
When I started Fresh Fork Market I was 21 years old – arrogant and fearless. The trials and tribulations of a startup business are quite humbling. That is why I am grateful for the mentorship of the numerous small farmers we work with.
One of the most enlightening pieces of advice I ever received was from one of our growers, Kay Vaughn in Hartville. Kay can be an ornery gentleman – sometimes on the edge of fired up. His life story is fascinating. Born a farmer, he spent a career as a high school chemistry teacher, followed by about every job in agriculture – fertilizer salesman, hog farmer, dairy farmer, crop farmer, and now he grows produce and wine grapes. He’s been a competitive ballroom dancer and a leader in his community. When he talks, you listen.
