Decades ago, the Norwood stretch of Montgomery Road was known as “the pike.” Lined with cute shops and local businesses, the pike was a bustling business district which attracted people from all over Cincinnati. However, since Surrey Square arrived in 1975, many of those businesses have gone away. Enter: Off Pike Market.
In the summer of 2017, Taylor Provins had an idea. “What if Norwood had a market that could bring together local merchants with interested residents?” Something like Findlay Market, but in Norwood and with more than food — jewelers, artists and innovators could be there too. With the help of her husband, Jason Provins, the idea became a reality in November of 2017.
In the 15 months since their first market, the Provins have put on another handful of markets. Looking ahead to 2019, they are primed for even bigger things, thanks to a new location at Victory Park. But, if you ask me, they’re only getting started.
In this episode, we talk about:
- How they organized their first event
- Success stories of local vendors
- Their long-range hopes for what Off Pike Market can do for Norwood
- and much more…
Listen here. ⬇️
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Selected links from Episode 1 about Off Pike Market
Visit the Off Pike Market website to learn more about the market.
This is the article Jon mentioned about why small businesses are vital to Strong Towns.
Here’s where you can learn more about Shumrick & Leys distillery in Norwood.
Check out Gadabout Donuts and Native State, which were two of the businesses mentioned as rising stars from the market.
Read more about the concept of antifragile, which comes up when Jon asks Jason about Nassim Taleb.
Learn more about Third Spaces, which are vital to a vibrant community.
Like the Facebook Page for the Gem of the Highlands 5k to stay in-the-know about the 2019 event.
A few local businesses that Jason and Taylor mentioned are some of their favorites are Bluebird Restaurant and Churchill’s Fine Teas.
Action items
Get in touch with Jason and Taylor by sending an email to [Hello at OffPikeMarket dot com].
#LiveLifeInNorwood, rather than leaving town to work, play and volunteer.
Mark your calendars for 2019 season of Off Pike Market, which will be on the third Saturday of the month, May through September:
- May 18
- June 15
- July 20
- August 17
- September 21
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Move Norwood Forward aims to shed light on the people, businesses and happenings of Norwood, Ohio that are bettering the city. If you know of a person who should be featured on an episode, nominate them here.