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MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER

National Young Farmers Conference Accepting Workshop Proposals are being accepted for the 2012 Young Farmers Conference:

Link: http://www.stonebarnscenter.org/our-work/young-farmers-initiative/young-farmers-conference/

December 12-14, 2012

The Stone Barns Center will host the 5th National Young Farmers Conference, providing participants withaccess to inspiring keynotes and more than 50 unique workshops that addresssoil science, technical skills, agricultural policy, farm business management, marketing, and more. The Growing Farmers Initiative at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture is now accepting workshop proposals for the 5th annualNational Young Farmers Conference. A planning committee will review all proposals based on content and

Conference Description: Every December, over 250 young farmers from across the United States gather at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture to learn from agricultural luminaries, peers, and advocacy organizations at the National Young Farmers Conference: Reviving the Culture of Agriculture.

 

On December 12-14, 2012 Stone Barns Center will host the fifth National Young Farmers Conference, providing participants with access to inspiring keynotes and more than 50 unique workshops that address soil science, technical skills, agricultural policy, farm business management, marketing, and more.

 

Requests for Proposals to present at conference:

If you are interested in submitting a Proposal to present at the conference please complete application at this site. They are due by July 6, 2012.

The Growing Farmers Initiative at Stone Barns Center for Food and

Agriculture is now accepting workshop proposals for the 5th annual National

Young Farmers Conference, December 12-14, 2012.

 

To submit a workshop for consideration, please complete an online proposal

<https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dGFwbHlEREZSUlBRNGRBcHdISFVOdWc6MQ#gid=0> .

All proposals must be received by 11:59PM on July 6, 2012.

Submission of a proposal does not guarantee its acceptance.  A planning

committee will review all proposals based on content and programming needs.

All applicants will be notified regarding the status of their proposal by

late July. Should you have questions or concerns regarding the proposal

process, please contact [log in to unmask].

For more information on the Growing Farmers Initiative and the Young Farmers Conference, click here

<http://www.stonebarnscenter.org/our-work/young-farmers-initiative/> .

 

 

A Self-Guided Agri-Cultural Driving Tour of Southwest Michigan

If you are not an artist but want to see the work…

 

Registration Open Now for 2012 Arts & Eats –

 

(WEST MICHIGAN) – Participant registration is now open for the 2nd Annual Arts & Eats weekend, which is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, October 20-21, throughout portions of Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, Kent and Van Buren Counties. Applications for artist studios, galleries, farms and restaurants are available online at www.ArtsAndEats.org, under “Applications” and are due by close of business on June 15.

Arts & Eats is a free self-guided driving tour of artist studios, eateries featuring locally-grown food, and farms that feature the best in Michigan specialty farm products. Travelers are encouraged to explore the back roads to visit participating farms, art studios and central venues, which will be open both days from 10am to 5pm. Restaurants will be open during normal business hours, and many will kick-off the tour the night before (October 19).

Art enthusiasts can visit dozens of different galleries and central venues to view the works of localpainters, potters, photographers, sculptors and other artisans. Artists welcome guests to their studios, while galleries feature some of the most talented local art for the tour. Artists who do not have a public studio have been invited to display their works at several different central venues, which will be announced in the coming months.

Participants can also experience local foods both at the farms where the food is grown and area restaurants.  Participants can visit farms that grow the food that we eat or farms that grow the fiber we wear. Several farms raise fiber animals including alpacas and sheep.  This tour is a unique opportunity for peopleto visit farms that may not normally be open to the public. Participating restaurants are featuring special menu items using local products, with chefs using their creative culinary talents to pull together some fabulous menu items for the event.

Arts and Eats was introduced last fall by the Barry County Tourism Council and this year welcomes the Allegan County Tourist Council, along with other partner organizations, including the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, Hastings Public Library, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, Promote Michigan, Thornapple Arts Council, and area artists and studios. The premier sponsor in 2011 was State Farm.

