Ahoy!

The rain keeps coming and the mosquitos are here and they are singing to us about it. We are not happy to have them, these uninvited dinner guests. I can almost imagine being carried off by them. I did learn, however, that male mosquitos are pollinators and feed on nectar! What a delightful surprise! A reason to love all 'squitos? I am not so sure about that, but...

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!

In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We are at market this week and the online store is open
  • We may still be looking for good crew candidates. If you would like to keep your name in the hat, please send us an email!
• Recipe: Cucumber salad
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field
• Staying active and engaged with social change!
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Cucumber Salad!
From my mind!

• 1 large cucumber
• 2 teaspoons oil
• 2 teaspoons vinegar of choice (white wine, rice, or apple cider are my top three for this venture)
• salt and pepper
• 1 cup Brown rice
• 1/4 cup Sunflower seeds
• Optional- minced dill, crumbled feta

Cube the cuke! I never peel them. Add all ingredients to container with lid and stir them up. Eat right away or let sit overnight. The rice adds protein and some chew. The sunflower seeds add a nutty flavor, plus protein and antioxidants! This is a great afternoon meal on a hot day. 

Notes from the Farm:
We had a big storm. Our farm is situated to allow us to watch storms roll in. In years past, we begged so many of the storms that we watched along the horizon to no avail. The would split and we would watch them pass to the north and south. 

That generally hasn't happened this year. We watch them get close. Then we hear the rain. Then we feel the wind. Then the rain drops. Yesterday we had a storm that soaked me in under 30 seconds. It was like having 25 gallon bucket overturned over my head. My walkie-talkie filled with water and I sounded like an adult in charlie brown (one of the only times I sound like an adult, I promise). My boots filled with water. We were all filled with water. At least the sun didn't come back out after that. 

My preference is if it is going to dump rain, at least stay gray for the rest of the day, otherwise you get steamed! At least I got my way in that respect. Although it was barely dried out long enough to get to it, we managed to get some of the more important tractor work in- hilling the potatoes, cultivating cabbage, kohlrabi, and celery- but we didn't get to all of it.

Onward and upward! See you at market friends! 

Helen, Jim, Amy, Shana, Elisa, Rose, Asia, Tyler and Brandon: The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

​Fresh From the Field- We are at Market this week
Greens:
Chard- limited
Head Lettuce- from Tantre- only available 
Kale- Green Curly, Red Curly, and Tender Red Russian
Microgreens (Arugula, Brassica Mix and Broccoli, Radish)
Pea Shoots 

All Manner of Deliciousness
Beets
Cucumbers
Eggplant- limited
Fennel
Garlic Scapes
Kohlrabi
Radishes
Scallions!
Summer Squash 

Herbs
Basil- pesto, basil water, squash and basil
Dill with flowers
Oregano- sauces and salad
Sage- roasts

Coming Soon:
Cabbage
Carrots
Parsley
Cherry Tomatoes
: 
Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: We are at market this week
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back soon.

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday with Helen and Amy: 7 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Jim "The Flame of The North" Neumann, Rose and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Asia and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!


​If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

: ​

The cooler weather has been easier on our bodies and  I think everyone is grateful for it, dogs and all. And we finally got some rain! We haven't been on irrigation duty for almost a week! The storm on Friday brought a gentle soak, and Sunday's storm threatened severe consequences (think tennis ball sized hail and gale force winds). Luckily, in the end, all it did was dump a bunch of water on us. We were parched, so happy. 

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!
In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We are at market this week and the online store is open
  • We may still be looking for good crew candidates. If you would like to keep your name in the hat, please send us an email!
  • We may be looking for market volunteers for the months of August and September due to the impending baby. It is a fast-paced and boisterous Saturday morning activity. If that sounds like something you would be good at and enjoy, please email or talk to one of us at market.
• Recipe: Sautéed Garlic Scapes
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field
• Staying active and engaged with social change: Celebrate Juneteenth!
  • Learn about Juneteenth here
  • Find places to celebrate in Michigan here and here (admittedly the second link is google's event search return but it is a place to start!)
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Sautéed Garlic Scapes!

• 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped garlic scapes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese

Cut garlic scapes into one inch pieces and sauté them in a pan with butter at medium heat until the skins of the scapes start to brown, add salt to taste and eat hot! You can add a little grated hard cheese on top for added awesomeness! ;) A little splash of lemon juice or zest is also a nice addition

Notes from the Farm:
We continue to rage against time! All that water brought life all around. This means weeds! All those grasses, annuals and perennials (ragweed, jimson weed, curly dock, velvet leaf to name a few), are rising! And we have to rise to meet them. Pulling them by the fistful and cultivating with the tractor- please let them be no match for us!

We are also continuing to plant! This means more ground to prep. Onto the tractor to mow, till, and amend the soil so it is ready for our fall broccoli, cabbage, carrots, and such. It is also just about time to hill our potatoes and ginger. For both of these crops, we pull soil up around their stems so that the plants are encouraged to make more of the delicious roots (tubers and rhizomes) that we love. 

As seen in the pictures, we are also finally getting some trellis on the tomatoes! That's right! This year all the tomatoes in our tunnels and hightunnel are getting trellised to a single line. The line is wound on a spool, creatively called a "Tomahook". As the tomatoes grow, we prune off all the side shoots (suckers), let out more twine, and wrap it around the stem. Allegedly (on good evidence) this produces a bountiful, blemish free harvest. We admit to snacking on the first of some of the cherry tomatoes. They will not disappoint! We hope to finish all this trellising by end of day Saturday- wish us luck!!!

Thanks for all the love and support! See you at market this weekend!

Onward and upward! See you at market friends! 

Helen, Jim, Amy, Shana, Elisa, Rose, Asia, Tyler and Brandon (Plus special guest start Eva back for a Lake Divide Hurrah): The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field

Greens:
Chard 
Head Lettuce! 
Kale- Green Curly, Red Curly, and Tender Red Russian
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Brassica Mix and Broccoli)
Pea Shoots (limited)
Spinach (limited)

All Manner of Deliciousness
Beets!
Garlic Scapes
Scallions?
Summer Squash 
Cucumbers!
Kohlrabi!
Radishes!

