Saturday - Farmers’ Community Market at Brookside


Farmer's Community Market at Brookside
Saturdays 8am-1pm

From: Franki Shearer
Manager

Hello Y'All,

Greetings from sunny South Carolina. Sorry this e-mail is not as "pretty" as my others, but I am working on a computer that does not have all my fancy programs. Well, my mission is fulfilled; I have eaten a bushel of shrimp, fried okra and fried green tomatoes. I have had a great time checking out what local eats there are to offer in this part of the country. Last night I had the local flounder, and it was great! But...

...I am very excited to get back to KC and check on my tomato crop. And, as you will read below, our farmers are starting to see the beginnings of their tomato harvest as well. Stop by Saturday and pick up all your holiday picnic needs. We still have great cuts of meat and lot of great fixings for some fresh side dishes.

As always, we look forward to seeing you at 63rd and Wornall every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Also, check us out at www.farmerscommunitymarket.com.

Now from our farmers......

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From Kansas City Center for Urban Agriculture:

We just went through an unusual bit of hail storm here at the farm; large pieces the size of golf balls coming down all around us. For me, that's a first since my arrival here in the Midwest in 1999. I have heard of it on the news but never seen it this large. Luckily we don't have head lettuce or spinach in the field, otherwise you'd be looking at a lot of shredded produce this weekend.

Please remember to come out to the market this weekend. The produce keeps growing even on holidays and we hope you'll consider a quick trip to the farmers market to stock up on organic produce and then enjoy good food for the rest of your holiday weekend. Thank you!

We had our first noteworthy SUMMER SQUASH harvest yesterday; about three weeks late, much like many other crops this year, but much welcomed. You'll also find more first-rate FILET BEANS and TRI-COLOR BEANS on our tables. Both are really wonderful this time of year. And TOMATOES... yes, each week a little more, so don't miss out. More NEW POTATOES, BEETS, TURNIPS and CARROTS; also CABBAGE and CUCUMBERS; More BABY ONIONS, SCALLIONS and GARLIC (we just harvested a big round of garlic... you can smell it all through our building!). Also, beautiful bunched greens like KALE and CHARD as well as some baby SALAD GREENS if we can find them. I probably forgot something but whatever it is it'll be there for you on Saturday. Have a HAPPY FOURTH! (oh here's what I forgot: FRESH HERBS) See ya!

Daniel, Katherine, Dan and the crew

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From Wells Family Farms:

Hello All,

Things on this farm sure could not possibly get any busier! Could they? The kids are at the grandparents for 7 days, which is some ways good and as many bad! Along with my attempts at berry picking I have about 100 thistle that have decided to join our fields. My spade tarp and bucket will be my buddies tonight! The calves in that pasture are very amusing and nosy so I am sure to have company!

I am looking to be stocked up this week so will see everyone at market. I can't promise berries but I will be pleased if I find enough!

See ya Saturday,
Kim

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From Bread of Life Bakery:


Hello Brookside Market Friends,

This week has been hectic with hay getting finished, weeding, lawn work and another calf born to Luke Belted Galloway. It is so cute to see a little black calf with a white band around it's middle.

The Bakery will have it's usual breads with our new rosemary twist bread , snacks and honey pecan rolls. Luke and Chris will have more breakfast burritos this week with sausage, potato and egg, and meatless ones with potato,spinach and egg. We'll have Puddin Head Coffee, raspberry bars, granola bars, blueberry streusel scone and we will have vegan bran muffins this week and granola bars made with organic peanut butter.

Have a good week and see many of you on Saturday,

Kathy, Luke and Chris

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The Farmers' Community Market at Brookside is Dedicated to Creating a Unique Partnership between the Community and Farmers that provides High Quality, Local and Organic Products in an atmosphere that is mutually beneficial, wholesome and fun. The Market also helps to support the Border Star PTA.

The Market is located in the Heart of Brookside where many Unique Shops and Restaurants are nearby to explore and spend a delightful Saturday afternoon.

The Market has a lively mix of Local and Certified Organic Farmers who provide Freshly-picked Vegetables, Fragrant Herbs, Juicy Sweet Fruit, Edible and Cut Flowers. Our Farmers use Sustainable and Humane practices to produce hormone and antibiotic-free Meat, Free-Range Eggs and Honey products.

TThe Market also features Organic Freshly-Prepared Artisan Food, including fresh hot Breakfast Burritos, and fresh hot fair-trade and locally roasted Coffee, Baked Goods including Pies, Assorted Breads, Cinnamon Rolls, Granola Cereals, Cookies, Brownies, Squares, including many Vegan varieties, Gluten-free and much more.

Organic Hand-Crafted Soap and Artists with unique handmade crafts complement our market.

here are weekly events at the market tent including live music, children's activities and cooking demonstrations by local chefs, which feature samples and seasonal recipes.

Tables and Chairs are here to Relax, enjoy some of our Tasty Breakfast Treats or Sit to Visit with your Friends.

Some Upcoming Special Events:

  • Tomato Festival is July 26
  • Children's Day is Aug. 16
  • Fall Festival is Oct. 4


KCFC's Local Organic, Natural and Free-Range Farmers Markets

Featured Farmers Markets in K.C.
In Kansas City we are fortunate to have access to a number of Farmers Markets that only accept vegetable and fruit farmers who agree to grow using organic methods. Organic growers avoid the use of conventional fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, and other biocides, and strive to preserve the health of the living soil. In addition, the farmers at these markets who produce meat, eggs, and dairy products agree to avoid the use of synthetic growth promotants such as hormones and subtherapeutic antibiotics. The market listings below are written by representatives of the markets, and the Food Circle, being an all-volunteer organization, is unable to evaluate or certify each market’s standards and practices. For additional information about these issues or to find out what is meant by any particular term in a market listing, please contact the market directly with your questions.

