This Saturday marks the official kickoff day for the Heart of Rushville Farmers and Artisans Market, which aims to bring a "green" vibe to the streets of downtown Rushville.

Running 9 a.m. to noon starting Saturday and every Saturday (weather permitting) through October 2009, the market will be located on Third Street east of Main to the alley. Traffic will be blocked off in the area during market hours.

Parking is available on Main Street as well as the city parking lot behind Rushville Pharmacy.

"We're hoping to build a successful, and more importantly, sustainable community program here in Rush County," Market Master Mark Sloan said.

This Saturday, entertainment will be provided by Rush County native son Joe Rigney.

Purveyors of fresh, non-cut produce, preferably locally grown, are wanted, as well as local artisans with crafts and goods made here in Indiana (i.e. wood crafts, art work, jewelry, leather goods, clothing/textile items, etc.) are wanted to be a part of what is hoped will become a viable part of Rush County’s downtown.

There is no charge this year for vendors. However, all vendors will be required to sign a vendor agreement, if they have not done so already, which will be available Saturday.

Vendors will also need to sign in with the Market Master, or his designate, each Saturday they participate.

Also, as part of a relatively new development with the passage of House Enrolled Act 1309, local bakers and cooks wishing to offer their wares are more than welcomed to join Saturday’s festivities.

According to the Indiana State Department of Health: "The creation of HEA 1309 resulted in the exemption of certain food operations from the definition of a food establishment. Since these entities are not food establishments, then the regulations used to regulate food establishments do not apply. This is similar to other recent changes to the definition that now allows other food operations, such as those operated by religious organizations and non-public educational organizations, from being regulated as food establishments. Permitting requirements do no apply to a legally operating HBV. The practice of requiring some other form of registration to track or maintain surveillance of the HBV activities cannot be required; however, the information can be offered voluntarily by the vendor or the market master."

There is no fee due to the Health Department for vendors such as these.

"This important legislation loosened many of the restrictions that prevented local bakers and cooks from plying their wares at farmers markets and roadside stands the last few years," Sloan said. “However, processed foods like baked goods must be labeled as having been made “In the Home Of .......’ and with all ingredients listed in order of prevalence in the product.”

Market Liaison Joe Kimmell echoed Sloan’s sentiments.

"The path has been cleared for baked goods made at home!" he said. "No respectable farmers market can go without pies, cookies and fudge made by real folks. We’re so pleased with this development. We are very excited about this revitalized and relocated venture, and intend to excite you and entertain you also. Please come! Eat fresh, eat local, visit Rushville!"

For more information contact Mark Sloan at 765-561-7116.