According to organizers, the tour has multiple purposes including raising awareness and appreciation of the region’s rural areas, and educating people about the economic, environmental, and health benefits of buying and consuming locally grown foods. Another purpose of the tour is to support Michigan artists as entrepreneurs and also to connect farmers with local restaurants which can provide locally grown foods.

“The idea driving Arts & Eats is to invite tourists to explore rural artists, agricultural venues and restaurants, all the while soaking in our beautiful fall scenic landscape,” says Ginger Hentz, Barry County Tourism Co-Chair and Barry County MSU Extension Educator

A listing of participants will be posted online as they are confirmed, at www.ArtsAndEats.org.  A tour guide and map will be available at all the sites the days of the tour. An online map will be available by September 1.

 

 

Market Opportunities

Farmers Market on Capital Lawn-Lansing MI

This summer’s Farmers Markets at the Capitol will be Thursday, July 19 and Thursday, September 13, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, on the east lawn of the Capitol building in Lansing.

Spaces are still available for Farmers to sell market goods. Application deadline latest is June 15 or earlier if spaces are all taken. Vendor applications can be found here http://www.miffs.org/news65b.asp (copy and paste in your browser)

Organizations and businesses have the opportunity to sponsor these events and supportlocal food, farmers and Michigan food businesses, while increasing exposure to their brand and connecting with the local community. During 2011, more than11,900 shoppers visited the two markets, and an estimated 20,000 vehicles drove by the events. More about the Farmers Markets at the Capitol...

Each market has more than 50 vendors from across the state providing fresh Michigan produce along with avariety of wonderful Michigan made products, ranging from meats to baked goods, dog treats and cut flowers. Attendance and press coverage have grown each year as the events attract more shoppers and media attention.

These farmers markets will accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits via the Michigan Bridge Card, WIC Project FRESH, Market FRESH and Double Up Food Bucks, ensuring that all Michigan residents have access to the fresh, local fruits, vegetables, meats and baked goods that the markets have to offer.

Sponsorship levels start at $250, and benefits increase with each level.  A Platinum Sponsorship is $1,400 for both markets or $750 for either the July Market or September Market. Platinum sponsors have the opportunity to have an exhibitor space at both markets with a full sponsorship, their company banner displayed at the market, their company logo on all printed promotional materials, company logo on the email invitations sent to all legislators, legislative staff, state employees, downtown Lansing businesses and other statewide email lists, company website link included on partner’s Web site, company name inclusion in press releases and their company logo on the market map.

A Gold Sponsorship is $900 for both markets or $500 for either the July Market or September Market. Gold sponsors have the opportunity to have their company logo on all promotionalmaterial, their logo on the email invitations sent to all legislators, legislative staff, state employees, downtown Lansing businesses and other statewide email lists, company Web site link included on partner’s Web site and their company logo on the market map.

 

A Silver Sponsorship is $400 for both markets OR $250 the July Market or September Market. Silver Sponsors have the opportunity to have company logo on email invitations sent to all legislators, legislative staff, state employees, downtown Lansing businesses and other statewide email lists, and their company logo on the market map.

A Sponsorship Packet with more information about the events, sponsorship levels and sponsorship benefits is available at www.mifma.org. It is also attached.

These markets are hosted by the Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA) in partnership with Michigan Food & Farming Systems (MIFFS) and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Current sponsors, as of May 22, 2012, include the Michigan State University (MSU) Federal Credit UnionGreenStone Farm Credit ServicesUSDA Rural Development, the MSU Product Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources, and Lansing Community College.

For more information about the Farmers Markets at the Capitol and how to sponsor them, contact Maggie Smith, market coordinator, at 517-432-3381 or [log in to unmask].

 

Thanks for your support,

 

Emily (Buckham) Beutel Communications Manager

Michigan Food & Farming Systems - MIFFS Bringing Farmers and Communities Together.

