I went to St. Kitts and Nevis this week to be the keynote speaker at the annual Ministry of Agriculture Annual Review. It was quite an experience! First of all, the report that the Ministry makes to its constituents is impressive. It covered all the different aspects of the Ministry's activities, gave an account of the prior year - what went well and what could use improvement and then went on to discuss the strategy that would be taken in each area. I cannot imagine if this were to happen in T & T. It certainly wouldn't be as mellow of a gathering. I would anticipate challenges, verbal attacks and more. And this was not that.
Does this mean that in St. Kitts and Nevis agriculture is perfect? Of course not. There are serious problems with monkeys eating crops, serious problems. There are dog attacks on livestock that are causing some farmers to turn away from farming. And more. But the entire gathering was respectful, of people's strengths and their weaknesses. The transparency, the accountability and the non-judgemental attitude in this meaning was eye-opening.
There were several things that became clear in the information that was shared.
1) St. Kitts and Nevis are doing well in meeting their food needs. They produce a wide diversity of food crops and are also heavily involved in meat production - cattle, sheep, goats and poultry. Not only were the numbers impressive, but in talking to farmers, visiting two farms on Nevis, and listening to the discussions, there is a good level of diversity in what is produced.
2) Collaboration is the norm. Several intergovernmental agencies/NGOs were invited to give mini reports - FAO, CARDI and IICA included. The Ministry of the Republic of China is very supportive of the agricultural sector and they also reported on their activities, and the audience had a range of representatives from affiliate ministries. How interesting that this vision does exist. That it is assumed that different sectors of society can work together in this way.
3) Farming is not easy to undertake as the sole income earning activity - most farmers have another job and the general impression that I got is that it is difficult to financially thrive with all income coming from the agricultural sector. The exceptions to this included two farmers that I visited on Nevis. They had figured out how to function within the farming and agricultural sector but they had excelled in vertical development. Both of them had a wide range of crops - at least 10 for one and 20 for the other from my observation, they both were involved in some processing - juice in both cases and jams and jellies in one case, and they both sold their produce directly to the public - one from the back of a truck and the other from an outlet that he has on his farm. Entrepreneurial leanings made a big difference in both cases.
4) There is a challenge in St. Kitts and Nevis with the aging of the farming population. Young people are not getting involved in farming. One of the farmers told me straight off that farming is slave work and that he greatly discouraged his children from participating in the agricultural sector. This lack of involvement in people under 40 is definitely a Caribbean wide problem.
and finally
5) Organic, biodynamic and permaculture based farming methods, despite a high interest shown during my trip, was not yet hooked in. I had multiple farmers - both at the workshop and in casual encounters after - express their interest in farming organically. But all of them said that they lacked the expertise. They deluged me with questions about the shop and about the interest in organic in Trinidad and Tobago. Definitely there is an opening there for some further interaction and education.
One area of activity seemed clearly as undeveloped as it is in the rest of the Caribbean and that is the delivery of food directly from farm to table. There does not seem to be one formalized approach to selling directly to hotels, customers, caterers and more. There is still a tendency to sell wholesale to vendors and to have minimal interaction with the customers who will be using the product. I spoke a bit about a CSA approach where each farmer or farming group would sell directly to a number of families but obviously with our historic approach for selling through middlemen we would need some refocusing to consider a different approach. I love middlemen and see them as necessary in the right context. But in order to maximize the benefit to the farmer it is helpful to have a high proportion of direct sales to the end consumer.
I can't wait to return or to have some farmers come from there to help us develop our culture of carrot planting, onion planting and white potato planting. They have certainly mastered it.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Sunday, January 11, 2009
The Coop starts a New Year
OK. Sometimes we are so busy doing that we don't have time to record what we are doing. This is one of those times. Let me say it loud and clear.
NEW EARTH ORGANICS FOOD COOP IS ALIVE AND WELL.
We had our first coop meeting for the year yesterday and, as usual, it was really something else. Look out for an update later today.
NEW EARTH ORGANICS FOOD COOP IS ALIVE AND WELL.
We had our first coop meeting for the year yesterday and, as usual, it was really something else. Look out for an update later today.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Local, Regional, Global - A Vision Unfolds
Many of us are deeply concerned about the use of unrenewable resources in our lives. I would like to post a few of my thoughts on how this appears to me.