Farmers Community Market at Brookside -- updated April 2008

Located at the Border Star Montessori School - 63rd and Wornall Road, Kansas City, Missouri - Look for the White Tents
Saturdays, 8 am to 1 pm, April 12 -October 25
The Farmers’ Community Market is in the Heart of Brookside where many Unique Shops and Restaurants are nearby to explore and spend a delightful Saturday afternoon. The Market has a lively mix of Local and Certified Organic Farmers who provide Freshly-picked Vegetables, Fragrant Herbs, Delicious Beef, Juicy Sweet Fruit, Edible and Cut Flowers. Our Farmers use Sustainable and Humane practices to produce hormone and antibiotic-free Meats and truly Free-Range Chicken Eggs. The Market also features Organic Freshly-Prepared Artisan Food and Baked Goods including Vegan and Gluten-free items. Organic Hand-Crafted Soap and Artists with locally handmade crafts complement the market. Tables and Chairs are available to Relax and Visit with Friends. OUR 6th ANNUAL HEIRLOOM TOMATO FESTIVAL will be JULY 26th. Visit www.FarmersCommunityMarket.com for more details.

KC Organics & Natural Market at Minor Park -- updated April 2008
"Uniquely nestled in a beautiful park, On the grass and Under the trees!"
Just East of Holmes on Red Bridge Road, Kansas City, MO (one mile south of I-435 at Holmes Road)
Saturdays, 8 am—12:30 pm, May 3rd—October 18th

Come visit us in the park. Our family farmers offer organic produce that is freshpicked and locally-grown, natural specialty and Heritage meats, honey, mushrooms, edible flowers, herbs, grains, artisan breads, cereals and pies, fresh eggs, freshly-brewed "FT" coffee & more. We continue to pioneer ECOPRODUCTS, with the highest organic-content handmade bar soaps & body care items, woodcrafts, candles, artisan natural-stone custom jewelry, etc. Gourmet chefs' demos at 9:30 include samples and recipes. Our "Organica Music in the Park" venue showcases local up-and-coming talent (Note: See website for scheduling). We are a "Fair Trade" Market. We host a Special INDOOR "Holiday Market" in December at Notre Dame de Sion High School. Please visit our website, www.KCOrganics.com, or join our email list via KCOrganics@yahoo.com, for special events; or call 816-444-FOOD(3663). (In cooperation with the KCMO Parks and Recreation Department.)

39th St. Community Market -- updated April 2008
39th and Genessee, Kansas City, Missouri
Wednesdays, 5 to 8 pm, May 7th - Oct. 8th 2008
Call 816-507-8698 for specific dates, or check on our web site: www.39thStreetMarket.com
The 39th Street Community Market is conveniently located near KU Medical Center in the 39th Street shopping area. Stop by after work and talk with your local farmers. Organic and sustainably grown vegetables and fruit, free range meat and other goodies are available. If you live in the neighborhood, stroll on over and bring your kids! Regular music events and activities are also scheduled.

Troostwood Youth Garden -- updated April 2008
5142 Paseo, Kansas City, Missouri 64110
Saturdays, 8 am to 2 pm, May 10th-October
816-444-5788
www.KCFoodCircle.org/growers/troostwood/
eMail: Troostwood (@) KCFoodCircle.org
Neighborhood youth are providing fresh and healthy vegetables from A to Z.
We are members of JJ Farms, and all of our foods are grown onsite using organic methods.
Please call if you have questions.
Come to our Troostwood's Green Neighborhood Festival on May 17th.

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!!!!!!!!!!!! New Organic, Natural and Free-Range Market !!!!!!!!!!

BADSEED
(a regular listing will replace this announcement in a few weeks)

Attention Conscious Eaters and Connoisseurs of Local Flavor:
you are invited to the
BADSEED FARMER'S MARKET Season Opening!!!

Friday May 2nd, 4:30 - 9:00 pm

1909 McGee
KCMO 64108
(in the Crossroads)


Local Organic Delights including succulent and exotic greens, herbs, transplants, flowers, goat cheese, free-range meats and eggs, delicious baked goods, and herbal soaps and beauty products!!!!

Featuring live music, art, and delectable prepared dishes by EDEN ALLEY (www.edenalley.com)

For more info go to www.badseedfarm.com

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!!!!!!!!!!!! New Organic, Natural and Free-Range Market !!!!!!!!!!


Merriam
Organic Market

(
M.O.M.)
TUESDAYS... in KANSAS!!
(a regular listing will replace this announcement in a few weeks)

5740 Merriam Drive
Merriam, KS 66203

(just a few blocks NW of I-35 and Johnson Drive)


Omnivores, we're solving your Dilemma...

M.O.M.'s GRAND OPENING will be May 27th...

... weather permitting and the creek don't rise!!!*
www.MerriamOrganicMarket.org

* Turkey Creek, that is... RAIN won't stop us,
but a FLOOD might.

