This month’s update is dedicated exclusively to the Agricultural Institute of Marin’s celebration on October 21 of the Grand Lake Farmers Market’s 25th Anniversary. A market that started with maybe a dozen farms under the freeway has since been named the Best Farmers Market in the East Bay year after year. Javier Ledesma who has the distinction of being one of the original market participants was one of the speakers as was AIM’s CEO, Andy Naja Ries. Council President and District 2 Representative Nikki Fortunato Bas read a proclamation honoring AIM which she then presented to Andy.
Jerry Barclay, representing the community as the former Chair of the Farmers Market Advisory Committee spoke about the extent to which the market and the new park had spiked a revival of the Grand Lake Shopping District while also introducing patrons to heirloom tomatoes, vegan food and Buddha’s Hand . He concluded by thanking Andy Naja-Riese for implementing numerous new programs and community benefits that better serve the City of Oakland.
Editor’s Note: A long-time farmers market artisan, Gary Chappell from Moonshadows jewelry, has been hospitalized for over 7 weeks suffering from Valley Fever plus double viral pneumonia and Covid. Although recovering he is still in the hospital and in need of help with rent, bills and medical expenses. Contributions can be made via a GoFundMe campaign.
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