The world and its resources were meant to be shared, used and appreciated. Humans were not supposed to live in a state of no input where we are scared that if we use anything around us it will no longer be available. Neither were we supposed to live in a state of disconnection where we kill everything that wants to share our food and our shelter(then call them pests), use objects as ways to fill up emotional and spiritual holes within ourselves, and treat other human beings inhumanely to keep prices low and profits high. We don't even have to work really hard to stop these trends. They will be eventually stopped by the laws of nature.
How do these things apply to New Earth Organic Food Coop?
The desired goal of many of us in the coop is to buy a large percentage of our goods on a local level, get some of our goods from other countries in the region, and then get a bit on a global level. This is not the case at present. But here is my vision.
I expect that within a few years that 65% of the produce that we sell will be sourced on a local level. We will have been able to mobilize coop members and small farmers to provide a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, Seeds, tubers, herbs and medicinal plants. Some of the members will be growing for their living and others will be growing as a hobby or for personal use with a little excess. There will be surprises and new items available on a regular basis. In addition, some of this produce will be dried, frozen, preserved and pickled for use at a later time.
25% of the produce will come from regional production. We will use cooler climates - like the Blue Mountains of Jamaica - to produce things that are hard to produce in our local climate - berries, asparagus, etc. We will also use regional production to (1)provide products that we do not source easily on a local level (currently carrots) and (2) keep supplies going in times of crisis - Hurricanes, earthquakes, civil unrest.
10% of our produce will come from around the world. It is more efficient to bring goods to us than to go to the goods. We will use this access to bring in some of our favourite foods that we cannot source locally, natural medicinal products that are useful to have, raw materials that would help us produce some of our processed foods, and to deliver to our bodies nutrients that are not highly available in our local produce.
Shifting to the 65% level means that a certain amount of processing of foods will have to begin to happen locally. We will need to open small plants to get dried goods, preserves, etc. There is a long way to go in this are.
Getting more regional products in the shop - there is less than 1% available at present, means changing some of the import restrictions to loosen up on regional products to match the laws that apply to global products. This process has already been started. The Caribbean islands are separated by water but we are part of one geography and it would make sense to rely on each other as much for our food as we do for our genetics, our music and our education. One Caribbean here we come!
One of my passions is for St. Francis of Assisi. What trust it took for him to reject what was in his hand and to take the risk to reach for a lifestyle that was unknown, had no guarantees, and was in line with his desires. What a man!
The world and its resources were meant to be shared, used and appreciated. Humans were not supposed to live in a state of no input where we are scared that if we use anything around us it will no longer be available. Neither were we supposed to live in a state of disconnection where we kill everything that wants to share our food and our shelter(then call them pests), use objects as ways to fill up emotional and spiritual holes within ourselves, and treat other human beings inhumanely to keep prices low and profits high. We don't even have to work really hard to stop these trends. They will be eventually stopped by the laws of nature.
How do these things apply to New Earth Organic Food Coop?
The desired goal of many of us in the coop is to buy a large percentage of our goods on a local level, get some of our goods from other countries in the region, and then get a bit on a global level. This is not the case at present. But here is my vision.
I expect that within a few years that 65% of the produce that we sell will be sourced on a local level. We will have been able to mobilize coop members and small farmers to provide a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, Seeds, tubers, herbs and medicinal plants. Some of the members will be growing for their living and others will be growing as a hobby or for personal use with a little excess. There will be surprises and new items available on a regular basis. In addition, some of this produce will be dried, frozen, preserved and pickled for use at a later time.
25% of the produce will come from regional production. We will use cooler climates - like the Blue Mountains of Jamaica - to produce things that are hard to produce in our local climate - berries, asparagus, etc. We will also use regional production to (1)provide products that we do not source easily on a local level (currently carrots) and (2) keep supplies going in times of crisis - Hurricanes, earthquakes, civil unrest.
10% of our produce will come from around the world. It is more efficient to bring goods to us than to go to the goods. We will use this access to bring in some of our favourite foods that we cannot source locally, natural medicinal products that are useful to have, raw materials that would help us produce some of our processed foods, and to deliver to our bodies nutrients that are not highly available in our local produce.
Shifting to the 65% level means that a certain amount of processing of foods will have to begin to happen locally. We will need to open small plants to get dried goods, preserves, etc. There is a long way to go in this are.
Getting more regional products in the shop - there is less than 1% available at present, means changing some of the import restrictions to loosen up on regional products to match the laws that apply to global products. This process has already been started. The Caribbean islands are separated by water but we are part of one geography and it would make sense to rely on each other as much for our food as we do for our genetics, our music and our education. One Caribbean here we come!
