PITTSTON — More than a hundred area residents made their way to Pittston City’s Farmers Market Children’s Day Tuesday, an event that has become a tradition for many.
Sarah Donahue, special events coordinator, said the annual event embodies the family centered spirit that defines the city.
“Our goal is to offer events that are kid-friendly,” she said.
The free event offered special music, balloon making, face painting, story time and tours of the fire station. Children didn’t seem to mind the high temperatures that hovered over 90 degrees.
“Today’s been well attended,” said Donahue. “Last year it rained.”
Bob and Karen DiPietro and their two preschool children come to the Farmers Market every week, but children’s events available Tuesday made the day special.
“They especially enjoyed story time outside,” said Bob DiPietro. “We go to the library often, but this was outside and they enjoyed it.”
D.J. Donnie Evans was manning a “selfie station” which added a variety of filters that youngsters could post to social media.
Children were able to choose between crazy hats, beautiful flowers and even superhero themes to decorate their selfie.
Evans said he often goes out into the community to offer silly selfies that bring smiles to children’s faces.
Theresa Luvender, of Pittston Township, who came to the event with her family, said they especially enjoyed story time with the library’s Miss Kristen.
“It’s the library, but outside,” she said.
Across the way at the fire station, children enjoyed learning about the various firetrucks, getting to know firefighters and getting bright toy fire helmets which many wore throughout the day.
Children gathered around Fire Chief James Rooney as he described how fire personnel respond during a fire call.
Many youngsters were especially interested in the pole which firefighters slide down to take them to fire equipment during an emergency.
Fireman Jamie Merlino lauded Rooney for his talent for holding children’s attention, while educating them about fire safety.
“He’s great with kids,” said Merlino. “He goes out to schools and day cares.”
Many of those attending also took advantage of the opportunity to purchase fruits and vegetables, chili sauce and salsas, and other items available weekly at the market.
