A few weeks ago the Fulton Street Farmers Market (FSFM) launched the Our Goodness Is Growing Capital Campaign to improve its facilities (adding wheelchair-accessible restrooms and covering the open-air shed area) and to make the Market a year-round operation. So far the FSFM has raised $1.5 million towards its $2.0 million goal. Construction is expected to begin this fall, and the new Market will open its doors to the public on May 5, 2012.

As a local business district, we share the FSFM’s interests in creating a comprehensive and sustainable local food system, supporting locally-owned family farms and promoting economic development in our neighborhood business districts.  We are asking our loyal customers to consider making a donation to the FSFM Campaign and encouraging your friends and family to do the same.

Contributions can be made and more information can be found by visiting the Campaign website at http://OurGoodnessIsGrowing.org

There is also a benefit for the “Our Goodness is Growing” Campaign

Friday, September 16th, 6 to 9 pm
From the Heart Yoga Center
714 Wealthy Street SE

Enjoy a delicious dinner provided by local restaurants using locally-grown ingredients.
Relax with a glass of wine or cider pressed from West Michigan apples.
Participate in the silent auction for goods and services donated by local businesses.
Local chef and blues guitarist Jim Powell and his son Sam will provide music.

Help put a roof on the Market!

Tickets cost $50, including food and drinks, and are available at:
• Fulton Street Farmers Market (In Office near Fulton)
• From the Heart Yoga Center
• Jeffrey Richard Salon
• Art of the Table
• Grand Central Market on Monroe Center
• Or call 328-9547 to order.

Please note that tickets and silent auction items are payable by cash or check only.
Make checks payable to: Fulton Street Farmers Market Campaign.

In Remembrance
Jason Stewart, known by many as JStew died unexpectedly. Jason was known in Eastown as the co-owner of ACK located on Wealthy SE at Ethel. Eastown offers its sincere sympathy to Jason’s family and friends.
He will be very missed in Eastown. In the short time ACK was our neighbor Jason contributed a positive, friendly energy to all. Just two weeks ago he accepted our offer to join the EBA Board as another way to show his committment to his community and his business. Jennifer Asselin of PT 360 was a next door neighbor and offered these comments: “My first impression of Jason was one of a man who was considerate, caring, intelligent and hard working. That initial impression over time was reaffirmed again and again. Even though he was just as busy as all of us, he would take time to talk with you and listened to you. He cared about those around him and his community. Jason was just one of those dynamic people you meet in life that you want to be friends with, and I will miss him.” The EBA will make a donation on behalf of our membership to Jason’s family.

Next Saturday @ Billy’s Lounge in Grand Rapids, MI. Come out and celebrate the life of Jason “J.Stew” Stewart. All proceeds will go to The Stewart Family. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=259324927427838