Cherry Hill Gourmet Market celebrated its own independence from a long, hard-fought zoning battle by welcoming the community to enjoy free food and music during a Fourth of July party that took place a week before the holiday.
In May, Cherry Hill won approval from the City Council to stay in business for another 10 years. The market had been operating illegally in the landmarked Lundy’s building at 1901 Emmons Avenue, which is located in a special zoning district that limited commercial use to “waterfront and tourist-related activities.” Cherry Hill’s violation of the zoning law was a a divisive issue in the community.
Vietnam veteran Jim Markson (center right) presented a copy of his book, Vietnam and Beyond, Veteran Reflections to Sheepshead Bay Brooklyn, NY CHERRY HILL GOURMET store owner David Isaev (center left) Also pictured: Sam Nitka (far left) and Iraq and Afghanistan war veteran Andrew Thompson.
“This was about letting the community know that everybody in the neighborhood is welcome,” said Cherry Hill co-owner Samuel Nitka. “We were able to prove that if you make a mistake, you can fix it by working with the community and local representatives.”
Samuel Nitka is the son of a Polish Holocaust survivor from WWII who offers a 15% store discount to all veterans who show their military I.D. It is his way of giving back to America. Over 95% of the Nitka Family perished during the Holocaust. Sam Nitka said, “the men and women who serve are like Angels to protect us.” He remembers being about 10 years old and watching the Soldiers being spat upon as they returned from the Vietnam War. Sam recalled one Soldier and a neighbor of his in full uniform with all of his medals. Sam was in awe of the 27 year-old man who never spoke of his experiences until many years later. The Cherry Hill Gourmet Store currently employs two Veterans from the Vietnam and Iraq Wars.
More than 170 people came to the event, Nitka said. The market served food prepared in their store, including stuffed artichokes, kebabs, hummus, turkish eggplant, and baba ghanoush. A band performed Russian, Turkish, and American music.
“It was like a family celebration. Everyone was celebrating together,” said Raisa Chernina, who was one of the guests. “For the community, it doesn’t matter which language you speak. We are all working under one umbrella.”
Nitka said Cherry Hill was looking forward to hosting more celebrations during the holidays and would continue to support and engage with the community. They are open 24/7.
“We were the first business in the area to open after Sandy. A lot of people appreciated that,” Nitka said. “We’re glad to be part of the community and have an opportunity to welcome anyone and everyone.”
WE LOVE VETERANS! jennylasala.com/
Photo Source: Raisa Chernina.
