LIVERMORE FALLS – The Livermore Falls Betterment Group recently received a $1,000 grant to support the continuing development of the Gazebo Market, Livermore Falls’ own weekly farmers market and craft/music fair.

The grant was funded by Maine Initiatives, a community of donors, activists, grant makers and grantees working together for social change by supporting grassroot organizations in Maine.

Grant writer Phil Poirier reports that since the Betterment Group has not yet acquired its 501(c)3 nonprofit status, the Maine People’s Alliance has agreed to be fiscal sponsor for the grant.

“I’m happy to support such a worthwhile project,” said Tammy Greaton, alliance executive director. Greaton was a member of the 2005 Gazebo Market Committee, along with Poirier, Kathleen Szostek, Fran Szostek, Faith Nichols and Pam Letalien.

The Gazebo Market Committee is seeking applications for the 2006 season from produce vendors. Contact Phil Poirier at 897-5349, philpoi@verizon.net, or Fran Szostek at 897-6158 for more information.

Updates on the market will be available on the Livermore Falls Web site at www.lfme.org/market.

The 2005 market was a moderate success for its maiden year, experiencing some busy and some slow weeks, with a couple rainout Saturdays.

The committee has been counseled by experienced marketers to have patience, that it takes time, often two to three years. The produce vendors who came regularly did fairly well, but there were limited funds for promotion.

The grant will help get the word out, during the market (with local advertising and updated signage) as well as in the preparatory stages this winter in soliciting new vendors.


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