Pennington Day (P-Day) has contributed $5,000 to establish a weekly farmers market in the parking lot of the Pennington Quality Market. As a result, the Pennington Farmers Market will begin June 6 and remain open Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through mid-October. Five farms will participate each week, offering fresh local produce.

   ”Our motto is ‘Grown by Many Hands,’” said Cynthia Beloff, designer and manager of the market. “But truly this would not have happened without one helping hand in particular – that of Pennington Day.”

   Pennington resident Rachel Donington Torpey said most farmers markets in the United States are sponsored by “a Main Street organization of some sort. For those of us here in Hopewell Valley, Pennington Day clearly embraces that role of community builder.”

   The market will arrange itself around the Pennington Center signpost, between the two entrances along Route 31. The market will operate just over the borough line in Hopewell Township, and include items grown or produced within 50 miles.

   Expenses for the market’s first year of operations are estimated at $5,000, including the cost of equipment, publicity and a part-time manager. In announcing a seed grant to cover the expenses, Albert Teixeira, Pennington Day board chairman, said his organization raises money “for more than just Pennington Day. We solicit to fund community initiatives that will enhance our local quality of life and raise awareness of our Valley’s roots. A farmers market does this and much, much more.”

   The market also will offer entertainment and exhibits. The list of free educational events already includes cooking classes, live music, environmental workshops, and demonstrations of earth-friendly products and ideas.

   Volunteers are needed to help with every aspect of the Saturday market. Those interested in volunteering should e-mail Hopewell.green@gmail.com.