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This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Farmers Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Covington Farmers’ Market weekly newsletter by Charlene LeJeune:

What lovely Tuesday, friends! Looking like a gorgeous week ahead and a perfect time to get out to your Covington Farmers’ Market especially when Jerome is preparing more of his delicious Spinach &Goat Cheese Quiche plus he’ll have Madeleines. Kandy is back and with her she is bringing an all time favorite—chicken porridge! This simple little dish makes an amazing breakfast, lunch or dinner. Step it up a notch with a side of scrambled eggs (Double K naturally) or just make a well in your serving and crack an egg to fill, then bake for about 15 min and enjoy! Did you love Joy’s empanada’s last week? Well, they are back for round 2 this week. Chicken pasta is also on the menu and don’t forget to pick up one of her “grab n go” meals for later in the week! There may still be a bit of a chill in the air but, no worries, a lovely mushroom burger from Bhakti and a dash of Johnny’s Cajun Sauce and you will be nice and toasty. Grab a pack or two of his protein balls for a special treat during the afternoons. Any more blueberry spread, Jerry, or do we need to wait for the next crop to start ripening? What a way to spend a Wednesday morning!

Amedee Frederick is in the “house” and this Saturday his jaunty tunes will be spilling from the gazebo and saturating the market with song. Time to get your veggie pancake from Meme ‘cause they truly are delicious. 

A stop at Tessier Gourmet for a container of spinach artichoke dip can give you more than just a fabulous tasting dip for your chips, carrots, tat soi ends (gorgeous little dippers), or whatever. (It’s especially fantastic with whatever.) Add a couple of tablespoons to your Jubilee ground beef and kick up your burgers (or meatballs) another level or two. Think about how amazing your burgers would be if you made them with Jubillee’s green onion sausage instead. Remove the casing from the sausage and mix in a tablespoon (or two) of dip —ooooh! la! la! Magnifico! It can work the same for sautéed mushrooms or veggies (broccoli, cauliflower) plus it’s a great way to hide the fact that you’re eating spinach. Also delicious on a slice or two of one of the artisan breads our fabulous bakers create — pop ‘em in the oven and enjoy the wow!

While you’re there checking out the bread selection, take a look at the tasty breakfast sandwiches Jennifer at Bear Creek Road has each week. A healthy selection of sourdoughs await at Happy Flour, including Rosemary Parmesan but also some sweet treats like the awesome Cruffin! (yeah! that’s spelled correctly)

Our produce vendors are full swing into the season and, with a plethora of fresh veggies to offer, you’re sure to find just what you need. The sweet potatoes are delicious, the greens are nutritious, and the fruits are really scrumptious! The strawberries this year seem especially sweet; the oranges possibly have more vitamin C and the honey… 

Naturally Well’s elderberry syrup is pretty much a must for this time of year, especially with the stress challenges we’ve faced. Keep up your body’s immunity with a dose a day. You can also boost immunity and good gut bacteria with Nancy’s nutritious raw sauerkraut and kombucha. She had a special ferment last week using the cheddar cheese cauliflower and white cauliflower from our vendors. Sam’s sprouts and microgreens from Aminta are more tasty little weapons in your arsenol. 

With all the great food and nutrition and delicious here at the market, why would you choose to sleep in? I don’t know either. See ya there!

Lots of love,
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Check out our Facebook page – facebook.com/thecovingtonlafarmersmarket
On Instagram — @covingtonlafarmersmarket

Local Events

Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours – Chillin’ at the River Dec 26

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from the Cajun Troubadours‘ website

On Saturday December 26th, the City of Covington presents Grammy nominated Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours at the Bogue Falaya Park. This free concert will be from 4 – 6:30 pm. A continuation of the Chillin’ at the River concert series, guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics as food and beverages will not be provided. Masks are required, sanitation and social distancing circles will be available.

These concerts are put on to provide safe, family friendly entertainment with social distancing in mind. Enjoy the scenic sprawling landscape of our beautiful park while listening to local live music. Afterwards, take a stroll around downtown Covington and visit the many unique shops and fine dining restaurants.

About Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours

From the Cajun Troubadours‘ website: “Cameron, the seven-time Cajun accordion contest winner, has now established himself as a favorite among many Cajun music fans in Louisiana. He has now recorded on three CDs; the most recent being “The Mid-City Aces” featuring Michael Dupuy and Gina Forsyth and the brand new “Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours” self titled album.
“In November of 2020, the band’s debut self-titled album, “Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours” was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best Regional Roots Music Album.”

“Twas the night after Christmas
And no cookies were left.
Cajun music filled the air
as we did the two-step!”
– Mayor Mark Johnson

Sign up for Mayor Mark’s emails at www.covla.com

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Music & Entertainment in Downtown Covington This Week

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This week is Live Music Thursdays at the Covington Brewhouse, where you can enjoy local musicians playing great music while sipping delicious Brewhouse brews. This week, Chomper’s BBQ will provide mouth watering BBQ during the jam. Bring along your instrument and sit in on a set! covingtonbrewhouse.com

covington brewhouse live music banner2

Columbia Street Rock N Blues Cafe hosts Steak Night and Comedy Night on Thursdays and Ladies Night on Fridays with Melo-D. Saturday night, it’s the Todd O’Neil Band. Bobby Blaze hosts Karaoke Wed. and Sun. rocknbluescafe.com

csrb melo d ladies night

Femme Festivale returns to The Green Room Friday for “femme festivale II!” 1st Wave Saturday Night Dance Party from 11 p.m. to close! Karaoke on Thursdays and Sunday Funday with live music early + DJ Spicy Fox.

green room femme festivale ii-page-001

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Friday Night Music Club at COPA Presents Susan Cowsill

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susancowsillSusan Cowsill has emerged as a singer-songwriter of singular emotional insight and musical resonance. She was a key member of the beloved alt-roots-pop super group the Continental Drifters. More recently, Susan’s musicianship is exemplified on her widely acclaimed second solo album, Lighthouse. Learn more about Susan at www.susancowsill.com

On September 11, 2015, Susan performs with Alex McMurray at the Center Of Performing Arts in downtown Covington for Friday Night Music Club. A portion of the night’s proceeds will help support the Covington Police Department and the Wade Sharp Memorial Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police. Purchase tickets online for this or any upcoming show at www.centerofperformingarts.net

SAVE THE DATE: “Moon Over Montevideo” Opening September 24th, 2015

copamoonovermontevideoThe all-star cast featuring Rex Badeaux, Michelle Burris, John Carambat, Emily Carmadelle, Robert Sturcken, Kim McDonnel, Ed Morvant, and Kim Kent will bring you joy with a hilarious script and delightfully memorable songs. Learn more at www.centerofperformingarts.net

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Vocal Training for Beginner or Advanced with Sarah Lessire

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If you are a beginning singer, or a performing artist looking to finesse your voice, Sarah Lessire is a trained vocalist teaching on the North Shore.

sarahlessire

Sarah Lessire is a classically trained vocal instructor.

Sarah has extensive classical vocal training from the Royal Conservatories of Brussels and Mons, with extended experience in Jazz, Soul, Indie, RnB, rock, pop, folk, Bossa Nova, Musical Theater, and other more specific genres. She has three records to her credit: Loopen in 2011, Land Of Blue in 2012, and Silent Songs in 2015.

Sarah developed a thorough understanding of vocal mechanisms and health through the study of vocal logopedics and vocal ostheopathy. She trained in diverse body awareness and sound modalities, such as MLC, Feldenkreis, and Alexander. Those methods all use movement and awareness in order to release harmful tension, and create new neural pathways that support physical and psychological comfort, both during the exercise of singing and in everyday activities.

Sarah will guide you in working on dynamics, nuances and phrasing. The lessons are based in a solid vocal technique, focused on proper breathing and throat relaxation in order to cultivate your own unique voice, and help you sing your style of music with more confidence and ease.

Sarah’s goal is to help you find more pleasure and freedom in your singing. Her focus is to help you develop your authentic expression and musicality. All levels and styles of music are welcome. Let’s sing!

Southern Hotel logoSarah is also available for live performances, and is performing at the Southern Hotel on the 10th, 17th and 24th of September, 6-8pm. For a booking or queries, please email Sarah at sarahlessire@gmail.com

www.sarahlessire.com

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STAA Opens “Other Voices, Other Rooms” Saturday for White Linen Night

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STAA Roy Pfister other voices other rooms 8-12-15The St. Tammany Art Association presents a new exhibition “Other Voices, Other Rooms” opening Saturday, August 15 with a reception from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m during Covington White Linen Night.

The exhibit will feature the combination of period antiques and decorative accessories in concert with the impressionistic artwork of nationally recognized artist, Roy Pfister. Fine furniture of a different time and place carries the voices of the past into rooms accentuated with the vibrancy of paintings to create a harmony for life today. Through the vignettes assembled for the exhibit, the furniture of History Antiques & Interiors paired with the paintings of Pfister create a “voice” for the expression of the beauty of form and function. Live music provided by Timothy Achan Gates.