Herbs
Basil- pesto
Oregano- sauces and salad
Sage- roasts

Coming Soon:
Fennel


Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: We are at market this week
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back soon.

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday with Amy: 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Jim "The Flame of The North" Neumann and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with a robot named Helen, Asia and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!

If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

​The eggs that our birds have been incubating have finally hatched! This means 4 adorable fluffballs on stilts (young kildeer), supervised by their helicopter parents. And 2 white fuzz coated turkey vultures steadily growing in their nest in the barn while their mother brings them food. I am so so excited! There are also lots of young redwing blackbirds, flutter walking around the farm, followed by parent birds, and I am sure sparrows and others. And, I dreamt we had baby salamanders- does that count?
We are in full force now! Making room for wilds, preparing ground for food, harvesting more. 

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!

​In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We are at market this week and the online store is open
  • We may still be looking for good crew candidates. If you would like to keep your name in the hat, please send us an email!
  • We may be looking for market volunteers for the months of August and September due to the impending baby. It is a fast-paced and boisterous Saturday morning activity. If that sounds like something you would be good at and enjoy, please email or talk to one of us at market.
• Recipe: Garlic Scape Pesto
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field
• Staying active and engaged with social change: Celebrate Juneteenth!
  • Learn about Juneteenth here
  • Find places to celebrate in Michigan here and here (admittedly the second link is google's event search return but it is a place to start!)
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Garlic Scape Pesto!

• 1/4 cup pine nuts- toasted if desired (or almonds)
• 3/4 cup coarsely chopped garlic scapes
• Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• A few generous grinds of black pepper
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese

Combine the scapes, pine nuts, lemon juice and zest, salt, and pepper in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment. Pulse about 20 times, until fairly well combined. Pour in the olive oil slowly through the feed tube while the motor is running. When the oil is incorporated, transfer the pesto to a bowl and stir in the grated cheese. If you plan to freeze the pesto, wait to add the cheese until after you've defrosted it.

Notes from the Farm:
So much has happened this week. We are still running behind but catching up. All the tomatoes are planted, as well as all the eggplant! All the wintersquash has been planted, plus all the sweet potatoes. Round two of cabbage and kohlrabi, plus brussel sprouts, celery and  another round of cilantro and dill seeded. That's just about 2 acres planted in short order! We keep it rolling is right!

The first round of dill and carrots are weeded and growing, the onions are cultivated and awaiting some touch ups, and irrigation tubing has been set up to carry life sustaining water to all these places. We have more to plant including melon, watermelon, peppers, round two of kale and chard, and leeks! Plus to care for what is in the ground- trellising, weeding, watering etc. Send us the love and swift of foot for much lays ahead.

And on that note, man, I am feeling preg-nant! Whoo! It hit me like a brick wall this past week. I don't know if it is the extra weight the baby packs on towards the end, the heat, the non-stop of it all, or what but I'd be lying if I didn't say I was feeling it for real. I am so grateful to all these able bodied and determined folks surrounding me, reminding me this won't last forever and to drink water. 

Onward and upward! See you at market friends! 

Helen, Jim, Amy, Shana, Elisa, Rose, Asia, Tyler and Brandon (Plus special guest start Eva back for a Lake Divide Hurrah): The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field- We are at Market this week

Greens:
Arugula (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)
Chard (limited)
Head Lettuce! 
Kale- Green Curly, Red Curly, and Tender Red Russian
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Brassica Mix and Broccoli)
Pea Shoots 
Spinach 

All Manner of Deliciousness
Beets?
Garlic Scapes
Scallions?
Summer Squash (limited)

Herbs
Basil- pesto
Mint- tea and salad
Oregano- sauces and salad
Sage- roasts
Thyme (limited)

Coming Soon:
Cucumbers
Fennel
Kohlrabi


Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: We are at market this week
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back soon.

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday with Amy: 7 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Helen and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Jim, Asia and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!
If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

 : 

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm​

: 



Copyright © 2021 Lake Divide Farm, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you are a farm member or because you signed up via our website or at market. If you no longer want to read about farm happenings please let us know and we will take you off the list. We don't want to be responsible for any inbox-clog.

Our mailing address is:
Lake Divide Farm
12638 Mount Hope Rd
Stockbridge, MI 49285-9406
Add us to your address book

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

I wrote an extremely lovely email, with much poetic insight and appreciation and it was cruelly deleted by the internet gods. Here is my reanimation of what once was:

Word on the farm is HOT. We start the day glistening from the heat and within moments are dusted with earth. Even so, we end the day beaming with the joy of of a job well done. June is when the hustle truly rises. 

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!
In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We are at market this week and the online store is open
  • We may still be looking for good crew candidates. If you would like to keep your name in the hat, please send us an email!
  • We may be looking for market volunteers for the months of August and September due to the impending baby. It is a fast-paced and boisterous Saturday morning activity. If that sounds like something you would be good at and enjoy, please email or talk to one of us at market.
• Recipe: Lettuce Wraps
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field
• Staying active and engaged with social change
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Lettuce Wraps!
For those of you that want more from your lettuce than a rough chop, drizzled with olive oil and good salt- lettuce wraps! A crunchy delivery system for savory treats!
There are so many filling options- lentils, meats, sautéed vegetables, grains, cheeses, raw vegetables sliced thinly... Here is just one of the googleable options:

From Vanilla and Bean

Vegetarian Thai Lentil Lettuce Wraps
Quick, easy and nourishing, Vegetarian Lettuce Wraps with a crave-worthy Miso Sriracha Peanut Sauce make a hearty yet light lunch or dinner. Packed with garlicky, gingery lentils and mushrooms, these lettuce wraps are hearty and filling. This recipe is vegetarian and vegan 

Thai inspired flavors highlight lentils and mushrooms topped with seasonal veggies and a Sriracha peanut sauce all wrapped up in leafy butter lettuce. Lettuce wraps are simple to pull together and meal prep ready! This recipe is vegetarian and vegan.*There is some overlap in the cook and prep time, but overall, this recipe comes in at under an hour.IngredientsFor the Filling:

