It’s been nearly two years since Fishtown Neighbors Association inked a deal with New Kensington Community Development Corporation to secure a 1,600-square-foot parcel at Frankford Avenue and Belgrade Street known as the Rose Garden.
To kick off the space now being open for public use, FNA has organized a new monthly event: a farmers’ market.
Previously maintained as a memorial by relatives of Wayne Elliss Jr., who was shot and killed at the intersection in 2002, FNA recently revitalized the site after the acquisition.
Improvements include a brick patio walking path, new benches and landscaping with funding from Penn Treaty Special Services District and donors.
The site was dedicated in memory of Elliss during a June 5 ceremony.
This past Sunday, July 11, marked the inaugural Second Sundays Market.
“We are excited to activate the space and a farmers’ market seemed like an easy way to get neighbors and local businesses connected,” said Kat Clayton, events chair at FNA.
The FNA events committee is spearheading the series, which will take place through the fall.
Each event will feature four local artisans per month with offerings such as baked goods, health and wellness resources, fresh food and interactive science, according to Clayton.
This month’s vendors were Mother Butter, Noshes by Sherri, Farmacy and Vamo Coffee.
There were also complimentary reiki samplings with Stacey Mandel.
The current confirmed lineup for next month includes Skype a Scientist, Phishtown Sauce Co. and Perrystead Dairy LLC.
Volunteers from the events committee reach out to local businesses to participate, Clayton said.
FNA hopes to use the series and the space to grow connections within the community.
“[Second Sundays] will give businesses the opportunity to connect with neighbors,” Clayton said. [And] to activate the Rose Garden space located on the main corridor.” ••
Second Sunday Market will be held on the second Sunday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon at the Rose Garden, 1401 Frankford Ave.
Vendors interested in participating should email events@fishtown.org.