One of my passions is for St. Francis of Assisi. What trust it took for him to reject what was in his hand and to take the risk to reach for a lifestyle that was unknown, had no guarantees, and was in line with his desires. What a man!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
This Week's Newsletter - Organic Options, Generosity Rocks, Enviro Links
NEW EARTH ORGANIC FOOD COOP
formerly Sun Eaters Organics
80 Roberts St
Woodbrook
622-3643
www.suneaters.com
"I am free, no matter what rules surround me. If I find them tolerable, I
tolerate them. If I find them too obnoxious, I break them. I am free because
I know that I alone am morally responsible for everything I do." -- Robert
Heinlein, The Moon is a Harsh Mistress
Dear Folks,
This newsletter now gets delivered to folks across the globe. But ultimately it is about local, Trinidadian and Tobagonian issues and about regional Caribbean issues.
I posted a bit on my blog about a recent trip I took to St. Vincent for the Caribbean Week of Agriculture. http://groundinggroundinggrounded.blogspot.com/2008/10/caribbean-travels.html
On Wednesday we will have a mixture of imported and local organic produce available, and throughout the week the local will keep coming. Please call early to book your order or to confirm your standing orders.
The coop now also has a TON of organic dry goods. Our dry goods shipment arrived and allows for all the options like organic brown rice, organic snacks, organic drinks, eco-friendly diapers and eco-cleaners. And the prices are often comparable to non-organic items in the commercial supermarkets.
The long term plan is to import the best quality organic products and ensure that they are available at the best cost. But at the same time we are planning to replace many of these products with local substitutes or with locally made goods. So time to go into business. There are many gaps in our market which can be filled by people preparing products at home and then selling them to the coop.
We are accepting new coop members again. Patronage refund - remember that at the end of the year you will receive refunds based on how much you spend at the coop. Members currently pay 10% less for the cost of the goods and get produce held for them whenever there is a shortage. And in addition you get to be part of something that determines your food security and no price gouging.
LOCAL ORGANIC PRODUCE - Lots more available than what is on this list. But with the continuously growing demand we still need more. Please call and tell me that you are ready to become an organic farmer.
GREENS
Bronze Leafed Lettuce
Patchoi
Bhaji
Dasheen Bush
Morai Greens
VEGETABLES
Cucumbers
Morai
Green Pawpaw
Ochroes
Small amounts of Broccoli
Bodi
And More
STARCHY THINGS
Green Fig
FRUIT
Bananas
Plantains
FOREIGN PRODUCE
A full order is coming on Wednesday this week to make up for the gaps in the local options. That includes.
Greens
Spring Mix - 1 pound and 5 oz
Baby Spinach
Baby Arugula
Romaine Hearts
Vegetables
Zucchini
Cauliflower
Celery Hearts
Carrots
Red Potatoes
Yellow Onions
Golden Beets
Red Beets
Grape Tomatoes
Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms
Portabello Mushrooms
Garlic
Fruit
Bartlett Pears
Gala Apples
Nectarines
Fuji Apples
Red Grapes
Stawberries - Fresh and Frozen
Thompson Raisins
Medjool Dates
Dried Figs
Call in your order or confirm your standing order as soon as you can.
622-3643
SOME INTERESTING LINKS AND HAPPENINGS
Hope that some of us can make it to the Greenlight environmental concert. October 18th. Go to www.nowiswowtoo.blogspot.com for more information.
GMO is not where it is at - Here is a little video on the way that Kraft puts genetically engineered ingredients into your food http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEjoGN11AK4
An amazing project about Hillside gardening in the Phillipines that is particularly relevant for this region - http://www2.mozcom.com/~mbrlc/index.htm
Coops in the U.S. - In total, 47,000 co-ops in the United States serve 100 million people - 40 percent of the U.S. population. This electric coops, credit unions, food coops, cooperative daycare. Isn't it time for Trinidad and Tobago to add our little retail food cooperative to the mix?
RECIPE SPOT
A recipe for chickpeas crepe from the Global Gourmet www.globalgourmet.com
Recipe for chickpeas crepe - sokka in France Breadtime, by Susan Jane Cheney: Mix together 2/3 cup chickpea (garbanzo bean) flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2/3 cup water; then stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil, and fresh cracked pepper. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes. Pour into a greased pizza pan or low-sided baking pan; the batter should be very thin, about 1/8 thick. Bake at 450 degrees F until the top browns slightly, about 5 minutes, and the whole thing looks like a giant crepe. Brush lightly with olive oil and bake another minute or so, but don't let it burn. Cut into wedges and serve hot.
