Aynsley Meldrum didn't have to travel far for her new job.
The new face of the Port Coquitlam Farmers' Market, which opens Thursday, is the volunteer treasurer of PoCo Heritage — the historical society also based in Leigh Square Community Arts Village.
"Before I was a shopper at the farmers' market," she said. "Now, I'm running it."
The PoCo resident takes over the managerial duties from Kathy Marven and she said there are a few changes to the eighth season: There will new vendors selling their products as well as an expanded kids' zone that will include a Lego station near the BMO branch.
As well, the city will have a weekly presence at the market as it promotes its civic events such the PoCo Grand Prix — happening on July 15 as part of the BC SuperWeek race circuit — and its outreach programs such as water conservation.
The city's artists-in-residence at Leigh Square will also be involved in displays, she said, and service groups like the Wilson Centre, Burke Mountain Naturalists and Scouts Canada will rotate at a community kiosk.
Meldrum, who has a background in community development, said shoppers can expect to see regular vendors of produce, baked goods (including gluten free), liquor, cheese and other treats.
And there will be weekly themes that encourage cycling, gardening and healthy eating, for example.
Meldrum said the market drew an average of 1,500 shoppers a week last year and she wants to see that number grow. Unlike the Coquitlam farmers' market, PoCo's is in the downtown core, is within walking distance for thousands of residents — especially those coming off the West Coast Express — is held mid-week and in the late afternoon.
"I think it's important for Port Coquitlam to have this in the community," she said, "because it brings people together."
• A celebration cake will be served at 4 p.m. Thursday to mark the opening of the eighth annual Port Coquitlam Farmers' Market, with Mayor Greg Moore. The market is run by the Haney Farmers Market Society and is sponsored by Vancity. It runs on Thursdays from 3 to 7 p.m. at Leigh Square Community Arts Village (beside PoCo city hall).
••••••••
Weekly market themes
June 2: Opening day
June 9: Bike to the market
June 16: Gardening 101
June 23: Strawberry days
June 30: Wild and woolly
July 7: Art at the market
July 14: Red Wriggler Day
July 21: Playing with clay
July 28: Doggie days
Aug. 4: Tomato contest
Aug. 11: Zucchini races
Aug. 18: Mad Hatter's Tea Party
Aug. 25: Corn roast
Sept. 1: Hug a farmer
Sept. 8: Veggie day
Sept. 15: Apple pie contest
Sept. 22: Teddy bear picnic
Sept. 29: Stone soup
