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| East Village Farmer's Market Attendees |
Earlier this year, there was talk of closing EVFM/the East Village Farmer's Market after initial vigorous efforts from the Downtown Long Beach Business Association (DLBA) and Councilwoman Suja Lowenthal who worked to establish what was then thought to be a much needed organic market in this area.
Questions remain about the future of the market which is managed by Raw Inspiration (rawinspiration.org). At a recent meeting hosted by Utopia restaurant, both business owners and residents discussed concerns which included:
1st St closure negatively affecting local businesses/residential parking
Sound levels and quality of music/performances
Lack of number and variety of vendors
Lack of visibility/marketing/awareness
Vendor cars/pets
Booth decore and configuration
This meeting ended with an overall climate of support for the market, the mention of moving the market from 1st St to Linden, talk of conducting a survey among stakeholders and a decision to reconvene in 30 days. Email the Downtown Residential Council (DRC) to receive the meeting date via email neighbor@longbeachdrc.com or call the DLBA at 562.436.4259.
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| Left to Right, Berries for Sale and Sampling, Hormone Free Eggs, Aqua Fresca & EVFM Performer, Classical Guitarist Tara Rose Davidson |
In an effort to save the market, Raw Inspiration brought in Jaenoyne Adams, her fresh outlook on vendor relations and her interest in garnering support from neighborhood partners committed to the market's long term success. One such partner is Eric Leocadio, founder of Catalyst Community, a locally based non-profit which provides seating, shade and entertainment for market patrons each week. Another is Crystal Le-Flore, current activity director of The Breakers, the assisted living retirement community of outgoing senior citizens who enjoy strolling through the market and occasionally dancing to the music. Additionally of note, are the many East Village residents & business owners who can be spotted shopping in the market and discussing ways to help spread the word.
For now, instead of being closed, EVFM is turning up the volume on organic community featuring fresh food vendors and neighbors of all ages. Vendors provide fresh and delicious edibles that can be savored on the spot or taken home for use in recipes. Neighbors from the youngest to the eldest visit the market by foot, bike or bus to graze samples, buy groceries and if they can be present, stick around for the weekly opportunity drawing for free meals, produce and non-food items generously donated by market vendors.
Increasingly, there are even local businesses participating in the drawing. Owners and employees of Elev8 Clothing, AD + D Gallery, Hexalogic Internet Cafe, Victorious Barbershop and Flowers By Vickie all donate products or discounted services from their respective storefronts and; join in the fun of hoping their ticket will earn them a prize from their favorite market vendor or neighboring business.
Increasingly, there are even local businesses participating in the drawing. Owners and employees of Elev8 Clothing, AD + D Gallery, Hexalogic Internet Cafe, Victorious Barbershop and Flowers By Vickie all donate products or discounted services from their respective storefronts and; join in the fun of hoping their ticket will earn them a prize from their favorite market vendor or neighboring business.
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| Salvadorean Pupusa Vendor |
