal" imply that products are made by hand in small batches.

Farm Fresh: This phrase is a marketing term used in retail and direct farm sales. In general it means that the product is being purchased directly from a farm. If freshness is a concern, ask when the produce was harvested or the eggs collected.

Farmstead cheese: Farmstead cheeses are made by the same people who keep the animals that produce the milk. In other words, they are cheeses "from the farm."

Free-range: Free range (or free roaming) implies that a meat or poultry product comes from an animal that was raised out of confinement or was free to roam. Its use on beef is unregulated and there is no standard definition of this term. USDA requires that poultry have access to the outdoors but for an undetermined period each day. "Free range" claims on eggs are not regulated.


Grass-Fed and Pasture-Fed:
The diet of grass-fed animals consists of freshly grazed pasture during the growing season and stored grasses (hay or grass silage) during the winter months or drought conditions. Grass feeding is used with cattle, sheep, goats, and bison. (Other terms for “grass-fed" products include "pasture-raised," "pasture-finished," and "grass-finished.")


Heirloom:
Heirloom crop varieties, also called farmers' varieties or traditional varieties, have been developed by farmers through years of cultivation, selection, and seed saving, and passed down through generations. Check out more about heirloom crops, click here.


Locally Grown:
Food grown near the point of its consumption. There is no standard definition for “local” when it comes to food – a particular definition of “local” might be based upon county, state, region, watershed, or another boundary.


Natural:
Ideally, food or food products that have been minimally processed and remain as close as possible to their whole, original state. However, no standard definition of this term exists except when applied to meat and poultry products. The USDA defines “natural” meat as free from artificial flavoring, colors, chemical preservatives, or synthetic ingredients, but the claim does not have to be verified.

No antibiotics: Antibiotics are given to animals such as cows, hogs and chickens in order to prevent diseases that run rampant in the cramped conditions in which many food animals are kept. When a ranch or product professes "no antibiotics," this means that they do not engage in these practices.

No hormones: Hormones are commonly used in commercial farming to increase the growth rate of beef cattle, increase the production of milk in dairy cattle, etc. Some of these hormones are natural, some are synthetic, and some are genetically engineered.

No-spray/Pesticide-free: Indicates that there are no sprays applied to the produce. This does not indicate what farming methods a farmer uses or that the produce is free of pesticide residue.

Transitional: Farmers need to practice organic methods for three years on a given piece of land before the products grown there can be certified organic. "Transitional" means that the farmland is in the midst of that transition period towards organic certification.


Vine-ripened/Tree-ripened:
These terms are applied to fruit that has been allowed to ripen on the vine or tree. Many fruits that are shipped long distances are picked while still unripe and firm, and then sometimes treated with ethylene gas to "ripen" and soften them.


The State of Ohio just recently broadened the state's definition of Artisan Foods or Cottage Foods:


▪ Non-potentially hazardous bakery products
▪ Jams
▪ Jellies
▪ Candy
▪ Fruit butters
▪ Granola, granola bars, granola bars dipped in candy
▪ Popcorn, flavored popcorn, kettle corn, popcorn balls, caramel corn
▪ Unfilled, baked donuts
▪ Waffle cones
▪ Pizzelles
▪ Dry cereal and nut snack mixes with seasonings
▪ Roasted coffee, whole beans or ground
▪ Dry baking mixes in a jar, including cookie mix in a jar
▪ Dry herbs and herb blends
▪ Dry seasoning blends
▪ Dry tea blends

Our farmers' sell only what they raise and our food artisans sell only what they make. We are Ohio Proud. Your favorite farmers' market vendor will be happy to answer any questions you have -- just ask!



Sources:
Ann Arbor Farmers' Market
USDA National Organic Program
USDA Farmers' Market Coalition
Marin Farmers' Market
CUESA (Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture)
Ohio Department of Agriculture: Ohio Proud

Cottage Foods: Ohio Revised Code: Section 3715.025 (B) Chapter 901:3-20-01 ­Criteria and definitions for cottage food operations


Vendor scales are certified on-site by Franklin County the first week of each market season.



Photo image: Watermelon starters from Carousel Watergarden Farm at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: July 8th Market Report

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market is already in Week 10 of the 2009 Season.

