Editor’s Note: We spoke with Lee Perron with the Venice Farmer’s Market (VFM) to learn more about the operation and its community impact. The VFM is held 8am to 1pm every Saturday through April, and 8am to noon May through December. Visit TheVeniceFarmersMarket.org.
Lee, what’s the brief
history of the VFM and how did you get involved?
The VFM has been in operation in downtown Venice on the island for over 20
years. Maggie’s Seafood was one of the first charter members and they still
offer Florida wild-caught seafood to this day.
How has the Venice
City Hall worked as the location?
The public response has been very positive. Staff and vendors appreciate
the location with its wider pedestrian walkways, beautiful shade trees and
picnic tables. The City has been a great partner.
How many vendors
participate and what’s the economic impact?
We now have 51 vendors. The 19 newer vendors have been local farmers, rock
star bakers, and artisan food purveyors. Adding more food options has enhanced
the VFM. The UF Economic Impact Study concluded vendors created $2.6M in
revenue with a total impact of $5.3M on the downtown area.
What’s the process
for selecting vendors?
We are at capacity with a long waiting list, but completing an application
is the first step. We are always looking for diverse and high-quality products
that address the needs of our customers. And of course we value attracting top
notch people that support their product. Professionalism, experience and a
strong customer service background enhance the market experience.
How does the market
benefit local nonprofit groups?
Every week we have a non-profit guest to help build awareness of their
mission, fundraising opportunities and volunteer needs. We contributed $17,000
in 2018 to local nonprofits serving the Venice community. We also offer the
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, and we double
participant’s money when they shop so they can purchase twice as much
nutritious food.
Lee, what’s your
professional background?
I worked 27 years in the cable television and Internet industry and that
includes serving as senior vice-president for Adelphia Communications.
What do you enjoy most about your role with the Venice market and the Thursday market in Englewood?
I appreciate our focus on nutritional health, education, sustainability, and community goodwill. I also value being part of an organization that supports local nonprofits.
How are the two
markets similar and dissimilar?
Both are nonprofits with the same mission and a focus on providing good
food from local sources. Each community has its own personality and
preferences, so many of our vendors reflect those nuances.