By Chris Azbell, College of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Extension Coordinator
Hesci readers… It has been several weeks since I introduced CMN Extension’s “Chewing the Cud” newspaper series. I hope you enjoyed our inaugural article. With that said, there is quite a bit to talk about. First and foremost, I want to announce a new Farmer’s Market that will be held at Looped Square Meat Company starting Saturday, April 13. The event will take place on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. To 1 p.m. We are currently in need of new vendors and encourage anyone that would like to sell fruits, vegetables, or homemade goods to contact CMN Extension via email at extension@cmn.edu or by phone at 918.549.2861. The event will feature live music, kids activities, food trucks, and lots of “Made in Mvskoke Nation” vendors – MIMN. Although this is not an official designation, we are working on our own version of Made in Oklahoma. It would provide Mvskoke vendors with a marketable seal of authenticity. Something to ponder…
Moreover, I remember going to farmer’s markets as a child. There is something magical about waking up on Saturday morning and walking through the row of vendors selling fresh produce. The smell of coffee emanating in the wind while a local performer strums his guitar to a recognizable tune. It becomes nostalgic like the memories of me getting a 32 cent pop at Kalka’s Quick Stop on Highway 9. It feels like a simpler time. Ultimately, the goal of our extension program is to promote community through the agriculture. I encourage citizens to stop by and join us in some good ol’ camaraderie. Life really is about making friends and creating lasting friendships. It drives us forward.
In other news, the Extension Program recently purchased a large quantity of heirloom seeds from Clear Creek Seeds. We have a variety of free heirloom seeds for anyone looking to start a garden this spring. Please stop by the Extension Office to check out our supply. In the near future, we have plans to engage in a barnstorming tour through the communities to give out seeds and get people excited about gardening, farming, ranching and reconnecting to nature. Goal is to remove any roadblocks that prevent people from getting outside and making something grow. As you can see, we have been quite busy in the Extension Office. Feel free to stop by anytime and chew the cud. We are always ruminating.
