Bertha, our Livestock Manager, feeds the goats a treat |
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We often talk about this farm being a community farm. Our vibrant tapestry is woven with amazing people who have helped build this place into what it is today. Our friend Candie Rink has sadly passed on, and she will forever be a part of this farm. We will miss her smile and her lovely laugh, but will continue to spread joy in her honor. |
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Candie in the Lodge kitchen |
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"Candie’s laugh was infectious and she always made everyone feel welcomed at Angelic Organics Learning Center. When I began working here in 2007, Candie was the bookkeeper—the most vibrant and spunky bookkeeper I’d ever met. She possessed genuine warmth, kindness and humor, and was always a joy to have around. Candie made a return appearance, after years of being away, filling the need for a summer camp chef in 2019. Her joyful nature was magnetic for the campers and she treated them to creative, delicious and nutritious meals." - Randy Mermel, On Farm Educator
"Candie came to the Learning Center when we had a real need and she rolled up her sleeves and stepped in with a can do attitude, grit and determination. Candie really noticed people-especially those around the edges- and found gentle and generous ways to support them. She would regularly gift family programs and camps to her neighbors and acquaintances, supporting the Learning Center and a family that needed a break." -Deb Crockett, former Executive Director at Angelic Organics Learning Center
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What's Growing at Roots & Wings |
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This has been a busy month at Roots & Wings. Our calendar has been full of activities and events. At the top of the list was our Roots & Wings Brunch Fundraiser. This was the first time since the pandemic that we were able to hold an in-person event, and what a wonderful day was had by all. It was held outdoors at Angelic Organics Lodge, which made for a beautiful setting. The weather was ideal, the food was delicious, the music soothing, and everyone was there to show support for our program! I want to thank my colleagues for all their hard work in preparation for this event, and our Board members for their support. I also want to recognize our funders and partners for their generous donations and support. It was a glorious day! |
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Tedd, Yatte, Ms. Janice and Pastor Mike at the Roots & Wings Brunch
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Also, last month we hosted our first Roots & Wings farm tour. I want to thank Yatte and Ken for their efforts in getting us prepared for this event, the farm was in great shape. They both did well answering questions and keeping the attendees engaged with stories about the important contributions they are making in their community. As they led the farm tour, they got a chance to share their stories and experiences. It was apparent how proud they are about the impact they are making and they have become role models for others in the community. Bravo to you both!
In recognition of support from two of our partners, we donated several CSA shares for them to raffle off to customers and employees. The first organization was Choices Natural Market. They have been supporting the Roots & Wings program for many years and last year they held a store event to raise money to purchase vegetable seeds for our program. It was a tremendous success, and their customers gave generously! We got every seed we requested. So in return we wanted to recognize their customers by raffling off a free CSA share. The winning customer was appreciative of all the vegetables they received and was excited about adding some new vegetables to her diet. We look forward to next year when we expect to expand our partnership even further.
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Tedd, Yatte, and three lucky teachers at Beyer |
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The second organization was Beyer Early Childhood Center. Recently we have been in conversation with them about offering programming to their students. Next spring we are planning to use the farm as a living classroom for the students and staff. To kick off this partnership, we donated several CSA shares to their staff and the principal held a raffle to give them away. The principal remarked what a great way to start their day, and the staff was so excited and appreciative! Thank you Beyer and we are looking forward to next year.
Finally, we had our end of the season Harvest Celebration! Every year at the end of the season we invite the residents of Blackhawk Courts
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to come over to the farm to share a meal with us using vegetables and ingredients from the farm. This year we served over 40 residents a meal that consisted of chili, cornbread, greens and radish salad, and apple muffins for dessert. We always look forward to this event because it gives us a chance to give back to the community and make a deeper connection with the families in Blackhawk Courts.
In reflection, I am reminded that it takes all of us working together to make the Roots & Wings program a success!
-Tedd Snowden, Roots & Wings Program Director
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From the Farmer Training Department |
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The Upper Midwest Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training (CRAFT) invites you to renew your membership, or consider becoming a member, in order to reap the wonderful benefits, including: free registration for field days, discounts on workshops, subscription to the detailed weekly e-newsletter, and access to a 200+ member listserv of local sustainable farmers and friends! Learn more here, or click the image above.
Farm and Friend memberships purchased by November 30th are automatically entered into a $50 gift card drawing!
To learn more about the impact of our Farmer Training programs, read this new interview with Andrea and Rebeca, participants of this year's Stateline Farm Beginnings® cohort.
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We are grateful to share that we filled up with field trip groups this fall! If you are interested in bringing students here in the new year, please schedule with us now to ensure we can fit your group in. |
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Curious about the power of our field trips? Check out our recent blog below. |
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A Cornerstone Field Trip
I have been bringing students here for 16 years, and I learn something new every time I come. Candice has been teaching Environmental Science at Lake Forest High School for 19 years, and has brought her students to visit Angelic Organics Learning ...
Read more
www.learngrowconnect.org
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New Board Member: Gina Polito Jahn |
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Gina grew up in the area and lives just a few miles from Angelic Organics with her husband, two daughters and two Labradors. She first discovered Angelic Organics Learning Center about ten years ago when she was looking for a summer camp for her girls and has been a big fan ever since! Gina has a MS in outdoor education and has worked at several environmental education centers. Currently, Gina works at a non-profit in Wisconsin which provides research development and grant support to the UW system campuses. Gina spends her free time shuttling kids to and from their activities and trying to maintain a small herb garden. She is excited and honored to be able to contribute to our organization. Thank you for joining us, Gina! |
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