Merriam Organic Market
TUESDAYS, 4pm-8pm
June through September, 2008
(excluding July 1st)

DISCLAIMER:
Merriam Organic Market (M.O.M.) is run
as a non-profit promotional organization
for the benefit of local organic, natural
and free-range growers.
We
rent space from the Merriam Parks &
Recreation District, but we are *not*
directly associated with the "mixed"
(organic and conventional) Merriam
Farmers Marketplace held on Saturdays
at the same venue
.

KC Local Green Events - Week of 4/23/2008

Conversations on the Environment:
Richard Louv

Futurist and journalist Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods and six other books, speaks about what he calls the "Nature Deficit Disorder" in the fourth installment of Conversations on the Environment on Wednesday, April 23 at 7 p.m. at the Plaza Branch of the Kansas City Public Library, 4801 Main Street. Admission is free.

As a child growing up in Raytown, Louv explored the woods around his home. As an adult, he researched what's happening to today's wired generation of America's children and then coined the phrase "Nature Deficit Disorder" to describe the most disturbing childhood trends: the rise in obesity, attention disorders and depression.

Louv's body of research indicates that direct exposure to nature is essential for healthy childhood development and for the physical and emotional health of children and adults. More than just raising an alarm, Louv offers practical solutions and simple ways to heal the broken bond รข?? and they are right in our own backyard.

A 6:30 p.m. public reception precedes the presentation. Seating space for this event is limited. Complete the form below or call 816.701.3407 to indicate your interest in attending. Free parking is available in the Plaza Branch's parking garage.

For full details, including the address, and to RSVP see:
http://environment.meetup.com/270/calendar/7794313/
Green Drinks KC Meetup Group


ONLINE WEBINAR:
Carbon Policy and Agriculture

2008-04-24 9am – 11am
(Timezone: Central Time)

A FREE Webinar on Carbon Policy and Agriculture
hosted by Midwest Ag Energy Network

http://www.eventbrite.com/event/108746263/invitefriends

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Webinar Summary

2007 was a landmark year in the area of climate change in the Midwest. In November 2007, the Midwest Governor’s Association signed the Energy Security and Climate Stewardship Platform for the Midwest. In addition, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Manitoba signed the Midwest Greenhouse Gas Accord. The National Farm Bureau and the National Farmer’s Union have both launched carbon programs. In addition, the Lieberman-Warner bill contains language specific to agriculture. Tune into this web conference to learn what you need to know to get up to speed on this rapidly evolving area in agriculture.

Topics to be covered will center around carbon policy and implications for agriculture

  • What are the programs and policies in development that will regulate carbon and what will enforcement look like?
  • What have we learned from existing carbon programs?
  • What are factors in the carbon sequestration for soil?


Urban Agriculture and its Effect on the Built Environment
Thursday, April 24, 2008. 12pm - 1pm.

Registration Required

A Lunch & Learn event at the American Institute of Architects, Kansas City.

KCCUA's Daniel Dermitzel will discuss urban farming in the context of green and sustainable design, community development and public health.

The event is free to members and nonmembers but registration is required. For more information and to register visit http://www.aiakc.org/chapter_events.asp


KC Green Summit 2008

Date: Apr 25

Event Details: Join Majora Carter, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver and Bob Berkebile to help define green solutions for Kansas City.

Location: Bartle Hall Ballroom - 16th & Wyandotte Streets - Kansas City, MO

Contact: Jason Parson for details at (816) 500-7090

Website: Email KCGreenSummit2008@mac.com



Greenworks
Date: Apr 27
Time: 10:00 AM
Event Details: Kate Corwin, founder of Greenworks, will discuss her green-collar job training program for youth.
Cost: Free
Location: All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church - 4501 Walnut St. - Kansas City, MO 64111 [directions]
Contact: 816-531-2131


The Organic No Till
Organic Gardening Workshop
held in Kansas City on October 27, 2007, featuring Joel Gruver and Patrice Gros is now available on DVDs. Please contact Kansas City Community Gardens for a copy at 816-931-3877
or info-1@kccg.org


You are welcome to come by the garden at Niles Home for Children and see our no till beds. Please let me know that you are coming to assure the security of the kids.

Marty Kraft 816-333-5663

During the week days when I'm at Niles
816- 241-3448.



See also:
http://www.KCFoodCircle.org/events/

Johnson County Community College - Earth Day Activities

Going Green 2008

Monday April 21st
12345 College Blvd
Overland Park, KS

11am - 3pm
Behind the COM building and in the Corner Lounge

Celebrate Earth Day by checking out the Mercedes Smart car that will be on display and hybrids. Live music by "September Something" and W.W.W.D. Musicians.

Guest speakers include:
Mary English (Climate Change Science and What You Can Do),
Dr. Feddema (How Climate Change Will Affect Kansas),
JCCC President Terry Calaway (Greening JCCC), and
Blake Elliot (Wind energy from a Utilities Perspective).

Exhibitors include:
Ben Daniels Art, Building Sustainable Earth Community, Climate and Energy Project, Great Plains Clean Energy Alliance, JCCC Student Environmental Alliance, Kansas Board of Public Utilities, KC Food Circle Community, Mid-America Electric Auto Assoc., Morse Chevrolet, Molle Toyota, Sierra Club, Smart Car, The JO, O'Neill Honda.

