February 6, 2012 Dear Market Vendor, You are invited to participate in the 2012 Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market, held Saturdays, June 2 – October 20, from 9 am – 1 pm. Located at University and 7th Avenues NE, the market is highly visible to the 19,000 cars that travel University Avenue every day. We feature locally grown/produced meat, flowers, produce, baked goods, coffee, canned goods, jams and jellies, art, music, prepared foods, and more. This year marks our 13th season of operation! The Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market, notably the first community-based farmers market in the city, is an intimate gathering place in a residential neighborhood. Some visitors liken it to a European market. Situated in a church parking lot, our space is shaded by mature trees and bordered by sidewalks and two churches. Within a stone’s throw you’ll find ample, easily accessible parking for vendors and customers, though many of our guests walk or bike. An average of 600 customers per week leisurely stroll from stall to stall as they mingle with friends, participate in children’s activities, soak in the music, and get to know the locals who provide their food and goods. The Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market hosts special events throughout the season. We advertise in local newspapers, neighborhood newsletters, church bulletins, local businesses, through the Northeast Chamber of Commerce, and direct mail to more than 3,000 Eastside Coop members. Our market is also listed in the 2012 Minnesota Grown Produce and More directory and in the Twin Cities Green Guide. Additionally, we actively promote through social media, specifically Facebook and Twitter. We would love to have you participate in our unique market place for a full season or a half season. If you’d like to give it a try without an extended commitment, our affordable daily rates are a great way to test the waters. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at sarah@northeastmarket.org or 612.387.0527 Sincerely, Sarah Knoss Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market Manager Included in this packet you will find Important Dates, Important Information, Vendor Application, Rules & Regulations, MN ST-19 tax form, Farmer’s Licensing Exemption form, and sample Certificate of Insurance. 2012 IMPORTANT DATES April 1 Application Deadline for Vendors April 21 Acceptance Notification for Vendors May 1 Payment Due May 5 Annual Spring Vendor Meeting An opportunity for vendors to meet each other, the new market manager, and NEFM board members. This meeting will be held at Chowgirls Parlor, 1224 Second Street NE, Minneapolis 55413 June 2 First Market Day & Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser Every year, we launch the season with our popular Pancake Breakfast in the basement at St. Boniface. This tradition provides an opportunity for neighbors to build community while enjoying a locally sourced, zero-waste breakfast. July 14 Taste of Northeast We bring together the tastemakers of Northeast to one convenient location for our very own “Eat Street.” Explore the variety of flavors of our neighborhood restaurants. This was our most popular event in 2011. August 11 Brat & Corn Feed No one can resist the barbecue aromas of roasted sweet corn and grilled brats. This gathering honors the peak of summer and the community spirit of the Market. September 8 Taste of Northeast We bring together the tastemakers of Northeast to one convenient location for our very own “Eat Street.” Explore the variety of flavors of our neighborhood restaurants. This was our most popular event in 2011. September 13 Harvest Gala This new fundraiser will showcase the bounty of the Market’s vendors, pairing up their foods with local chefs to present seasonal cocktails and appetizers. We plan to raise funds through a silent auction and welcome your contributions. Hosted at Chowgirls Parlor in the Northeast Arts District, this event will also feature a food-themed posters created by local artists. October 13 Fall Fest An explosion of pumpkins, squash and gourds with special children’s activities and music to keep your toes tapping. October 20 Final Market Day We bid farewell to another great season 2012 IMPORTANT INFORMATION Location Southwest corner of University Ave NE & 7th Ave NE Time Saturdays, June 2 – October 20, 2012, 9 am – 1 pm Contact Mailing Address NEFM c/o East Side Food Co-op 2551 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55418 Staff Sarah Knoss Market Manager sarah@northeastmarket.org 612.387.0527 Martin Brown Special Events Coordinator martin@northeastmarket.org 612.670.3463 Internet northeastmarket.org facebook.com/NortheastFarmersMarket twitter.com/nefarmersmarket NORTHEAST FARMERS MARKET MISSION STATEMENT The Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market provides a safe, accessible and friendly environment for the community to conduct commerce and encourage a socialization alternative. The market promotes the sale of locally grown and produced fresh foods, unique gifts and unusual services otherwise neglected by mainstream businesses. We enhance the livability of the neighborhood and foster sustainability in the Northeast community. . The Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market is a 501c4 Social Welfare Organization. Contributions of gifts to the Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market are not deductible as charitable contributions for Federal income tax purposes.