Roy Pfister’s art style has been likened to impressionistic realism with a traditional approach. Although he specializes in graphite, pastel and oil portraits, he has won many awards for his landscape paintings. Trained at Tulane University and New Orleans Academy of Art, Pfister studied under such noted instructors as John McCrady, Leonard Flettrich and John Ambrose. Most noted for his portraits of children, his reputation as an artist has grown nationally and his portraits and landscapes hang in the homes of many families throughout the United States and Europe.

Growing up, Lisa Wilson, owner of History Antiques & Interiors in Covington, LA and Charleston Antiques in Charleston, SC, was immersed in an environment of art and history by family members who taught her the love of antiques. She earned degrees in History and Art History from the University of Mississippi. After a career as a teacher, Lisa opened History Antiques and Interiors in 2012 with a vision to showcase the beauty of adding unique historical furniture and  antique accessories into modern home settings.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, call (985) 892-8650 or email info@sttammanyartassociation.org.  www.sttammanyartassociation.org

Local Events This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Covington Farmer’s Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Wed Farmers Market signHappy Tuesday, friends! I’m looking forward to a lovely day at the market tomorrow. Come by for a delicious lunch, fresh veggies, sweets and treats. Kandi and Joe’s pan seared salmon salad and jasmine tea will make you smile. Frankie is preparing homemade pound cake with fresh fruit topping. Slide through lunch with Jeff’s pulled pork or chicken salad sliders. And, there’s always a scandalously good Mediterranean salad with pita bread from Nanette to tempt you. Earl’s back with raw honey too!

Start off Saturday early with a cup of coffee! We’ll have Zac Maris in the gazebo, so make yourselves at home and stay a while. Nealy and Keith Frentz will drive their food truck, Lola Deux, to the Market and you know what that means! Parmesan fries! OK…deep breaths…you still have 4 more days.

Keith & Nealy Frentz displaying the Lola Deux Food Truck, which will be at the Covington Farmer's Market this Saturday

Keith & Nealy Frentz displaying the Lola Deux Food Truck, which will be at the Covington Farmer’s Market this Saturday

There was the loveliest scent of basil wafting from Norma’s tent last week and, sure enough, she has fresh basil – so great on pizzas or salads. A spread of skordalia (Vincent & Mauricio) on a slice of fresh market bread (Lena, Susie, Crystal) would be right tasty with a chiffonade of fresh basil on top.

Hot peppers have been sneaking onto Nick’s table and will be multiplying over the next few weeks. Right now he has goat’s horn, lemon drop, white habanero, and yellow cayenne. He also has brightly colored sweet peppers – purple, yellow, orange, red, and even green. Check out Spicy Lady’s smorgasbord of flavor and you’re sure to find something that will brighten up whatever you’re cooking – whether it be vegetables or meats.

Okra from Grow.Farm

Okra from Grow.Farm

The Bardwells have quite the spread of vegetables – green beans, red potatoes, okra, eggplant – but you have to get there early; they’ve been selling out before 9:30.  The same at Mr. Houston’s table – butternut squash, yellow squash and zucchini, eggplant, and cucumbers go pretty fast as this time of year. Eddie has also been selling out pretty early even with a large offering of banana peppers, okra, eggplant, and some figs…hmmm. I’m going to have to find a few recipes.

Blood River Honey Kevin tells me he will have buckwheat honey this week and Coast Roast Kevin will be back after welcoming his new arrival with freshly roasted coffee. Unfortunately, I will not be at the market this Saturday so I will miss out on all the wonderful things to be had. But you can enjoy your Saturday filled with wonderful music and great friends and the best ever foods.

Lots of love,
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Healthy Living Local Events This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Covington Farmer’s Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Chef Robert Vasquez will provide the food demo this Saturday with Jubilee Farms

Chef Robert Vasquez of Opal Basil will provide the food demo this Saturday with Jubilee Farms

Hi, friends, July is quickly fading and August is arriving on Saturday and the kiddies are getting ready to return to school. No matter, after all the market goes on regardless of the day, the month, or the weather. So, get your tasty buds ready for some incredibly delicious food and meet us at the market.

Kandi is offering several lovely salads that are summer perfect. Jeff is preparing smoked chicken salad sliders and Nanette has sliced turkey and also a crunchy vegetable wrap for us tomorrow. And, there’s music and dessert and fresh veggies and dessert so why would you go anywhere else?