Sponsored by:
JCCC Student Environmental Alliance
Benjamin Leary
President
913-944-7043


KC Annual Earth Fest / Earth Walk at Shawnee Mission Park

12th Annual KC EarthWalk / EarthFest
Saturday, April 19, 2008

Location:

    The Theatre in the Park
    at Shawnee Mission Park

EarthWalk Starts at 9:00 AM
Day-of-Event Registration: 7:30-9:00 AM

====

Plan to stay around after the EarthWalk for the

4th Annual Kansas City EarthFest

10:00 – 2:00 PM

FREE Admission - FREE Parking

Featuring 80+ planet-friendly exhibitors, children’s crafts and activities, a performance by Jim Cosgrove – Mr. Stinky Feet & The Hiccups and more!

See: www.BridgingTheGap.org

REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT is the 2008 Theme for the...

8th Annual Earth Fair
Saturday, April 12th
10am to 3pm

Shawnee Mission East High School

75th and Mission Rd


FREE Admission! - FREE Parking!
Find the school parking lot a block
south of 75th and Mission Rd

 

"Propelled by the growing awareness of the global climate crisis and interest in choosing more sustainable life styles, the 8th Annual Earth Fair promises to be the best yet", says Margaret Thomas, chairperson, of the Prairie Village Environmental Committee. There will be more than 50 exhibitors who will cover every facet of sustainable choices. Attendees will be able to use an interactive computer program to measure how their lifestyles impact our environment and how to reduce that impact.

 

Another highlight will be "LESS TRASHIN' MORE FASH'N," a fashion show sponsored by the Shawnee Mission East Environmental Club featuring recycled clothing for school wear that students purchased from area thrift stores. There will also be presentations on global climate change, home insulation, geothermal energy systems and native perennials as well as performance by "Green Elvis," and choral groups from Belinder and Briarwood Schools. Hybrid and electric cars, live animals and exotic birds will be on display. There will be an organic lunch and fair trade products for sale.


The Earth Fair is sponsored by the Prairie Village Environmental Committee and Shawnee Mission East Environmental Club. 

 

Contact: Margaret Thomas -- MargaretGThomas@gmail.com



























View Large Map


http://www.pvkansas.com/aboutpv/annual_events/earthfair.shtml


Kansas City Food Circle's Annual Expo

April 5th, 2008

EAT LOCAL! 2008
10th Annual Exhibition of Farmers

Buy Direct from Local Family Farms!

· High-quality, organic vegetables for sale on-site and thru CSA memberships

· Free Range meats, eggs and dairy products

· Veggie seedlings and plants for spring gardens

· Free information on organic agriculture & gardening

· Attend growing & nutrition workshops, and CHEF’S DEMOS!

· Original music by Eco-Troubadour Stan Slaughter

· Free Directory of Local Organic and Free Range Food Producers


Saturday, April 5th, 2008
9:30 am - 2:30 pm
Roger T Sermon Community Center
201 N Dodgion St.
*
Independence, MO 64050
(at Noland and Truman Roads,
*NOLAND at I-70 is UNDER CONSTRUCTION
from US 291 go west on Truman Rd;
eastbound I-70 take Lee Summit Rd
north to Truman, then west)

Workshop at 9:30 AM:
Grow Food, Not Lawns

Chef's Demo at 12 noon:
Spring Flavors from Local Fare
with Jacqueline Bopp, Chef Jacci
of Bistro Kids, www.InHomeBistro.com

Free Admission - Free Parking

The Kansas City Food Circle is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization.
www.KCFoodCircle.org -- (913)334-0556

Sponsors Include:
The Sierra Club,
Food Circles Networking Project-MO Extension,
Growing Growers Project - KS Extension,
Kansas City Greens, Wellness Magazine,
Society of the Precious Blood, Bridging the Gap,
Sustainable Sanctuary Coalition,
Green Sanctuary Committee,
All Souls UU Church


Online Promoters and Other Info-Sponsors Include:
www.InfoZine.com -- www.ActiveFarming.org
www.KansasCity.com -- www.EatLocalKC.org
www.GreenabilityMagazine.com
www.SustainableAgriculture.net
ATTRA.ncat.org -- www.GreenPeople.org


Missouri rBGH Labeling Under Attack, AGAIN...

Please pass this on to your family and friends in Missouri...

Dairy Labeling - Missouri House Bill HB 2283 has hearing on 4-1-08


---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Burnetts Heritage Farms
Date: Sun, Mar 30, 2008 at 10:24 PM
Subject: Dairy Labeling Bill HB2283 has hearing on 4-1-08
To: KC Food Circle Bulletin Board <KCFC-Bulletin-Board@googlegroups.com>

House Bill 2283 has been scheduled for a hearing with the Special Committee on Agri-Business for April 1, 2008 at 8:00am in Hearing Room #4 of the State Capitol Building
. This bill would be VERY detrimental to small dairy producers in the state who advertise their milk as hormone free, rBgh free or by other composition standards. It would prevent consumers from knowing what is used to produce their milk.

This bill must be stopped! Opponents to this bill should be at the
hearing, if they at all can. Those who would like to testify in person or through written submission should contact the Committee Chair. All opponents to this bill should contact the Committee Members and express their views on this very destructive bill. At this late date, phone calls are best, but emails are still very effective.

The Committee Contact information is below, with the exact wording of the changes the bill would make to the current dairy labeling laws in Missouri.

