Tents set up in a neighborhood park aren’t an unusual sight, but when it’s more than a dozen making an appearance every Sunday, rain or shine, there’s a story to tell.
World Bazaar is a new venture in Hammond’s Hessville Park sponsored by local businesses through their organization called HC3 (Hessville Commerce and Community Creative). Although the event has been light on visitors since its inception about six weeks ago, attendance is on the rise.
“We wanted to recharge the cultural scene in this area, and the World Market is a step toward this,” business owner Jocelyn Prue of White Ripple Gallery said. “This location (Hessville Park) has always — and still is — an iconic landmark. People know this park.”
Vendors offered many different wares — from handmade soaps and vegetables to artwork and honey.
Taste of Heaven Cookies & More offered not only the staple chocolate chip cookie, but a few unique items as well.
“Shoppers are surprised that we sell gluten-free and vegan products,” said Michael Marguez, whose wife, Jill, owns the business. “And there’s a corner of our table for dog lovers to buy freshly made treats for their pets.”
Malisa Martinez lives across the street from Hessville Park and was curious one recent Sunday morning when she saw the tents go up.
“I could see that there were fresh vegetables and fruit, and I immediately headed out the door,” she said.
Not only did Martinez purchase fresh produce, she went home with a half dozen handmade greeting cards and a small piece of artwork.
“This kind of market, with so many different vendors, is important because it gives the community a chance for more growth,” she said.
The HC3 organization of businesses in Hessville is a rejuvenated association formerly called the Hessville Business Association. The group has an aggressive agenda to revitalize the Hessville area.
Live in the Ville is one venue introduced last month to bring entertainment and various art mediums, both indoors and out, to the public.
Another big-ticket item on the drawing board is bringing back the former International Culture Festival, which was an annual fall staple in the Hessville community for many years.
Historically, hundreds of visitors attended the two-day celebration, which highlighted various ethnic backgrounds with dance and food offerings. Also on the schedule were dozens of vendors selling myriad wares, as well as the annual swearing-in ceremony for new American citizens.
“We are in the process of bringing back this popular festival, with the same type of format as in the past. This includes possibly offering it at the original location near Morton High School,” Prue said. “A planning committee is now forming and anyone who is interested can contact me.”
For more information, call Prue at 708-885-1919.
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
More Top Picks Best Samsung Phones