The weather forecast is nearly perfect -- partly sunny and temps in the mid-70's -- so a perfect day for a trip to the farmers' market.

Speckled Hen Farm is scheduled to start at this week's market -- featuring fresh eggs, chicken, and chicken sausage.

Carousel Watergarden Farm
is also introducing fresh eggs this week. Stop by Carousel for fresh produce, rubs and seasonings, and Cathy's Tasty Treats for your favorite 4-legged friends.

We have a limited engagement surprise this week, Fredericktown's Z Blueberry will be at this week's market with fresh blueberries.

We will not see Nature's Honey this week, but Krista Wagner assures us she'll be back next week with her fabulous goat's milk soaps.

Sue Renner
of Sue's Kitchen says it's blackberry season. Check out Sue's blog (click here) and see what yummy pies and confections Sue will have this week.

Doran's Family Farm will not be at the market this week - we should see sweet corn next week or the week after (that's up to Mother Nature!) So, check back, we'll keep you posted -- as soon as we know, you'll know!!

Last week, Batter and Bowl's cut-out cookie was... an ice cream cone! What will Sara Yates be baking this week?!

Each week, we see more and more varieties of fresh produce at the market.

A great place to meet friends, bring the kids, pick up dinner ingredients, taste new flavors, be surprised by unexpected finds, laugh and smile. See you at the market.

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market meets each Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. through October at the corner of N. State and E. Home. Plenty of free parking. Dog-friendly.


Photo image: Shopping at Bird's Haven Farms at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers Market: Week 9 Photo Tour

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market Week 9 Photo Tour is now ready for viewing on flickr.com. Click here.

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market meets each Wednesday through October from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at N. State and E. Home in Uptown Westerville. Home-grown. Home-made. Ohio Proud. See you at the market!



Photo image: Fresh organic purple cauliflower from Flying J Farm at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Friday, July 3, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Happy Independence Day!

The members of the Westerville Uptown Merchants Association and vendors of the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market say...

Happy Birthday, America!!

Have a safe, happy Independence Weekend.

Community Pride,
Country Proud!

By the way, Rotary Club of Westerville 4th of July Parade starts at 1:00 p.m., Fireworks are at 10:00 p.m. at Alum Creek Park South... Want more?
Click here.


Photo image: Sue's Kitchen's July 4th decor at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmer's Market: Fresh Produce for the Fourth from Bird's Haven Farms

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market vendor Bird's Haven Farm announces Fourth of July weekend hours at the farm. The Bird Family shares...

Since we are not able to sell at the Granville Farmers Market this weekend we just wanted to take the time to invite you out to the farm to get all of your goodies for your family get together this holiday weekend.

We have tons of tomatoes ready now as well as other summer time favorites. And, Produce like: zucchini, squash, bell peppers, lettuce, swiss chard, okra, beets, cucumbers, and eggplant.

We will be open Friday from 10 am to 6 pm and on Sunday from 12-5. We will be closed on the 4th to spend time with our family. If you need directions please refer to our web page as there is a link to assist you or call the farm at 740.587.1100 and we will try point you in the right direction. Thanks.

Click here for directions to Bird's Haven Farms, 5545 Lafayette Road in Granville.


Photo image: Fresh tomatoes from Bird's Haven Farms by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Fresh Eggs!

The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market has some EGGS-citing news!

First, the market welcomes new market vendor Speckled Hen Farm, featuring fresh eggs, chicken, and chicken sausage.

And, market favorite Carousel Watergarden Farm will now be selling fresh eggs along with their produce, seasonings and rubs, and Cathy's Tasty Treats for pets -- they'll have about 15 dozen available at the July 8th market.

Hmmmm, fresh eggs, cheese, steak, potatoes, fresh-baked bread and a touch of jam or chutney... all available at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market... sounds like breakfast... or lunch... or dinner... or a snack!!

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Celebrate Eating Local this July 4th

A great way to celebrate America -- Huffington Post's Green Editor, Katherine Goldstein suggests farmers' markets. We agree with Katherine, farmers' markets are a great way to celebrate your food independence and buy local...

6 Reasons to Eat Local Food This 4th of July

Katherine Goldstein
Green Editor, Huffington Post
Posted: July 2, 2009 04:36 PM

It's time for 4th of July weekend and that means swimming, sunshine, vacations, fireworks and...... farmers markets. In case you haven't noticed, farmers markets around the country are bursting with all kinds of delicious fruits and vegetables just waiting for you to enjoy them. Here are six reasons to show your red, white, and blue by buying
local foods this holiday weekend.