• 3/4 C (145g) French Green Lentils
• 2 C (472g) Water
• 2 tsp Sesame Oil
• 8 oz (200g) Shiitake Mushrooms
• 1/4 C (50g) Purple Onion diced,
• 1 tsp grated ginger*
• 1 tsp grated garlic*
• 1 1/2 Tbs Tamari
• 2 tsp Maple Syrup
• 2 tsp Prepared Thai Red Curry Paste
• 1 tsp Sriracha
• 1 1/2 tsp Liquid Aminos or more Tamari

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 C (70g) Peanut Butter smooth or chunky
• 1 T White Miso Paste
• 1 tsp Grated Garlic*
• 1 tsp Grated Ginger*
• 1 Lime juiced
• 1 tsp Sriracha
• 1 tsp Maple Syrup
• 3-5 Tbs Hot Water increase or decrease depending on consistency

For the Toppings:

• 1 C (100g) Snow Peas or Snap Peas trimmed and sliced into 1/4" pieces on the bias**
• 1 C (75g) Carrots julienne or grated
• 3 Tbs Scallions sliced thin on the bias
• 1 Tbs Sesame Seeds

For Garnish:

• Thai Basil and/or Cilantro
• Lime wedges

Instructions 
For the Filling:

• In a small saucepot add the lentils and water. Bring to a boil then simmer for about 27 minutes. The lentils will be soft but still firm enough to hold their shape and texture.
• While the lentils are simmering, destem the mushrooms and slice the caps thin. The stems tend to be tough so discard them. Add the sesame oil to a large saute pan and heat on medium high until shimmering. Add the onion and saute for about two minutes, or until soft. Add the mushrooms and cook on low for 10 minutes.Allow the mushrooms to set in the pan for 2-3 minutes at a time, without stirring to get a bit of a sear on them. About two minutes before the mushrooms are done, toss in the ginger and garlic. Stir well.
• To the onion and mushroom mixture add the tamari, maple syrup, curry paste, Sriracha, and liquid aminos. Stir and cook on low for 2-3 minutes to incorporate all the flavors. Add the lentils to the mushroom mixture and stir to incorporate. Remove from heat. Taste for seasoning adjustment and add a few pinches of salt if necessary.

For the Sauce:

• In a food processor, add the peanut butter, miso paste, garlic, ginger, lime juice, Sriracha, maple syrup and 3 Tbs of hot water. Process until smooth, adding additional water if needed to adjust consistency. The sauce should be pourable and smooth but not runny.

To Assemble:

• Rewarm the lentil mixture if necessary or serve the filling chilled. Spoon 3-4 tablespoons full of filling in the bottom of a piece of lettuce. Top with snow peas, carrots, scallions and a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Spoon a tablespoon of sauce over the wrap and garnish with leaves of fresh Thai basil. Serve with a wedge of lime and more sauce for drizzling.

Notes:

• Packing it out for Lunch: If lettuce wraps seem too fussy or you’d rather pack this out for lunch and eat it with a fork, these lettuce wraps turn into a salad with ease. Simply chop the lettuce into bite size pieces and combine with the filling and toppings. Dress it with sauce.
• Meal prep ready! Make the lentil filling and lettuce wrap sauce at least two days in advance and store in the fridge in a lidded container, separately. Assemble when ready to enjoy. 
• To make these even heartier, add cooked and chilled thin rice noodles to the lettuce wraps.
• When snow peas are out of season, sub thinly sliced cabbage.
• The filling can be served warm or chilled.
• To prep the carrots with ease, I use a julienne peeler.  It’s fast and works like a charm.
• *Use a micro plane to grate the garlic and ginger or finely mince.**When Snow Peas are out of season, I use thinly sliced raw cabbage in this recipe.

Notes from the Farm:
We are off to the races, sprinting from task to task. And the farm is growing and the plants are thriving. Our late potatoes are out of the ground, there are blossoms on the tomatoes, the onions have recovered from the shock of being left to fend for themselves, and the whole farm is being devoured by green.

We are trying to get plants in the ground: tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, summer and winter squash, melon, cucumbers, fennel, herbs-- so many delicious ingredients! But just as we narrow our focus to this task, we look behind and realize we have to devout some love to all that has been planted already! We sprint from field to field, adjusting valves and tightening connections so we can move water to all the plants that a need it. We weed. We trellis. We cover and uncover. And as we settle into this, we look in the greenhouse and see more plants to get planted, that need more field to be prepped, that need more irrigation line to be run. And we look ahead to the fall and see we need to seed our fall crops soon! We have a lot of spinning plates! 

It is a lot to focus on, but when you are in it, it feels pretty good. I love it, my appendages wheeling while thinking about what is next. And I love that the shape of the clouds mean something to me, and the luster of the leaves speak to me, that I notice when the swallows are back, hear the first crickets, and know the early fireflies. I relish being part of this world that is so much bigger than me. 

And this crew! Let me tell you! We have been working some long, intense, hot, days! And we don't let up. We are putting our best in. And at the end of the day, there is smiling and laughing, mentions of "great days" and satisfaction. I am so glad to be working with these animals! 

Onward and upward! See you at market friends! 

Helen, Jim, Amy, Elisa, Rose, Asia, Tyler and Brandon: The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field- We are at Market this week
​
Greens:
Arugula (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)
Chard (limited)
Head Lettuce! 
Kale- Baby kale and bunched Red Russian. You may see some damage on the Red Russian Kale. It is so so tender and a favorite of some beetles. This damage doesn't make it any less delicious and we hope that you will try it, despite its "ugly"  vegetable status.
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Brassica Mix and Broccoli)
Pea Shoots 
Spinach 

All Manner of Deliciousness
Summer Squash (limited)

Herbs
Sage
Oregano
Mint 
Chives 
Thyme (limited)

Coming Soon:
Cucumbers
Garlic Scapes
Beets

Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: We are at market this week
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back soon.

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday with Amy: 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Helen and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Jim, Asia and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!
If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

I know you are all on the edge of your seats- no turkey vulture hatchlings yet but here's to hoping it's all in good time. They can take up to 41 days to hatch! In the meantime we are planting and nurturing our crops- installing trellis, weeding, and irrigating. 
As time moves forward, we will begin opening online ordering for earlier in the week. Hang tight!

