The Audubon Farmers Market opened for the season June 9 at a new location, in the Johnson Street Merchants lot at 2840 Johnson Street. Using part of the Merchants lot allows for cross promotion between the market and Johnson Street businesses, said Deborah Brister, the executive director of the Audubon Neighborhood Association, which runs the market. “We are trying hard to build community with local businesses as well as residents,” she said.
Market Manager Michelle Spangler highlighted the Power of Produce program, which gives a $2 token to children ages 4-12 that they can use to buy fruits, vegetables, honey or mushrooms.
Spangler said that they are looking for more sponsors for a walk-to-market $1 token program.
The market is open on Thursdays through September 29 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Below in order: Amy Kuretsky of Waite Park completes a purchase with Kris Singh of Caribbean Heat Mama Julie’s. The Northeast Minneapolis-based family business has been making hot sauces, jams, jellies, pickles and barbecue sauces for 41 years, Singh said.
Michelle Spangler, the new market manager, talks with Anne, Frank and Ashton. The Power of Produce program gives tokens to children ages 4 through 12 to buy produce at the market.
Victor Chang of the Chang Family Farm in South St. Paul was the only vendor of fresh vegetables on June 9 (there was a mushroom vendor, too), but more will be joining the market as the growing season progresses, said Deborah Brister.
(Photos by Karen Kraco)