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Breaking ground: New farmers' market in Bladenboro [Bladen Journal, Elizabethtown, N.C. :: ](Bladen Journal (Elizabethtown, NC) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Feb. 12--BLADENBORO -- There was an air of excitement on Monday even if the air was a little crisp with a hint of snow as members of Boost the 'Boro met at the vacant lot across from Bladenboro Hardware to break ground for a new farmers' market. John Hasbrouck of Boost the 'Boro opened the event by welcoming everyone to the groundbreaking. "Eight years ago a number of us were enjoying a meal and talking about things," said Hasbrouck. He said as the conversation progressed, they began to talk about the town and the demise of the downtown area. "Someone said why doesn't someone do something?" said Hasbrouck. They did -- giving life to the Boost the 'Boro organization. Hasbrouck said the group had a hand in the green space located on Ashe Street where people can picnic or relax. They have also acquired the Bridger Building and are in the process of working on it. The group also founded and puts on the annual Beastfest. "Today, we are doing something," said Hasbrouck, referring to the farmers' market. He also took a moment to recognize Hiram Hester, who, according to Hasbrouck, has been instrumental in Boost the 'Boro and its activities. Hester was unable to attend Monday's festivities due to an illness. Hasbrouck introduced Dan Ward of the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund who made a presentation of a check in the amount of $48,500 to the members of Boost the 'Boro. Ward said the project was one of 12 that were selected to be funded. N.C. Rep. William Brisson was also present and said, "The farmers will bring their products ot town and they will be the best you can buy in Bladen County." He added that is "great to see some tobacco money coming back to Bladen County." Following the presentation of the check, the group held a ground breaking for the new building. In an earlier interview with the Journal, Tom Lancaster of Boost the 'Boro said the proposed famers' market building will have a front space for a store, handicapped access and will measure about 24 feet by 50 feet with storage upstairs. He added the building will also have a sheltered area where farmers can also set up to vend their wares. The projected completion date is about three months once the footers are in place, said Lancaster. ___ (c)2014 the Bladen Journal (Elizabethtown, N.C.) Visit the Bladen Journal (Elizabethtown, N.C.) at www.bladenjournal.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |