November 2, 2007

Grand opening

Farmers’ Market enlivens Evergreen Village Square

Buying fresh produce to the sound of music

By Bill Highlander
Editor

Layce Baker and the Black Diamond Band rocked while customers bought fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, bread and flowers at the first Farmers’ Market in Evergreen Village Square on Sunday, Oct. 21. The certified market, operated by Pacific Coast Association, relocated from the Evergreen Library site to gain more space and parking.

Vice Mayor Dave Cortese (above center), who supported the relocation, wielded large scissors to cut the ribbon. Rose Herrera (originator of Involved Evergreen), Kelly Eradi (Shapell Industries), a group of shoppers and Mr. Carrot joined in the Farmers’ Market grand opening ceremony at Evergreen Village Square on Sunday, Oct. 21.

“It’s an ideal location,” said Carle Brink-man, market manager. The farmers come from many locales, some from the Central Valley and some as close as Gilroy. One booth, managed by local resident, Alicia Barlann, was selling eggs from chickens, ducks and quail. She said her aim was to provide fresh eggs for the community.

Berry Licious of Gilroy sold all its strawberries before 11 a.m., but its sign promised to be back the following week. Several of the farmers presented organically grown products.

A long line waited to get popcorn out of the big pot at the Gold Rush Kettle Corn booth.

More than 20 booths were set around the Square. Brinkman said the fee for booths is $30 for agricultural products and $45 for non-agricultural. Commercial and community booths may also arrange to participate.

Vice Mayor Dave Cortese, who supported the relocation, wielded large scissors to cut the ribbon. Rose Herrera (originator of Involved Evergreen), Kelly Eradi (Shapell Industries), a group of shoppers and Mr. Carrot joined in the ceremony.

Cortese said that the market recalls the agricultural history of the area, noting his family farmed in the area in the past. Cortese hopes the market will help bring the community together.

Layce Baker and the Black Diamond Band rocked while customers bought fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, bread and flowers at the first Farmers’ Market in Evergreen Village Square on Sunday, Oct. 21.

Rose Herrera commented to the crowd that “the market is yours and it’s really important that everyone supports it.” Herrera heads Involved Evergreen, a grass-roots organization seeking to get a grocery store to replace Lunardi’s.

Eradi manages the development of the Square and says the majority of the 125,000 square feet of retail space is leased, even though some are still dark. A spa is planning to open and discussions with several restaurants are underway. Shapell claims the lease with Lunardi’s stipulates it “has to operate.” A judge will decide the outcome. If Lunardi’s doesn’t operate, they are still responsible for rent and responsible for finding a Shapell-approved sub-tenant.

The Farmers’ Market will operate on Sundays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. through 1 p.m.

John Silveira, market director, noted that market also helped the other merchants on the Square. Java Junction emptied its display case of bagels as it served sandwiches and coffee to buyers. Quizno’s also seemed to be busy.