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!

In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We are at market this week and the online store is open
  • We are still hiring (possibly one more slot open)
    • Full-time starting $12-$14 depending on experience
    • Part-time starting $11-$14 depending on experience
• Recipe: Pasta with Spinach and Balsamic Vinegar
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field
• Staying active and engaged with social change
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Pasta with wilted spinach and balsamic
This is a simple and satisfying meal. I love it so much. It always fills me up with flavor and joy. The spinach melts into the pasta and the zip of the balsamic plus the salt of the cheese really brings a joy.
If you want to expand on its simplest form, chopping and sautéing some green garlic add at the end would only add to the flavors. 

Ingredients:

• Box of linguine (I like to use chickpea or lentil pasta for some added protein but good ole durum wheat is always delicious!)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 bags of spinach
• Parmesean
• Pine nuts (optional)
• Bunch green garlic (optional)

Directions:
​Cook pasta. Drain the pasta and return it to the hot pot. Toss in the spinach and sautéed green garlic if you are using it, along with some balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and some grated Parmesan cheese. If you like, you can also add pine nuts, but it is great on its own. 
Make a large portion and dole it out through the week for lunch and dinner. See if you can make it last longer than a sitting. I barely can. 

Notes from the Farm:
So much to do and less to say, this time of year is one of action. We execute long lists and are grateful for longer days. The barn swallows are back- zipping around, like sea creatures of the air, the red wing blackbirds dive bomb us when we are close to their nests, and we hear the strangled chicken call of the pheasant through the day.
The wild bees buzz on the flowered brassicas, the dandelions have  gone to seed, and the dry soil welcomed the rain. It was so remarkably dry for spring. We are all out here working together, making connections above and below the soils delineation. 
I am glad to be here and better get out there! 

Onward and upward!
Helen, Jim, Amy, Elisa, Rose, Asia, Tyler and Brandon: The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field- We are at Market this week

Greens:
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Brassica Mix and Broccoli)
Pea Shoots 
Spinach 
Head Lettuce! 
Arugula (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)

All Manner of Deliciousness
Green Onions
Green Garlic - try our pesto recipe

Herbs
Sage
Oregano
Mint 
Chives
Thyme (limited)

Coming Soon:
Squash!
Kale
Swiss Chard
: 
Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: We are at market this week
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back soon.

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday with Amy: 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Helen and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Jim, Asia and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!
If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

 : 

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

Ahoy Helen!
Just as we started to acclimate to the heat of last week, Spring decided to switch gears again and throw us some more plant-threatening cold nights. I'd hate to be a farmer this Spring! Thankfully, we've been very careful this season to take full advantage of our slowly growing fleet of hoops and tunnels. All of our most cold intolerant crops are currently renting protected hoop space from us ;) The diversity of crops that is planted outdoors can easily tolerate the coming lows. It took a massive effort over the past couple weeks to get all the tunnels prepared, planted and mulched, but it was worth it. The plants are all looking healthy and happy, despite the violently shifting temps.

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!
In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We ARE at market this week and the online store is open
  • We are still hiring!
    • Full-time starting $12-$14 depending on experience
    • Part-time starting $11-$14 depending on experience
• Recipe: Green Garlic Pesto
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field- check back next week.
• Staying active and engaged with social change: Updated with minor change 5/13/2021- Racial Equity Tools and an article on how to have the tough conversations. 
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Green Garlic Pesto- Tried and true recipe posted again from last week
From The Spruce Eats

I love pesto. I love garlic. I love green garlic pesto. This is the time of year to indulge. Make some for now, freeze some for later!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound green garlic (about 2 of our bunches)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or pistachios or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly shredded pecorino cheese or other hard, flavorful grating cheese

Directions:

1. Gather the ingredients.
2. Trim and discard the root ends of the green garlic.
3. Finely chop the green garlic, rinse it thoroughly under cool running water in a colander, and pat or spin it dry (I find chopping and then cleaning gets all the dirt out of the picture; if it's been a rainy spring, the dirt has a way of getting splattered in between the layers of the green garlic leaves).
4. In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, cook the vegetable oil, green garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until the green garlic is soft, about 3 minutes. Let it cool to warm room temperature.
5. In a blender or food processor, pulse the pine nuts or pistachios to chop. Set them aside in a bowl.
6. Put the cooked green garlic in and pulse it, scraping down the sides as necessary, until it is bright green and smooth.
7. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil.
8. Pulse in the reserved nuts and cheese. Taste the mixture and add more salt, if you like.
9. Use with your favorite type of pasta and enjoy!
   
   Note that this recipe makes enough to coat 1 pound linguine.

Notes from the Farm:
Lake Divide is BACK! We were not too happy to be absent from markets sporadically through this Spring (primarily due to the devastation left behind by 2020's antics), so we pushed hard every week and made the best of that borrowed time. Mind you, the situation is not perfect, somethings got planted later than hoped for, but overall, we knocked it out of the park! At long last all of the caterpillar tunnels are done and planted! Last week we succeeded in planting all the onions, shallots and scallions, that was a BIG planting. Helen got busy on the tractor and prepared ground all over the farm. Her efforts yielded two new fields for general transplants and a  field for the potatoes (which are almost completely planted as well). She also cultivated all of our outdoor crops! We use a basket weeder for beds with 4 rows and a tool bar with assorted shanks to cultivate beds with only 3 rows. We also tilled the final hoophouse, which will shortly be planted with ginger (a Lake Divide classic). We have a strong team this season, and it's about to grow again! We have two more farmers on their way to help us finish this fight right. We look forward to seeing all of you at market this week. I mean it too! My body is begging for a day away from this farm ;) Be well and do good! 