1. Small Farmers Are As American As Apple Pie: The concept of the
small family farmer is deeply ingrained in the American consciousness. It's a symbol of good old fashioned hard work, respect for the land, and it is an iconic part of our history. However, these days, a majority of our food is produced in a highly mechanized and industrialized system where farmers are essentially contracted workers on their own land, who then sell their crops (usually corn and soybeans) to large, multinational food corporations. If you buy from small farmers, who you can find at farmer's markets, a lot more of your money is going towards supporting individuals in your community. It's the difference between shopping at Wal Mart and shopping at the store owned by your neighbor. In these tough economic times, you can show your support to the people who live in or near your community.

2. You Are What You Eat: Xanthan gum? High fructose corn syrup? Phosphoric Acid? Processed food is full of additives, sweeteners and preservatives, much of which we can't even pronounce, let alone know what they are. When you buy local foods produced on a small scale, what you see is what you get. I know I'd rather eat a vegetable than something that comes in a package with a laundry list of mystery ingredients.

3. The Incredible Shrinking Carbon Footprint: When you eat food that's produced near you, you
reduce your carbon footprint. When strawberries travel on refrigerated trucks for days from Mexico, it takes way more energy than transporting them 50 miles from New Jersey to a farmer's market in New York City. Small farmers also usually practice far more responsible forms of growing -- the food is often organic, they work the land in a sustainable way, and take more responsibility for the health and safety of their workers. With less fossil fuel burned and less pesticides sprayed, you can feel good about taking a bite out of local food.

4. Fresh Is Best: When there is a much shorter distance from farm to table, the food you are eating is likely to be super fresh. Can you taste the difference between a mealy, refrigerated tomato and a fresh, sun-ripened one? There's no contest. It's easy to do a good thing when it tastes so delicious.

5. Because Everybody's Doing It: There is a growing movement to eat local foods this 4th of July as a celebration of
food independence. Advocates are encouraging people to sign a petition urging the governors of every state to eat local this July 4th -- all signers pledge to eat local this weekend too. You can take the pledge on Facebook where over 25,000 people have signed up. A number of governors have already committed to local eating this weekend, and have even released their menus. In Montana they are having huckleberry milkshakes; in Maine, Lobster; in Maryland, crabcakes; and in South Dakota, goose jerky (!). Governor Rick Perry of Texas even has a twitter bubble video describing what local food he's going to eat this 4th of July. Yum! Click here to view an interactive map of which governors are eating local, and what dishes they have planned.

6. Talk With Your Wallet: There's nothing more American than a simple lesson in supply and demand capitalism this July 4th. If you support local food by buying it, you increase the demand for the foods you want and the farming and food practices you agree with. This makes the market for these foods stronger and more profitable. As demand increases --ta da! So will supply, helping to reinvigorate the good ole American small family farmer.

Don't know where to start? Here are some food tips from
Planet Green, and some delightful recipes from The Atlantic Food Channel to get the ball rolling. And check out HuffPost Blogger Leslie Hatfield's post on declaring your food independence.

And Finally.....
HuffPost Green wants to know what locally grown foods YOU are cooking with this 4th of July. Send us your high resolution photos and links to the recipes you used. Please include your name, location and a caption for your photo and send it to
huffpostgreen@huffingtonpost.com. We want to see what America's eating. Happy 4th!

Click here to read Katherine Goldstein's article online on Huffington Post.

When you visit the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market (or your local farmers' market), you can meet and talk to the person who grew or made the food you're buying.

See you at the farmers' market!


The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market is Ohio Proud.



Photo image: Sue's Kitchen's July 4th decor at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Varley Valley's July 1st Market Report

Jane Varley of Varley Valley shares this week's market report:

This week I have made some hamburger buns for your holiday cookout. I have also added a new jam; very low sugar rhubarb pear. We have been picking black raspberries and anticipate having some black raspberry jelly and jam soon.