GENEROSITY ROCKS
I am often amazed by things that others feel are in short supply and decide that the are going to hold to themselves. Smiles, good support, a kind word, positive feedback. These things are not only free but they enrich our lives whenever we share them. In a time when we are watching the result of scarcity consciousness it can be tempting sometimes to hold back. Don't do it. As we move forward into our interesting times ahead it seems clear to me that lots of the things that we took for granted will not be available anymore. A disaster? Not in my thinking. But definitely a time in which different skills will be needed. In times of plenty it is tempting to dehumanize others and believe that we can survive and thrive without cooperation or without treating other humans with complete respect. Statements such as 'self-made man' and 'I did it without help' are part of the illusion that we hold about how independent we are. No one does anything without help.
When I watch my son play his online games like 'Pirates of the Caribbean online' and 'World of Warcraft' I am reminded of how important it is for others to join in when we have a quest to achieve. On both of those games it would be impossible to advance without involving others in one's play. Players are forced to negotiate online with other players - usually strangers - to form a group in order to fulfill a quest. And these are the most popular games in the world. World of Warcraft has over 9 million players. Higher level players demonstrate their generosity by using their time to help lower level players to advance and then the favour is eventually returned when the lower level player has become more experienced.
How many of us include this level of mentoring and patronage in our daily lives? Parents, teachers and other people who work with young ones are asked again and again to reach out generously. And sometimes we do so but other times we act as though it is pulling teeth and the little ones are irritating and annoying because they are diverting us from important work. We can never payback children for the generosity that they extend in our directions every day.
So how does this apply to the coop? You know who you are. Those of you who give many words of encouragement, who lend money interest free, who stop by just to see whether a hand is needed, who make financial donations to the coop instead of the Wall Street, who talk about the shop and the cafe with your friends to get them roped in. Thank You.
Thank you to those who understand that a scarcity of time feel very very real but is only an illusion and who become magicians and conjure more up, who give more positive feedback than negative, who stop and notice that some things are priceless and should be prioritized as such.
So as a quick way to access the generosity you have inside, take a few moments in a time of quiet, close your eyes and notice where you hold fear in your body. Is it in your throat? Your lungs? Your solar plexus? Don't judge it, just notice it. And then think of this phrase from Abraham - You are loved, all is well. Reflect on this phrase for a few moments and let yourself really breathe in the generosity of our Source. When you are ready to shift gears take a moment before opening your eyes to hear and feel the energy of life around you. You are alive! And you got that gift without any expectation of payment for it. Open your eyes and rejoin the world of the senses.
Then anytime during the day that the fear creeps back and you begin to feel that a resource is scarce (time, money, attention, love) you can just get a moment with the same phrase - you are loved, all is well.
See how it works.
AND HAVE A THRILLING WEEK! Hope to see you in the shop when you come to browse our new offerings and our new look.
Warmly
Gillian
formerly Sun Eaters Organics
80 Roberts St
Woodbrook
622-3643
www.suneaters.com
"I am free, no matter what rules surround me. If I find them tolerable, I
tolerate them. If I find them too obnoxious, I break them. I am free because
I know that I alone am morally responsible for everything I do." -- Robert
Heinlein, The Moon is a Harsh Mistress
Dear Folks,
This newsletter now gets delivered to folks across the globe. But ultimately it is about local, Trinidadian and Tobagonian issues and about regional Caribbean issues.
I posted a bit on my blog about a recent trip I took to St. Vincent for the Caribbean Week of Agriculture. http://groundinggroundinggrounded.blogspot.com/2008/10/caribbean-travels.html
On Wednesday we will have a mixture of imported and local organic produce available, and throughout the week the local will keep coming. Please call early to book your order or to confirm your standing orders.
The coop now also has a TON of organic dry goods. Our dry goods shipment arrived and allows for all the options like organic brown rice, organic snacks, organic drinks, eco-friendly diapers and eco-cleaners. And the prices are often comparable to non-organic items in the commercial supermarkets.
The long term plan is to import the best quality organic products and ensure that they are available at the best cost. But at the same time we are planning to replace many of these products with local substitutes or with locally made goods. So time to go into business. There are many gaps in our market which can be filled by people preparing products at home and then selling them to the coop.