Onward and upward!
Helen, Jim, Amy, Elisa, Rose, and Asia: The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us

.Fresh From the Field- 

Greens:
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Brassica Mix and Broccoli)
Pea Shoots (limited)
Spinach (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)
Head Lettuce! 
Arugula (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)

All Manner of Deliciousness
Green Onions
Radish - Purple Daikon (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)
Spring Radishes!
Green Garlic - try our pesto recipe

Herbs
Sage
Oregano
Mint (limited)
Chives
Thyme (limited)

Coming Soon:
Squash!
: 
Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details:
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back in the spring

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday (Amy): 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Jim and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Helen and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!
If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

 : 

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

Greetings!
The weather turned from cold to hot in a flash! What an adjustment for our bodies and brains. We are stunned. On Tuesday when the afternoon struck, conversation became harder, logic became more challenging-- what were we doing again? We asked ourselves, what happened to our minds and then remembered: The first hot day (week) strikes hard. Drink water and hold on tight while our bodies adapt. And what a whole whale of work we have ahead of us! All those plants that we held back a little longer to keep them safe, out they go now, no holds. That's what you can find us doing!

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!

In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We are not at market this week while we play catch up. You can catch us back next week. The store will be open for CSA re-ups and purchases. 
  • We are still hiring!
    • Full-time starting $12-$14 depending on experience
    • Part-time starting $11-$14 depending on experience
• Recipe: Check back next week.
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field- check back next week.
• Staying active and engaged with social change: Updated with minor change 5/13/2021- Racial Equity Tools and an article on how to have the tough conversations. 
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Green Garlic Pesto- Tried and true recipe posted again from last week
From The Spruce Eats

I love pesto. I love garlic. I love green garlic pesto. This is the time of year to indulge. Make some for now, freeze some for later!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound green garlic (about 2 of our bunches)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or pistachios or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly shredded pecorino cheese or other hard, flavorful grating cheese

Directions:

1. Gather the ingredients.
2. Trim and discard the root ends of the green garlic.
3. Finely chop the green garlic, rinse it thoroughly under cool running water in a colander, and pat or spin it dry (I find chopping and then cleaning gets all the dirt out of the picture; if it's been a rainy spring, the dirt has a way of getting splattered in between the layers of the green garlic leaves).
4. In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, cook the vegetable oil, green garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until the green garlic is soft, about 3 minutes. Let it cool to warm room temperature.
5. In a blender or food processor, pulse the pine nuts or pistachios to chop. Set them aside in a bowl.
6. Put the cooked green garlic in and pulse it, scraping down the sides as necessary, until it is bright green and smooth.
7. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil.
8. Pulse in the reserved nuts and cheese. Taste the mixture and add more salt, if you like.
9. Use with your favorite type of pasta and enjoy!
   
   Note that this recipe makes enough to coat 1 pound linguine.

Notes from the Farm:
I am going to keep it concise this week. Our sights are set on elevation! See our pictures for some insight. What I will say- we are planting. Some things later than desired but nothing so late that we shouldn't. Onions, potatoes, field tomatoes, ginger! Our sights are set on these. We have a new crew member and our team grows stronger. I love working with these folks. Power on people! 

And all that I said last week still simmers and displaces, brings joy and competes for our attention. If you missed it, here is a link with some explanation for while we are a little behind (weather not included). Regardless,  we persevere!

Onward and upward!
Helen, Jim, Amy, Elisa, Rose, and Asia: The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field- REMINDER, WE ARE NOT AT MARKET THIS WEEK! Back next week on May 29th
Greens:
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Brassica Mix and Broccoli)
Pea Shoots
Mustard Raab (Ann Arbor only)
Spinach (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)

All Manner of Deliciousness
Green Onions (maybe)
Radish - Purple Daikon (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)
Spring Radishes!
Green Garlic - try our pesto recipe
: 
Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: BACK AT MARKET MAY 29th!
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back in the spring

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday (Amy): 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Jim and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Helen and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!

​If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

 : 

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

The weather is really throwing its all at us in these remaining days before the final frost of the spring, dipping to freezing the last three nights! We are hoping all the tomatoes, cucumbers and squash we planted in the tunnels the last few weeks survive and thrive. So far they seem willing to put up with the set backs. 
It really does look like after this week of up and down weather, it will be go time for all planting. No more frosts, full steam ahead. 

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!

In this email:

• Generally important notes- 
  • We ARE at Markets this week! (Yay!)
  • We are still hiring!
    • Full-time starting $12-$14 depending on experience
    • Part-time starting $11-$14 depending on experience
• Green Garlic Pesto
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field- What are we bringing to market this week!
• Staying active and engaged with social change: Updated with minor change 5/13/2021- Racial Equity Tools and an article on how to have the tough conversations. 
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Green Garlic Pesto!
From The Spruce Eats

I love pesto. I love garlic. I love green garlic pesto. This is the time of year to indulge. Make some for now, freeze some for later!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound green garlic (about 2 of our bunches)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or pistachios or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly shredded pecorino cheese or other hard, flavorful grating cheese

Directions:

1. Gather the ingredients.
2. Trim and discard the root ends of the green garlic.
3. Finely chop the green garlic, rinse it thoroughly under cool running water in a colander, and pat or spin it dry (I find chopping and then cleaning gets all the dirt out of the picture; if it's been a rainy spring, the dirt has a way of getting splattered in between the layers of the green garlic leaves).
4. In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, cook the vegetable oil, green garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until the green garlic is soft, about 3 minutes. Let it cool to warm room temperature.
5. In a blender or food processor, pulse the pine nuts or pistachios to chop. Set them aside in a bowl.
6. Put the cooked green garlic in and pulse it, scraping down the sides as necessary, until it is bright green and smooth.
7. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil.
8. Pulse in the reserved nuts and cheese. Taste the mixture and add more salt, if you like.
9. Use with your favorite type of pasta and enjoy!
   
   Note that this recipe makes enough to coat 1 pound linguine.

Notes from the Farm:
It has been busy. For the farm, that is its nature. It is spring, the plants are ready to get in the ground and the weather is undecided about whether it will welcome them. We seed, prepare the ground, plan, do paperwork, hope, train people, plant, and remember the way forward. We relish the forest floor covered with trillium, the return of the oriole, the awakening of the reptiles and amphibians, the joy of warm sun on shoulders, brushed with cool breeze. 

For the farm, we anticipate this yearly struggle, the tear between what we want and what is possible. Personally, our lives are not always as tumultuous, this year is exceptional (wait, wasn't last year?) When talking about our personal lives in these emails, I try to stick to our lives as they relate to the farm and the community but right now we have two personal challenges that merit mentioning, one chosen and one unexpected.

