The family friendly and fun Farmer’s Market on Wednesday evenings has been a weekly staple in Riverbank since May 18 and will continue through Sept. 7. It runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and this past Wednesday, July 20, was “Back to School Night” where the Riverbank Chamber of Commerce collected backpacks to distribute to children that may be in need before school starts.
With 19 kids pre-registered for backpacks and dozens of backpacks donated, a total of 72 backpacks were given out to families in the community.
“Every year the Chamber of Commerce will purchase backpacks for the number of students that registered in advance,” stated Darlene Barber Martinez, Chamber member and City councilmember. “It was awesome to receive backpacks for distribution from members of the Riverbank Community and Riverbank Chamber of Commerce Members. We received donations of backpacks at the Farmer’s Market on Wednesday from Auto Fleet Mechanic, One Church, and St. Vincent De Paul.
“All backpacks were given out.”
There are many festivities that occur at the Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays like live music, car shows, wine tasting, movies and food vendors.
According to Martinez, the attendance at the Farmer’s Market has been increasing every week and along with fruits, vegetables, cheeses, there is also a jump house, live entertainment, food, information tables, and a movie shown at dusk.
“You can have dinner in a relaxing atmosphere at a family friendly event,” explained Martinez. “There is nothing better than to be able to eat fresh fruits and vegetables that are locally produced. If you have an EBT card we have the FINI grant which means we match your EBT purchase up to $10.
“An EBT card holder can purchase more fruits and vegetables.”
Two Riverbank residents, Chris Haubriege and Paris Lake, won tickets to a Modesto Nuts game last week.
Tonight, July 27, the Let’s Move Riverbank free fitness class will be offered and the Ryan Russell Band will entertain guests with live music. ‘Captain America: Winter Soldier’ is the featured movie that will be shown at dusk.
All activities are hosted in and around the Community Center Park.
