No market on Jan 29, 2021

The forecast for Friday night before the market called for snow and freezing temperatures, along with wind and highs in the 20’s for Saturday. Since our vendors come from Richmond, and the counties of Albemarle, Henrico, Augusta, Greene, Orange, Nelson, Madison, Goochland, Rockingham, etc., and are on the roads before 6:00 a. m., we did not want to put them or you at risk on potentially icy roads.

Good Phyte, The Homestead Oven and Moonmaiden’s Delights are offering a pop-up market at 1111 Rose Hill Drive #3 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Sussex Farm will be at 200 W. Water St. for pre-order pickups, also from 10:00 to 1:00.

Another bit of news that reached us last night, is that the Ix Complex is for sale. There are no imminent plans that would impact the market, but a new owner would eventually carry out whatever plans they have. The bad weather and lack of a permanent home for the farmers market reminds us why Market Central was founded. Way back in 2002, Market Central was formed to advocate for the interests of farmers markets in the community. The need for a permanent home is enhanced when obstacles arise. With a permanent home, the market could build structures for shelter and open more than four hours per week to lessen the impact of bad weather. Vendors and customers could connect on a better day. More opportunity for local commerce allows for the development of small, sustainable businesses, equitably building wealth and self-determination across marginalized and non-marginalized communities. Business and housing development in the city is bringing in workers and residents who will want access to fresh, healthy food during the week, avoiding the recent food supply chain issues. To realize the undisputed public benefits that local markets bring to communities, our community of vendors, customers and supporters should work together to establish the kind of market we want. Market Central has experience, ideas, and a history with this kind of work and we are ready to take the next steps. Let us know if you are interested!

See you next week at the Farmers Market at Ix.