Honest Weight Coop Scoop April 2022 by Honest Weight Food Co-op

Coop Scoop

Earth Day April 2022

https://www.ohmycodvegan.com/

Spotlight on Environmental Stewardship at Honest Weight Top Ten Crops for a Productive Summer Garden: Tips from an Organic Farmer

Secrets of the Bulk Department

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Earth Day April 2022 Features

From Head to Toe: Honest Weight’s Green Infrastructure

Up ks!

mates a 67% Yorkt we’re emp-

Double Up Food Bucks is a nationwide fruit and vegetable incentive program, servicing millions of SNAP users, active in 20+ states at over 800 farmers markets, CSAs, farm stands, mobile markets, and grocery stores. The program gives shoppers $1 for every $1 spent with SNAP, so you can purchase even more produce. A match of up to $20 a day could mean $40 for healthy foods. Why is this important? Because too many people don’t have access, even with government aid, to the amount of healthy food needed to support families. Sign up is free and the dollars never expire. In New York State, Double Up has contributed to 1.1 million pounds of healthy food sales to over 24,000 customers, at more than 130 sites spanning 23 counties. Visit our Service Desk to sign up and go to honestweight.coop for more information on the program.

Learn how and why we build with sustainability from the green roof at Maria College’s cafe to the main store’s pavement.

By Ruth Ann Smalley

tion of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits that Topseen TeninCrops we’ve a singlefor year. Which is a Productive why we’re so excited to participate in Summer Garden: Double Up Food Bucks!

Tips from an Organic Farmer

It’s Lovin’ Mama Farms giving you the intel for garden success!

By Corinne Hansch

The Secret Life of a Pollinator Garden

Spotlight on Environmental Stewardship at Honest Weight Honest Weight is making a positive impact on our environment! Read an interview with the Environmental Committee and updates on current projects and events. Join us to make a difference!

By The Editorial Team

Elizabeth Meer’s journey from idea to living beauty: growing and teaching about pollinator gardens right here at Honest Weight.

By Catherine Jura

Happenings at the Co-op

What’s Fresh

By Deanna Beyer

Co-op Community Outreach Highlights

Honest to Goodness

By Deanna Beyer

Springtime Asparagus, Greens, Artichoke, Mushroom, and Squash Risotto

Lemon Sunshine Curry

Recipe Corner

By Hali Bey Ramdene

The Status of my Order

Poetry

By Ben Goldberg

Recipe Corner

By Melanie Pores

Secrets of the Bulk Department

Co-op 101

By Rebecca Angel

Hudson Valley Seed Company

Producer Profile

By Pat Sahr

What’s Fresh?

By Deanna Beyer

Cover Photo: Corinne Hansch Illustrations: Jane Welch & Mathew Bradley ISSN 2473-6155 (print) • ISSN 2473-6163 (online) The Coop Scoop is for informational purposes only, and not intended as medical or health advice. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. The views of our guest writers do not necessarily reflect those of Honest Weight, and we do not take responsibility for them.

Coop Scoop

Heal

Farm-Raised Fish Facts

By Lenku Nauta

Links to informational sources can be found in the online version of can be found on Page 19

Honest Editors ty and doctor visits and various new health regimens I’ve had to adopt due to these sudden revelations has greatly intensified This wasn’t an ordinary my personal yearlong ordeal. film about our

Rebecca Angel has been a part of Honest Weight for years, and Coop Scoopiseighteen Managing Editor of the Coop Editors When not atScoop. the co-op, Rebecca is a teacher, musician, and writer, currently working on a memoir about her experience with Cushing’s syndrome. www.RebeccaAngel.com Deanna Beyer is the Education & Engagement Coordinator at Honest Weight. A long-time teacher Rebecca Angel and practitioner of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, she focuses on helping to make these practices accessible to people in all kinds of situations. You can reach her at deannab@honestweight.coop Carol Reid, our Assistant Editor, is a retired cataloger at the New York State Library, where she Carol Reidworked for over 35 years. She wrote a 10-year blog called “Typo of the Day for Librarians” and has been a Co-op member since the 1980s. Ruth Ann Smalley PhD, is our Content Editor. An educator and writer, with a 4-digit Co-op member number from the early 90s, Ruth Ann offers wellness, writing, Ruth Ann Smalley and creativity coaching through her practice at www.vibrant-energies.com or www.ruthannsmalley.com. Mathew Bradley is our Layout Editor. He has been the Lead Designer at Honest Weight since the new store. Outside the co-op, he enjoys writing music with his band, tending to his Deanna Beyer garden, and training his English Cocker Spaniel, Cricket, for field work.

Letter Letter from from an an Editor Editor By Mathew Bradley By Carol Reid

hisvery has been rather fraught year I time aApril comes around, back year at forthink me and not to justmy forjunior the obvious Sage Collegereasons. of Albany.I’ve Likealso most Covid-related students, chance to branch learned thatI Ihad havethe two different physicalout and enjoy some courses outside the core disorders, one fairly common for people curriculum, so I chose one about documenmy age and the other one far less common. tary filmmaking. On our first day, Professor I made the first discovery right at the Penny Perkins dedicated the whole class to beginning the pandemic and“Plastic the other breakingofdown the short film Bag” one just after getting my second vaccine directed by Ramin Bahrani. Little did I dose. Onhow top much of thethis anxiety and isolation know film would make me and fears of leaving the house in general think about all the things I could be doing (just everybody for like our dear Motherelse), Earthattempting and how wetocan ease the impact wewith humans have had on it. simultaneously deal all the uncertain-

Fresh News!

impact on the Earth where you’re endlessly bombarded with data and graphs. This was But obviously, I’m not the only one who’s a dramatic first-person journey, voiced by been struggling with such issues—whethWerner Herzog, following along a plastic er bag's for oneself or one’s family dream to live among the members, swirls of the friends, colleagues; Covid-rePacificor Trash Vortex. whether Mr. Herzog perfectly lated or not;the whether or bag routine. embodies voice ofserious the plastic eagerIt’slyenough tounderstand make you downright trying to its purposesick, in the world. pinesdesperate for its “maker” who first and oftenItquite and depressed it feel have real,been purposeful, You to made boot. People afraid totactile. make or watch its journey through reuse, being keep their medical appointments, to go in finally finding itself forthrown testing,away, or toand even be around other in the Pacific Trash Vortex, a trash island afflicted people. Mental and emotional about twice the size of Texas. With that illnesses have been exacerbated and are image fresh in my mind, I knew I needed to sadly the rise. But there are also a lot of findoncommunities that value this Earth. resources available online right now, and After a quick google search, I found Honest there’s hope that wegrocery can finally Weight, this little storebeat thatthe was Virus and deal with whatever elseplanet mightthat be I creating harmonies with our currently ailing to us.hear more from! was yearning Looking through this month’s Coop I’m of stillthegleaning information In Scoop, this issue Coop Scoop, entitledon how we can be better stewards to her Earth “Heal,” Rebecca Angel writes about from the Honest Weight community today. own experience with healing heartburn; Want to learn how what’s to shopgood withfor reusable Melanie Pores makes you containers? Check out Rebecca’s tips for also taste good with her delicious shopping the Bulk section! Not sure what Date-Sweetened Smoothie recipe; “Green Infrastructure” is? Ruth AnnRuth breaks Ann Smalley gets to the root of things it down and walks you through howwith we’re anusing article Agriculture; it aton ourRegenerative new Maria College location. and [etc.]. We’re that all efforts of the of Frustrated withhoping your gardening articles andLovin’ information contained the past? Mama Farms' ownherein Corinne opens up a path to success & her will contribute to helping all with of ustips on our top tenjourneys veggies toward to grow this summer! personal renewed health I hope this issue helps guide you just as Mr. and healing. Bahrani’s plastic character guided me.