###

196.075. 1. A food shall be deemed to be misbranded:...
(12) For all dairy products except those produced through organic farming as defined by rules promulgated under section 261.110, RSMo:
(a) A compositional claim that cannot be confirmed through laboratory analysis; or
(b) A compositional or production-related claim that is supported solely by sworn statements, affidavits, or testimonials; or
(c) If the label contains a statement which is false or
misleading; or
(d) If the label contains the following production statement: "this milk is from cows not supplemented with rbST", or a substantially equivalent claim; or
(e) If the label makes any claims regarding the composition of milk, as opposed to the manner in which milk is produced, such as "No Hormone", "Hormone Free", "rbST Free", "rbGH Free", and "bST Free". The department of agriculture shall not permit such statements on any dairy product labels; or
(f) A statement may be considered false and misleading if
it indicates the absence of a compound not permitted by the United States Food and Drug Administration to be present in any dairy product.

###


Special Committee on Agri-Business Members:


Munzlinger, Brian, Chair 573-751-7985
brian.munzlinger@house.mo.gov

Fisher, Barney Joe, Vice Chair 573-751-5388 barney.fisher@house.mo.gov

Aull, Joe 573-751-2204 joe.aull@house.mo.gov

Guest, Jim 573-751-0246 jim.guest@house.mo.gov

Hobbs, Steve 573-751-9458 steve.hobbs@house.mo.gov

Kelly, Van 573-751-2205 van.kelly@house.mo.gov

Rucker, Martin T. 573-751-9460 martin.rucker@house.mo.gov

Swinger, Terry 573-751-2264 terry.swinger@house.mo.gov

Thomson, Mike 573-751-9465 mike.thomson@house.mo.gov

Todd, Tom 573-751-4095 tom.todd@house.mo.gov


--~--~---------~--~----~-----

Please review our KCFC Copyright and Fair Use Policies page before reposting articles protected by copyright. As a rule, you should always cite your sources.

###

You received this forwarded message because someone who cares is subscribed to the Google Group "KC Food Circle Bulletin Board"

To post to this group, send email to KCFC-Bulletin-Board@googlegroups.com

For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/KCFC-Bulletin-Board?hl=en
-~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---


Missouri Residents, see also:
http://ga3.org/campaign/MO_rBGH
for their current write-in campaign
and / or
The Food and Water Watch write-in campaign


and


Ralph Tomlinson thought you would be
interested in the following article from
www.globeandmail.com,
Canada's leading source for online news:


"Wal-Mart move 'tipping point' for non-hormone milk"


Organic food proponents will remember Thursday as the day the ground shifted.Giant food retailer Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced that its store brand milk in the United States will now come exclusively from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones.

Note from Ralph Tomlinson:
Walmart has slapped down Monsanto.

###

reportonbusiness.com

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080322.RMILK22/EmailTPStory/Business

RETAIL: FOOD

Wal-Mart move 'tipping point' for non-hormone milk

JANET MCFARLAND

March 22, 2008

Organic food proponents will remember Thursday as the day the ground shifted.

Giant food retailer Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced that its store brand milk in the United States will now come exclusively from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones.

The move sends a powerful signal to food manufacturers about the growing mainstream demand for health food products. With Wal-Mart already the largest retailer of organic milk in the U.S., it has been clear that consumers interested in greener food products are no longer the narrow group of back-to-the-earth types and wealthy urban yuppies.

"It's reached the tipping point," said Ronnie Cummins, director of the Organic Consumers Association in the U.S., who has spent years campaigning against the use of hormones designed to boost milk production by up to 15 per cent in dairy cows.

"Even Wal-Mart's customers are demanding milk free from genetically engineered hormones."

Similar demands are growing in Canada, with mainstream grocery retailers like Loblaw Cos. Ltd. introducing reams of new products to meet mainstream demands for organic and "green" foods. Canada, however, banned artificial growth hormones for dairy cows in 1998, so is not affected by the milk changes sweeping the United States.

"I think things are accelerating now and people are getting more health conscious and are getting more conscious about the connection between their personal health and the health of the environment," Mr. Cummins said.

Grocery chain Kroger Co., with 2,500 stores in the U.S., began last month selling only milk produced without the use of hormones like recombinant bovine somatotropin (rBST). Safeway Inc., with more than 1,700 stores, has switched its in-store brands to non-rBST milk, though it also sells other brands produced from cows given the hormone. And starting in January, Starbucks Corp. has only used non-rBST milk in its stores.

As the largest grocery retailer in the United States with more than 4,000 locations, however, Wal-Mart was the "big get" for consumer advocates.

The retailer said Thursday that its change was prompted by consumer demands. "Many Wal-Mart customers have expressed a desire for milk choices," the company's release said. The change means Wal-Mart's Great Value store brand milk will be rBST-free, as will milk offered at the company's Sam's Club warehouse locations.

"We've listened to customers and are pleased that our suppliers are helping us offer Great Value milk from cows that are not treated with rBST," said Wal-Mart general merchandise manager Pam Kohn.

In the U.S., non-rBST milk has become a cheaper alternative to milk that is fully organic. Mr. Cummins said it appeals to many consumers who want to avoid the hormones but are unwilling to pay the far larger premium for organic milk. "When you look at all the surveys of consumer attitudes about food safety, hormones consistently rank way up there, along with pesticides," he said.

Most dairy farmers do not use the artificial hormones, which were first approved by the U.S. Drug Administration in 1993, so the impact on the industry from Wal-Mart's announcement will be incremental rather than dramatic. Mr. Cummins said USDA statistics show 18 per cent of U.S. dairy cows were given artificial hormones in 2006.

David Darr, vice-president of public affairs for Dairy Farmers of America Inc., a major U.S. producer of milk and dairy products, said yesterday that there is already a lot of non-rBST milk available.

"There are more dairy farms across the U.S. that don't use it than do," he said. "And the farms that did use the technology, they did not necessarily use it on every cow."

