Storm Rolls Through Rochester's Public Market
By: Caroline Tucker
Updated: September 8, 2012
Rochester's Public Market has had a pretty dry summer season, until Saturday, when a storm rolled through causing some to seek shelter.
"Unfortunately artwork is just paper, not good for rain," said Jahaka Mindstorm as he pulled his artwork off of a fence.
He had to close up shop at the Rochester Public Market as the storms rolled through.
"People don't stop to look when they are wet," said
It's a temporary hit to business that he wished came on his day off.
"I feel really good for farmers but I wish it held off until tomorrow, tomorrow being the first Sunday of the Superbowl season I will be indoors anyways," said Mindstorm.
Workers and shoppers were caught in the middle.
"You can see the rain coming, then they gave the announcement and that's when everyone got worried," said Brandon Hamilton, a market employee.
Fruit and veggie vendors shouted through the raindrops.
"A little water isn't going to hurt anyone, we are living next to Lake Ontario, used to water, so come out and shop," said Jim Markese, a vendor worker.
Strong winds caused at least one stand to collapse. But it meant some free produce for shoppers who were able to pick up what was left.
"It's sad because such a limited time to make money and sad that happened," said Laurie Keefe, a worker.
Other vendors has to tear their tents down, while some stood holding their tents up.
"They said it was going to be a little windy today but that was a little overstatement" said Harry Trimm, as he stood with his arms in the air struggling to hold on to his tent.
The fast moving storm put a damper on the market but it's nothing Rochestarians haven't seen before.
"If you like it now, you are going to love it in the winter," said Markese.
Many of the vendors said they had a pretty dry summer so the day's rain and wind didn't dampen spirits too much.
They plan to be back at the market next week, rain or shine.
