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Deacon launched a Kickstarter campaign for Fable, his new farm-to-table business. Deacon has raised almost $6,400 of his $10,000 goal.
Fable's goal is to provide the Hudson Valley with produce that is fresh and pesticide free. On the farm, Deacon aims to grow oranges, lemons, avocados and pomegranates, fruits and vegetables not commonly seen in Westchester.
Deacon said Fable initially will sell its products to markets and restaurants with the hope of eventually opening his own restaurant. The money raised in the Kickstarter campaign will go toward a greenhouse.
"I was unsatisfied with what I saw in the grocery store," Deacon said. "There just wasn't fresh produce that didn't have pesticides. We want to grow this organically in Westchester."
Crowdsourcing felt like the way to go for Deacon and he said he's happy with the results.
"We've received a lot of positive feedback from restaurants and grocery stores," Deacon said. "They want to place orders right way."
Deacon said the public is becoming more aware of the potential dangers of pesticides and genetically modified organisms.
"They are being linked to diseases and neurological disorders," Deacon said. "People want to eat healthier. We want to provide cheaper organic produce."
Recently, Chipotle announced it no longer will serve food with GMOs.
"That is great news and a great step," Deacon said. "I hope more fast food restaurants do this."
If Fable kicks off, Deacon said he would consider having farms throughout Northern Westchester, including operations in Croton, Yorktown and Ossining, to make it easier to deliver to restaurants.
"You usually can only get one kind of basil," Deacon said. "We're growing eight to 10 in an efficient and cost effective way."
Deacon said he is pleased with the positive response his Kickstarter has received. Deacon has sent out e-mails and posted flyers hoping to entice potential investors and met fundraising goals.
"The feedback has been great," Deacon said.
To donate to Deacon's Kickstarter, visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1501836929/fable-from-farm-to-table?ref=video
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