Here are today’s items:


Breads:

Challah
Cinnamon Swirl
Cinnamon Raisin Swirl
Orange Swirl
Lemon Swirl
Oatmeal Raisin
Totally Wheat
Birdseed Nut
Garlic Onion Wheat
Parmesan Peppercorn Wheat
Challah Hamburger Buns
Totally Wheat Hamburger Buns

Jams:

Pesticide Free Jams and Jellies
Crabapple Jelly -- $6.50
Spiced Crabapple Jelly -- $6.75
Rhubarb Jam -- $6.50
Wild Rosehip Jelly -- $4.50 (4 oz)

Lower Sugar Pesticide Free Jams and Jellies
Apple Butter -- $6.50
Sweet Apple Butter -- $6.50
Gingered Apple Pear Butter -- $6.50
Spiced Crabapple -- $6.75
Pear Jelly -- $6.50
Gingered Pear Jelly -- $6.75
Strawberry -- $6.50
Strawberry Margarita -- $6.75
Strawberry Peach -- $6.50
Very Low Sugar Strawberry Peach -- $6.50
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam -- $6.75
Very Low Sugar Rhubarb Pear -- $6.75
Rhubarb -- $6.75
Tomato Basil -- $6.50

No Sugar Added Pesticide Free Jams and Jellies
Apple Butter -- $6.50
Spiced Crabapple -- $6.75
Pear Jam -- $6.50
Gingered Pear Jam -- $6.75
Strawberry Jam -- $6.50
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam -- $6.75

Conventional Jams and Jellies
Brandied Plum -- $6.50
Spiced Plum -- $6.50
Hot Plum -- $6.50
Strawberry Rhubarb -- $6.25

Lower Sugar Conventional Jams and Jellies
Cranberry Apple Butter -- $6.75
Mango Chutney -- $6.50
Spiced Plum -- $6.50
Hot Mango Chutney -- $6.50

See you at the Market!

Jane


Photo image: A visit to Varley Valley by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: What the heck is chutney?

Here at the Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market, Rohini Mulchandani makes and sells a variety of chutneys. Kids love 'em, and for some grown-ups chutneys are relatively new to the everday table.

Made with both fruits and vegetables, chutneys are condiments, just like ketchup, vinegar, mustard, salsa, jams, and mayo.

Chutney originated in India (a long, long, long time ago) and is derived from the Hindi word: chatni or strong, sweet relish.

Savory chutney was originally a relish made with fresh fruits and spices, often served fresh at the table. Much like preserves, jams, and jellies, chutneys made-at-home often include the locally-grown fruits and vegetables of a region.

Both savory and sweet, chutneys are usually made with vinegar, some sugar, and spices. Like salsa, chutneys run the heat spectrum from very mild to spicy hot! (Or, as Rohini says, "Tastefully Hot!")

Serving suggestions for chutneys:

▪ On Toasted Bagels
▪ Recipe Ingredient
▪ Glaze or Side for Meats
▪ A Dip for Pretty Much Anything!
▪ Compliment to Fruits and Vegetables (Fresh and Grilled)
▪ A Spread with Crackers and Cheeses
▪ Peanut Butter & Chutney Sandwiches
▪ Stir into cream cheese and yogurt to make a spread or dip
▪ Ask Rohini for More Ideas!!

Chutney tidbit:
Chutneys have been served in America since the days of the colonies and has been a staple ingredient in southern American cuisine for centuries.

Stop by Arjay Gourmet and try some of Rohini's Chutneys. They may become a new favorite on your family condiment tray on the way to the dinner table!

Market insider tip:
Tamarind Date Chutney is a great compliment to grilled veggies.


Sources:




Photo image: Rohini's Chutneys by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.

Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market: Arjay Gourmet's July 1st Market Report

Rohini Mulchandani of Arjay Gourmet tells us that along with her delicious chutneys, this week she'll have:

▪ Cardamom Cookies
▪ Crispy Rice Snack Mix
▪ Cashew Nut Chocolate
▪ Indian Crackers (Farsi Puri)
▪ Pumpkin Nut Bread
▪ Strawberry Cupcakes
▪ Whole Wheat Flour Cookies
▪ Zucchini Halvah (yummy and a unique addition to cookout fare)

Chutneys and grilling go together well! Stop by and visit Rohini today.



Photo image: Rohini's Cashew Nut Chocolate by Linda Foor. ©2009 Brickstreet Communications. All rights reserved.