Hope's newest venture, Downtown Market, held a ribbon cutting ceremony this afternoon to celebrate the new opening. Owner/Proprietor of the flea market, Kamber Henson, said she and husband/co-owner Adrain Henson were excited to start their new business in the downtown Hope area, and she shared with SWARK.Today the inspiration for the new business.

"I've always loved to thrift and find good deals, as well as offer a good deal to others; plus, I think one-of-a-kind pieces are more intersting and appealing. So when the opportunity presented itself for this location downtown, it seemed like a no-brainer," she said. Henson said that she, her husband, their family, and many friends spent a great deal of time renovationg the store. This location is the site of former Ken's Carpet World.

Just before the cutting of the ribbon, Mayor Don Still spoke to the crowd. "We are so proud to have this new business in Hope," Still said. "We hope you have a long run and a good business here in Hope."

Downtown Network President John Sitzes shared a few words, as well. He told the Hensons, "We want to welcome you to downtown, and it's really great to have some more young entrepreneurs investing in downtown." Sitzes complimented the Hensons on the building renovations and said if Hope could continue to have more people like them invest in downtown that the opportunities would be endless.

Kamber Henson told the crowd how grateful she was for the outpouring of support and encouragement that the Downtown Market crew has received from local residents and businesses. She gave a shout out to her vendors as well. "It's not just us. We have about 50 vendors here who are also bringing in some really cool pieces and trying to get you the best deals," she said.

The Hensons said they look forward to what this year brings, and they invite any and all local residents to stop by and check out Hope's newest, trendiest flea market.

Downtown Market is located at 112 East Second Street and open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 6pm.