ON THE GROW

Gateway Farmers Market dedicates new gazebo

TEXARKANA, Ark. — Patrons enjoyed a mild breeze Saturday morning at Gateway Farmers Market, but they were there for more than fruits and vegetables.

The crowd was at the Jefferson Street market for a historic event — a ribbon cutting for the new gazebo. Mayor Allen Brown gave the dedication speech.

“The gazebo will be available to the public throughout the year and will provide a covered space for events, along with agricultural-related training classes and educational demonstrations,”

Brown said. “When planned landscaping is completed, it will provide a beautiful view, and that will enhance Gateway City Park.”

Brown said since its opening 26 years ago, Gateway Farmers Market has provided a variety of high-quality, fresh food grown regionally.

“The market is also committed to a diversity in farming and food production, and it makes educational programs for family farms a high priority,” he added. “This means that the gazebo will be a helpful meeting place for people to hear new ideas related to agriculture.”

The dedication proclamation was made in honor of Charlotte Fuller. Brown said the Miller County resident and 35-year teaching veteran enjoyed sharing her knowledge of growing plants.

“Whereas Charlotte was an avid volunteer who helped with programs that beautified the city of Texarkana — and brought urban and rural communities together — and in recognition of her work and volunteerism in years past, now therefore I, Allen L. Brown, do hereby proclaim on this day that the Gateway Farmers Market Gazebo is officially opened and dedicated to the memory of Charlotte Fuller.”

Clyde Davis, a local grant writer for the gazebo’s construction, said the building took about a year to finish, adding that the structure’s completion was aided by the Arkansas State Farm Bureau’s Farm Foundation.

“Public school kids will be able to come out to the gazebo and learn how to grow things,” he said.

Davis said the building’s electrical installations also received grant funding from Miller County’s Conservation District.

Market manager Cindy Gladden said the market was the brainchild of former Extension Agent John Turner.

(Staff photo by Greg Bischof) Mayor Allen Brown listens to comments during the dedication ceremony for the new gazebo Saturday at Gateway Farmers Market in Texarkana, Ark.