We are accepting new coop members again. Patronage refund - remember that at the end of the year you will receive refunds based on how much you spend at the coop. Members currently pay 10% less for the cost of the goods and get produce held for them whenever there is a shortage. And in addition you get to be part of something that determines your food security and no price gouging.
LOCAL ORGANIC PRODUCE - Lots more available than what is on this list. But with the continuously growing demand we still need more. Please call and tell me that you are ready to become an organic farmer.
GREENS
Bronze Leafed Lettuce
Patchoi
Bhaji
Dasheen Bush
Morai Greens
VEGETABLES
Cucumbers
Morai
Green Pawpaw
Ochroes
Small amounts of Broccoli
Bodi
And More
STARCHY THINGS
Green Fig
FRUIT
Bananas
Plantains
FOREIGN PRODUCE
A full order is coming on Wednesday this week to make up for the gaps in the local options. That includes.
Greens
Spring Mix - 1 pound and 5 oz
Baby Spinach
Baby Arugula
Romaine Hearts
Vegetables
Zucchini
Cauliflower
Celery Hearts
Carrots
Red Potatoes
Yellow Onions
Golden Beets
Red Beets
Grape Tomatoes
Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms
Portabello Mushrooms
Garlic
Fruit
Bartlett Pears
Gala Apples
Nectarines
Fuji Apples
Red Grapes
Stawberries - Fresh and Frozen
Thompson Raisins
Medjool Dates
Dried Figs
Call in your order or confirm your standing order as soon as you can.
622-3643
SOME INTERESTING LINKS AND HAPPENINGS
Hope that some of us can make it to the Greenlight environmental concert. October 18th. Go to www.nowiswowtoo.blogspot.com for more information.
GMO is not where it is at - Here is a little video on the way that Kraft puts genetically engineered ingredients into your food http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEjoGN11AK4
An amazing project about Hillside gardening in the Phillipines that is particularly relevant for this region - http://www2.mozcom.com/~mbrlc/index.htm
Coops in the U.S. - In total, 47,000 co-ops in the United States serve 100 million people - 40 percent of the U.S. population. This electric coops, credit unions, food coops, cooperative daycare. Isn't it time for Trinidad and Tobago to add our little retail food cooperative to the mix?
RECIPE SPOT
A recipe for chickpeas crepe from the Global Gourmet www.globalgourmet.com
Recipe for chickpeas crepe - sokka in France Breadtime, by Susan Jane Cheney: Mix together 2/3 cup chickpea (garbanzo bean) flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2/3 cup water; then stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil, and fresh cracked pepper. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes. Pour into a greased pizza pan or low-sided baking pan; the batter should be very thin, about 1/8 thick. Bake at 450 degrees F until the top browns slightly, about 5 minutes, and the whole thing looks like a giant crepe. Brush lightly with olive oil and bake another minute or so, but don't let it burn. Cut into wedges and serve hot.
GENEROSITY ROCKS
I am often amazed by things that others feel are in short supply and decide that the are going to hold to themselves. Smiles, good support, a kind word, positive feedback. These things are not only free but they enrich our lives whenever we share them. In a time when we are watching the result of scarcity consciousness it can be tempting sometimes to hold back. Don't do it. As we move forward into our interesting times ahead it seems clear to me that lots of the things that we took for granted will not be available anymore. A disaster? Not in my thinking. But definitely a time in which different skills will be needed. In times of plenty it is tempting to dehumanize others and believe that we can survive and thrive without cooperation or without treating other humans with complete respect. Statements such as 'self-made man' and 'I did it without help' are part of the illusion that we hold about how independent we are. No one does anything without help.
When I watch my son play his online games like 'Pirates of the Caribbean online' and 'World of Warcraft' I am reminded of how important it is for others to join in when we have a quest to achieve. On both of those games it would be impossible to advance without involving others in one's play. Players are forced to negotiate online with other players - usually strangers - to form a group in order to fulfill a quest. And these are the most popular games in the world. World of Warcraft has over 9 million players. Higher level players demonstrate their generosity by using their time to help lower level players to advance and then the favour is eventually returned when the lower level player has become more experienced.
How many of us include this level of mentoring and patronage in our daily lives? Parents, teachers and other people who work with young ones are asked again and again to reach out generously. And sometimes we do so but other times we act as though it is pulling teeth and the little ones are irritating and annoying because they are diverting us from important work. We can never payback children for the generosity that they extend in our directions every day.
So how does this apply to the coop? You know who you are. Those of you who give many words of encouragement, who lend money interest free, who stop by just to see whether a hand is needed, who make financial donations to the coop instead of the Wall Street, who talk about the shop and the cafe with your friends to get them roped in. Thank You.