We’ve started with a modest plan “What exactly IS an “edible garden?” that includes some of the “easier” Whenever I try to explainI’m explain plants to grow (including: lettuces, this to someone, I inevitably hear tomatoes, zucchini squash, pole Gene Wilder in Willie Wonka and the beans, peppers, and various herbs) Chocolate Factory saying, “Everyand hope to expand our planting thing inside is eatable, I mean edible, I mean you can eat everything.” based on what works (or doesn’t) this Basically, it’s a garden that everyyear. Any surplus harvest will be used one is invited to harvest from. If to supplement our on-going fills at you’re hungry and you want to try Free Food Fridge’s Albany locations. Beets are both delicious something, go ahead and pick it! a n d n u tr i ti ou s, Look b u t nfor ot the Edible Gardens in the We now have keto & vegan-friendly Inspired by various urban gardens beautiful always the easiest thingraised wooden beds created jams! Suitable for diabetics, these to cook. If you’re fan that are popping bynot ourafriends at ADK Rustica and the GF, no added sugar spreads will up around the world food prep orstainless are short in cravings an effort the to address foodof insecurity, trough tubs on the exterior help you satisfy your on time, give these By Human Soandso n a t u r a l w a y. T h eHonest a p p r o Weight a c h o f is working on cultivatwall of the patio. And if you’re interwhole, peeled, cooked, and G o o d G o o d i s s i m p l e a n d m i n ested in being a part of this project in ing an edible landscape that anyone With the help of a new team of ready-to-eat treasures a i malistic: a few main caningredients, harvest, share, and enjoy free. theAisle future, member-owners, we’ve officially try!for Find them in 1. please reach out to me at authentic, and absolutely no deannab@honestweight.coop. It’s in part of1.our ongoing mission to launched our first added eversugars. Edible Find them Aisle make good, fresh food accessible to all. Gardens! You might be wondering,

Good Good Jams

Gefen Organic Red Beets

Incredible Edible Gardens!

PHOTOGRAPH BY LIZA MOLLOY EARTH DAY

lOl

lOl By Deanna Beyer

What is a Co-op? By Rebecca Angel

If you’re new to Honest Weight, you might be wondering what makes us different from any other grocery store. There are lots of things, but probably the biggest is that we’re a community-owned co-op!

Secrets of the Bulk Department

this helps in trying to identify stuff back home without having to sniff everything.) Bought too much? Ask for help. Spill? Ask for help. I once left a container of maple syrup overflowing everywhere. I was tempted to run away from the scene of the crime, but I fessed up. Apparently, I wasn’t the first. No bare hands in containers, and no sampling. If you want to try something, ask the staff. It depends on the item. Even if you can’t try something, a staff member can explain what it is. There are some weird, I mean interesting, items to explore. The main aisles of Bulk are pretty easy to navigate, but the spice aisle can be cramped. Chill and take your turn. Be Hot Bar, prepared toSalad, trade recipe secrets. (Adobo has so many uses!) Be and Cafe are aware of “clean” versus “used” scoops. Note that certain bins that pour, pourBack, out quickly! with In case I didn’t mention it, don’t leave a container to fill and a New Option! walk away. It’s tempting, but trust me. Stay there. After what has seemed like forever, the Honest Weight Kitchen is excited to have re-opened both the SSalad Bar and& HHot Bar, including daily soup offerings. AndAlso in other big news: they have also launched the brand-new Build-Your-Own Burger & Fries Bar, available from from 11am to -7pm dailyeach day. Take it from those of us who’ve been lucky enough to sample them, (including meat, vegetarian, and vegan options), this is a MUST TRY for all! After grabbing your food, you are welcome to enjoy your meal in our newly reopenedre-opened Café space, or out on our beautiful, sunny patio with lots of comfortable seating.

he first time I visited Bulk, I did it all wrong. Bob, one of the Bulk managers, kindly set me straight. Bring in a clean container and have it weighed at the service desk. You have to do this every time, even with the same containers. New containers for bulk can be found right in that department, along with twist ties, paper or plastic baggies, and little pencils. Don’t write down the price for the item, just the PLU number. It’s helpful to also write what’s in the container on another sticker. This way the cashier can be sure they typed it in correctly. (Plus,

Honest to Goodness!

Co-op Community Outreach Highlights By Deanna Beyer

Glass Recycling Piolt Project Z e r o Wa s t e C a p i t a l District has launched an ambitious Glass Recycling Pilot Project here at the Co-op, to ensure that the glass is truly being recycled rather than heading to the landfill. To make it successful, wereturnable need your Ever wonder what happens to all of the help!toInstead of throwing bottles that make their way the Co-op? We’ve recently started donatingclear all of them glass to inLittle your Brook single Farm Sanctuary. The kindstream folks atbin thisathorse home,rescue bring will be picking them up it each week (usually about to the Co-op. $20-$30 worth) and collecting the funds to help care for over 100 back in 1977, Little Justhorses. followEstablished these simple steps: Brook Farm is collection one of thebins oldest rescues in lockers the U.S. • Locate the near our bike They run a program called BITS, which provides • Only place clear, clean glass in the bins educational, vocational, and therapeutic programs Make sure tohorses remove the lids and little with• the rescued as both working partners. plastic rings (labels are ok)

Returnable Bottles for Horse Rescue

Co-op Outreach is Back!

March was our busiest Outreach month since the beginning of the pandemic. We provided lunch for Holy Names’ Women’s History Month Stuff the Bus volunteers; LenKu Nauta has worked for the co-op's Meat dep't for over eight years and loves supported a women’s yoga class for refugees the organization’s high-quality ingredients. h e r ecommitment i s a l ototfresh, o f local, m isustainable sSeasonal living at the Ramada Inn; hosted breakfast with In his sparestime, LenKu enjoys the piano, hiking, and horticulture. ion-based work that Produce Grand Street; partnered with theLocal African-Amerigoes on behind the can Culture Center on The Need for Black and could be fresher than all of your favorite scenes here at the Co-op Brown Volunteers event; hosted a What DIY Chocolate produce arriving daily from local farms? (could we and out in the community – in fact, Coffee Body Scrub station for Troy High School’s include a in couple it keeps us pretty busy! Sometimes Staff Development Day; participated the of relevant farm names here?It’s growing season too busy to even mention, so here are Capital District’s annual Mac-n-Cheese Bowl; andand we’ve got farm-fresh fruits and veggies fromLaw all over the area. So, whether you’re welcomed a group of students from Albany just a few things you might be looking for nNon-GMO sweet corn, crisp cucumbers, School to the store for a tour and samples. interested to know. or super juicy, tiny strawberries, we’ve got you covered! Be sure to check out all the beautiful new arrivals next time you’re here.

Coop Scoop

APRIL 2022

PHOTOGRAPH BY RUTH ANN SMALLEY

Spotlight on Environmental Stewardship at Honest Weight By Alex Mytelka, Rebecca Angel, Deanna Beyer, and Ruth Ann Smalley

very April, people worldwide celebrate Earth Day, with a renewed sense of purpose for trying to make our world a better place. Here at Honest Weight, we try to make every day Earth Day. We’re involved with many initiatives, and deep work behind the scenes that you might not have realized or heard about! Here’s a peek at some cool stuff we’re doing.

