To the Editor:

GardenShare's annual "Cabin Fever Trivia Night" was held on March 18, 2017 and was a record-setting event for the organization. Sixteen teams of four took part in the event and answered questions about farming and farmers markets, the Adirondacks, North Country food and beverage, local sports, and music.

When we finished that evening, we had raised over $2,500 to support GardenShare's work to solve the problem of hunger in St. Lawrence County!

The winning team represented Deep Root Center for Self-Directed Learning in Canton. Second Place went to a team of Potsdam residents who called themselves “Wilson.” The prize for the best team uniform went to the team representing the Buccaneer Lounge in Canton, who were all dressed as pirates. There was also a prize for the best team name, which went to “The Alternative Facts.”

Presenting sponsors who helped make this event possible included St. Lawrence Health System and Stauffer Farms. Other sponsors included Save-a-Lot, Sandstone Family Dentistry, and Mort Backus and Sons. Tony Lynn, morning show host at The Wolf 95.3 was the evening's Master of Ceremonies.

The amazing volunteer committee that organized this event demonstrated the difference that a small group of people can make. All of the local farms and businesses who donated made this event possible and demonstrated their commitment to building a strong and vital community where people care about each other. It's great to be part of such a place!

Thank you to all those farms and businesses who donated to the prize packages for the winning teams, including: Bittersweet Farm, Canton Apples, Canton Farmers Market, Circle G Farm, Eight O’clock Ranch, Fullers Farm, Harmony Farm, Kent Family Growers, Martins Farmstand, Raymond Watkins, Red Wagon Farm, Smith Farm Chicken, Sweetcore Farm, Tupper Hilltop Maple Treats, and Warren’s Rustic Creations.

Thank you to all who donated food for the event, including: ARAMARK, Potsdam Food Co-op, Stauffer Farms, Stewart’s Shops, and Sugar Valley Bakery. Special thanks to Brick and Mortar Music who donated the use of a sound system.

Funds raised will support GardenShare's work to solve the problem of hunger in St. Lawrence County. GardenShare's annual Local Food Guide, farmers market promotion, and promotion of Community Supported Agriculture help ensure that the County has a vibrant, local food system where our food choices are healthy for us, for our communities, and for the environment and where local farmers are able to make a living that supports their families. GardenShare also makes it possible for people to use food stamps at area Farmers Markets and helps low-income families buy CSA shares so that everyone in the County has access to enough nutritious and affordable food to sustain a healthy lifestyle.

Gloria J. McAdam

GardenShare, executive director