I just unearthed this awesome group--with the help of my team members, of course-- called Organic Valley Dairy Cooperation (coop, for short). I have attached a link to the site, and I have to say, I think you will all enjoy it. There are two articles in particular that caughtmy attention...
In the "Who's Your Farmer" section of the site, you can "get to know" the farmers that produce your food (if you are a member of this coop). Located in North Carolina, Chris and Tara Hoffner happily run their own organic dairy farm and provide milk, cheese, etc. to the Southeast United States. When explaining why he and his wife made the switch to organic, Chris recounts how one hundred of his animals almost died from exposure to a toxic pesticide: Furidan. They saved many, but at least thirteen still died. From that day on, Chris decided he had to make a change--THE change (to organic :)
http://www.organicvalley.coop/who-is-your-farmer/southeast/chris-and-tara-hoffner/page-1/
In "Seven Simple Strategies for Packing an A+ Lunch", the Food Sleuth--Melinda Hemmelgarn-- gives parents (or high schoolers whose "mean" parents refuse to make their lunches) straightforward tips for making lunchtime more healthy and enjoyable. Tips include: make muffins over the weekend then "freeze extras for quick and easy lunch box treats" that are rich in fiber, "just say NO to junk", and send a little love note with your child's lunch box. :) If we all start using these tips, maybe we can make the cafeteria a more-organic, and maybe even happier, place. Enjoy!
http://www.organicvalley.coop/community/beyond-the-plate/simple-lunch-strategies/
-Taylor Halbig
Wow. Very interesting about the cows. That's very sad. They eat that stuff, and then we digest it eventually...hmmm.
ReplyDeleteLike the lunch suggestions. I used to put notes in the boys' lunch boxes at preschool and elementary. Perhaps I should rethink this?! I admit that everyone's on their own for lunch! But then, so am I. :)