New farmers market benefits Canyon Crest Academy Foundation

By Karen Billing

A new weekly farmers market opened May 17 at Canyon Crest Academy. Fresh produce and yummy eats are now offered every Thursday from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the new Pacific Highlands Farmers Market, a California-certified market, which ensures everything is grown within the state.

Located at the corner of the lot closest to the Carmel Valley Road and Del Mar Heights Road intersection, the market benefits the Canyon Crest Academy Foundation.

“We’re excited about it. There’s no grocery store in that area so we’re giving people an alternative to get fresh produce, reaching out to the community and supporting the school,” said Marty Foltyn, vice president of marketing for the foundation. “It seemed like a win-win for both the Farmers Market and the Foundation and also for the community. We hope to build some momentum in the last months of school.”

Ron LaChance, who also runs the Leucadia and Mira Mesa markets, said the Mira Mesa market is also held at and supports Mira Mesa High School.

“Mira Mesa is very similar, school gets out and it’s a built-in customer base for students, parents and faculty to run in and shop,” LaChance said. “Having it at a school helps new markets get off the ground.”

There are 10 certified growers, including goat cheese and beef from a cattle ranch.

“There is lots of great produce, some organic,” LaChance said. “All of the vegetables are busting out in season right now, like peaches, apricots, blueberries — and cherry season just started. It’s the perfect season to start the Pacific Highlands Farmers Market.”

The market includes specialty vendors providing items such as cupcakes, marinades and salsas. There are regular tented food vendors selling pulled pork, salads, sandwiches, veggie wraps, gyros and seafood, including baked clams, oysters on the half shell and even sea urchin. A rotation of food trucks will also visit.

“We hope it becomes a regular thing for people to come and eat dinner and get their produce for the next week,” LaChance said.

LaChance said there is also a vendor with potted herbs and fruit trees, who can also provide information for people who are interested in home gardens.

CCA students also plan to be a part of the market, with musicians providing live music.

“It’s a neat plus for the students to be involved,” LaChance said.

A website is being developed but people can learn more at the market’s Facebook page at facebook.com/pacifichighlandsfarmersmarket