Since I last wrote, the sweet corn has arrived, and the vendor tables continue to grow in variety. We are starting to understand the effects of all that rain, which we know is good for gardens, but in some cases came down so hard and heavy that vendors were forced to replant crops that were washed out. 

I, for one, enjoyed the extended season of spring greens and am happy to now be adding onions, bell peppers and sweet corn into the mix of usual market meals.

I will miss seeing you in the parking lot this weekend, but I do wish everyone a safe and happy July 4th holiday, and I look forward to seeing you at the Homegrown Celebration next Saturday, July 11. 

I hope you consider entering the watermelon carving contest. Scroll down for some sample entries from last year's contest, or just do a google image search and be inspired. Prizes for the contest winners include a gift certificate to the Emporia Arts Center and a $50 Chamber Gift Certificate. If we get enough entries, I might even throw in some market dollars for honorable mentions. Wow us with your watermelon! And bring the kids for the games; rolling, seed spitting and who can eat the watermelon slice the fastest!

Don't forget to mark your calendar with our hot food offerings this month. Bierocks, pocket burgers, and another fundraiser (beef enchiladas) by the women of Centro Cristiano de Emporia are all on the agenda.

And remember that the food preservation workshop is coming up on July 15. This is an excellent opportunity for a refresher or first time course on canning. You must register for this class no later than July 7th. Safety first when preserving the harvest! All those details and more are in the newsletter below.

See you at the market!