By Scott Sherman<\/p>\n
The popularity of the new Allied Gardens Farmers Market has succeeded beyond anyone\u2019s imagination. Not only has the market provided a much-needed option for fresh fruits and vegetables, it is also helping to bring the Allied Gardens community together.<\/p>\n
When the local Albertsons grocery store unexpectedly announced it would close, the news took everyone in the community by surprise.<\/p>\n
This is why I approached the Grantville-Allied Gardens Kiwanis Club with the idea of creating a temporary farmers market. Members of the club ran with the idea and worked diligently to make it a reality. I am truly thankful to the Kiwanis Club for taking the lead on this important project.<\/p>\n
When the farmers market opened, it quickly became apparent that it would be more than just a place to buy produce. It also isn\u2019t just about the cost. Anyone can stop by their local Costco to find cheap items; the farmers market brought much more to the community.<\/p>\n
It became a place where neighbors could meet neighbors and catch up on the latest news from the community, sample a variety of foods, listen to live music, and enjoy beautiful arts and craft booths. In short, it became a wonderful community success story. Residents can even grab a bite of delicious food at the farmers market and head over to the Allied Gardens Recreation Center to enjoy the Concert in the Park series.<\/p>\n
Even though the market was expected to only be temporary, there will still be many more months where residents can come to enjoy the new attraction. In fact, once a new tenant is found to move into the old Albertsons location, the goal is to move the farmers market to another location nearby.<\/p>\n
I urge anyone who has not yet been to the market to attend and give it a try. The farmers market is located on the corner of Waring Road and Zion Avenue and is open every Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. Hope to see you there!<\/p>\n