By Susan Trabucco, CNA Media Team
The kick-off of farmers markets around the city heralds in summer for many Portlanders, and the opening day of the Cully Market on Thursday, June 2 was no exception. Warm sunshine and a slight breeze greeted market-goers to this small but growing farmers market that’s been held for the last few years in the parking lot of Roses at 5011 NE 42nd Ave.
On market day, a lively band played music that encouraged dancing by adults and children; the aroma of grilled, smoked sausages by purveyor Southern Specialties beckoned the hungry, and Concordia, Cully and Beaumont Wilshire community members greeted each other with hugs, handshakes and smiles.
Vendors at the opening event offered locally-favored Hood strawberries and plump, sweet obsidian blackberries, Red Sauce Pizza introduced a variety of homemade breads including a flavorful and satisfying jalapeno cheddar cheese loaf; tomato plant starts were proffered,and goat’s milk soap, custom creations from Metalwood Salvage and other locally-made goods were displayed for sale. The market’s website lists an array of vendors throughout the season, including Cully Neighborhood Farms, Kenai Red Fish Company, Heidi Ho Organics and Bare Naked Farms. Check the website for more vendors.
The Cully Market runs every Thursday now through August from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. In September the market runs Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Market organizers are new this year; the event is now under the purview of Our 42nd Avenue, a non-profit, community serving business and employment development organization. Visit www.42ave. org for more information.