His firm, a co-operative owned by 18,000 dairy farmers, has members who produce both kinds of milk.

"We continue to try to give our members a choice on what technology they use, and try to find markets for milk however they want to produce it," he said. "But we are also cognizant and recognize the needs of our customers and try to give them what they want."


http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080322.RMILK22/EmailTPStory/Business

###

More background:
Recipe for America (on Food Labeling)

Join Family Farmers, Rural Citizens & Consumers in Support of Missouri’s Family Farms, Healthy Food and Rural Values!


Family Farm Lobby Day
(Missouri)

March 31st, 2008

1:30-4PM

State Capitol-First Floor Rotunda

If you oppose your tax-payer dollars subsidizing corporate factory farms…

If you care about preserving the right to know how your food is produced…

If you want to stop the National Animal Identification System (NAIS)…

THEN WE NEED YOU

ON MONDAY, MARCH 31st!

Join Family Farmers, Rural Citizens & Consumers in Support of Missouri’s Family Farms, Healthy Food and Rural Values!

Please let us know if you can attend by emailing us at timgibbons@morural.org, or call (573) 449-1336.

Family Farm Bills of Interest: Please Call Your Representative and Senator!!!

Oppose

CAFO Subsidy--HB 1590 (Rep. Munzlinger):

A portion of HB 1590 would give tax credits to Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) to subsidize their compliance with Managed Environmental Livestock Operation (MELO) standards and odor abatement practices. This is a $1.5 million dollar tax break for CAFOs!

Corporate Welfare at the Expense of Family Farmers and Tax-Payers is Just Plain Wrong!

Oppose

rBGH/BST Labeling Bill--

SB 1279 (Sen. Clemens) & HB 2283 (Rep. Cunningham-145):

These bills would ban any type of labeling that enables consumers to know if their dairy products contain rBGH, a genetically engineered hormone that induces cows to produce more milk. This bill is being pushed by Monsanto (the producer of rBGH) in many states, and Missouri is the next target.

This Bill is Anti-Farmer, Anti-Consumer and Anti-Business! This is not only an issue of free speech for farmers, but also a corporate and government intrusion into the business relationship between farmer and consumer.

Support

Local Control Bill--HB 1931 (Rep. Harris-23)

HB 1931 provides greater power to rural communities to protect their interests from the negative impacts of CAFOs. This bill gives local residents the power to decide where CAFOs are going to be allowed.

It only makes sense to give family farmers and rural property owners a say in matters that affect their property rights and the health of their families and communities.

Support

Raw Milk Bill--HB 1901 (Rep. Harris-110):

HB 1901 clarifies Missouri Statutes to ensure that farmers can continue to market raw milk to consumers.

Preserve the Right of Farmers to Sell and Consumers to Buy Raw Milk.

Support

National Animal Identification Bill--SB 931 (Sen. Purgason):

Senate Bill 931 would limit Missouri's participation in NAIS. SB 931 has passed the Senate and is currently in the House.

Missouri’s Family Farmers believe it is extremely important to ensure consumer confidence in the safety and health of the U.S. food supply while at the same time ensuring the economic viability of independent livestock producers...

But NAIS does not meet the needs of producers or consumers.

The majority of family farmers in Missouri are opposed to NAIS.

For More Information Contact:

The Missouri Rural Crisis Center

1108 Rangeline Street

Columbia, MO 65201

(573) 449-1336


Truth in Labeling - NEXT!! - My Missouri Milk Makes Monsanto Mad

Protect the Rights of Farmers and Consumers

House Bill 2283 (Missouri), introduced by Rep. Mike Cunningham, would ban any type of labeling that enables consumers to know if their dairy products contain rBGH, a genetically engineered hormone that induces cows to produce more milk.

This bill is being pushed by Monsanto (the producer of rBGH) in many states, and Missouri is the next target.

This Bill is Anti-Farmer, Anti-Consumer and Anti-Business!

Farmers have the right to let consumers know what is in their food and how it is produced.

This is not only an issue of free speech for farmers, but also a corporate and government intrusion into the business relationship between farmer and consumer.


Tell Missouri Legislators to...
Vote NO on House Bill 2283!

Call Rep. Cunningham and all Co-Sponsors!

See Telephone Numbers Below
Also, Call Your Own Representative!

See All Representatives
and Senators Attached

Sponsor-Representative Mike Cunningham: (573) 751-3819

Co-Sponsors for HB 2283:
Rep. Shane Schoeller: 573-751-2948
Rep. Tom Loehner: 573-751-1344
Rep. Brian Munzlinger: 573-751-7985
Rep. Tom Self: 573-751-3971
Rep. John Quinn: 573-751-2917
Rep. Jay Wasson: 573-751-1503
Rep. Barney Joe Fisher: 573-751-5388
Rep. Edward Robb: 573-751-1471
Rep. David Day: 573-751-1446
Rep. Darrell Pollock: 573-751-4451
Rep. Larry Wilson: 573-751-1167
Rep. Steve Hobbs: 573-751-9458
Rep. Mike Dethrow: 573-751-1066
Rep. Raymond 'Ray' Weter: 573-751-2565
Rep. Don Wells: 573-751-1490
Rep. Danielle Moore: 573-751-5226
Rep. Charles Schlottach: 573-751-6668
Rep. Ward Franz: 573-751-1455
Rep. Van Kelly: 573-751-2205
Rep. Maynard Wallace: 573-751-2042
Rep. Ron Richard: 573-751-2173
Rep. Rodney Schad: 573-751-2077
Rep. Bob May: 573-751-5713
Rep. Therese Sander: 573-751-6566
Rep. Ellen Brandom: 573-751-5471
Rep. Michael Parson: 573-751-1347
Rep. Jason Smith: 573-751-1688
Rep. Sally Faith: 573-751-1452
Rep. Jim Guest: 573-751-0246

###
from www.MoRural.org


Preventing the Local Food Movement from Expanding





http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/01/opinion/01hedin.html

March 1, 2008
Op-Ed Contributor

My Forbidden Fruits (and Vegetables)

Rushford, Minn.

