Like many of you, I was shocked by the sudden closing of the Phoenix Public Market. I am still trying to process it. This was our locally-owned center point downtown.

I’ve not made any comments on it because I wanted a better sense of what may come next. So, I have a little more insight for you.

I spoke with Dan Klocke, who is the VP for Development of the Downtown Phoenix Partnership, and board director for the Community Food Connect, which  is the nonprofit organization that runs the Public Market and the outdoor market. This is the group that benefits from our annual Phoestivus Market.

Dan told me that it is up to the landlord what will happen next INSIDE the market. Dan spoke very highly of the building owner as a cooperative partner in finding a new direction and felt confident that something good will come in to the market. Says Dan, “This location has a lot of caché, it has proven itself and people are going to swoop in to take advantage of this location. I believe there will be a good user of the space that will play well off the outdoor market, and who respects local.”

Dan is asking us all to do whatever we can to support the outdoor market in this time of need. Please remember that the market is happening tonight, as usual, and that the last day of the market is this Saturday, where you will be able to get great close-out specials on many of the products you usually enjoy there.

As for the future of the Phoestivus Market, Dan felt confident that we will continue working together on that, too.

Dan is in a tough position with two jobs right now, one very uncomfortable. Please drop by and support the market, as well as the work of the entire staff over there.

Oh, and Cindy Gentry, you are an inspiration and I thank you for all of your tireless hours of work.