Newsletter 11-8-12

Community Comes Together This Saturday! 

Nature Walk to Ballona Wetlands

This Saturday we're celebrating Community Day with Loyola Marymount University. LMU students will be out to share the amazing community projects they're working on, and help host our very own celebration of community at the market!

With the expertise of the naturalists at Friends of Ballona Wetlands, we'll head out on a beautiful walk through the Ballona Wetlands. We'll meet at the market and get moving at 9:15am. Don't miss your chance to see amazing wildlife and serene landscapes. 

Bikerowave is Back!

Pedal into the market this Saturday and valet your bike for free with our buddies from Bikerowave! Got a question about fit or want to find a fun new ride through the neighborhood? Stop in to chat with the experts and learn new tricks of trade! And don't forget, Bikerowave offers free bike tune-ups at the market.

Kids in the Kitchen: Thanksgiving Adventure with Chef Matt Alexander on 11/17

Our Kids in Kitchen program is rolling into the holidays with a very special Thanksgiving cooking demonstration with Chef Matt Alexander on 11/17 at 11:30am. Bring the little ones by for  hands-on healthy cooking fun. Parents, what better way to inspire healthy eating habits in your kids than to experience the fresh wonders of the farmers' market? And, couldn't we all use an extra helping hand for Thanksgiving prep (even the little hands)? 

Farmer Spotlight: Vang Family Farms

Food blogger and famers' market friend, Nova Jeen of HauteNosh, recently interviewed Houamoua Vang and her daughter Mai, of Vang Family Farms, based in Fresno. The Vang Family has been farming for 16 years, growing a variety of vegetables such as cabbage, bok choy, kale, and Chinese broccoli. You can read more about the HauteNosh interview with the Vang Family and some practical tips on storing and preparing bok choy here. Come say hi to Mai and her mom this Saturday at the market. Better yet, pick up some bok choy to make a HauteNosh recipe or try something new with Chinese broccoli and the recipe below.

Chinese Broccoli with Garlicky Ginger Miso

Need a quick and healthy side dish but find yourself staring into the fridge with a bewildered look upon your face? Don't fret, we've got you covered with Vang Family Farms. Here's what you'll need from the market: Chinese broccoli, chili peppers, ginger, and garlic. Now take a look at this simple recipe from Steamy Kitchen, whose motto is, "Fast, Fresh, and Simple". YUM!

Did We Say Free Food?

Ah yes, we did! Are you a die-hard farmers' market fan that loves to support your local food system? We'd love to work with you! We're always looking for volunteers to help us on our mission to empower folks to eat healthfully and choose local fresh foods. In return for your superb community service, we love to reward you with freshly-grown goodies. Hit us up on Facebook or send us an email. Better yet, stop by the market on Saturdays and pow-wow with us in the Information Booth.

See you this Saturday!
-Playa Vista Certified Farmers' Market