Thank you to those who understand that a scarcity of time feel very very real but is only an illusion and who become magicians and conjure more up, who give more positive feedback than negative, who stop and notice that some things are priceless and should be prioritized as such.
So as a quick way to access the generosity you have inside, take a few moments in a time of quiet, close your eyes and notice where you hold fear in your body. Is it in your throat? Your lungs? Your solar plexus? Don't judge it, just notice it. And then think of this phrase from Abraham - You are loved, all is well. Reflect on this phrase for a few moments and let yourself really breathe in the generosity of our Source. When you are ready to shift gears take a moment before opening your eyes to hear and feel the energy of life around you. You are alive! And you got that gift without any expectation of payment for it. Open your eyes and rejoin the world of the senses.
Then anytime during the day that the fear creeps back and you begin to feel that a resource is scarce (time, money, attention, love) you can just get a moment with the same phrase - you are loved, all is well.
See how it works.
AND HAVE A THRILLING WEEK! Hope to see you in the shop when you come to browse our new offerings and our new look.
Warmly
Gillian
Friday, October 10, 2008
Caribbean Travels
Organic farmers are definitely alive and well in the Caribbean! I spent the week in St. Vincent and the Grenadines during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture and got to rub noses with several other people who are either planting organically or who are supporting regional organic farmers/gardeners.
One of the best connections was with Clive Bishop - the head of the St. Vincent Association of Organic Farmers. Not only has he helped to organize a wonderful group, but his grasp of agriculture in general means that he has a broad understanding of the issues and yet he has the clarity that natural farming methods bring to the picture.
I met farmers everywhere. Driving mini-vans, on the beach, in the shops, everywhere. Whoever is not planting at present used to plant. The soil is indescribable. To a Trini accustomed to the pathetic top soil that we have allowed to become more pathetic, the black heavy soil just looks good enough to eat. Why bother to plant anything (smile).
But there are some agricultural problems in St. Vincent. Many agricultural problems. Most of them would not exist if a permaculture approach were taken in the country but then how would people make big big bucks? And some people in St. Vincent agriculture do. With these big big bucks and the monoculture approach that allowed the big bucks to be made you can imagine the accompanying problems - overdependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, serious disease (first it was the fruit fly and now it is moko), and who knows what else. Do St. Vincent banana farmers have the cancer and infertility that has been detected in such communities in Martinique? I don't know but why shouldn't they?
The good news is that
1) Moko (a disease mainly found in St. Vincent) does not respond to chemical measures (just as the fruit fly didn't) and so obviously a biological control will have to be found - thus paving the way for reduced pesticide use. I found a good article on Moko treatment using EM (Effective Microorganisms - an amazing cocktail) Here's the link - http://www.agribusinessweek.com/controlling-moko-disease-in-bananas-with-em-application/
2) With the demise of the large scale banana industry there is a search for a different way to do things. Hopefully monoculture and heavy pesticide use will be seen for the rubbish that they really are.
3) Through the extensive cultivation of cannibis in St. Vincent young people have had some exposure to planting and to a version of agri-business. No, people don't talk about marijuana in agricultural conferences but when I spread the word on Facebook that I was going to St. Vincent even I - a hardcore non-supporter of anything but medicinal cannabis use - got lots of recommendations about the high-level 'grade' available all over the country. The fact is that it is one of the most important agricultural crops in St. Vincent (and in some other islands). Maybe one day we will be free to talk about this truth in agricultural circles.
4) Trinidad and Tobago has the ability to import a fair variety of produce from St. Vincent - unlike the crazy restrictions on produce from almost every other Caribbean nation. So that means that we should expect by mid-2009 there will be regular freighters from St. Vincent bringing high-quality organic produce to Trinidad and Tobago! What do you think?
I would love to go back again and visit the windward side properly. This is where much of the agriculture takes place and it is also the area from which most of my maternal ancestors came. Let me know what your experiences have been in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
One of the best connections was with Clive Bishop - the head of the St. Vincent Association of Organic Farmers. Not only has he helped to organize a wonderful group, but his grasp of agriculture in general means that he has a broad understanding of the issues and yet he has the clarity that natural farming methods bring to the picture.
I met farmers everywhere. Driving mini-vans, on the beach, in the shops, everywhere. Whoever is not planting at present used to plant. The soil is indescribable. To a Trini accustomed to the pathetic top soil that we have allowed to become more pathetic, the black heavy soil just looks good enough to eat. Why bother to plant anything (smile).
