Friday, March 30, 2007

Farmers and artists combining forces

Organizations seek contributions to improve market site


By JON DUVAL
Express Staff Writer

The Wood River Farmers' Market and the Hailey-based Artists' Market have been busy planning their joint market project, scheduled to open June 7.

As the successful markets have grown over previous summers, there has been an increase in customers requesting that the organizations hold their events in one location in Hailey.

Last year, the Artists' Market was held in the promenade between The Mint nightclub and Jane's Business Copy, and the Farmers' Market was on the pavement of Bullion Square.

Together, the combined market will offer 38 local vendor booths, live music and children's activities every Thursday throughout the summer.

Sarah Hedrick, co-founder of the South Valley Merchants Association, is thrilled about the merger and what it will mean for the city.

"Having them both in one place is just going to be killer for Hailey," Hedrick said Wednesday.

The new site, located on open lots between Sturtevants and Bank of America on Main Street, is anticipated to bring in greater numbers of people from all over the community.

These lots, however, require significant improvements in order to get them suitable for the summer-long event, as they are currently covered in rocks and debris.

Plans for improving the area include putting in grassy areas for families to sit and listen to music, as well as gravel for the walking paths, and trees to make it more comfortable and attractive to customers.

"It will be much more friendly and secure for children," Kaz Thea, manager of the Farmers' Market, wrote in a letter to Hailey businesses and organizations.

Market organizers are looking to local groups, individuals and businesses for contributions. A list of needed materials includes topsoil, irrigation materials, gravel, and plants and trees. They are also still seeking artists and musicians to participate in the events.

"We're really excited about coming together on a green space," said Alissa McGonigal, manager of the Artists' Market. "This is a really big part of summer in Hailey."

Persons interested in donating or participating can contact Thea at 788-7052 or McGonigal at 788-8614.




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