The Unexpected: My (Helen's) father had a stroke at the beginning of April. It was unexpected and awful. Even so there is a lot to be grateful for- he is still himself and has a good prognosis, my brother also lives close by and we are able to coordinate together. Even so, there are a lot of new challenges facing our family that require time and attention. It has taken me off the farm more than ever before. We have been adapting. Jim has been heading up the field crew, the crew has been doggedly pursuing our goals, and I have been holding it together, but it has been hard. 

The Expected: I am expecting! This is something we knew (obviously) and if you saw me now, you would know too. We are excited and have made many preparations, but can we ever feel prepared? The baby is coming on its schedule, late July or early August -- our busiest of times -- ands it turns out, I do a lot around here. We are making plans to cover gaps and power the engines. 

Both of these factors are shifting my relationship to farm operations. From the Expected, while I would like to say there is no difference in my work, that is simply not the case.  I hoped that I would become pleasantly rotund while the physical nature of my life would carry me through the changes. But it just isn't so. I can't quite bend the way I could a month ago. I don't fit in the same spaces. But the biggest trouble area is I have less physical endurance. This means I can do a demanding task for a short amount of time or less taxing tasks for more time. So I have to choose my battles, delegate, and prey upon the goodwill of others, who so far have pleasantly accommodated me while encouraging me to care for myself. (#blessed lol)

And from the Unexpected,  I am emotionally distracted and physically off-farm more frequently that before. With the unexpected and emotional nature of my fathers stroke, there have been some bumpy transitions that, although handled with grace, difficult none the less. You can deduce the extent of this. 

I am trying to approach these alterations as a learning opportunity and a place to see what changes we could benefit from. It is  an opportunity to see others thrive and rise to the occasion and I am loving that! I am so grateful for our team.

On the other hand, there is an emotional component to stepping aside and letting others push the boulders I formerly shouldered. It is strange that Jim will have to work more to cover my absence after I give birth, making him less available during a time of great change in our personal lives. And strange not yet knowing how I will feel about stepping back from my livelihood for this new endeavor. And what our lives will look like moving forward. All common questions with personal answers, questions that no one can really answer.

Often we are behind this time of year and this year is no different. I am persevering, the crew is a miracle, and Jim is determined. All love appreciated. 

Onward and upward and see you at market!
Helen, Jim, Amy, Elisa and Rose: The Lake Dividers!

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field!
Greens:
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Brassica Mix and Broccoli)
Pea Shoots
Mustard Raab (Ann Arbor only)
Spinach (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)

All Manner of Deliciousness
Green Onions (maybe)
Radish - Purple Daikon (from Tantre- Royal Oak and Eastern only)
Spring Radishes!
Green Garlic - try our pesto recipe
: 
Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update May 13th, 2021
While the movement keeps moving, I struggle to keep up with updating the list. This doesn't mean that this work is any less important.

There are a lot of good seeds here. We need to keep working to raise them up. I will continue to add resources as they come up. 

Keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

Another good resource: Racial Equity Tools

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

<> Speak up: If you are in a group and the opportunity presents itself to have a discussion do it! It can be scary but it is worth it. Have the difficult conversations is part of the work. Here is a helpful article from AARP (a surprising source) about how to have constructive conversations on the topic of racial justice.
How to Have a Respectful Conversation About Racial Justice


If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: 
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back in the spring

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday (Amy): 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Jim and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Helen and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!
If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

 : 

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

We're ARE at markets this week! We continue to be neck deep in planting, but help is on the way! We've been making the improbable possible for too many weeks straight, but Rose, the newest Lake Divider, is starting part time this week. With another set of hands we're gonna turn up the heat on this massive planting! Speaking of heat (or the absence of it) what an ugly little frost we had this past week! This is why you have to always plan to grow a buffer! All should be well, but the plants certainly didn't appreciate those frosted tips.

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!

• Generally important notes- 
  • We ARE at Markets this week! (Yay!)
  • We are hiring! If you know anyone that is interested in farming and proximal to the farm, don't hesitate to tell them about our jobs!
    • Full-time starting $12-$14 depending on experience
    • Part-time starting $11-$14 depending on experience
• Stir Fried Pea Shoots
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field- What are we bringing to market this week!
• Staying active and engaged with social change
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Stir Fried Pea Shoots
From Food.com

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1⁄2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1⁄2 lbs young pea shoots, loosely packed
• 1⁄4 teaspoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

Directions:
Rinse the pea shoots thoroughly in cold water twice, lightly drain.
In a large wok or skillet over high heat, heat oils add ginger, garlic and sugar. Toss and add shoots, soy, & oyster sauce.
Stir-fry for two to three minutes, or until the leaves soften and are tender. Remove shoots leaving the liquid in pan. Place shoots on serving dish. Reduce the remaining liquid by 1/2. Pour over shoots and serve immediately.

Notes from the Farm:
Well we planted. We planted a lot! This past Saturday was a whirlwind of chaotic triage as we raced across the farm gathering seed and seedlings so we could completely plant the first field of the season. There were, of course, multiple fields and tunnels vying for our attention, but we felt that the satisfaction of ONE fully planted field was exactly what we needed. The wind was blowing hard across the field as we  seeded the final row  and prepared to turn on the irrigation. Mind you now, this was the first time that section of irrigation would be running this year, so there was bound to be various junctions that would need attention, mild leaks to major gushers. That situation did not mix well with the wind ha. We turned on the the hydrant and the wind gathered the assorted droplets from about 60 sprinklers and flung them about in Westward fashion with a varying sense of urgency. It was too cold out to conjure any memories of running through the sprinkler as a kid summer time, but hindsight is much warmer than foresight. We slugged our way through it and made all the necessary adjustments as we navigated our synthetic hurricane.  As always, we got through it and made a new memory.
This week is going to be more of the same, there is still a lot of planting to get through. There are 4 more tunnels to plant and 2 more fields that are in my sights. We'll keep pushing it forward, and we'll see you Saturday at the markets. 

