Gina Levra - Assistant Farmers Market Manager

Hello folks! My name is Gina Levra and I am the new Farmers Market Assistant Manager. I am thrilled to be a part of a market that I have hung around for at least the last 18 years!I also had the privilege to work for a farmer in the summer of 2007. It was the best summer of my adult life!

Deb Connors is patiently educating me on all things Farmers Market. She has devoted 16 years to the Market and I have so much to learn. I could not have asked for a better teacher……

I made my first solo farm visit back in May to a beautiful place called Harvest Hills Farm outside of Mound City, MO! The roads to get there were mostly underwater, but once there, the absolute beauty of the place was a bit overwhelming at first. The farm sits on top of a hill with a perfect farm house, a "ferocious" guard dog named Henry and a family that made me feel right at home. I think I could have spent the weekend there!

Laura Kennesh and her brother Dylan showed me around their picturesque place. They are growing asparagus, cucumbers, garlic, green beans, peppers, potatoes, onions, squash, herbs, turnips, and other delicious produce. If we are lucky, we will be seeing some fresh local fruits as well.

 

It was a great visit and a perfect one for me to start on this journey. I am in awe of the hard work and tenacity of all of the farmers I have met and visited. This years’ weather has been devastating for so many of our farmers, and I can’t imagine being so dependent on what Mother Nature unleashes on us. All I can say is thank you for working so hard and providing the Farmers Market with excellent, local produce. Many thanks to Henry and the rest of the Kennesh family for a lovely afternoon. Welcome to the Market! Stop by and see Laura on Sunday’s. (this is her in the photo below)!