What’s Cookin’? – Smithtown
By Nancy Vallarella
Where’s the (New York State Grass Fed) Beef?
You can find it at the 4th season opening of the Kings Park Farmer’s Market this Sunday, May 18th.
Coach Farms artisanal goat cheesesBernadette Martin of Long Island Green Markets has confirmed that many popular vendors will be returning along with some new additions. This Sunday expects to see Kalypso Greek Yogurt back with their fruity flavors tucked into those fabulous reusable terra cotta containers. Garden Fusion will be there with organic vegetables and herb plants. Coach Farms is returning with a variety of artisanal goat cheeses. One of the newest offerings is olive oil. Entertainment, this Sunday, will be live music and Abracadoodle face painting for the kiddies.
Farmer and popular market returnee Teddy Bolkas the “Tomato Whisperer” from 
Tomato Whisperer - Teddy BolkasThera Farms, Ronkonkoma, will be there with his hydroponic green goodness and something new; New York State Grass Fed Beef. According to Teddy, a variety of cuts will be available (steaks, ground meat, roasts) and bones for stock or furry four legged friends. FYI ladies - for those of you that have been asking…Yes, Teddy is single. You will find him on Sunday at the Kings Park Farmer’s Market and at the Nesconset Farmer’s Market on Saturdays starting June 7th. Throughout the season, he will be bringing the greens, beef, beefsteaks and beefcake!
“It’s an early start this season.” Notes Alyson Elish-Swartz market co-founder, King’s Park Civic Association liaison and resident. “The growth of the business has been remarkable. The Kings Park community has truly 
embraced this event and has volunteered their talents to help make it a success.” Alyson gets numerous calls from volunteers offering to provide entertainment and fundraising undertakings at the market for causes within the community. “We have come to the aid of our local food pantry (St. Vincent DePaul Society’s Food Pantry at St. Joseph’s Church) and provided a scholarship to King’s Park High School students over the past several years.
Social media has also been a major contributor to the growth. Kings Park Farmer’s Market has a facebook page and an e-mail newsletter subscription can be requested by sending a message to lbfarmersmarket@gmail.com.
Last fall Newsday documented a shopping trip at the market with local restaurant Café Red. It can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaKSSNRhBNw
Stop by this Sunday. Walk around, meet your neighbors and support regional food and craft producers. Remember my farmer’s market motto, “Arrive early for the best selection. Arrive late for the best conversation.”
The Kings Park Farmer’s Market is open from 9am – 2pm. It is located in the municipal parking lot on Rt. 25A across from the Kings Park Fire Department.