 Workshops covering such things as green building and cooking all that delicious produce in your CSA box were appreciated. The booth variety was exciting-- from school groups reporting on their environmental projects, the community radio initiative, organic certification information, community-based conservation to regional organizations-- all provided evidence that this region is highly valued by those who spend time here. The meal prepared by Monique Hooker and her assistants set a new standard for what can be done with delectable, organic ingredients.
The VSN booth was great fun, too. We disturbed the peace each hour with our cowbell announcing another drawing for a variety of bluebird houses that the local cub scouts and VSN volunteers created from Nuzum’s donated lumber. The Big Bench raffle tickets sold well. Special thanks go out to the Quebes (Jerry & Liz) and Rusty Hagar who so generously built and donated the benches. Congratulations to our winners, Jack Walker and Topf Wells. In just four short hours at our booth, we gave out many copies of our Owning Rural Lands booklet and other VSN info, talked with lots of folks about our water monitoring, land inventorying and mapping projects and were pleased to welcome some new members as well. It was clear to us that this was a much better venue for us than the county fairs we have been part of in the past. Organic Valley and the Reserve, along with the Village of LaFarge and many others, did a terrific job in organizing a very complex event. The question remains as to how this idea will be carried on, and by whom, to create an annual event for the showcasing of ideas, issues and accomplishments here in the valley. VSN will work with others to further this annual community event. |
