On July 30, 2016, the Phoenix Emporium and Ellicott City was forever changed. We are rebuilding and will reopen. Chef Julio Valles has been with the Phoenix for 14 years. His wife Gloria and daughter Cynthia also worked full-time in our kitchen. Julio is the Phoenix. Every burger, every Reuben, every fish taco has come from the kitchen that Julio has run so efficiently for so long. 

As the flood waters swept through Ellicott City, Julio went INTO the basement trying to place pumps to save whatever he could. In the process, Julio reinjured his shoulder and now has to have rotator cuff surgery to repair the damage. This Friday, October 14th, Julio will have surgery at the University of Maryland. He will be out of work from 3-6 months.

Workmans Comp insurance pays a small fraction of his salary. Julio is a father of four and needs your help in order to stay in his house, pay his utilities, and feed his family during his recovery. 

The Phoenix is committed to helping all of those who helped us become a success. Our employees are extraordinarily grateful for all that you have done for them. Anything you can donate will go directly to the Valles family. Thank you all!