Vinder debuts in Port Townsend

Vinder, an online community marketplace for homegrown produce, has launched in Port Townsend.

Founder and CEO Sam Lillie, a group fitness instructor at Port Townsend Athletic Club, originally launched this venture on foot and bicycle in July 2016 for $18.56. Within the first three months, more than 300 pounds of produce was exchanged between community members, he said.

Users can list and discover produce being grown in their own communities. It’s free to sign up, and for growers to post and sell.

“Vinder allows people to learn the ins and outs of their produce,” Lillie said. “It helps home gardeners get rid of any excess produce that usually goes to waste, and provides community members with ultra-local, ultra-high-quality food in an environmentally sustainable way. And because Vinder users are buying their produce direct from the grower, the money stays within the community.”

Learn more at veggievinder.com.

Falge Financial joins PT chapter

Ben Falge, of Falge Financial, is the newest member of the Peninsula Professionals Network, a Business Network International (BNI) chapter that meets in Port Townsend.

When asked why he joined BNI, Falge said, “I’m looking to make a deeper connection to the business community in the greater Port Townsend area.”

Falge has more than 10 years of experience providing tax services and bookkeeping support for small businesses and individuals. He came to Port Townsend almost 10 years ago with his wife, Lysa, who grew up in the community, according to a press release.

BNI’s mission is to help members increase their business through a structured, positive and professional referral marketing program that enables them to develop long-term, meaningful relationships with quality business professionals.

The group has one opening for each business classification and is dedicated to building members’ businesses to find success. They meet Thursdays at 7:45 a.m. at the Port Townsend Yacht Club.

Meet new CEO of foundation

The Jefferson Community Foundation has named Siobhan Canty as the new CEO of the nonprofit organization. She’s started her new position April 10.

JCF is developing a calendar of events and meetings over the next few months to introduce Canty to the community. The first event is the upcoming fireside chat from 5 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday April 12 at the Fred Lewis Scout Cabin.

The fireside chat is sponsored by UGN, which recently merged with the Jefferson Community Foundation, as a thank-you to donors. Anyone wishing to attend should call 385-3797 or email

debbie@jcfgives.org.

Rose Lincoln, chair of the foundation’s board of directors, said, “We are thrilled to have Siobhan join us. I know her impressive background, skills and enthusiasm will translate into increased engagement, partnership and positive change in our communities. This is especially exciting considering our recent merger with United Good Neighbors.”