IF you’ve stood in line at a farmers’ market recently, you know that the local food movement is thriving, to the point that small farmers are having a tough time keeping up with the demand.

But consumers who would like to be able to buy local fruits and vegetables not just at farmers’ markets, but also in the produce aisle of their supermarket, will be dismayed to learn that the federal government works deliberately and forcefully to prevent the local food movement from expanding. And the barriers that the United States Department of Agriculture has put in place will be extended when the farm bill that House and Senate negotiators are working on now goes into effect.

As a small organic vegetable producer in southern Minnesota, I know this because my efforts to expand production to meet regional demand have been severely hampered by the Agriculture Department’s commodity farm program. As I’ve looked into the politics behind those restrictions, I’ve come to understand that this is precisely the outcome that the program’s backers in California and Florida have in mind: they want to snuff out the local competition before it even gets started.

Last year, knowing that my own 100 acres wouldn’t be enough to meet demand, I rented 25 acres on two nearby corn farms. I plowed under the alfalfa hay that was established there, and planted watermelons, tomatoes and vegetables for natural-food stores and a community-supported agriculture program.

All went well until early July. That’s when the two landowners discovered that there was a problem with the local office of the Farm Service Administration, the Agriculture Department branch that runs the commodity farm program, and it was going to be expensive to fix.

The commodity farm program effectively forbids farmers who usually grow corn or the other four federally subsidized commodity crops (soybeans, rice, wheat and cotton) from trying fruit and vegetables. Because my watermelons and tomatoes had been planted on “corn base” acres, the Farm Service said, my landlords were out of compliance with the commodity program.

I’ve discovered that typically, a farmer who grows the forbidden fruits and vegetables on corn acreage not only has to give up his subsidy for the year on that acreage, he is also penalized the market value of the illicit crop, and runs the risk that those acres will be permanently ineligible for any subsidies in the future. (The penalties apply only to fruits and vegetables — if the farmer decides to grow another commodity crop, or even nothing at all, there’s no problem.)

In my case, that meant I paid my landlords $8,771 — for one season alone! And this was in a year when the high price of grain meant that only one of the government’s three crop-support programs was in effect; the total bill might be much worse in the future.

In addition, the bureaucratic entanglements that these two farmers faced at the Farm Service office were substantial. The federal farm program is making it next to impossible for farmers to rent land to me to grow fresh organic vegetables.

Why? Because national fruit and vegetable growers based in California, Florida and Texas fear competition from regional producers like myself. Through their control of Congressional delegations from those states, they have been able to virtually monopolize the country’s fresh produce markets.

That’s unfortunate, because small producers will have to expand on a significant scale across the nation if local foods are to continue to enter the mainstream as the public demands. My problems are just the tip of the iceberg.

Last year, Midwestern lawmakers proposed an amendment to the farm bill that would provide some farmers, though only those who supply processors, with some relief from the penalties that I’ve faced — for example, a soybean farmer who wanted to grow tomatoes would give up his usual subsidy on those acres but suffer none of the other penalties. However, the Congressional delegations from the big produce states made the death of what is known as Farm Flex their highest farm bill priority, and so it appears to be going nowhere, except perhaps as a tiny pilot program.

Who pays the price for this senselessness? Certainly I do, as a Midwestern vegetable farmer. But anyone trying to do what I do on, say, wheat acreage in the Dakotas, or rice acreage in Arkansas would face the same penalties. Local and regional fruit and vegetable production will languish anywhere that the commodity program has influence.

Ultimately of course, it is the consumer who will pay the greatest price for this — whether it is in the form of higher prices I will have to charge to absorb the government’s fines, or in the form of less access to the kind of fresh, local produce that the country is crying out for.

Farmers need the choice of what to plant on their farms, and consumers need more farms like mine producing high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables to meet increasing demand from local markets — without the federal government actively discouraging them.

UNTANGLE OUR FOOD WEB

The article below points out the benefit of local food systems.
  • EATERS: get to know your local organic, natural and free-range growers (meat/ vegetable/ you-name-it) to reduce the distance, handling and processing steps between you and your food.

  • KCFC GROWERS: Keep on keeping on... :D

###

Beef recall highlights our tangled food web

Benjamin Miles
http://www.redding.com/news/2008/feb/25/beef-recall-highlights-our-tangled-food-web/
Monday, February 25, 2008

The largest meat recall in U.S. history, announced this week, exposes some troubling issues related to our food processing industry. Negligent monitoring, animal cruelty and greed all seem to have played a part in the reprehensible conditions exposed on camera. Another relevant issue that should receive attention is our highly centralized food processing and distribution system, which was highlighted this week in that most of the meat recalled was estimated to have already been eaten by the time the recall was announced.