Ph: (517) 432-0712

 

Job Opportunities

Seeking Produce Vendor

Hello everyone,

We are desperately seeking a produce vendor or two for our market, beginning June 2nd (and still are seeking). If you know one, or are one, and would like to participate, we have an exceptional offer to make. Please contact me for details. They are very much interested in having organic farmers sell at this market, as of now they don’t have any and

 James Lee, Market Manager

Romulus Farmers Market (near Detroit MI)

734-377-8720

 

Lansing City Market Intern

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Lansing City Market Intern shall provide support to the Lansing City Market Manager and shall be involved in assisting with the coordination and promotion of the day-to-dayactivities of the Lansing City Market.

The Lansing City Market Intern will support the Market Manager in the planning, organizing, monitoring, and assisting in operations to ensure the maintenance and improvement of the overall appearance and integrity of the facility, grounds, building structure(s) and building systems to provide a superior experience to the guests and/or vendors of the Lansing City Market.

POSITION REPORTS DIRECTLY TO: Market Manager

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assist the Lansing City Market Manager with administrative duties and special projects as needed.

2. Provide a safe environment free of harassment for employees and ensure compliance with allLEPFA policies, applicable OSHA standards and local, state, and federal laws including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

3. Develop, maintain, coordinate with other LEPFA personnel to support the City Market Manager with outside organizations, vendors, City departments, private firms and clients and operational service contractors. Supports the Market Manager in communication and coordination channels with all internal departments and operations.

4. May assist the Market Manager in seeking out, developing, and assisting in the participation in industry related associations and trade shows in support of quality service to our clients and in keep abreast of innovations, improvements in procedures, and developments within the operational aspects of our industry to seek better methods to improve efficiency, levels of service, personnel performance, and reducing operating costs.

5. Assist with and participate in and provide support for special events sponsored by LEPFA atother external locations as needed.

6. Use computer terminal to assist in the Market Manager in entering and retrieving information and prepare and distribute weekly reports of City Market activities. Assist in creating and maintaining operational filing system and records to ensure that all operational personnel, equipment, and supplies are accurately maintained.

7. Other duties as assigned by the Market Manager or their designee.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. The City Market Intern shall be knowledgeable in all administrative and operational rules, procedures and programs of the Lansing City Market and the Operations Department.

2. Internship requiresirregular schedules, including evenings, weekends and holidays; the performance of work assignments may not be directly related to job specifications. Adjustments of shifts, overtime, breaks, etc. may be required upon short notice.

3. Assist in developing and maintaining accurate records, logs and reports for the facility.

4. Assist in the development and publication of the City Market Newsletter – “Market Watch.”

5. Assist in the creative development and publication of marketing materials for Lansing City Market sponsored events.

6. Ability to interact with LEPFA employees, clients, the general public and outside vendors in a courteous, cooperative and professional manner.

7. Maintain a high public image, positive attitude and demeanor toward customers and the general public in the facility.

8. Perform other duties, functions, special projects and responsibilities, as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. High school diploma and enrollment in a college or university preferred.

2. Self motivated and eager to learn, or share knowledge of marketing and promotion, with special emphasis on event planning/staging in a public assembly facility, farmers’ market, or similar facility.

3. Organizational and interpersonal skills.

4. Must have a thorough knowledge of computer systems.

5. Ability to demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills in the English language.

6. Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time.

Master’s Degree Level Position with Cornell Cooperative Extension Regional Vegetable Program in Western and Central New York.  Please forward to anyone who may be qualified.  Initial screening interviews have been set, but we are seeking a larger pool of highly qualified candidates.  The position will remain open until filled.

 

Extension Associate-17011 (refer to this # when inquiring)

Description

Extension Associate (Vegetable Crops Specialist) Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Cornell University