Jimmy Robinson will play at the Covington Farmer's Market Saturday

Jimmy Robinson will play at the Covington Farmer’s Market Saturday

Saturday will start with a bang as Jimmy Robinson strums out a little bluesy, a little folksy, some classical, even a little jazz from the gazebo. Then get ready for amazing as Chef Robert Vasquez of Opal Basil and Vive Foods in Mandeville, teams up with Jubilee Farm for a Farmers’ Market tailgate party. This is a day you won’t soon forget!

We still have lots of great veggies but you have to get here early. Last week, mostly everything was gone by 10 am! But, don’t fret. We’ve still have lots and lots of wonderful if you get here later. Try some of our prepared dishes, such as Angel’s bountifully stuffed artichokes. Hot Tamale Mama has a new dish – Mushrooms in Parmesan Cream with crawfish ad andouille sausage. Oh my! Just makes want to dive right in, doesn’t it? Norma Jean always has some delightfully different quiches to try like her deliciously flavorful Southwest quiche. Nanette has several sauce starters just waiting for your cooked chicken or meatballs or shrimp or chunky vegetables – just vary the ingredients for a unique dish every time.

Well, I know this is short but I’m running behind schedule today. But don’t let that stop you from coming out to explore on your own. The tastes are fantastic; the flavors abundant and he smiles are everywhere. How many more reasons do you need to be at the market each week?

Lots of love
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Healthy Living Local Events Shop Local This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Covington Farmer’s Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Wed Farmers Market signGood afternoon, friends and great news – it’s Tuesday again! That means just one more day to a tasty lunch, sweet breezes, and relaxing music – perfect for summertime lunching. Now I know you’re thinking it’s gonna be pretty hot, and it is, but there always seems to be a fair breeze whipping up under the Covington Farmers market pavilion.

But it’s more than fair breezes enticing you to the Market for a lunch of Rebecca’s authentic Honduran food. It’s our amazing vendors and their love of food that has you dreaming of Kandi’s shredded cabbage salad with its crunchy bits of carrot, chicken, red onion and herbs and inviting you to partake of Nanette’s savory summer Minestrone soup with lovely chunks of squash, green beans, tomatoes, and great northern beans swimming in a savory broth seasoned with oregano and basil or tempting you with the prospect of Jeff’s pulled pork and a side of cheese grits and a luscious new creation – ranch macaroni salad.

WatermellonYou’ll get there and have trouble deciding between Frankie’s bread pudding with rum sauce or the new egg custard pies with eggs so fresh you can see the yellow. Don’t forget the veggies – zucchini, bell peppers, squash, potatoes, and watermelon. Our vendors are offering some incredible dishes that are hard to pass up, which is why I usually pick up several and enjoy them throughout the week. Sometimes, I even let Mr. Wonderful share in the bounty.

Saturday morning will roll around (as it usually does at that time of the week), just as bright and lovely as ever. Prepare yourself now for the delightful tunes of Joe Barbara coming from the gazebo. Pat Lester’s Food Wagon will be parked at the curb on Columbia Street. Make sure you get here early to get your coffee and enjoy the morning, the music, the many market delights.

Bartlett Farm has heirloom tomatoes galore!!

Bartlett Farm has heirloom tomatoes galore!!

New vegetables are joining the ranks each week. Nick has a selection of heirloom eggplant with names that are as inviting as the vegetable, such as Ping Tong, Pandora Striped, Louisiana Green, and L’il Sailor. They could get you in trouble, though. “Hey, John and Mary, how ‘bout joining us for dinner tonight? We’re cooking up a batch of L’il Sailors – so nice and tasty!” (OK, OK, I’ll stop.) Mr. Houston has 2 varieties of watermelon – traditional and one called Moon & Stars. You may even get lucky and get a few of Natalie’s ghost eggplant.

purple hull peasEddie has yard-long beans and purple hull peas in the shell and you’ll find cuccuzzas hanging around Bardwell’s table. The Clecklers have sweet Alabama peaches and Pink Lady peas. John has a tasty mix of fuzzy yellow tomatoes, bright orange and long skinny reds that look more like a red pepper than a tomato. Didn’t matter to me; they were real good. Fancy names or not, there’s still lots of good eats on the tables.