Coop Scoop

MARCH 2022

Environmental Committee

Honest Weight’s Environmental Committee started when Tracy Frisch wrote about our need for one, in the spring 2017 Co-op Voice. Three people responded, including Elaine Hills, now co-chair. With a strong desire to support the store in building on its environmental commitment, they requested and received board approval by fall 2017. We spoke with them recently. What are some highlights of this past year? A major project that required a lot of legwork was partnering the Co-op and Co-op members with Bull Rock Community Solar. We have committee members who bring a wide range of fantastic skills and gifts to the table; that has been an asset to both the committee and the Co-op. Dedicated members have worked on projects ranging from compiling research about solar companies in the area and setting up meetings with them, to assisting with analyzing the utility expenses and providing input to the board and staff on their findings. Other committee members have offered their time and talent to research and assemble presentations on Zero Waste in our homes, communities, and beyond. The fruits of that are now being reaped by the Co-op community, as we launched the first of three “What Can We Do?” workshops in February. That event, "Plastics Recycling in the Capital Region and Beyond: Myths vs Markets," had an impressive attendance on Zoom of over 150 participants. The second part of the series, "What Do We Do About Zero Waste in Our Homes?" appeared on Zoom, March 3rd, 2022. Our committee has also received approval from the Board of Directors to begin work on a manual to help guide the Co-op toward even more sustainable decision-making. This will take

several years to assemble, but the w o r k h a s b e g u n a n d i t is very exciting! What are some challenges? The first challenge any committee faces, I would imagine, is the need for more help! We are so proud of the work we have been able to accomplish, but the workload is heavy and everyone leads very full lives. Many of us (including the two co-chairs!) are j u g g l i n g c o m m i t t e e wo r k w i t h raising and homeschooling children, and running a homestead. Somehow the work gets done, but we welcome new members with a passion for the environment, a love for the Co-op, and a wish to use their time helping meet the goals set out in our ever-expanding work plan. And finally, what is your hope for the future for Honest Weight and its commitment to environmental concerns? We’ r e g r a t e f u l f o r Ho n e s t Weight’s commitment to sustainability. We hope to help the store deepen its commitment to implementing environmentally sound decisions and policies. Fo r i n s t a n c e , c o n t i n u i n g t o maximize the food available in bulk, as we continue working towards zero waste. Our bulk department distinguishes the Co-op from most other stores, and should absolutely be celebrated as a highlight. Our current commitment to Zero Waste is laid out i n Ho n e s t We i g h t ’s s t a t e m e n t of conscience:

“

We are committed to reducing waste generated at Honest Weight locations and by the products purchased at the Co-op as much as possible, as well as promoting, teaching, and practicing Zero Waste principles.

”

Our hope is to help further implement that work and to collaborate and work closely with

EARTH DAY

the staff, members, and board of the Co-op to bring that to fruition. Thank you to the Environmental Committee for taking the time to answer questions for the Coop Scoop!

Want to gear up and get super intentional about avoiding single-use plastic waste? Here’s an amazing resource! No need to wait until July to make a difference:

PlasticFreeJuly.org Recycling and Zero Waste Efforts: Clothing: Our OneWorld contribution for 2021 was so impressive, we’ll need a future article to do it justice! Long (inspiring) story short, this great organization collected the equivalent of 570 lbs of clothing and shoes each week, for a grand total of 29,630 lbs for reuse. Stay tuned for more details in a future Scoop, and keep on keeping t h o s e clothes out of the landfill! Techno Trash: Between May 2021 and March 2022, we’ve helped take 800 lbs of techno trash out of our homes, while keeping it out of the waste stream! We value this service, but to continue carrying the cost associated with it, we need your assistance! Please follow the guidelines about what can be deposited in the receptacle near the store exit, and help us maintain a clean area around the box.

E-waste Event: Since the Greendisk Techno Trash box only holds so much, our popular Annual e-Waste Collection will return on Saturday, April 23rd, from 11am to 3pm near our Garden Patio. Most electronics can be safely disposed of, free of charge (s e l e c t i t e m s m a y i n c u r a m i n i m a l c h a r g e) . S p a c e i s limited: items accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. You must be able to unload your own items from your vehicle into the bins. We are NOT able to accept CRT televisions at this event. For more specific information, exclusions, and a complete list of acceptable items, please visit our website. Glass Recycling Update: In 2021, Honest Weight became ground zero for an ambitious glass recycling pilot project initiated by Zero Waste Capital District, addressing a major flaw in the single-stream recycling system. We started with a few blue bins, a request for clear, clean glass (no lids or plastic rings attached), and the hope that it would be a success. Just ten months later our community has helped divert an estimated 42 cubic yards of clear glass from the landfill, directly to a glass recycling facility. Just envision 42 cubic yards as about four large dump trucks of glass. That’s a massive, meaningful accomplishment! Program supporters are Zero Waste Capital District, Food-

scraps360, Tomra, and Strategic Materials, along with our Co-op shoppers. Thanks for everyone’s dedication and commitment!

Sustainable Store Adaptations

To prevent major losses and significant food waste caused by power outages, the store invested in a Generac backup generator in 2019. It has served us well in the multiple outages that have occurred since it was installed. In 2020, in light of concerns about airborne viruses, we upgraded the store’s air filtration system, moving from MERV 8 to MERV 13 air filters to improve air quality. In 2021, Dyson Airblade hand dryers with HEPA filters were installed in the bathrooms, to reduce reliance on paper, as well as to prevent frequent plumbing problems due to improper paper towel disposal. Designed to remove 99.97% of bacteria, these dryers have multiple 3rd party certifications for their safety and sustainability.

Local Energy It is official: 100% of HWFC's energy comes from the Sun via community solar! In 2021, 186 households from the Honest Weight community joined us in signing up for community solar through our partnership with Bullrock Community S o l a r. To g e t h e r, w e c r e a t e d enough demand for a new HWFC-dedicated farm to be built in Castleton, NY. Though this

second farm experienced COVID-related construction delays, it is currently coming online. For subscribers who haven't yet seen savings on their bill, please be patient, it is in progress! As of January 2022, Honest Weight's physical location and many member households have been receiving 100% of their energy from this farm.

Want Community Compost at the Coop?

Now that our community donates clothing, recirculates books, and recycles clear glass and electronic gadgets here, we’re hearing requests for public composting drop-off, too. Location, cost, and cleanliness are all considerations. Let us know your thoughts and suggestions! Would you utilize such a service? Would you be willing to pay a participation fee? Interested in joining a committee to explore this possibility?

Email your ideas to DeannaB@honestweight.coop

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Coop Scoop

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APRIL 2022

Producer

Profile

Specials. We also accept SNAP benefits. How is Honest Weight part of the local food system? If buying local is important to you, we’re one of the best places around to shop. Co-ops form strong relationships with local, small-scale producers, which means you can find products that aren’t typically available at traditional supermarkets. At Honest Weight, we work with over 285 local farms and 319 local producers; that list is always growing. And because we get daily deliveries, it means fresher, lower-impact food that hasn’t travelled across the country for days.