Onward and upward and see you at market!
Helen, Jim, Amy, Elisa and Rose: The Lake Dividers!

P.S. We planted one more field since I wrote this! Woohoo! 

Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field!

Greens:
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Mustard Mix and Broccoli
Pea Shoots

All Manner of Deliciousness
Carrots (from Tantre)
Green Onions (maybe)
Scallions (maybe)
Radish - Purple Daikon (some from us and some from Tantre Farm)
Green Garlic 
: 
Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update December 8th, 2020
Our intention is to update this list regularly. Just because we are posting new links, the links from previous emails are still relevant. Additionally, you will find some links repeated. 

In the meantime, keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund

"On Monday, August 31, 2020, Detroit Will Breathe and fourteen individuals filed a federal lawsuit against the City of Detroit, Mayor Duggan, and Chief Craig. Detroit Will Breathe is represented by attorneys Jack Schulz and Amanda Ghannam of Schulz Law PLC, William Goodman and Julie Hurwitz of Goodman Hurwitz PLC, and Sean Riddell of the Riddell Law Firm.

The City, through the Detroit Police Department, has continuously violated demonstrators’ First Amendment right to protest, Fourth Amendment right to be free from excessive force, unlawful arrest, and punitive conditions of detainment; and the right to be free from state-sponsored retaliation for conveying a message of racial justice under 42 U.S.C. 1981."


National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details: 
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back in the spring

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday (Amy): 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Jim and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Helen and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!
If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

 : 

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm

We're NOT at markets this week! Sorry all! We're neck deep in field work and we're too hero programmed to know when to quit. We'll have the online store open JUST for purchasing CSA memberships (no produce available) through the week.

Keep coming out to the market to support your local growers and if you begin feeling worried about the crowds, remember you can pre-order. If you need help figuring it out, check out our trouble shooting guide at the bottom of the email. Need more help? Just email!!

• Generally important notes- 
  • We are NOT at Markets this week
  • We are hiring! If you know anyone that is interested in farming and proximal to the farm, don't hesitate to tell them about our jobs!
    • Full-time starting $12-$14 depending on experience
    • Part-time starting $11-$14 depending on experience
• Pea Shoot Salad With Radish and Carrot
• Farm News
• Fresh From the Field- What are we bringing to market this week!
• Staying active and engaged with social change
• Market Details
• Ordering with Local Line: register and troubleshoot
• CSA members- what to do if your account is low

Pea Shoot Salad With Radish and Carrot
From Garden Betty

Ingredients:

• For the Salad
  5 cups packed pea shoots
  1 radish 
  1 carrot 
  Shaved Parmesan cheese
  Cracked black pepper
• For the Dressing
  1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  1/8 cup white wine vinegar
  1 teaspoon stone ground Dijon mustard
  1 teaspoon honey
  Cracked black pepper

Steps:

1. Wash Pea shoots, radish and carrot
2. Use a sharp knife or julienne peeler to slice the radish and carrot into matchsticks. (Also good if just shredded with the cheese grater.) Combine in a mixing bowl. 
3. Whisk together toasted EVOO, white wine vinegar, dijon mustard, honey and black pepper

You can eat this salad right away or store in an airtight container in the fridge to let it soak up the dressing for a few hours before serving. 
​
Notes from the Farm:
- Placing main field supply orders this week, as well as straw mulch and field nutrients
- We mowed MOST of the farm this past "weekend", yikes Spring!
- Helen plowed up the field for the potatoes ( so we can plant them as soon as they've green sprouted in the greenhouse)
- Plowed up the midtown field so we can step up our cover crop game this season.
- Rototilled Hoophouse 1
- Planted Cukes, Squash, Tomatoes, head lettuce, beets and Spinach, much more to come
- Potted up tomato planting 2 in the greenhouse
- proofed irrigation lines all over the farm
Looking forward to seeing you all again next week! We're going to continue our planting and cultivating rampage this week to ensure that this season is one for the LDF record books. 

Onward and upward and see you at market!
Helen, Jim, Amy, Elisa and Rose: The Lake Dividers!


Lake Divide Farm: Good for the Earth, Good for the Farmers, Good for the People. The Trifecta of sustainability. Good for the earth: Taking care of the natural world is a important, after all, it takes care of us; Good for the farmer: We believe farmers should have livable hours and livable wages; Good for the people: We believe in food equality and bringing our produce to market at an affordable price and keeping it accessible is important to us.

Fresh From the Field!

Greens:
Arugula (from the SOF)
Microgreens (Arugula, Radish, Mustard Mix and Broccoli
Pea Shoots

All Manner of Deliciousness
Carrots (from Tantre)
Radish (bunched from SOF)
Garlic (from the SOF)
Green Onions
Scallions
Radish - Purple Daikon
Green Garlic (maybe)
: 
Staying Active: Something to keep the gears of progress engaged: Last update December 8th, 2020
Our intention is to update this list regularly. Just because we are posting new links, the links from previous emails are still relevant. Additionally, you will find some links repeated. 

In the meantime, keep learning, listening, speaking up, and showing up. We have to continue providing energy for change. There is much to be done. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. 

If you come across resources, readings, or movements that you feel are powerful, please send them our way so we can share them.

I have included below a couple links to readings and some ideas on how to work towards racial equity within your community as well as links to some places where dollars can make a difference.

Because the Michigan Library Association had so much great information, I have linked to their Racial Equity Resources page here. You will find a wide range of resources including books, films, action plans, and organizations. https://www.milibraries.org/racial-equity-resources

To read: Definitely use the MLPP list for this (linked above). They have some many valuable reads listed there.

Read books by people of color and indigenous people. There are many great booklists to be found.

Anti Racism books for children- from Book Beat in Royal Oak. 
This blog also included a few resources to help children cope with crises. Specifically the National Black Children Development Institute's "An Activity Book for African American Families: Helping Children Cope with Crises."

