Spotlight Series: Mark Anderson

I'm Farmer Mark! I have the privilege of running the weekly South Park Farmers' Market on Saturdays. In a nutshell, I'm a banker turned small farmer. I grew up in the Midwest but ventured to UCLA for grad school. Shortly thereafter, I somewhat randomly found myself running a small tomato farm. Wearing the boots of a small farmer, I quickly became convinced that real, locally grown, food is the foundation for healthy living. My organization, Farm Habit, helps connect local farmers with local communities thru farmers' markets. Food is medicine! Come get it!

Los Angeles has many diverse neighborhoods, and you’ve chosen to invest here. Why The Social District?

The South Park neighborhood genuinely feels like a community. It's tight-knit, people support each other—from my first visit I knew I wanted to spend more time here. The farmers' market works closely with the South Park Bid, and the opportunity to work with Nolan and his team was a big draw. They are making South Park into a destination. For a farmers' market operator, this is a really exciting place to be.

When you’re not working, what do you love to do in The Social District?

The Grammy Museum is always a treat. After a visit I like to grab lunch at Pine and Crane. Even when it's not a market day, I love walking down Grand Ave. On a clear day, you can see the mountains in the distance between the tall buildings---it's such a beautiful neighborhood!

Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of The Social District in the next 5-10 years? What are your hopes and aspirations for the community?

I think South Park is on track to be the premier destination neighborhood in DTLA. As the neighborhood grows, I'd like to see the connections between people continue to grow. I also hope that small businesses thrive, and that more unique, indie shops open. In my mind, these two things are connected. When you support a small business you're supporting a neighbor, possibly a friend. You're also investing in what makes your neighborhood special!

How are you a part of shaping the future of The Social District?

When I'm walking through a farmers' market I feel like I'm on vacation. There's live music, gorgeous produce, hand-shaped loaves of bread—so much human connection and creativity! Markets make ordinary neighborhoods into lively, happy spaces. South Park was already a great neighborhood, but I hope our market is helping to make it a destination.

The Social District hosts a lot of events, from awards shows to sporting events to concerts. What’s an event you’d want front row seats to attend and where in The Social District would you go before or after the big event?

My dream evening would be dinner at Shibumi and then a Lakers game. On second thought...that's too much for one evening! I need a whole weekend. I'd enjoy a long Friday dinner at Shibumi. Saturday, after the farmers' market I'd catch a Lakers or Sparks game with my family! That would be amazing.