5/31/2013
Matt Mershon, WTVO

ROCKFORD - There were no lack of people on hand to help kickoff Rockford City Market's 2013 season. Nearly 3,400 people made it out for the first night of fun - more than any other year before. Many have been returning since the downtown gathering started four years ago, but some on Friday were out on Water Street for the first time. "We like to pick up the fresh cheese and breads," said Katherine Reece, back for her second year. "Plus it's nice just to have a beer and walk around." For many they come to see downtown vibrant once again. "I've been waiting for things like this downtown a long time," said Kevin Schwitters. "It's nice to see people down here enjoying it." City Market organizers and several Rockford city officials made some remarks to open the market for business. "When we started this market, the idea was to create a weekly ritual, something that could become a gathering spot for the community," said Peter Provenzano, chairman for RRDP. "But also the goal was to incubate start-up companies and fledgling businesses along the way toward their own storefronts and we've been accomplishing both." Nearly 60 vendors are signed up as regulars at this year's market and the market also rolled out a new "Frequent Shopper Card" - attainable for a $100 charitable donation to City Market and allows frequent shoppers to get special discounts and deals at the market. Addtional video included


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