Planting Wild ower Seed Mixes

What is a Co-op?

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!

By Richard Daley

Salad, Hot Bar, and Cafe are Back, with

For a handy database to discover native plants for your zip code, see:

Just follow these simple steps:

• Locate the collection bins near our bike lockers

• Only place clear, clean glass in the bins

• Make sure to remove both the lids and little plastic rings (labels are ok)

Seasonal Local Produce

What could be fresher than all of your favorite produce arriving daily from local farms? (could we include a couple of relevant farm names here?It’s growing season and we’ve got farm-fresh fruits and veggies from all over the area. So, whether you’re looking for nNon-GMO sweet corn, crisp cucumbers, 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.

By Natalie Criscione

Through Hope and Mission:

Community Fathers, inc.

Hope comes in many forms, and, for Community Fathers, Inc., “Everything that is done in the world is done by hope.” (Martin Luther quote on website)

Today, Community Fathers, inc., which is based in Schenectady but serves the greater Capital District region, oversees many programs, all of which encompass the mission of “Building communities one father at a time.” growing needs of the broader society. “We started to make it up ourselves,” said Simpkins, since “there was no father-program to service our needs…Each part of the program was what, at various times, we felt fathers needed.” Since group members themselves were the ones grappling with challenges, it made sense that they “were the ones most capable of coming up with answers and solutions.” way to attend to your body's thirst, as soon as it arises, and to restore your body’s electrolyte balance.

Though obstacles abound, there is an eternal wellspring of hope which leads to creative and innovative solutions to overcoming problems. When every person is seen for the good they can bring, the spring is truly overflowing. That sentiment is expressed generously and lovingly through the words and actions of founder Walter Simpkins, whose vision continues to better the community.

I hope you will enjoy my simple recipe for a date sweetened fruit smoothie.

What started as a support group for fathers who were dealing with issues such as family court, re-entry, or substance abuse, grew in 2009 to encompass the

Though weekly support groups continue, other programs that have been added include: “Occupations Instead of Incarceration,” “Domestic Violence Cessation,” “Young Fathers,” and “Male Achievers.” All of the programs strive to create a strong, civic-minded culture that empowers participants to think differently about themselves by increasing each individual’s sense of self worth and positive identity within the community.

Involvement in the organization opens doors for creating greater good not only on an individual basis, but for society at large. Members come together for programs such as “Re-Tree Schenectady,” for which they planted 50 trees in the city in 2022, and are projected to plant 100 this year. “We are going green!” saysSimpkins. Another event which brings members and their families together is through the collective interest in the “African American Ancestral Burial Ground,” part of the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, located in Schenectady’s Vale Cemetery. Through the efforts of Community Fathers, inc. and collaborations with local high school students, the area has been refurbished and maintained. It is the site for Schenectady’s annual Juneteenth celebration which brings together families from all around the region. Finally, keep an eye out for information about August’s “I Am Father Festival” held annually in Schenectady to celebrate fathers. cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

Like so many non-profits, volunteer needs and shoe-string budgets are the norm. Visit the website to learn more about how you might become involved (https://www.communityfathersinc.org/ ).

5. Add 1 to 2 Tbsp healthy fat. Blend until smooth.

And, during the month of May, as you pay for your groceries or morning coffee and are asked “Would you like to round up for Community Fathers, inc.? ”remember, you too can Be The Change! Say “YES!”

6. Serve immediately or pour in an ice pop tray and freeze. Enjoy!