The plastic is on the new hoophouse! But not without the help of our community. “It takes a village,” they say, and they (whoever “they” might be) were definitely right. We appreciate everyone who came out to lend a hand yesterday. The stress of getting up the second hoophouse is finally easing its way out of my shoulders. 🙂
Important Reminders
- CHANGE IN PRODUCT: The full shares will have jalapenos instead of eggs this week.
- The seventh pickup for Season 2 is tomorrow, Monday, August 22nd. Arrive any time between 3 pm and 7 pm and park on the West side of the property anywhere in front of the commercial kitchen (the big red building with the French doors). If we don’t come out to greet you, you can either knock on the commercial kitchen door, or give us a call at 316-227-7677. We love to give tours, so if you want one, please don’t be afraid to ask. We want you to know where your food comes from!
- If you don’t want a tour and are in a hurry, please call us, so we know when you’ll be here. Then we can be ready with your bag of goodies. The phone number is 316-227-7677.
- We provide you with a reusable grocery bag with all your goodies in it. Please bring it back next week, so we can wash it and reuse it. We’re trying to be more environmentally conscious. The plastic bags we use for the greens are still a work in progress, but that is definitely on my list of things to change.
- The market place is updated on Sundays, so if you want to take a look at what else we have available (besides the things already in your bag), please make your orders on Sunday or Monday morning. We can then add any additional items to your grocery bag.
Next Week's Products 8/22/2022
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 |
| Full Share | Half Share |
| Salad Mix | Salad Mix |
| Okra | Okra |
| Beets | Beets |
| Jalapenos | Â |
| Squash | Â |
Next Week's Products 8/29/2022
 |
 |
| Full Share | Half Share |
| Salad Mix | Salad Mix |
| Tomatoes | Tomatoes |
| Green Chilis | Green Chilis |
| Garlic | Â |
| Beets | Â |
News on the Farm
Putting the plastic on the hoophouse wasn’t the only community endeavor we took on this week. We made our way to the third 2022 Valley Center Farmer’s Market on Thursday where we were humbled by the community’s support (though it helped that we brought tomatoes). The city has been struggling to get vendors, but last week we had a total of six which is better than we’ve had in the past. There were a few cookie vendors, a seasonings place, and a plant vendor. I know it’s small, but I believe it can grow if we remain positive. It’s really nice to have a market down the street that we don’t have to travel a long way for, so if you get the chance, please support this endeavor.
And then there’s the Hornet Hustle which takes place on Saturday, August 27th. This little event is a fundraiser for all the elementary schools and the intermediate school in Valley Center. We’re sponsoring the event because we believe we need to encourage our younger generation not only to embrace learning but to embrace outside activities and be a part of the community. I’ll be the first to say that I think our schools need to change, but I also believe that in order for them to change, it means we need to be involved and make sure our voices are heard.
Also coming up in September is Orie’s Garlic Fest. If you’re a garlic lover, and you want to know more about different varieties, how they differ, and how to cook with them, this event is definitely for you. There are samples, live demonstrations, good music, and some great vendors to explore.
The Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization is throwing its Annual Manhattan Cocktail Competition and Bourbon Tasting event this October in Manhattan. Strong Roots will be supplying food to the event including beets, carrots, and kohlrabi. Everything is planted, and now we just have to keep it alive (fingers crossed). We’re honored to be asked to represent at this event because it means the local food scene is growing! Firefly Farms, Orie’s Farm Fresh, and Myer’s Mushrooms are just a few of the other local vendors that will be supplying the fresh produce to the acclaimed chefs.
Lastly, I’m leaving you with a Sunday Funny which I plan on posting on social media today. Just in case you don’t follow us on Facebook or Instagram, I thought I would share it here too. Sometimes, you just have to get that itch. 🙂
Recipe of the Week
I know, I know. It’s a little early to be bringing back the soups already, but the weather was sooo accommodating this week that it ALMOST felt like fall. (I mean, one of our trees is actually dropping leaves already.) People are always asking me what they should do with okra, and I say, “Eat it.” LOL. Seriously, though, if you don’t want to bread it and fry it (which is the best way to eat okra though PERHAPS not the healthiest) then slice it up and use it in a stir fry or soup.
What's New in the Market Place
We didn’t put tomatoes in your shares this week, but if you still want some, we have some. Check out the    market place for the goods.