A Rainbow of kombucha from Kombucha Girl Living Beverages

A Rainbow of kombucha from Kombucha Girl Living Beverages

Althee tells me she is adding no sugar added jams to her repertoire starting with mango and blueberry and will soon add strawberry as well. Hot Tamale Mama is stunning the tamale world with her latest creation – red beans and rice tamales! I haven’t tasted them yet but Pam has a knack for making the ordinary extraordinary. She also has a new oyster mushroom and lentil soup. With all this great food hanging around, please tell me you’re not planning to sleep in. We’d hate for you to miss out.

Lots of love,
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Healthy Living Local Events Shop Local This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Covington Farmer’s Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Wed Farmers Market signHowdy, friends!  It’s Tuesday again. Wrangle them tastebuds in and get ready to head on over to the Covington Farmers’ Market for a mighty tasty lunch. OK, I jumped the gun a bit; there’s 20 more hours before you can bask in swift breezes, lots of sunshine, finger-snappin’, toe-tappin’ music and lots of great food. Can’t wait, can you?

Big Branch Soaps - Revitalize Bar Soap - Sweet Orange, Geranium, Rosehip All Natural Soap

Big Branch Soaps – Revitalize Bar Soap – Sweet Orange, Geranium, Rosehip All Natural Soap

Nanette will be there with her crunchy delicious veggie wraps and tomato basil soup. Enjoy one of Rebecca’s remarkable chicken tamales or wrap yourself around a smoky pulled pork sandwich and fixins’ from Jeff. Kandi has the most incredible salmon salad (not to mention the crispy egg rolls) your mouth will ever bite into. Pace yourself, now, ‘cause you’ll need to save room for a slice of Frankie’s remarkable brownies! She has Hershey chocolate and walnut brownies tomorrow. What a way to finish a summertime meal! Don’t forget cleanup. Big Branch Soaps is now at the Wednesday market with laundry and dish detergents and lovely lotions for the hands no matter what kind of work you do. Cleanup on the veggies, too, with potatoes, tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers and Greg may even have some peaches and blueberries.

Keith & Nealy Frentz displaying the Lola Deux Food Truck

Keith & Nealy Frentz displaying the Lola Deux Food Truck

Bring Dad along on Saturday to enjoy an early Father’s Day. We’ll all be enjoying Michael Millet in the gazebo. Keith and Nealy Frentz will add pizzazz to the morning when Lola Deux Food Truck pulls up to the curb. WOW! I know…just take a deep breath, go get your coffee (Kevin’s got a great lineup of fancy coffees, lattes, etc. at the Coast Roast tent) and get in line for those delightful Parmesan fries. Can ya handle it, Dad?

If you’re really not in the mood for coffee, how about an uplifting juice from Simply Pure or Amanda? If you haven’t tried beet juices, you don’t know what you’re missing. There’s this great little thing about beet juices like the power to increase blood flow through the blood vessels. But if beet just isn’t your thing, there’s a whole passel of fresh juices ripe for the choosing.

Juices from Simply Pure at the Covington Farmer's Market

Juices from Simply Pure at the Covington Farmer’s Market

Hot Tamale Mama is your go-to place when you don’t feel like cooking. She has a delicious selection of prepared foods, such as chicken pot pie, vegetarian lasagne, stuffed noodles, and hot tamales. While you’re over there, let Dad indulge in a bag of Theresa’s lemon crunch cookies or almond macaroons. Or bring home one of Angel’s flavorful stuffed artichokes. That’s a meal in itself. On the lighter side, one of Nur’s Turkish salads such as green lentil and quinoa or tabouli is sure to please.

The Clecklers have fresh beans and peas ready for the pot. JR has the onions and bell peppers to chop up in them and Spicy Lady and I have all kinds of different seasoning to add life and love to ‘em. Pass by Jubilee Farms to see if he has Andouille sausage to throw in them beans. If not, green onion sausage will work right well. Pick up a few ears of fresh corn while you’re there. What are you waiting for? Lasso your calendar and hog tie the date! We’ll see you there!

Lots of love,
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Market Menu-06-16-15

Healthy Living Local Events Shop Local This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Covington Farmer’s Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Wed Farmers Market signHappy Tuesday, friends! We’re looking forward to a great day tomorrow full of music and fresh veggies and good food.  Mr. Houston’s garden has been bloomin’ with cucumbers (eatin’ and picklin’), green potatoes, squash, bell peppers, and he may even have some tomatoes and eggplant. Come and join us for a relaxing lunch. Kandi’s pan seared salmon salad and a glass of sweet jasmine tea make a perfect lunch. Bring home dinner with a pound of Jeff’s pulled pork, cole slaw, Mac N Cheese, and baked beans. Or try Nanette’s refreshing cucumber yogurt soup which will go very nicely with her summery Mediterranean salad. A Honduran hot tamale (they are pretty big), salsa and chips and you have lunch for Thursday or even Friday. And, of course, you can’t be without dessert and Frankie’s gotcha covered with strawberry dream pie or her incredible Marguerita pie. Ooh my!