ImmuneSchein Ginger Elixirs Saugerties, NY

orinna Geib grew up in the countryside of southern Germany and was influenced early on by her grandfather—an herbalist, gardener, and passionate naturalist. As a child she was always interested in what he did, and he planted in her the seeds of loving nature and creating foods from its abundance. When she was 18 years old, after reading Healthy and Fit with Ginger by Ellen Heidboehmer, Corinna began making a concoction of ginger, lemon, and honey and sharing it with friends and relatives. Years participating in an Whatlater, is after a community-owned co-op? It’s a grocery by to its herbal remedy workshop, she store was owned inspired members, usually the people who shop begin experimenting with her old recipes and here. These are the product people who cooperaingredients. The resultant was wildly tively manage and control the business. popular, so she and her husband, Jason, decided to The membership makes all kinds of start their own company. A few years later Immunedecisions, including what foods and Schein Ginger Elixirsare wasonestablished Saugerties, products the shelf,inand what New York. standards those products and their Elixir is defined as “a magical or medicinal potion; a producers have to meet (think growing cure-all; a sweetened in medication practices, liquid clean used ingredients, etc.). either At Honest ingredients Weight, we’ve 14,000 for its medicinal or got as aabout flavoring. ” How members. does Corinna Schein explain “elixir” as it applies to her product ImmuneSchein Ginger Elixirs? She declares Who can shop Everyone is for that “an elixir is something thathere? is all-around good welcome: anyone can shop at the co-op. If you and your health and is good tasting, made from you decide to become a member, you’ll pure and purchase whole food ingredients. ” Ginger is the a “share” of the co-op, become common ingredient in all of her elixir varieties. It has eligible for lots of additional discounts on been proven to relieveand conditions such asrights indigestion, products, have voting on osteoarthritis pain, and It also decisions thatmenstrual affect thediscomfort. store. Honest Weight member-owners can choose to fights infection. their thethey store, serve on Corinnainvest is proud to time stateat that never sacrifice one of our committees, or work with the quality or integrity of the ingredients that goainto program, order to receive bigger their products, whichinare small-batch andahandmade. discount (up to 24%) on their groceries. They minimize the business footprint by choosing compostable andisenvironmentally friendly packagWhat on offer? We believe everyone ing, by composting all production ingredients, in our community should have accessand to by

affordable, high-quality, natural foods and products for healthy living. So we offer things like Co+op Basics (a line of over 450 high-quality foods and house-

Shopping for special dietary needs? We get it. It’s easy to find tasty food alternatives in every department at the co-op. Our friendly staff can also make suggestions if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices, as many of them are on special diets, too!

How does Honest Weight using solar-powered electricity in support the local community? the production space. In support of Most co-ops devote significant time the community, 100% of tip monies and resources to educational are donated to local charities and programming, community developorganizations. ment, and outreach initiatives. We Honest wasprofits one of to thelocal first donate 5% ofWeight our net co-ops outside a 10-mile radius of not-for-profit organizations, run free Saugerties to carry ImmuneSchein and low-cost educational programs Elixirs. Corinna values store as a that are open to all, andthe are always place where food is carefully evaluatlooking for ways to collaborate with ed and customers are educated partners in the community. Weabout offer healthy products such as her many opportunities for elixirs. member-owners to helpabout with this commuLearn more nity this engagement. producer and the

many available elixir

What other by co-ops varieties goingare to in the area? You can find co-ops everywhere! In addition to Honest Weight, there are several others you can Pat Sahr has been a member of the Co-op since 2005. She contributes to the check out:as Niskayuna Consumers Coop Scoop the writer of the Producer Profiles. Sahr says, "It’s a pleasure being part of Chatham the Honest Weight and I've especially enjoyed communicating with Co-op, Realfamily, Food Market the various producers whose products are sold at the Co-op!" Co-op, Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market, and Cambridge FoodArtisanal, Co-op. small-batch, locally-sourced options of all kinds:

Immune-Schein.com

DID YOU KNOW?

4,200

While every co-op has its Honest own Weight stocks over distinctive vibe, we are all founded on the same basic principles: local products so you can · voluntary and open membership help support local producers, farmers, and democratic member control independent businesses in our community. · member economic participation · autonomy and independence · education, EARTH DAY training, and information

From Joy Head During to Toe:

soil and vegetation. But the roof here at Honest Weight’s Watervliet Avenue location was also built with the capacity to support a green roof or solar panels, should those initiatives become possible. As with roofing, we are used to considering pavement as a hard, deflective surface. And as with conventional roof surfaces, pavement is a big contributor to destructive water runoff during storms. According to the EPA, a “typical city block generates five times more runoff than a woodland area of the same size.” Flowing into drains, and later streams, urban runoff is packing heat, as well as pollutants from cars, industry, and pesticides. This causes untold damage to watershed ecosystems, and increases flood risk. Fortunately, when our current store on Watervliet Ave. was being built, we opted to install a porous parking lot. Maybe you’ve noticed the rather “pitted” looking surface: permeable pavement allows water to soak through small

and

COVID

A Honest Weight’s Green Infrastructure ur fresh new Co-op Kitchen at Maria College on By Rebecca New Scotland Avenue Angel has an exciting feature: a green roof over the entrance. Joel Nudi, Maria College Business Officer, aleb andChief his family have been told with us, the“SustainHonest ability andWeight nature are corefor ideals foryears; both Maria College and family many his grandmother Honest Weight, the idea up along during design to put joined and in 1990! Calebcame tagged with his grandthat on display at the ‘front door’ to the cafe.” mother for member work as a toddler, and was hired in 2015. Green roofs arethe a modern hearken back to He is currently buyer forinnovation, the wellnessbut department and is ancient practices. They recognize the wisdom of earlier a personal fitness trainer as well. Stephanie is a nanny for traditions that used naturally occurring materials—think two small andeven has worked withcan kids for as long as thatch, bark,children reeds, and sod—and make a positive she can remember. In her free time she loves hiking and contribution while solving multiple problems. writing. We generally think of a roof as simply a protective barrier I have CalebMaterials since he used was ainlittle boy and met against theknown elements. modern roofing, Stephanie when they were dating as teenagers. joyrun to however, work maybe too well. They can cause What waterato offsee quickly, and into darkadults, roofing build up heat and them grow andsurfaces now parents! During COVID, radiate it back toCaleb the environment, contributing to the “heat Stephanie and shared photos of their pregnancy and island effect, ” in urban areas. new baby on social media, which brought joy to many people Green constructed layer oftosoil and plants, in theirroofs, community. They with kindlya agreed answer some soak up rainfall. Some of it then evaporates slowly, rather questions about what it was like to go through such a than being shed rapidly as stormwater runoff. Green roofs momentous life event during a pandemic. positively impact their environment by removing CO2 and adding oxygen, plus they have an insulating effect on the Rebecca: When did you find out about your pregnancy? building below. What some expectations you had?thus Werehave these impactThesewere relatively simple structures edpotential by the pandemic? the to lower surrounding temperatures by several degrees, reduce energy use (and thereSteph: We found out I was pregnantair in qualiMarch of 2020. I fore pollution emissions), and improve expectations, ty.didn’t And, have theytoo aremany quitespecific sustainable, as Nudibut I assumed I’d points out: “Thebyroof does would not be able to be there be surrounded familyitself and Caleb require additional maintenance for myany prenatal appointments. beyond what a typical roof would require, and in Ifact Caleb: Unfortunately missed the first ultrasound because green roofs tend toAfter be that, we called different offices until of the restrictions. more durable thanat least let me in for the ultrasounds. We we found one that typical roofing ended up going with Albany Obstetrics and Gynecology at because the memSt. Peter’s. brane is protected by

”

O C

Meet Caleb, and ByStephanie, Ruth Ann Smalley their new baby Nora!