In the name of efficiency, we have consolidated farms and streamlined crop production. Food is gathered together in large quantities and processed into food products, which are then packaged and shipped to grocery stores and sold at low prices. The efficiency of food production in this country is unmatched; however, I believe that we have neglected other virtues of a healthy society's system of food production.

We have been too successful in discouraging the diversified and comparatively inefficient producers of food. As our country has grown, so have the distances traveled by the food that we eat. Food grown by a farmer in Iowa might be shipped to Chicago and back to Kansas City before it lands (fully packaged) on the grocer's shelves where the farmer's neighbors can purchase it. Similarly, it's conceivable that beef raised on Shasta County grass and hay might have made the trip down I-5 to the offending slaughterhouse and then traveled back north to find its way into the cheeseburger of a local resident who grew up within sight of the ranch where the beef was raised.

Locally produced food, which is distributed and consumed locally, requires less fuel to transport the food to your plate. It has therefore reduced our dependence on foreign sources of oil, and has had a reduced impact on climate change. Local food is generally fresher, and it supports the working landscape of the north state.

Community-supported local food production also renders the community better equipped to deal with a genuine food crisis should one develop. Local food production offers alternate, and safe, sources for our diet if the large-scale distributors are temporarily unable to deliver safe products. We are fortunate that the incident this week was not a more imminent health hazard, but unquestioning devotion to centralized food production and distribution in this country leaves us dangerously vulnerable to such a serious threat should it ever occur.

Benjamin Miles lives in Redding.
E.W. Scripps Co.
© 2008 Record Searchlight
http://www.redding.com/news/2008/feb/25/beef-recall-highlights-our-tangled-food-web/

Mar 25,26,27, 2008 - SARE's 20th Anniversary New American Farm Conference

Don't miss SARE's 20th Anniversary New American Farm conference. Tap into 20 years of groundbreaking SARE-funded research, experience and innovations.

  • Learn the ins and outs of marketing and production
  • Tour local farms to see sustainable agriculture at work
  • Talk with state-of-the-art researchers and innovators
  • Meet others, build partnerships
  • Explore SARE grant opportunities for your cutting-edge ideas
  • Help chart a course for 20 more years of SARE success!

Never before has the American public cared more about how and where its food is produced. New, lucrative markets are opening up: "natural", "organic", "local." People are growing more concerned about the quality of our nation's natural resources – and the communities they sustain.

More and more farmers and ranchers are turning to sustainable agriculture to boost profits, protect the land, air and water, and continue a rewarding way of life.

Learn more about how sustainable farming is rapidly changing the face of American agriculture. Come to the New American Farm conference – a gathering for farmers, ranchers, educators, researchers, students, advocates and the curious consumer. Meet others who share a passion for quality agriculture.

Who should come?

SARE's New American Farm conference is open to farmers, ranchers, teachers, researchers, students, advocates – or simply curious consumers. Anyone is welcome who wants to learn more about groundbreaking work in the exciting and rapidly expanding field of sustainable agriculture in America.


======= updated SARE Press Release - January 31, 2008 ======


SARE Announces 20th Anniversary Conference

The New American Farm: Advancing the Frontier of Sustainable Agriculture

Registrations are now being accepted for SARE's 20th Anniversary New American Farm Conference, to be held on March 25-27, 2008 at the Westin Crown Center in Kansas City, Missouri. For a full schedule of events, visit www.sare.org/2008conference.

Intended to shine a spotlight on SARE's innovative projects and impact, communicate the program's vision for the next 20 years, and engage the sustainable community in dialogue to achieve common goals, the event will feature 20 years of groundbreaking SARE-funded research, experience and innovations in sustainable agriculture.

"SARE envisions an enduring American agriculture of the highest quality," said Jill Auburn, SARE Director. "This agriculture is profitable, protects the nation's land and water and is a force for a rewarding way of life for farmers and ranchers whose quality products and operations sustain their communities and society."

SARE's New American Farm conference is open to farmers, ranchers, teachers, researchers, students, advocates – or simply curious consumers. Anyone is welcome who wants to learn more about groundbreaking work in the exciting and rapidly expanding field of sustainable agriculture in America. Conference attendees will:

sareGather new insights from pioneering producers, educators, researchers, and advocates.

sareExperience innovative production and marketing techniques featured on tours of over 35 farms and research facilities.

sareLearn about groundbreaking advancements and discuss emerging opportunities in 40 workshops and breakouts.

sareExplore nearly 100 posters displaying cutting-edge SARE funded research and education project results.

The closing plenary session will be presented by Shoshanah Inwood, the winner of SARE's New Voices Contest. Winning entries from SARE's Photo Contest will also be on display.

To register, call (573) 882-8320 or visit www.sare.org/2008conference. Call (614) 306-6422 or email
outreach (@) sare.org to request a print conference flier and registration form by mail. Individual registration rates are $250 per individual, inclusive of all conference meals. Registrations made after March 1 require a late fee and must be made online or by telephone. All registration closes March 19. Requests for refunds due to cancellation must be received in writing by March 1. Refunds will not be issued after March 1.

This release was distributed by the national outreach office of the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program. SARE's national outreach office is supported by a cooperative agreement between the University of Maryland and the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES), USDA. SARE works with producers, researchers, and educators to promote farming systems that are profitable, environmentally sound, and good for communities. We encourage you to reprint items of interest and to share this information freely. For more information about grants and other resources available through SARE, visit www.sare.org.


### See www.KCFoodCircle.org/events/

### and http://groups.google.com/group/KCFC-Bulletin-Board ###