Meet the Market Manager – Ron Braunagel
Our Kerrisdale Village farmers market kicked off for its fourth season on June 15th. The market is managed this year by long-time Kerrisdale resident, Ron Braunagel. Ron began working with the Vancouver Farmers Markets in 2013 as a crew member and quickly rose through the ranks to become manager of his very own market.
Ron was born in Vancouver and grew up in Kitsilano, graduating from Kitsilano High School. For more than 30 years he has been running own graphic design company, Torque Design, where he uses his creativity and eye for detail to create memorable branding for his clients. Running his own business was not nearly enough to keep him busy, so last year he was inspired to apply to work with the Vancouver Farmers Markets.
To counteract the hours he spends working on a computer, Ron is happy to have found a job that takes him outside. He also appreciates the chance to work with younger folk who can keep up with him. Having pursued a hobby of collecting vintage clothing and with a special affinity for men’s ties, Ron appreciates being around craftspeople and people who are passionate about what they create. The market is the perfect fit for someone who appreciates craftsmanship, as every vendor makes, bakes, or grows what they sell. Surrounded by such great food every week, the biggest on-the-job struggle Ron has encountered so far has been not spending everything he earns at the market.
Some of Ron’s best memories of Kerrisdale harken back to the “good old days” when the CPR train ran twice a day and there was a gas station in the neighbourhood. The train stopped running in 2000, but Ron will always remember the sound of its whistle. The tracks are overgrown with blackberries brambles now and make a perfect backdrop for a farmers market.
Here’s what you can expect at the Kerrisdale Village market, in Ron’s own words:
What should shoppers look for at the Kerrisdale Market?
Aside from a range of fabulous produce, prepared foods and crafts, it’s a great place to have a stroll and then stop for a coffee and a treat on a beautiful Kerrisdale morning (we’ve got tables and chairs!)
How does the Kerrisdale Village Market fit into the larger community?
The Kerrisdale market adds an element of vital street life. People from all cultures and ages get to mingle in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
What do you like best about Kerrisdale?
Kerrisdale is a beautiful area that has a great library, community centre, arena, shopping and parks. In my opinion it’s Vancouver’s best neighbourhood!
What are your goals this year for the market?
I’d like to see 70 to 80 vendors like they have at Kitsilano and other older markets. I’d also like to see Kerrisdale Village market become a destination shopping event for people from the Marpole and Dunbar areas. This would be a great boost to local area shops as well as Vancouver Farmers Markets.
The Kerrisdale Village market runs every Saturday, 10am-2pm, from June 14th –October 11th.
The market features only produce grown in BC, including vegetables, fruit, and mushrooms, along with meat, cheeses, baked goods, preserves, beverages and crafts. Many of the vendors scheduled are certified organic.
Freshly brewed coffee is on-site every week along with plenty of hot food, seating, live music, and fun events for kids. Find us on West Boulevard between 37th Ave. and 41st Ave.
Ron is happy to receive your comments and suggestions about the Kerrisdale Village market – send him an email!
We hope to see you there!
