Scheele's Market Block Party Fundraiser Today

Friends of have organized a community block party to raise funds for the market's continuing operation at 1331 29th St.

The Friends of Scheele's is a group of committed community members, including Mike Peabody and Marilyn Melkonian, who have been working tirelessly with the property owner, Jordan O’Neill, to ensure that a small grocery store can thrive in the area.

Friends of Scheele’s for the space including a renovation of the property. The group has already made its first payment of $20,000 toward that agreement.

"The block party will help raise the funds needed to complete a final agreement with the property owner of the building to guarantee that Scheele’s remains open for at least 15 more years," according to an email about the event.

The party will also serve as both a "farewell" and a "welcome." Neighbors can say goodbye to Shin K. and Kye S. Lee, who have run the Georgetown Market for more than 20 years, but recently decided to retire. They can also meet the , who recently signed a new 10-year lease for the corner grocery store.

Attendees will be treated to alfresco dining and music by Wayne Wilentz at the keyboard and Sidney Lawrence on vocals.

The block party is open to all for a contribution of $75 per person. Checks can be made payable to “Friends of Scheele’s” and delivered to Mike Peabody’s house at 2811 Dumbarton St. or to Tom Birch at 1240 29th St.