Have an organic Thanksgiving with Parker Street Market

For local and organic products, consider Parker Street Market. A convenience store that owner David Kirby describes as small, bodega-style and community-minded.

Kirby decided to open his market after struggling to find a job or any prospects. Despite having a degree and graduating from law school early, he didn’t have any money. After seeing an empty storefront, negotiating a lease, and working tirelessly, Parker Street Market was born.

“People underestimate the value of sweat-equity,” Kirby said. “That’s worth more than most people realize. If you don’t think you have any opportunities, create one.”

However, Kirby said that his business was so tremendously undercapitalized that it is shocking that they are still running and profitable.

“I’m most proud of still being in business,” Kirby said. “It’s such hard work, but we are getting better and we get new customers every day. I’m just proud that people like what I’m doing. It makes me feel so good about the path I chose.”

A fundamental aspect of Parker Street Market brand is its reputation as a local business that heavily supports other local businesses. A variety of goods from Detroit and Michigan based suppliers and companies available. Kirby said that his store supports many businesses that are run by only one or two people.

“There is a huge movement of local pride, and also a large population that is beginning to understand the importance of good food. It just so happens that we are at the crux of both these movements. Right place at the right time,” said Kirby.

According to Kirby, Parker Street Market has been able to serve as a stepping stone location for local businesses. For example, a cookie company called, What Up Dough, started selling through Parker Street Market and has since grown to 12-13 locations, including one in Ann Arbor.

For prospective customers who are looking to transform their Thanksgiving meals by eating organic, Parker Street Market can readily facilitate holiday needs.

“My biggest recommendation for people who want to have an organic Thanksgiving is to come shop at Parker Street! We’ve got all the essentials and would love for you to see our ever growing selection,” he said.

Parker Street Market comes equipped with great options for an organic Thanksgiving. Customers can make a healthy meal that helps local businesses and from a grander perspective, the city of Detroit and the state of Michigan.

All organic and on the racks are: both brown and roasted turkey flavored gravy, savory herb stuffing, sweet potato puree, pumpkin pie mix, cranberry sauce, a variety of wines, elderberry and rose lemonade bubbly and pecan pie.

WSU freshman Marissa Feldman said that she especially enjoys that Parker Street Market is an easily accessible place for organic choices.

“I know that there are a lot of things in processed food that are unhealthy and bad for our bodies, so I’ve tried to become aware of what I eat,” Feldman said.

Although Feldman acknowledges that the decision to eat organic is often more expensive, she believes that the price is worth it.

“Realistically, what you’re putting into your body matters, and I think that in the long run it does make a difference,” she said.

Parker Street Market is located at 1814 Parker Street, Detroit MI 48214.

Although it is closed on Mondays, from Tuesday to Friday Parker Street Market runs from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. On Saturday, the market opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. and Sundays the hours of operation are noon to 5 p.m.

For more information, call the main visitor’s line 313-458-8867 or check out both their website and Facebook page.

Contact Aleanna Siacon at 586-354-5040 or fv7748@wayne.edu. Follow her on Twitter: @Aterese11.

http://www.thesouthend.wayne.edu/arts_and_entertainment/article_b877c5be-937b-11e5-b115-cb21a474afb7.html