Soul Fire Farm's Food Sovereignty Action Steps: “If we are not acting to change the system, we are complicit, casting our silent vote to maintain the status quo.” The following food sovereignty action steps were compiled by the Soul Fire Farm community and Northeast Farmers of Color alliance It is divided into seven sections

To Listen and Watch:
There are so many TED talks on talking about race and racism, race, race relations, and the history of racism. Here is one to get you started.
What I am learning from my white grandchildren -- truths about race | Anthony Peterson | TEDxAntioch
Ted Talks on Racism

Something to do:
<>The 21 day Racial Equity Challenge I still recommend it!
<>Organize a reading group. 

<> Show up! Detroit Will Breathe has been marching for Justice daily since March. While they are not marching daily now, they are very active. Check their website for their schedule https://detroitwillbreathe.info/

<> Join an organization: A few listed below, again more can be found on the Michigan Library Association's website

• Be the Bridge, led by Latasha Morrison at Be the Bridge www.bethebridge.com
• EmbraceRace www.embracerace.org
• GARE – Government Alliance on Race and Equity https://www.racialequityalliance.org/

If you come across a good community organizing tool kit, please send it our way so we can share it. 

To contribute monetarily:

Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. 100% of Zinn Education Project funding comes from individuals. 

The Zinn Education Project promotes and supports the teaching of people’s history in classrooms across the country. For more than ten years, the Zinn Education Project has introduced students to a more accurate, complex, and engaging understanding of history than is found in traditional textbooks and curricula. With more than 110,000 people registered, and growing by more than 10,000 new registrants every year, the Zinn Education Project has become a leading resource for teachers and teacher educators.

Donate generally to Zinn to help share the People's History.
Or Donate to Zinn's campaign to send people’s history books and lessons to Mississippi teachers and librarians

Detroit Will Breathe: 
While their general fundraising GoFundMe currently redirects donations to support their Federal Lawsuit fund, you can find lots of information about the work that they have been doing and what they have accomplished on that page (found here)
Here is a direct link to support their federal lawsuit. Below is a bit of what the lawsuit is about. You can read more about it on their gofundme page. 
Link to copy paste if needed: https://www.gofundme.com/f/detroit-will-breathe-federal-lawsuit-fund

"On Monday, August 31, 2020, Detroit Will Breathe and fourteen individuals filed a federal lawsuit against the City of Detroit, Mayor Duggan, and Chief Craig. Detroit Will Breathe is represented by attorneys Jack Schulz and Amanda Ghannam of Schulz Law PLC, William Goodman and Julie Hurwitz of Goodman Hurwitz PLC, and Sean Riddell of the Riddell Law Firm.

The City, through the Detroit Police Department, has continuously violated demonstrators’ First Amendment right to protest, Fourth Amendment right to be free from excessive force, unlawful arrest, and punitive conditions of detainment; and the right to be free from state-sponsored retaliation for conveying a message of racial justice under 42 U.S.C. 1981."


National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
The NAACP is at the forefront of the movement to build political power and ensure the wellbeing of communities of color. Underscoring the advocacy of our 2,200 local units across the country, we empower our communities to make democracy work for them. Your donation to the NAACP helps further our mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. Donate today to become our newest monthly sustainer.  

Market Details:   NOT AT MARKETS THIS WEEK
 
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Wednesday- We will be back in the spring

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Saturday (Amy): 8 am to 3 pm (or till sold out), pre-order walk-up or curbside pick-up, on site vegetables!. All orders must be picked up by 1 pm. All curbside orders must be picked up by 12 pm. 
The market runs until 3 pm but we may leave early so it is important that you pick up your order by 1 pm.

For curbside pick-up: Email us to let us know. On market day, pull up and park along Detroit street and tell a volunteer your name and that you are picking up an order from Lake Divide.

Eastern Market, shed 2, Saturday with Shana 6 am to 2:30 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases. *If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. 

Royal Oak, Saturday with Jim and Lisa! 7 am to 1 pm, pre-order, walk-up or curbside, onsite purchases.
Find us inside in our usual spot. 

*If you feel strongly or need to have a trunk pick-up because you are high risk, please email me and I can arrange to have your order dropped at your car. I will email you the instructions Friday after all orders are in.

Stockbridge, Saturday on the farm with Helen and Elisa!
Preorders only please! When you get to the farm, stay in your car and shoot us a text. We will bring you your order!
If you are a CSA member and your account balance is low:

• If you want to continue on as one of our members and your balance does not cover your current order
  • Order what you want
  • Add money into your account either by
    • Putting a check or cash in your trunk/backseat Saturday for pick-up and emailing to let me know
    • Mailing a check
    • Using the online store
• If you just want to add more to your account, go for it! Use any of the methods listed above.
• If you no longer want to be a farm member
  • We ask that you do not go over your balance.  

 : 

Ordering: How to Register with Local Line
If you have already registered with Local Line, just log in and use your account to order. If you haven't already done it, please make sure your account name is in the format Lastname.First as in Chandler.Helen or Neumann.Jim. This isn't required but it helps us when we are entering data, packing, and handling pick ups. 

Trouble shooting:If you have filled your cart but your order isn't going through: If the answer to one of these questions is yes, that is the cause of your problem.

• Is your total less than $10? We have a $10 minimum to help us deal with the extra cost of packing orders.
• Is it between Friday morning and Tuesday afternoon? Ordering is open from sometime Tuesday afternoon until Thursday at midnight

Are you a CSA member but your order receipt says balance due in 30 days?

• Don't worry about this. We had to set up a work around to get Local Line to fit the needs for our business. 

You have made an account but can't log in:

• Did you verify your email address? After you create your username and password, Local Line sends a confirmation email. You can find it by searching your inbox for and email from localline.ca and the exact phrase "please verify your email address"  

If you still need to register with Local Line, follow these instructions. To avoid difficulty, PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
How to create a Local Line Account:

1. Head to the link at the bottom of these steps.
2. Register using the green button to the right.
3. You will be asked to enter a bunch of information and there are a two things that are very important
   1. Be sure to use the email address that this email went to. If you don't, you may be asked to pay using a credit card.
   2. Please use the Lastname.First for the Account name. (Your last name follow by a period followed by your first name, with no spaces. For example Chandler.Helen)
4. You will then need to verify your email address by going to your email inbox and responding to the email that comes from Local Line.
5. At last! You can order!
6. Here is the link to use to create your Local Line account: https://www.localline.ca/lakedividefarm