by Anya Firszt, General Manager
Hello dear Owners,
Hello April! Last month’s weather was all over the place. One day we had snow, and the next it was warm enough for flip-flops and short sleeves. I’m hoping the cold is behind us so we can enjoy and celebrate more sunshine and spend more time outdoors.
This month, we have a few dates to think about, including April Fool’s Day and the Spring General Election (April 7), Arbor Day, tax day, and Earth Day, to name a few.
Earth Day – April 22
Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 and has been raising awareness about protecting the environment and supporting sustainability for 56 years.
We’re celebrating Earth Day all week at the Co-op, from April 20 to 26. During this time, you can get 15% off most bulk items, except for bulk water and coffee. Buying in bulk reduces single-use packaging and lets you buy only what you need. You can also help by bringing your own reusable grocery bag, or opt to receive the Co-op’s newsletter electronically (at willystreet.coop/emails). What will you do to support Earth Day this year?
If you want to learn more about how the Co-op supports sustainability, see page 8 or visit our website at willystreet.coop/sustainability. You’ll find information about how we use energy more efficiently, reduce food waste, lower climate emissions, and support renewable energy.
Time to get your hands dirty!
If you’re looking forward to gardening again, we just got in a fresh supply of Purple Cow Organics activated compost, potting soil, and seed starter mix to help your plants thrive. We also have organic seeds and gardening supplies available now, and locally grown organic plant starts will be here around the middle of the month. For more information, check out the Spring Garden Flyer on page 16 of this issue.
Tipi Produce – End of an Era
Tipi Produce has been a part of our community for as long as I can remember. After 36 years of bringing the Co-op tasty, delicious carrots, cabbage, napa cabbage, peppers, watermelon, and other root crops, Beth Kazmar and Steve Pincus have shared that they are moving into semi-retirement and will close their wholesale business.
Now, they will offer on-farm u-picks for anyone who wants to visit and pick their own asparagus, strawberries, plum tomatoes, basil, and garlic, but (sadly) no carrots. Reservations are needed for most u-pick dates; join their email list for updates. To learn more about getting Tipi Produce, visit: www.tipiproduce.com.
Thank you, Beth and Steve, for all you have done for the organic food movement, organic farming, and our co-op community. Best wishes on your new journey.
Reminders
If you haven’t already claimed your Fiscal Year 2025 patronage, you have until June 28, 2026, to do so. Those Owners receiving patronage are welcome to use it as store credit toward a purchase, redeem it for cash, or donate it to Double Dollars.
If you want to get Co-op notifications by email, please check that we have your current email address. You can update it at Customer Service or by emailing ora@willystreet.coop.
Until next month, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!
-Anya
