Although it doesn't seem possible that two years have passed, this will be my final letter written as President of the Board of Directors. Serving as President of the Board has been an interesting and rewarding experience, and I feel richer for having had the opportunity. It has been a privilege to work with my fellow Directors on the Board, as well as the amazing farm staff.  I'm honored to call these people my friends and proud to be a part of such a terrific organization. I plan to remain on the Board and I look forward to redirecting my energy into supporting the Farm's education programs.

While none of us can predict the future, I know that 2012 will bring with it opportunities, challenges and successes. Please join me in congratulating the following individuals who will be leading the charge.

Anthony Spangler, President
Janice Blades, Vice President
Heather Hahn-Sullivan, Vice President
Ron Frame, Treasurer
Mary Tobkin, Secretary

Wishing you all good health and much happiness in the New Year,
Kristy Gregory

Did you know winter solstice, usually around December 21st, is the longest night? From then on the daylight hours increase a little bit each day, as does my anxiousness for spring, but winter has its merits and we have a whole lot planned for the next few months. As always, you can find our  calendar of events online. The Sustainable Movie Series begins in February, while community expos and conferences fill in the gaps. First on the list is the Community Eco-Expo on January 22, hosted and coordinated by Congregation Beth Or. The Eco-Expo is a free and public event with exhibitors, and local experts that can help you make a difference and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Then in early February there is the PASA conference, which is favored by the farmers. The Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) hosts one of the largest and most respected gatherings of sustainable agriculture experts in the world. If the farming conference is a little overwhelming for your scale, checkout this homesteader friendly conference on March 24-25, hosted by the Home Grown Institute. Learn about backyard chickens, beehives, and cob ovens. They even have a series of workshops for teens - and guess what? Teen Battle Chef will be there. There is plenty to keep you busy and connected to the sustainability movement this winter, and we hope to see you around!

 

Cheers to an inspiring winter!

Raina Ainslie

 

Through the grapevine at Pennypack Farm, I heard about the Women in Sustainable Agriculture's annual conference hosted by the Pennsylvania Women's Agricultural Network (PA WAgN).  This year's theme was "Tell Your Story." The two day conference featured farm tours, intensive learning clinics, workshops, and panel discussions. I took a chance and submitted a proposal for a workshop on 'Women in Farm Management.' The proposal was accepted and I was invited to the conference as a presenter.

 

The presentation was well received. After sharing my experiences from Blue Moon Acres and Pennypack Farm, I encouraged a group discussion. We had the opportunity to share our obstacles, such as earning respect and exercising authority on the farm. We also exchanged our success stories of team building and effective communication amongst the staff. We noticed that the triumphs and trials on one farm are occurring simultaneously on other farms across the country.

 

Jess and Jenn also took the opportunity to attend the conference. Our time was filled with networking with other women farmers, and attending workshops on soil health, food sovereignty and resources for new farmers. While Jess and Jenn toured CSA's in area, I learned about tractor maintenance. We left the conference with more knowledge, new friends, and renewed inspiration. I was proud to tell my story and represent Pennypack Farm.