But there are some agricultural problems in St. Vincent. Many agricultural problems. Most of them would not exist if a permaculture approach were taken in the country but then how would people make big big bucks? And some people in St. Vincent agriculture do. With these big big bucks and the monoculture approach that allowed the big bucks to be made you can imagine the accompanying problems - overdependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, serious disease (first it was the fruit fly and now it is moko), and who knows what else. Do St. Vincent banana farmers have the cancer and infertility that has been detected in such communities in Martinique? I don't know but why shouldn't they?
The good news is that
1) Moko (a disease mainly found in St. Vincent) does not respond to chemical measures (just as the fruit fly didn't) and so obviously a biological control will have to be found - thus paving the way for reduced pesticide use. I found a good article on Moko treatment using EM (Effective Microorganisms - an amazing cocktail) Here's the link - http://www.agribusinessweek.com/controlling-moko-disease-in-bananas-with-em-application/
2) With the demise of the large scale banana industry there is a search for a different way to do things. Hopefully monoculture and heavy pesticide use will be seen for the rubbish that they really are.
3) Through the extensive cultivation of cannibis in St. Vincent young people have had some exposure to planting and to a version of agri-business. No, people don't talk about marijuana in agricultural conferences but when I spread the word on Facebook that I was going to St. Vincent even I - a hardcore non-supporter of anything but medicinal cannabis use - got lots of recommendations about the high-level 'grade' available all over the country. The fact is that it is one of the most important agricultural crops in St. Vincent (and in some other islands). Maybe one day we will be free to talk about this truth in agricultural circles.
4) Trinidad and Tobago has the ability to import a fair variety of produce from St. Vincent - unlike the crazy restrictions on produce from almost every other Caribbean nation. So that means that we should expect by mid-2009 there will be regular freighters from St. Vincent bringing high-quality organic produce to Trinidad and Tobago! What do you think?
I would love to go back again and visit the windward side properly. This is where much of the agriculture takes place and it is also the area from which most of my maternal ancestors came. Let me know what your experiences have been in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Sweet Potato Leaves - Yuummm!
It's amazing how many things are edible when we do a little research. This morning, I was at my friend Johnny's house helping him with some gardening and found out that you can eat sweet potato leaves. It just so happened that there were sweet potato vines choking the tomato plants. So I gathered a bucket, took it home looked up some recipes online, and here we are.
There was a little slime in it - kind of like poi can be - but the younger leaves were less that way.
Look for it in the coop this week.
There was a little slime in it - kind of like poi can be - but the younger leaves were less that way.
Look for it in the coop this week.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Cuba, the Green Revolution
Several coop members watching the film ' Cuba, the Green Revolution'.
If there is a film to let us see what can be done to help solve the potential crisis in food, it is this one. Cuba, the Green Revolution, closely follows the necessary implementation, in Havana, of a plan for the city dwellers to feed themselves. With the end of the Eastern Bloc and the continuation of the US-led Embargo, the Cubans had to make a decision that it was innovate or starve. They chose to innovate.
We had a great, though short, discussion after the screening about what it would take for us, as a nation or as individuals, to move in the direction of food self-sufficiency. Most of us were not totally optimistic that there was a collective will to do this, but at least we had had an opportunity to see what it would take.
Would you like to see this film but couldn't make it? Please email us at suneaters.com to let us know of your interest. You can also tell us what other activities you would like to see happen within the coop. Are their topics in which you are really interested which would enhance the coop community? Post a comment below.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Synopsis of Coop Meeting 23.8.8
A quick update on our last meeting. We discussed:
Tasks that had been undertaken - shipment order, formation of committees including steering committee, decisions about interior decor, progress on increasing stock, research on organics
Upcoming activities - film on Cuba's Green Revolution, Reusable Bags fundraiser, Dining on the Farm fundraiser. Help is needed for the fundraisers. Volunteer your time and resources.
Commitment - much of the meeting centered around the issue of commitment. How is it possible to build commitment to a coop when our society may already have a problem with commitment, accountability and loyalty? What would help to build this commitment? How does commitment already manifest in the shop?
There was a fair amount of serious discussion on this and also some good laughs. Email us your thoughts or comment below.
This week, Robert Goderre, the future owner of the shop and coop member, will be engaging with the decor in a big way. Come offer your help! Or moral support!
Finances
Dues, contributions, draw down amounts are due now. Come by the shop and make sure to take your receipt with you.
