3,000 Help Celebrate Farmers Market Event

What’s an heirloom tomato? Thousands of visitors to the Encino Farmers Market got a chance to find out Sunday during the market’s second-anniversary celebration.

More than 30 farmers and vendors sold fresh flowers, eggs, seafood and a harvest of vegetables--including the juicy heirlooms, bursting with sweetness once their tight skin is pierced.

Operated by more than 20 volunteers, the celebration featured a petting zoo, a performance by a local dance troupe and an appearance by City Councilwoman Laura Chick.

Five percent of sales went to the Organization for the Needs of the Elderly--a tradition since the market began. The group delivers hot meals and provides day care for the aged.

The market’s tarp-sheltered booths were crowded by 3,000 visitors Sunday, despite high temperatures. The scent of freshly baked garlic bagels floated in the air as vendors took orders, and questions, from customers.

Ira Zimmerman, a volunteer since the market started, explained that he helped out every Sunday because his assistance contributed to a good cause. The man with a ready smile sold beverages for a dollar and jokingly announced to passersby, “No one is allowed to pass this point without buying a drink. It’s an order from the Department of Health.”

About 1,000 people visit the market each week. Vendors can only sell items they grew themselves. Each week the market features face painting and a story time for children.

The market is at the Organization for the Needs of the Elderly’s Mark Taper Intergenerational Center, 17400 Victory Blvd., from 8 a.m to noon Sundays.

Cynthia Dean of Los Angeles picked up several items.

“It’s the first time I’ve been here and I found a lot of wonderful things,” she said. “But I think if I cooked more I’d like it even better.”