Make plans to come out on Saturday and enjoy the toe-tappin’ melodies of Chris Talley coming from the gazebo. So grab your coffee or one of Sacred Earth’s new caffeine bars and enjoy the music while you do your shopping. Oh, you heard me right. Enough caffeine for a full cup of coffee, balanced with fresh herbs and oats in a scrumptious breakfast bar. Then, get ready for some barbecue because VooDoo Foods will have their rig parked on Columbia Street, ready to dish out some great BBQ. They will also have homemade Worcestershire Sauce and Twangy sauce. Not sure what Twangy sauce is but it does sound tasty doesn’t it?

Summer Squash from GROW.farm

Summer Squash from GROW.farm

I took a slow walk around the market last week and it surely has blossomed this past week. I guess it’s all the rain we’ve been having. But even a quick stroll around will reveal a treasure trove of veggies. Eddie’s Veggies table was filled with golden wax beans, Maxibell green beans, yellow zukes and banana peppers (soooo good sautéed with onions and Italian sausage and served over spaghetti – easy peasey). The Clecklers not only had tomatoes but peaches as well. I cut up a peach to add to my tea for a flavor boast. Mr. Houston told me he would have tomatoes and possibly eggplant for this week along with squash and. J.R. said he will have cherry tomatoes, potatoes, rattlesnake snap beans, zucchini, yellow & white squash, and cucumbers.  John promised bell peppers, eggplant, red and Yukon Gold potatoes, great juicing carrots, and , if you get there early, some heirloom tomatoes.

Carrots from Bartlett Farm at the Covington Farmer's Market

Carrots from Bartlett Farm at the Covington Farmer’s Market

Don’t forget about grilling! We’ve got a smorgasbord of meats and veggies that are ready and waiting for a few grill marks. Marinate your chicken in Bechac’s Roasted Garlic & Tomato Dressing for an hour or so before grilling for tender tasty chicken. YUM! Careful, a dab of goat cheese in the middle of your burgers will have you crowned Master Griller and you will be in charge of the pit from then on.

I had a chance to try Spicy Lady’s Wasabe Seasoning on Saturday and I’ll admit to a bit of trepidation since I always associated wasabe with lots of heat. It was delicious, not too hot, and I thought that it would be really great mixed with a little of Cheryl’s oils and tossed on grilled veggies, potatoes, mushrooms, shrimp, or what have you.

Breads love it on the grill. Suzie will have Spinach Feta this week which probably won’t work too well on the pit but her Health Grain bread or French baguettes toast up wonderfully, especially with a little of Vincent & Mauricio’s Skordalia spread over it. Lena’s home ground wheat breads just dying to get toasted and Crystal’s gluten free sourdough breads are sure to please even those who are not concerned about gluten. Spread some of Bear Creek’s garlic and herb butter on several slices and pop those babies on the grill. Or just toast ‘em plain and add a little Meaux Mustard for a jazzy sandwich. With four flavors – Local Honey, Creole, Green Heat, or Blueberry – you may have a tough time choosing.

Bear Creek Road Pie of the Month: Dark Chocolate Strawberry Pâté Tart with Lavender Meringue

Bear Creek Road Pie of the Month: Dark Chocolate Strawberry Pâté Tart with Lavender Meringue

You won’t want to stop there. After all, Lolly Marie is boasting those yummy caramels, white ginger truffles, and chocolate raspberry truffles plus caramel apples. There’s so much more out here – a beautiful spring breeze, delightful music, great food. What more can you ask for?

Lots of love,
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Local Events

Old Feed Store Music Series at Marsolan’s features Ganey Arsement

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Ganey Arsement at Marsolan's for the Old Feed Store Music Series this Saturday

Ganey Arsement at Marsolan’s for the Old Feed Store Music Series this Saturday

Saturday April 18 at the Old Feed Store Music Series, hosted by Marsolan’s Feed & Seed from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Bring a chair and enjoy the free show right after the farmer’s market! – 316 E. Gibson Street. This week features Ganey Arsement, whose music includes cajun, zydeco, country, folk and americana. www.ganeyarsement.com
Learn more about the Old Feed Store Music Series here

 

Local Events Shop Local This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Covington Farmer’s Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Nuccio's Louisiana Kitchen - Muffulettas

Nuccio’s Louisiana Kitchen – Muffulettas

Happy Tuesday, friends! Are you ready for a lovely Market Day? I am! I’m looking forward to a steamy bowl of Nanette’s vegetable soup. I don’t know what she does to those veggies but she makes plain old veggie soup into a gourmet delight! Jeff will have baked beans and coleslaw to go with his smoky pulled pork (a nice pint of cheese grits will make a lovely breakfast tomorrow morning!) Another mouth-watering temptation is a serving of Kandi’s shrimp and cream cheese rolls with dipping sauce – so crispy…so creamy…so yummy! Pick up a muffaletta for lunch or dinner – half a muff is large enough to share with someone special. Dessert is as easy as a mini pie from Frankie or fresh strawberries from Natalie. Mr. Houston has a wonderful assortment of veggies to go with your evening meal – broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, mustard greens and more.

Live music by Timothy Gates

Live music by Timothy Gates

​Prepare for swirls of sunshine and blue skies on Saturday as Keith and Nealy Frentz pull the Lola Deux, up to the curb on Columbia Street as the lyrical music of Timothy Gates drifts from the gazebo. So grab your coffee and do some exploring to discover what’s new at the Market. I missed being at the market last weekend and have a lot to catch up on.

I may not be up to date on new delights at the Market but I will tell you that our produce tables will be brimming with fabulously healthy vegetables. No doubt you’ll also find favorites such as Angel’s overstuffed artichokes, Bechac’s dressings for a raw spinach salad, Lolly Marie’s delicious chocolate truffles, pure cane syrup from Dennis, Dee’s crunchy pickled veggies (asparagus, carrots, cauliflower, and more), take-home meals from Hot Tamale Mama, creamy artichoke quiche from Norma Jean or a pound of freshly roasted, exotic Coast Roast coffee. Where in the world will Kevin’s coffee take us this week – Panama, Mexico, Ethiopia, Bali?

Mauthe's cream cheese king cake

Mauthe’s Dairy – Cream Cheese King Cake

So, I’m sitting here enjoying a nice cup of coffee (Mexican), cruising Facebook and writing this newsletter, and what happens? I get a message from Mauthe’s Dairy….with photos! They’re making king cakes – or rather king cheesecakes!  Take a look for yourself, after all a picture is worth a thousand words. It’s large enough to share but Mr. Wonderful is going to have to be VERY VERY good (that’s if it makes it home). Oh, well. I guess my New Year’s resolutions will have to wait until after Mardi Gras.

So come join us at the Farmers’ Market this week. We’ll brighten your week, tweak your taste buds, and take your senses on a culinary adventure! We’ve got the smiles. We’ve got fresh veggies. We’ve got a smorgasbord of delights. We’ve got Tabasco. Let the fun begin!

Lots of love,
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Local Events Shop Local This Week at the Farmer's Market

This Week at the Covington Farmer’s Market by Charlene LeJeune

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Blessings of the season to you, friends. Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and I know you’re all getting ready for family and friends and lots of great food. Stop by for some of Frankie’s goodies, Earl’s raw honey (makes a great gift) and fresh veggies from Mr. Houston.

Crispin Schroeder will play at the Covington Farmers Market this Saturday

Crispin Schroeder will play at the Covington Farmers Market this Saturday

Saturday will be the last market of 2014. Weren’t we just celebrating the 4th of July?  Come and enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee with us while you shop for the goodies you’ll need for your New Year’s party. Chrispin Schroeder will sing out the old year from the gazebo while Jeff and Kristen get the rig into place to smoke up some amazing pork. Make sure you get extra for sandwiches. Lena and Suzie have wonderful breads to make that sandwich perfect.

Chompers BBQ - food demo this Saturday at the Covington Farmers Market

Chompers BBQ – food demo this Saturday at the Covington Farmers Market

I thought we’d finish out this year with the reason you all come to the Farmers’ Market – the vegetables! A quick perusal of the tables last weekend shows that the veggies are not taking a holiday, so much the better for us. I saw the first beets of the season on John’s table along with turnips, carrots, radishes, chard, spinach, kale, tat soi, bok choi, broccoli and iceberg lettuce (sounds like we may need a little dressing too.)

