MEET VANESSA, A GWCSA "CORE MEMBER"

To help you get to know the GWCSA "core group" a little bit better , we sat down with Vanessa (okay, we might both have been sitting down, but we were in front of different computers in different places!) and posed some tough and hard-hitting questions about what she does for the CSA and why she does it!

Q: What's your coordinator position?

A: Special Events Coordinator

Q: How long have you been in this coordinator position?

A: This is my second full season.

Q: Have you had any other coordinator positions besides this one?

A: Nope, although I did help the CSA incorporate last year.

Q: How long have you been in the Core Group?

A: Second-and-a-half year in the core group.

Q: How long have you been a member of the GWCSA?

A: This is my 4th season.

Q: Have you been a member of any other CSA?

A: Unfortunately, no.

Q: What are your coordinator responsibilities?

A: I get to plan parties with vegetables! We have annual events like the Farmer Meet-and-Greet Potluck, the Harvest Dinner, and a few arranged trips to the farm. This year I'm excited to announce some upcoming cooking classes, and the Potluck Club (where CSA members take turns hosting and attending potlucks).

Q: What is your favorite thing about being a GWCSA Coordinator?

A: Figuring out fun ways for the CSA community to get together.

Q: What is your least favorite thing about being a GWCSA Coordinator?

A: When I have a great idea and no one returns my email / phone call!

Q: Why is CSA important to you?

A: Because of the CSA I now have a direct relationship with the folks that grow probably half the food I eat. It's assuring to know how dedicated they are, that they pay fair wages, and that the land actually benefits from their growing methods.

Q: What are some of your favorite CSA vegetables or fruits?

A: Kale, rainbow chard, beets, strawberries

Q: What are some of your least favorite CSA vegetables or fruits?

A: Kolrabi and when there's too much lettuce at one time.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being a CSA member?

A: It's a tie: the vegetables and getting to know like-minded neighbors who feel a sense of responsibilty on how to spend their food dollars.

Q: What is your least favorite thing about being a CSA member?

A: Getting to pickup before noon on Saturdays.

Q: Do you have any advice for new CSA members?

A: Go to the farm. Talk to Chris and Eve. Once you see the positive environmental impact of the way they farm it's difficult to go back to the grocery store.