Rebecca: When was Nora born? Were there unexpected

foods and products for healthy gaps in the material. reduces runoff, as welllabor as acting Steph: Nora was bornThis on November 27th. To During we promote something like a sieve for filtering certain pollutants. The had a slight birth complication called shoulder dystocia insulating challenges and/oreffect gifts? on the building below.

grass pavers at the western border of our lot have the same which was quickly We had so Because many people offerfunction (see Coop remedied. Scoop Spring 2016). water tends ing to help us after we brought her home. From watching to soak in rather than puddle, porous pavement can also her soless we need couldfor sleep for a few hours to off home mean de-icing measures indropping cold weather. cooked meals. So, when you visit our new Co-op Kitchen at Maria College during the upcoming growing season, make sure you look Caleb: All three ofAnd us caught coronavirus whenwith Noranew waseyes a up on your way in. we’d suggest you look when ourthrough parkingfine.] lot at the main store, to monthyou old.walk [Theyacross all came check out this multi-tasking, problem-solving surface! Rebecca: What is your focus now? What are you looking forward to in the future?

ways to

Steph: Our focus now is working towards a balance of work and home life, and soaking in every second with our daughter as we watch her grow.

who choose to partici community that em Rebecca: Any advice a for expecting parents? cooperative principles Caleb: My advice is to be reasonably careful, but not allow fear to stop you from doing what’s best for your family. Enjoy in an atmosphere of every moment that you can. and Steph: My advice would be to try not to compare your child for

to anyone else’s. Being a parent humbles you and gives you a strong desire to be the best version of yourself that you can be. Practice patience. This is easier when you make time for yourself. Remember when they’re fussy that they aren’t giving you a hard time, they are having a hard time. You’ll make mistakes along the way. Forgive yourself as well.

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Thank you, Caleb and Stephanie for sharing your story. Hugs and best wishes to baby Nora from the Honest INDUST RIAL PARK RD Weight family! N E W S APRIL 2022 BY JANE WELSH ILLUSTRATION 1010 W AT E

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ETT R

the vegetation.” Rebecca: Do you mind sharing who you trusted with your Not all existing roofs pregnancy birth care? (doctor, midwife, doula?) are capable and of bearing WA TE RV the additional weight of LIE TA Steph: I saw several different midwives during theVE EXpregT nancy. I had a great experience with a midwife named Sarah CE NT RA Prior who delivered Nora. LA V

Coop CoopScoop Scoop

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Green roofs positively impact their committed to providing our environment by removing CO and with adding oxygen, plus they have an

www.HonestWeight.coop

Top Ten Crops

for a Productive Summer Garden Tips from an Organic Farmer

By Corinne Hansch

’ve had gardens in every size you could im agin e, from a tiny 4’x4’ plot to a four-acre farm. Because I love growing (and eating!) every single fruit and vegetable I can get my hands on, I grow a dizzying array of varieties. Even on my current two-acre farm (where we grow over 250 varieties), I constantly have to hold myself back and edit my planting list to the essentials. On our farm we focus on plants with high production. I've assembled a list of must-grow plants that will give you the longest harvest from a single plant. Make sure to include one or two of each of these varieties in your summer garden for an abundant harvest!

Coop 11 Scoop

PHOTOGRAPH BY BY FILIP CORINNE HANSCH PHOTOGRAPHY URBAN

Kale, Chard, & Collards

Lettuce Cut and come again varieties (Salad Bowl is my favorite) will give you several weeks of lettuce, especially during peak lettuce season in May and June. For a continual summer supply you will need to sow every few weeks, but beware the challenges of getting lettuce to germinate in the heat.

These leafy greens will keep giving and giving all summer long and into the fall. My favorite varieties are Red Russian kale, Dino kale, and Rainbow chard. Space 1 foot apart in the garden and grow in plenty of compost as they are heavy feeders.

Herbs

Edible Flowers

Basil, parsley, thyme, sage, chives, and rosemary produce all summer, and the more you cut them back the more they grow! Space 1 foot apart. Note: dill and cilantro are lovely in the garden, but just know that they quickly bolt, so seed frequently for a regular supply.

Flowers bring joy to the soul, plus habitat for beneficial insects in the garden, and a gorgeous garnish on your plate. Great edible varieties are viola, nasturtium, sunflower, alyssum, dill and cilantro flowers, chive blossoms, and bachelor buttons.

Summer Squash & Zucchini

Pole Beans Pole beans have a longer harvest window compared to bush beans. They take a bit more work to trellis, but the joy in watching them grow inches each day is fascinating for all ages!

Good varieties are Zephyr, Green Machine, and Pattypan. We plant three successions on our farm to make sure we have a constant supply. Easy to grow from seed, you can plant directly in the garden on May 15, June 15, and July 15 to have a steady supply. Space 1 foot apart.

Asian Greens Tatsoi, mizuna, Tokyo Bekana, and the choy family are super easy to grow and resistant to both heat and cold. We generally grow these during the shoulder seasons on our farm (spring and fall), but they will thrive in the heat of summer when the lettuces start to lag. Very easy to grow from seed!

Tomatoes

Charlie Burgess manages OSI lands from the Catskills to the Adirondacks. With an MA in Archaeology and American Indian Studies from Cornell University, he studied Mohican history, culture, and land management practices. He was born and raised in the Mohican homeland.

Tomatoes can be a little tricky in our cool and rainy summer climate, and that is why I recommend growing cherry tomatoes. They ripen much quicker and produce over a very long season. Sungolds are an all-time favorite, plus they are blight-resistant. Other good varieties are Sunpeach, Super Sweet 100, and Chocolate Cherry.

Garlic Plant the biggest cloves you can find in the fall (first full moon in October) into richly composted beds, 6 inches apart, then mulch with straw or leaves. Have faith that they will survive the frigid winter and be rewarded in spring with cute green tips shooting up, then scapes in June, and fresh garlic bulbs in July. Our favorite varieties are German Red, Metechi, and Inchillium Red.

Cucumbers Cucumbers do really well growing up on a trellis. Favorite varieties are Diva, Marketmore, and Lemon. We grow three successions, planting May 15, June 15, and July 15 to ensure a long summer harvest.

Coop Scoop

Corinne Hansch farms 1.25 intensive acres with her husband, Matthew Leon, in Amsterdam, NY. She is also a homeschooling mama to three wild (and happy) farm kids. Learn more about her work at www.lovinmamafarm.com.

APRIL 2022

2 Tbsp ghee or coconut oil

Corner Corner

Springtime Asparagus, Melanie’s Favorite Greens, Artichoke, Date-Sweetened Mushroom, and Squash Risotto Fruit Smoothie

A I

Makes 4 to 6 servings By Melanie Pores By Melanie Pores

yurveda, the 5000-year-old “science of life,” views the ntransition Ayurveda,into the springtime 5000as yearold “science of it is ideal for cleansing and detoxifying; life,”, the the emerging important to drain dampness that has accumulated inof our heat and humidity thebodies early during the winter.can Barley a wonderful bitter summer be ischallenging, and astringent food and can beaenjoyed especially to individuals with in a variety of forms. For example, “Pitta” constitution like myself, barley water may be consumed as a who tend to overheat and dehymild diuretic. drate Thiseasily. month’s recipe is a rich and As the barley temperature and comforting risotto, with a variety humidity rise in the surroundof additional bitter and astringent foods: spring greens, ing environment, theartichoke body is hearts, and asparagus. I’ve added sweet also experiencesing a surge in squash and mushrooms for their umami temperature and beginsning to taste, to create a “stick to your ribs” sensation. accumulate moisture internalMelanie Pores is a retired bilingual educator, an ly. People of all constitutions in HWFC member since 1978, and the facilitator of HWFC’s this need be2015, mindful Spanishseason Conversation Groupto since currently on Zoom, Fridaysintake 10am to noon. of fluid and electrolyte balance. To this end, I thought you might enjoy here is a healthy blended fruit recipe, that you can either enjoy as a yummy drink or easily pour it into an ice pop tray and place in your freezer to help keep you hydrated. It’s a healthy, and delicious way to attend to your body's thirst, as soon as it arises, and to restore your body’s electrolyte balance. I hope you will enjoy my simple recipe for a date sweetened fruit smoothie.