Beets from Bartlett Farm at the Covington Farmer's Market

Beets from Bartlett Farm at the Covington Farmer’s Market

Dinosaur kale, collards, mustard, chard cabbage, spinach, broccoli, carrots and green onions were loaded onto Mr. Houston’s table and a few feet away Ken Savage offers huge, gorgeous cauliflower, oranges, sweet kumquats, red navel oranges, grapefruit, and satsumas. While you’re over there, check out Spanish R Us. Soriedad is baking a fantastic Tres Leche cake, almost too pretty to eat – almost. She’s making coconut flan too.  Remember to get refried beans and salsas for your party!

Baby Swiss from Grow.Farm at the Covington Farmer's Market

Baby Swiss from Grow.Farm at the Covington Farmer’s Market

Fortunately, Nick still has those fabulous Evangeline sweet potatoes. You’ll also find heirloom turnips, chard, curly mustard, flat leaf kale, and persimmons plus quail eggs. Don’t forget your New Year’s cabbage from Natalie and some strawberries too! Johnadale Farms is back again with their strawberries – we’ve got goodness all around! Dennis has pure cane syrup made from his own sugar cane fields. Stop by and check it out!

Alton and Sandra have some absolutely gorgeous camellia bushes that will not be available for long. Look over their table for the most fragrant herbs for your garden – rosemary, lemon thyme, chocolate mint and more.

We hope you’ll join us for the last market of the year. By next Saturday, a whole new year will have begun along with the hopes and plans that a new year always brings. We wish you peace and prosperity in 2015. Thank you for your patronage, your friendship, and your recipes; we look forward to another year with you.

Lots of love,
Charlene LeJeune
Abundant Life Kitchen

The Covington Farmers’ Market is open each Wednesday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Covington Trailhead, 419 N. New Hampshire and every Saturday from 8a.m. to 12p.m. on the side lawn of the Covington Police Station, 609 N. Columbia St. Call (985) 892-1873 for information or visit www.covingtonfarmersmarket.org

Local Events

Lagniappe Concert Saturday At The Covington Trailhead Featuring Don Vappie

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Lagniappe Concert

Don Vappie

The City of Covington is pleased to announce a little “something extra” (lagniappe) this summer at the Covington Trailhead. Covington’s own internationally renowned musician Don Vappie and his band The Creole Jazz Serenaders will be performing at the Covington Trailhead Saturday, July 12th, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm.

Vappie’s versatile background of playing funk, rhythm and blues, and pop music enhances his unique perspective on music and performance. In 1995 he formed the Creole Jazz Serenaders, performing classic jazz from the 1920’s through the 1940’s.

Invited guests also include alumni of CABL Leadership Louisiana, local, regional and statewide elected officials; and other community leaders. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Refreshments will be available for purchase benefiting local non-profit organizations.

Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders

Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders

“This concert comes at a fitting time to invite fellow Louisiana Leadership classmates and alumni to visit Covington and enjoy our great city and community,” Mayor Mike Cooper. “Not only will guests experience one of our fabulous Rockin’ the Rails concerts, they will also have the occasion to stroll downtown Covington, in conjunction with two other entertaining events that evening.”

Mayor Mike Cooper is currently participating in “Leadership Louisiana”, a year long program presented by Council for a Better Louisiana (CABL). Class members consist of community leaders throughout the State. Major program session topics include education and workforce training, the economy and strategies for growth, history and politics, news media, arts and culture, criminal justice, and healthcare.
The event is open to the public. To learn more, visit www.covla.com

Local Events Local News

Sunset at the Landing Concert This Friday

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sunset and landing 7-19-13The Sunset At The Landing Series continues for July with three hours of three great performances.   Jerry Hess starts the show off at 6 pm.  Hess, a veteran of the Abita Springs Opry, is also a Farmer’s Market favorite, and he is one of the area’s best pickers.  At 7 pm, Freeman, Garcia & Casteel take the stage with a bluegrass trio.  Chance Casteel, who is the “Casteel” in Freeman, Garcia and Casteel, will also be playing at the Green Room Friday night after the Landing show with his project, “Beware Of Bear”.   Finally, Liquid Bridge take the stage at 8 pm and rock the night out.

The Concerts at the Landing are presented for free by the City of Covington, St. Tammany Homestead and the Covington Farmer’s Market.  Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic dinners, but don’t forget the great venues that are available after that show is over!  Winos and Tacos, the Green Room, Columbia Street Rock N Blues and the Tap Room will be getting into full swing after the Landing concert is over.  Call 985-892-1873 for more info.