Farmers Market to Open for Fifth Season
Apr 08, 2026 10:49AM ● By Stephen B. Clazie
About six years ago, retired Judge Rudolph “Barry” Loncke (right) introduced his friend Vic Cima (left) to Councilmember Rick Jennings (center), who has represented both Sacramento’s Pocket and Land Park neighborhoods since 2014. Here, they walk through the GreenHaven Pocket Farmers Market, discussing its fifth-year grand opening at the Elks Lodge No. 6 parking lot, where three local farmers will offer a wide variety of high-quality fruits and vegetables. Photo by Stephen B. Clazie
SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - About six years ago, retired Judge Rudolph “Barry” Loncke, a resident of Sacramento's Pocket neighborhood, had the idea to introduce his good friend Vic Cima, a Land Park resident, to city Councilmember Richard “Rick” Jennings II, who has represented both neighborhoods since 2014.
In addition to his service on the city council, Jennings has served for 25 years as chief executive officer of the Center for Fathers and Families (CFF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families and building stronger communities. Loncke knew that both Cima and Jennings shared a vision of bringing a farmers’ market to District 7, where residents could purchase locally grown fruits and vegetables directly from farmers at reasonable prices.
Cima, a retired Sacramento entrepreneur, researched how to start and operate a farmers’ market. He learned that experts estimate it can take up to five years for a market to become successful, and that startup funding is essential. This Sunday, April 12, the GreenHaven Pocket (GHP) Farmers Market will mark the beginning of its fifth year with a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Councilmember Jennings at 9:30 a.m.
Looking ahead to the new season, Cima, the market’s general manager, said he is proud that three local farmers will offer a wide variety of high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables.
Reflecting on the market’s early days, Cima expressed appreciation for the support provided from the start by Councilmember Jennings and his chief of staff, Dennis Rogers.
“We truly appreciate their help in securing the funding needed to launch the GreenHaven Pocket Farmers Market,” Cima said.
Jennings previously played for the Oakland Raiders when they won their first Super Bowl.
To this day, Jennings “bleeds Silver and Black” and wears his Super Bowl ring proudly. Last year, he even let Elk 6 President Rob Moore’s son try it on.
The market opens to the public from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cima said, “It will feature fresh produce, a craft fair, live music, food trucks, a face painter and much more.”
Cima also noted, “Terry Catron has been an Elks 6 member since 2007, but this is her first year volunteering as the GHP’s event coordinator. She is doing a wonderful job.”
The opening ceremony will feature a performance of “God Bless America” by Musical Mayhem Productions (MMP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Elk Grove that provides quality theater education for children through rehearsals and workshops.
Although it is spring break for some of the children, 18 performers will still be in attendance.
Sade Browne, a reporter and producer from KMAX 31’s “Good Day Sacramento” (CBS13), will broadcast live from the grand opening.
In an email to Browne, event coordinator Catron added, “There will be pets attending the market with their human companions, perfect interview material!”
The market is known for its dog-friendly environment and annual dog contests. Catron also noted, “We have planned a red ribbon-cutting ceremony with balloons and banners for the farmers market.”
Elks Lodge No. 6 President Carol Mitchell said, “As the new Exalted Ruler, I am excited about the continued commitment to support our community.”
Mitchell, who is following Rob Moore as Elk 6’s president, added, “When I travel, one of the first things I seek out is a local farmers’ market. They offer a direct connection to the heartbeat of a community, its growers, makers and emerging artists. It’s where you experience a place not as a visitor, but as a participant.”
Mitchell, who will emcee the ceremony, will also welcome River’s Edge Church Pastor Dave Johnson to deliver the opening invocation. In an email, she wrote, “Your presence and blessing over our event would help set a meaningful and welcoming tone as we gather with community members, local leaders, families, parishioners and supporters to celebrate this special occasion.”
River’s Edge Church, located across the street from the Elks Lodge, shares that mission.
Pastor Johnson said, “At River’s Edge Church, we are committed to making a meaningful impact on our community.”
Cima, who is a lifetime Elks member, said he is especially proud that the GreenHaven Pocket Farmers Market has become a successful weekly community event that helps to build a better place to live for Land Park and Greenhaven/Pocket residents. He noted that last summer he particularly enjoyed supporting MomCo, a community group that connects mothers of children ages 0-18 and meets at River’s Edge Church.
Art Ballard, president of the 95831 Community Association, said, “I love being near the river and think we have one of the most beautiful and well-maintained neighborhoods in the region.”
Pam Zanze, Elks 6 third vice president, announced, “The grand opening will also include an outdoor craft fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.” She has chaired all Elk 6 craft fairs for the past eight years. “This one will feature 20 local artisans.”
Jay Riddell, known to vendors and customers as the “Market Host,” can often be found strolling through the market, greeting visitors and helping them to find just the right item. He will also assist with setting up Famallama, which will perform for shoppers and vendors. Vic and Terry agreed that Jay is an outstanding volunteer, an amazing asset.
Famallama is a multigenerational family band based in Northern California. The group features three generations of musicians, blending rock, Latin rock, blues, funk, and soul into a distinctive sound.
Band members include Henry Ray, teen guitarist and composer of the band’s original music; Michael “G-pa” Anglin, bassist, contributing to the band’s signature funk sound; and Steve “Dad” Anglin, drummer, providing rhythm and energy.
The band is known for its engaging shows and original compositions, including “Famallama Funk,” as well as lively covers that bring a warm, family-oriented vibe to its performances.
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