2 cups fresh greens ½ cup sweet onion, (e.g, kale, finelyspinach, chopped or a mixture of greens) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 1/22cups water or cups coconut cooked hulled barley coconut ¾ cupmilk fresh asparagus into 1-inch pieces 1 cupcut almond milk ¾ cup collard greens,

1 cuporpitted, chopped dates, other greens soaked 4 oz.overnight can sliced mushrooms oz. canor whole artichoke 1 cup9 fresh frozen cooling hearts, drained summer fruit 1 cup cooked blackberries, squash, (e.g, blueberries, such as kabocha chunks of mango) 1 cup portobello 1 Tbsp groundsoup flaxseed mushroom ½ cup grated 1-2 scoops protein powder Parmesan cheese (pea protein powder for vegans) Himalayan pink salt and 1/4 tsp ground ground blackcardamom pepper to taste 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract 1. Heathealthy 2 Tbsp ghee 1 -2 Tbsp fat or coconut oil in a large pot (e.g, coconut butter, coconut oil, over medium heat. avocado or almond butter or 2. Add onion and cook otheruntil nut translucent. or seed butter) 3. Add garlic and cook for one minute. 4. Add asparagus, sauté until

1. Pour coconutabout water/ or crisp-tender, 5 minutes. coconut milk, and unsweet5. Add greens, mushrooms, enedartichoke almondhearts, milk, and filling a squash. high-speed blender toand the 2 6. Add cooked barley lightly toastfor it, stirring 1/2 cup mark 2 quarts of frequently, about 1 to 2 smoothie. minutes.Add the greens. 2. Start blending on low and, 7. Mix in mushroom broth and stir frequently, until

as greens startthe toconsistency break down, you achieve you like. increase to medium speed Add grated Parmesan until8. completely broken down Stirapproximately until heated andcheese. smooth, through. 45-60 seconds. 9. Season with salt and pepper

to taste and serve. 3. Add in soaked dates and cooling summer fruit.

4. Add ground flaxseed, protein powder, and cardamom, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. 5. Add 1 to 2 Tbsp healthy fat. Blend until smooth. 6. Serve immediately or pour in an ice pop tray and freeze. Enjoy!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEB PERELMAN

Fresh News!

Double Up Food Bucks! By Deanna Beyer

Hunger Free America estimates that this past year has seen a 67% increase in food- insecure New Yorkers. And here at Honest Weight we’re on track to have the highest redemp-

Lucini Sauce

Double Up Food Bucks is a nationwide fruit and vegetable incentive program, servicing millions of SNAP When you want to scale up your pasta game, users, active in 20+ states at over 800 look no further than Lucini Organic Savory farmers markets, CSAs, farm stands, Golden Tomato Sauce. Sweet golden tomatoes paired with rich savory herbs and just amobile hint markets, and grocery stores. The program gives shoppers $1 for of chili, this sauce delivers without any added sugar. Let your pasta bask in the glow! Aisle every2 $1 spent with SNAP, so you can purchase even more produce. A match of up to $20 a day could mean $40 for healthy foods. Why is this important? Because too many people don’t have access, even with government aid, to the amount of healthy food needed to support families. Sign up is free and the dollars never expire. In New York State, Double Up has contributed to 1.1 million pounds of healthy food sales to over 24,000 tion of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition customers, at more than 130 sites New to our cracker selection, these Assistance Program) benefits that spanning 23 counties. kosher, vegan, andtoGFsign superwe’ve seen in a single year. Which is non-GMO, Visit our Service Desk up must-try. Sweet Corn pairs why we’re so excited to participate in stars and are go toa honestweight.coop for more perfectly with your fav spicy toppers, Double Up Food Bucks! information on the program. tangy dips, or guac, while Plantain is the

Craize Crackers

When you want to graze, you must try Craize!

best of the sweet & salty worlds. Aisle 2

Coop Scoop Scoop Coop

APRILHeal 2022

14 14

4 Tbsp fat (olive oil, avocado

oil, ghee) 2 cups fresh greens shallots, chopped (e.g,2 kale, spinach, or a mixture of greens) 4 cloves garlic, chopped

Corner Corner

2 Tbsp 1 1/2 cupsturmeric coconut water or 1 tsp cracked coconut milk black pepper 1 tsp cumin 1 cup almond milk

Melanie’s Favorite Lemon Date-Sweetened Sunshine Curry Fruit Smoothie Makes 4 to 6 servings

By Hali Bey Ramdene By Melanie Pores

n Ayurveda, the 5000year- old “science of life,”, the emerging heat and humidity of the early summer can be challenging, especially to individuals with a “Pitta” constitution like myself, who tend to overheat and dehydrate easily. As the temperature and humidity rise in the surrounding environment, the body is also experiencesing a surge in temperature and beginsning to accumulate moisture internally. People of all constitutions in this season need to be mindful of fluid intake and electrolyte balance. To this end, I thought you might enjoy here is a healthy blended fruit recipe, that you can either enjoy as a yummy drink or easily pour it into an ice pop tray and place in your freezer to help keep you hydrated. It’s a healthy, and delicious way to attend to your body's thirst, as soon as it arises, and to restore your body’s electrolyte balance. I hope you will enjoy my simple recipe for a date sweetOnce cooled, transfer soup to ½ quart containers. Seal and ened fruit smoothie. label with date. The stew can be frozen for up to 6 months. How To

Freeze:

To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator. Thin with water and warm over medium low until heated through.

EARTH DAY

1 tsp coriander

1 cup pitted, chopped dates, 2 29-oz cans chickpeas, soaked overnight drained and rinsed 1 preserved 1 cup fresh orlemon, frozenrinsed, cooling pulp removed, summer fruit and rind chopped (e.g, blueberries, blackberries, 2 13-oz cans full-fat chunks of mango) coconut milk 1 Tbsp ground 2 cups water flaxseed pound red potatoes, cut 1-2 1scoops protein powder into 1-inch chunks (pea protein powder for vegans) 2 lemons, 1 zested and juiced 1/4 (about tsp ground cardamom 4 ounces juice) 2 Tbsp unsalted butter 1 tsp cinnamon 1 Tbsp kosher salt 1 tsp vanilla extract Jasmine rice for serving 1 -2 Tbsp healthy fat (e.g, coconut butter, coconut oil, avocado or almond butter or 1. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil other nut or seed butter) over medium low heat. Add the shallots and cook 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shallots soften. Turn heat to low and add the garlic, continuing 1. to Pour water/ or cookcoconut and stir until softened.

coconut milk, and unsweet2. Add the spices and cook ened almond milk, about 2 minutes untilfilling a fragrant andblender darkenedto the 2 high-speed in color. 1/2 cup mark for 2 quarts of 3. Add the Add chickpeas and smoothie. the greens. preserved lemon and stir until

spices. Add 2.coated Start in blending onthe low and, coconut milk and water,

incorporate. Adddown, asstirring greenstostart to break the potatoes. Bring to speed a boil, increase to medium then reduce heat and simmer until broken 15 tocompletely 20 minutes or until down potatoes are tender. and smooth, approximately 45-60 seconds. 4. Using an immersion blender or a stand blender working in

3.batches, Add inpuree soaked soupdates until and slightly thickened, whole cooling summerwith fruit. pieces of potato and chickpeas

visible. 4.still Add ground flaxseed, protein powder, and1 lemon carda5. Add the zest from and lemon juice. Add the mom, butter and stir until fully cinnamon, and vanilla extract. incorporated.