Description: The Cornell Vegetable Program is one of the premier agricultural extension programs in New York, serving a large multi-county region in the Central and Western part of the state. The team’s Vegetable Specialists work together with Cornell faculty and extension educators statewide to address the issues that impact the industry. The Cornell Vegetable Program provides educational programs and information to growers, processors and agri-business professionals, arming them with the knowledge to profitably produce and market safe and healthful vegetable crops, contributing to the viability of farms and the economic well-being of New York State. As part of a 6-member team, the Vegetable Crops Specialist will provide commercial growers and industry representatives with the knowledge and educational resources necessary to review production and management practices; enhancing their profitability and sustaining the growth of the vegetable industry in New York. Job Functions/Responsibilities: Program Development, Implementation, and Evaluation • Provide leadership for planning, implementing and evaluating educational programs that address producer identified needs and opportunities. Emphasis is in the area of commercial fresh market vegetable production and the demonstration and adoption of principles and practices leading to economical and environmentally sound use of crop inputs to maximize quality, profitability, and sustainability. • Provide producers and industry with a framework to analyze production and management alternatives and to maximize profit opportunities based on emerging best-management practices. • Plan and implement educational programs utilizing a variety of methods including direct teaching through group experiences, mass media, newsletters, electronic technology, use of the internet and distance learning. • One-on-one consultations with key producers and industry partners related to program development and problem solving. • Analyze and evaluate major program efforts with the input of all program partners and make recommendations for enhancing these efforts. • Communicate evaluation results, findings, and recommendations as appropriate. • Prepare quarterly reports, impact statements, and yearly success stories on program progress and accomplishments. Applied Research • Initiate and conduct field demonstrations and in-depth applied research projects appropriate to the needs of the commercial fresh market vegetable industry in western New York. • Participate in statewide, collaborative research projects with university and extension faculty and staff as well as other agencies and organizations. • Define and implement reporting mechanisms for producer-focused “measurable” outcomes. • Meet the evaluation and reporting requirements of funding partners Management • Responsible for routine operations, reporting and accountability • Support team efforts in communication with stakeholders and partners • Support team efforts in planning and implementation of regional and statewide events. • Individually and collaboratively explore and pursue new and additional funding sources to enhance and extend program opportunities • Enhance and promote teamwork. Professional Development • Participate in professional development opportunities, conferences and workshops appropriate to program and personal skill enhancement • Participate in related regional, statewide, and national professional organizations Organizational Leadership • Support Cornell University and Cooperative Extension system-wide initiatives through participation in program work teams, ad-hoc committees and advisory groups.• Participate in regional, statewide and national work groups related to the work of Cornell University, Cooperative Extension and the Commercial Vegetable Industry. • Foster strong collaboration among faculty, peers, and industry. • Establish and maintain positive relationships with the many individuals andgroups that support the work of the organization. Location: Western New York Region – Allegany, Cattaraugus, Erie, Genesee, Monroe, Niagara, Onondaga, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates Counties.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

·Master’s Degree in Agriculture from an accredited institution with a major in Vegetable Crops,Horticulture, Plant Pathology, Entomology or closely associated fields.

·Two years of relevant work experience in Agribusiness, Crop Production, Cooperative Extension, or closely related fields.

·Experience in conducting, interpreting, evaluating and communicating the results of applied research

·Must possess or have the ability to acquire a New York State Certified Pesticide Applicators License

Preferred Qualifications:

·Coursework in Weed Science, Crop Production, Economics of Production, Pest Management, Plant Pathology,Soils, Adult Education, and Communications

·Knowledge and experience in current and emerging issues and production practices related to vegetable crops

·Five years of relevant work experience

To apply: Send letter of application and resume to Mark Giles at [log in to unmask]. Applications will be reviewed as received, continuing until a suitable applicant is identified.

Cornell University is an inclusive, dynamic, and innovative Ivy League university and New York's land-grant institution. Its staff, faculty, and students impart an uncommonsense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas and best practices tofurther the university's mission of teaching, research, and outreach.

Cornell University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer.

 

 

Vicki Morrone
Center for Regional Food Systems at Michigan State University
Organic Farming Specialist
480 Wilson Rd. Room 303
East Lansing, MI 48824
Www.MichiganOrganic.msu.edu
517-353-3542/517-282-3557 (cell)
FAX 517-353-3834
If you would like to access a searchable archive of the all the previous Mich-Organic listserv postings copy this URL and paste in your browser address field http://list.msu.edu/archives/mich-organic.html