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Positively Philadelphia: Spring Fairs Popping Up In City's Green Spots

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - This time of year, people are out all over the area, holding fundraising fairs and sprucing up area parks to get ready for summer fun.

"Everything benefits Fitler Square, the upkeep, the landscaping, the fountain," said Robin (far right in photo above), who was manning the food stand one Friday earlier this month at the Fitler Square Spring Fair.

"I'm here serving all the goodies, the best hot dogs this side of the Mississippi," she added with a smile.  "We've got baked beans, sauerkraut, and loads of fresh salads."

Catherine Nino (below) was in charge of the white elephant booth where everything is donated -- and I do mean everything.

"We've opened boxes where there have been false teeth," she recalled.  "We've had pots and pans with the food still in them."

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But most of the white elephants are gems.

"I just found a great wood and metal box," said one buyer.  "For 25 cents!  It makes me happy."

One attendee, Brett, noted that his son was too busy eating a giant cupcake to be interviewed.

"He's eating a hot dog and a cupcake -- not necessarily in that order," said Brett.

Another youngster was trying to win a prize.

"I'm gonna try to get a lollipop with a dot," he said.

And he and his grandmother were really excited when he did.

"Wow, you got a prize!"

Edwin H. Fitler was a well-regarded 19th century mayor of Philadelphia, and the square on Pine Street between 23rd and 24th was dedicated in 1896.

"It's a great little oasis in center city," noted a neighbor.

That's Positively Philadelphia!

Reported by Lauren Lipton, KYW Newsradio 1060

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