5.6.Add 1 toto2 taste Tbspwith healthy fat. Season aboutuntil 1 Tbspsmooth. kosher salt. Blend Serve over rice.

6. Serve immediately or pour Hali Bey Ramdene is a writer, editor, StudioHaliBey her creative inand anproducer. ice pop tray andisfreeze. consultancy that specializes in intersecEnjoy! tions of art, earth, home, food, and culture. Find her at @HaliBey

Fresh News!

Double Up Food Bucks! By Deanna Beyer

Hunger Free America estimates that this past year has seen a 67% increase in food- insecure New Yorkers. And here at Honest Weight we’re on track to have the highest redemp-

Coop CoopScoop Scoop

Double Up Food Bucks is a nationwide fruit and vegetable incentive program, servicing millions of SNAP users, active in 20+ states at over 800 farmers By Lenku Nautamarkets, CSAs, farm stands, mobile markets, and grocery stores. However, modern aquaculture Honest Weight is committed to The program gives shoppers utilizes $1 for environmentally conscious, technologisourcing ocean-friendly seafood: every $1 spent with SNAP, so you can cally advanced methods such as wild-caught must limit “bycatch” purchase even more marine-net pens andproduce. closed recirculat(catching of non-target fish) and A match of up $20 a dayfocus could ing systems. Thesetopractices on f a r m - r a i s e d must be sustainably improving oxygenfoods. levels in water, managed. To determine this, Meat & mean $40 feeds, for healthy Why is and from predators. Seafood buyers regularly review the this protection important? Because too many Worlddon’t consumption of seafood has Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch people have access, even with d o u b l e d s i n c e 1 9 6 0. O c e a n s c a n’t List and work with our distributors to government aid, oftofishing. the amount of support this level As demand ensure that we stock only the highest healthy food needed to support famirises, world fisheries are overfished. quality, sustainable seafood. Farm-raised provides an alternate Fish farming has been practiced for lies. Sign upfish is free and the dollars source to meet demands, and as centuries. Today, half of the seafood never expire. technology improves, do yields. eaten in the U.S. is farmed. To help meet In New York State,so Double Up has the growing global demand, aquaculLenKu Nauta worked formillion the co-op'spounds Meat contributed to 1.1 of ture is growing fast. The environmenDepartment for over eight years and loves the healthy food sales to over 24,000 organization’s commitment to fresh, local, tal impact of fish farming varies widely, sustainable high-quality ingredients. In his tion of SNAP (Supplemental depending on the species beingNutrition farmed, customers, more thanhiking, 130 sites spare time LenKuat enjoys the piano, the methodsProgram) used, andbenefits the farm’s and horticulture. Assistance that spanning 23 counties. location. Using we’ve seen in a good single practices, year. Whichit's is Visit our Service Desk to sign up possible to farm seafood with very little why we’re so excited to participate in and go to honestweight.coop for more impact. Such operations limit habitat Double Up Food Bucks! information on the program. damage, disease, escapes of farmed fish, and the use of wild fish as feed. .While aquaculture has been around since the dawn of civilization, the idea of sustainability hasn’t. Commercial applications in many countries have created an environmental nightmare with a vast geographical footprint: destruction of mangrove forests, untreated wastewater flowing into rivers and bays, and other uncontrolled pathways for the spread of disease.

Farm-Raised Fish Facts

Heal PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB BREWER

1416

2 cups fresh greens (e.g, kale, spinach, or a mixture of greens)

The Secret Life of a Melanie’s Favorite Pollinator Date-Sweetened Fruit Smoothie Garden

Corner

1 1/2 cups coconut water or coconut milk 1 cup almond milk

1 cup pitted, chopped dates, soaked overnight

1 cup fresh or frozen cooling summer fruit (e.g, blueberries, blackberries, chunks of mango) 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed 1-2 scoops protein powder

By Melanie Pores

By Catherine (pea proteinJura powder for vegans)

1/4 tsp ground cardamom 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 -2 Tbsp healthy fat (e.g, coconut butter, coconut oil, avocado or almond butter or other nut or seed butter)

1. Pour coconut water/ or coconut milk, and unsweetened almond milk, filling a high-speed blender to the 2 1/2 cup mark for 2 quarts of smoothie. Add the greens. 2. Start blending on low and, as greens start to break down, increase to medium speed until completely broken down and smooth, approximately 45-60 seconds. 3. Add in soaked dates and cooling summer fruit. 4. Add ground flaxseed, protein powder, and cardamom, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. 5. Add 1 to 2 Tbsp healthy fat. Blend until smooth. 6. Serve immediately or pour in an ice pop tray and freeze. Enjoy! PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDGAR CASTREJON

hat mig ht yo u plant in this gardening challenge: strip of land 123 feet long by 10 feet wide, asphalt parking lot on one side, sidewalk with building on the other, hot and dry in the s u mmer and froz en in the w inter? Elizabeth Meer, gardener and Co-op member-owner, thought it would make a great “Pollinator Garden.” Over 80% of the world's flowering plants rely on pollinators for successful reproduction, explains Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) in Gardening in a Warming World. Pollinators include species of ants, bats, bees, beetles, birds, butterflies, flies, moths, and wasps. Pollination begins when pollen from a flower’s stamen (male part) rubs or drops onto a pollinator. The pollinator takes the pollen to another flower, where it sticks to the pistil (female part). The fertilized flower later yields fruit and seeds.

”

If you care about food you have to love pollinators.

According to CCE, there is evidence that pollinating animals have suffered from loss of habitat, chemical misuse, invasive plant and animal species, and diseases and parasites. Pollinator gardens support pollinators by supplying food in the form of nectar and pollen as well as a home. “If you care about food you have to love pollinators.” states Elizabeth. An avid home gardener with a master’s degree in Natural Resources Policy, Elizabeth was well-positioned to develop the Pollinator Garden. She used a plant-driven design: plants that will thrive in a given area based on the soil, site, and climate.

Goals for the garden Beautiful Resembles wild habitats (without looking unkempt) and is attention-grabbing all four seasons Sustainable Plants are suited to local conditions (plant-driven design) and do not need additional soil amendments, fertilizers, pesticides, or water Diversity A mix of plants that are attractive to a variety of pollinators and bloom from spring through fall frost Maintenance Plants placed close together to crowd out weeds and minimize flopping; plants that do not require dead-heading Inspiring A design that educates and inspires shoppers to try a pollinator garden at home

agree. “If you’ve chosen plants that are adapted to the soil, site and climate [plant driven design] once rooted the plantings won’t need . . . artificial assistance.” At the end of each growing season, plants are not cut back: seed heads look interesting and feed birds all winter, re-seed the garden, and create a winter home for some pollinators. Over the course of a year thousands of flowers were planted and the area surrounded by a fence. By the spring of 2016 the tulips coming up through the emerging perennials were spectacular. More plants are added each year. Catherine Jura has had a 40-year love affair with food and the people who bring it to us. She enjoys the outdoors, reading, people, and laughing, and has been a member-owner for eight years.

Join the Gardening Team Elizabeth and a dedicated team of Co-op member-owners meet every February to make plans for the many gardens around the building.

