Ortonville- New Beets, Beats & Eats Market Manager Debbie Baker is gearing up for another successful season of the summer event that features vendors, entertainment and dinners on Friday nights in Crossman Park.
‘I’m excited,? said Baker, who is taking the reins from Pam Belding.’I hope this year Beets, Beats & Eats grows even bigger.?
As the new market manager, Baker is responsible for soliciting vendors, collecting fees and applications, coordinating special events and the monthly newsletter. She has begun BB&E’s expansion by increasing the number of weeks it runs from 12 to 14, with the series opening June 13 and continuing Friday nights through Sept. 12. She is also planning themed nights, including a garden exchange; three different kids? nights that may feature face painting, clowns, magicians and a movie for kids in the park; and the return of the art contest, photo contest and Renaissance Festival folks.
The Ortonville United Methodist Church has put on dinners during BB&E the last few years, but is not taking all the weeks this year. In addition to the church, O’Malley’s Galley and MacPhee’s Restaurant will also provide dinners, setting their own menus and prices, with proceeds returned to each.
Acoustic musicians are also invited to play around the park each Friday evening.
Baker is also seeking vendors who want to sell their homemade or homegrown wares at BB&E. Some returning vendors include Lawrence Farms of Frankenmuth, which features organic vegetables; Three Bee Apiary, with honey; and Baker’s son, Tyler Baker, who creates metal sculptures.
Vendor booth prices will remain the same? $10 for an 8×8 space and $15 for a 10×10 space each Friday, or save 20 percent by paying in advance for the entire season.
‘Anybody who would like to be a vendor, give me a call, e-mail me or flag me down in the street,? laughs Baker.
For more information about the Beats, Beets, and Eats market, visit www.ortonvilledda.com or contact Market Manager Debbie Baker at (248) 240-0907 or Executive Director Molly LaLone at (248) 627-8070.