From strip of dirt to Pollinator Garden

In September 2014, Elizabeth offered her gardening expertise to the Co-op (for more about the previous history of this garden’s development and Sharon Hoffman’s important contributions, see Summer 2014 and Autumn 2015 Coop Scoops. Work started with soil preparation and it was minimal: clearing weeds and turf; a bit of tilling; and a small amount of compost was added. Elizabeth feels very strongly that fertilizer and other soil amendments are overused in this country. Weaner and Christopher of Garden Revolution: How Our Landscapes Can Be a Source of Environmental Change

If you would like to join the team you can contact Yevette at MemberServices@honestweight.coop. Elizabeth would love to have you come and garden with her.

The Status of My Order By Ben Goldberg Amazon says Spring has shipped. Ben Goldberg lives and celebrates in Albany.

Coop Scoop

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ESPERANZA-DORONILA & ELIZABETH MEER

References and Resources With great information comes great resources. Please check out these links to find out more from our Coop Scoop articles.

Check out our archived Green Issue from Spring 2020, for more great tips and information on reducing, reusing, and refusing, such as Jes Marcy’s article “The Answer is Less,” and much more!

Read it Here!

Honest To Goodness By Deanna Beyer

Little Brook Horse Sanctuary https://www.littlebrookfarmsanctuary.org/ Stuff the Bus https://foodbankofhudsonvalley.org/stuff-the-bus/ Grand Street Community Arts https://www.grandarts.org/ African American Cultural Center https://www.aacccr.org/

Secrets of the Bulk Department By Rebecca Angel

For more about our bulk department: https://www.honestweight.coop/page/bulk-105.html

What’s Fresh By Deanna Beyer

Good Good Jam https://goodgood.net/ Lucini Tomato Sauce https://lucini.com Craize Crackers https://gocraize.com/

Spotlight on Environmental Stewardship By The Editorial Team

Bullrock Solar https://bullrockcorp.com/ Little Brook Horse Sanctuary https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eoG5vJ7DQ2MCLjr-zfsNXo7G75SawPk5/view To volunteer with the Environmental Committee, contact: EnvironmentComm@honestweight.coop Plastics Free July Event https://www.plasticfreejuly.org/ One World Clothing Donation https://owcteam.com/ Techno Trash https://www.greendisk.com/gdsite/technotrash.aspx E-Waste Collection Day at the Co-op https://www.honestweight.coop/page/celebrate-earth-month-2022-321.html Zero Waste https://www.zerowastecd.org/ Foodscraps 360 https://www.foodscraps360.com/ Tomra https://www.tomra.com/en Strategic Materials https://www.smi.com/ Interested in helping organize store-run compost? DeannaB@honestweight.coop. 19

CONNECTIONS AND CORRIDORS

ImmuneSchein Ginger Elixers By Pat Sahr

https://immune-schein.com Healthy and Fit with Ginger By Ellen Heidboehmer https://www.bookdepository.com/author/Ellen-Heidb%C3%B6hmer

From Head to Toe: Honest Weight’s Green Infrastructure By Ruth Ann Smalley

Using Green Roofs to Reduce Heat Islands | US EPA https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi/20004PP1.PDF?Dockey=20004PP1.PDF Permeable Pavement https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2021-11/bmp-permeable-pavements.pdf Spring 2016 issue of Coop Scoop https://issuu.com/honestweightfoodcoop/docs/spring16coopscoop_for_web?e=12647281/46579685 Maria Honest Kitchen Menu https://www.honestweight.coop/page/maria-college-menu-432.html

Top Ten Crops for a Productive Summer Garden By Corinne Hansch

Lovin’ Mama Farm www.lovinmamafarm.com

Springtime Asparagus, Greens, Artichoke, Mushroom, and Squash Risotto By Melanie Pores

For more information about barley water: https://www.bookdepository.com/author/Ellen-Heidb%C3%B6hmer For more information about Astringent Taste: https://www.bookdepository.com/author/Ellen-Heidb%C3%B6hmer

Farm-Raised Fish Facts By Lenku Nauta

For more information check out these sites: https://www.globalseafood.org/blog/what-is-the-environmental-impact-of-aquaculture/ https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/act-for-the-ocean/sustainable-seafood/what-we-do

The Secret Life of a Pollinator Garden By Catherine Jura

Cornell Cooperative Extension’s course Gardening in a Warming World: https://cpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/blogs.cornell.edu/dist/1/7755/files/2018/11/Course-Book-Fall-2018-289zx3u.pdf Pollination: https://gardens.si.edu/gardens/pollinator-ga den/why-what-when-where-who-how-pollination/#:~:text=Pollination%20is%20an%20essential%20part,later%20yields Value of Pollinator Gardens: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/pollinator_gardens_can_be_effective_educational_tools Coop Scoop

APRIL 2022

Secret Life of a Pollinator Garden Cont. By Catherine Jura

Elizabeth’s Favorite Resources: Piet Oudolf and Noel Kingsbury. 2013. Planting: A New Perspective. Timber Press: Portland, Oregon. Douglas Tallamy. 2019. Nature's Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard. Timber Press: Portland, Oregon. Larry Weaner and Thomas Christopher. Garden Revolution: How Our Landscapes Can Be a Source of Environmental Change. 2016. Timber Press: Portland, Oregon. Thomas Rainer and Claudia West. 2015. Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes. Timber Press: Portland, Oregon. Donald Leopold. 2005. Native Plants of the Northeast: A Guide to Gardening and Conservation. Timber Press: Portland Oregon.

EARTH DAY

Coop Scoop

APRIL 2022

or decades I had read about Community Supported Agriculture (CSA); I loved the premise of sharing the benefits and risks of food production with the farmer. But I also enjoyed going to the Troy Farmers Market every week and picking out my own produce—primarily at the Denison Farm stand. Then Justine Denison phoned me: Would I be interested in being a CSA site “host”? Thus began my CSA journey: being nourished by the freshest food possible; building a relationship with the farmers who grew the food; enjoying a diverse community of like-minded folks. Justine and Brian Denison farm 25 acres of USDA Certified Organic produce and have approximately 500 CSA members. I became one of 17 hosts for the farm; as a host I would get a box of organic produce along with the 25 members who would be picking up their box at my home. Every Wednesday—from June through October—members would pick up their box (or “share”) between 4 and 8 PM. The Freshest Food CSA boxes are full of food picked within a day or two of—often the very morning of—their delivery. I often called Justine to rave about the extraordinary flavor of the produce: fresh equals delicious. The Farmers Every Wednesday I looked forward to the delivery truck—not only for the food—but to chat with two of the Denison farmers. Over the months we got to be friends; I often had a frozen fruit bar for them and at the end of the season they treated me to a box of my favorite squash. Community was building. And then there is Justine. There wasn’t a week that went by that I did not call her about “something” and we would talk and laugh together, often for an hour. Getting to know the farmer who grows your food is a

good idea, and through this frequent contact our relationship blossomed. The Members Members were young and old and from diverse backgrounds. What fun it was to chat with folks who were so different from me! During this second year I noticed some members were more apt to chat—a little more personally—and my sense of community was deepening. “Take and Leave Box” This past season I contacted Justine with an idea: I wanted to put out a box called the “Take and Leave Box.” Members could leave items in the box that they couldn’t use and take items from the box that they would love to have more of. I would leave fennel (which I never grew to love) and take corn, (which I couldn’t get enough of). It was fun to watch the trades, and usually the box was empty by the end of the night. Extra Boxes Sometimes a member could not pick up their box. Justine had made arrangements with Squash Hunger and ARC to pick up any extra boxes; folks who are differently abled would pick up the boxes and deliver them to a food pantry or other agency in need of food. I grew fond of these folks who were so excited to be participating in the feeding of communities. Being a CSA site host is one of the best decisions I ever made: I expected to enjoy the great food, but becoming part of a community was the most nourishing surprise.