Upcoming events
Film on Cuba's Green Revolution will be shown on Tuesday August 26th at 6:30 PM on Sydenham Ave in St. Anns. Email us at info@suneaters.com for directions.
Next coop meeting will be Saturday August 30th from 4 - 6 PM. Please RSVP if you can.
That's it for now.
Tasks that had been undertaken - shipment order, formation of committees including steering committee, decisions about interior decor, progress on increasing stock, research on organics
Upcoming activities - film on Cuba's Green Revolution, Reusable Bags fundraiser, Dining on the Farm fundraiser. Help is needed for the fundraisers. Volunteer your time and resources.
Commitment - much of the meeting centered around the issue of commitment. How is it possible to build commitment to a coop when our society may already have a problem with commitment, accountability and loyalty? What would help to build this commitment? How does commitment already manifest in the shop?
There was a fair amount of serious discussion on this and also some good laughs. Email us your thoughts or comment below.
This week, Robert Goderre, the future owner of the shop and coop member, will be engaging with the decor in a big way. Come offer your help! Or moral support!
Finances
Dues, contributions, draw down amounts are due now. Come by the shop and make sure to take your receipt with you.
Upcoming events
Film on Cuba's Green Revolution will be shown on Tuesday August 26th at 6:30 PM on Sydenham Ave in St. Anns. Email us at info@suneaters.com for directions.
Next coop meeting will be Saturday August 30th from 4 - 6 PM. Please RSVP if you can.
That's it for now.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Group Challenges
The 'human behaviour' challenges are starting to show up in the development of the coop and we need to get talking about these. The main challenge to the success of groups is not financial, administrative, etc but human emotions. If we have a solid group then we will figure out the financial, administrative, time, human power challenges. But if we have lots of money, good administration, lots of time and lots of human resource, but don't have a good solid group then we have nowhere to go. Let's continue to talk about how we can best collaborate despite the ways in which past experiences lead us to rigid, repetitive behaviours.
Do you remember how I asked, at the second meeting, who had previously belonged to groups? And few of you were able to say yes? This was not a theoretical question, but one to give me information on how optimistic and pessimistic you are about working together with other humans. And how effective you are at sticking in there when the human imperfections - which are inevitable - begin to surface. When progress within a group does not get made to our satisfaction, how easily do we give up? How irritable do we get when others seem not to be 'getting it'? How easy is it to work with diverse skills, perspectives, abilities to communicate, and so on? How good are we at supporting leadership? How easily are you 'disappointed' and how long do you sit with your feelings of disappointment? Your answers will not reveal much about 'the truth' but will say more about what your life experiences have been and whether you have been emotionally hurt and gotten a chance to work on this hurt.
Before I became a parent, and before I started Sun Eaters Organics, I worked for several years as a behavioral change consultant. And during this time, and since, I was able to listen to the stories of hundreds of people and support them to examine and resolve how their old experiences had become serious limitations to their lives. ALL children who have not been emotionally hurt from a very early age are able to function within human groups. They may have their differences with others but they figure them out and continue to interact. As children get older and they deal with rejection, being treated as better than or worse than, having disappointing experiences, etc then they develop rigid, inflexible ways of dealing with others. Soon these ways get so entrenched that they start to be considered as part of the 'personality' of the child. And then the child, and later on the adult, learn to say - I am the type of person who .....
Is that really true? That those are your traits and you have no choice in the matter? That you could have evolved as a species with gross inflexibility as an inherent characteristic of the group of homo sapiens? Evolution is about the ability to change to better function within the larger world, or to survive changes that are happening in the world around us. And emotional flexiblity may end up being the difference between who can adapt to this crazy and rapidly unfolding environment, and those who can't.
The coop is only one very small step in our needed ability to heal the world around us and to ensure our future survival. Many of us are environmentalists and I think that it is fair to say that without being able to work within a group you will be able to do almost nothing, yes that is right I said almost nothing, as an environmentalist. No matter how much money you have, in the long run the money cannot pay to ensure you will be able to have an impact on the environment. But your ability to function within a group, to inspire the group, to be a good leader or to support good leaders, will do much more to ensure our environmental survival than how much you know about solar panels, or how savvy you are about organic methods, or how much money you have to pay others to work for you. Look at which human communities have survived for hundreds of years and see if you find any that promote individualism, the nuclear family, lone wolves. None. All the human communities that have endured put the needs of the community of life - including the needs of other humans - before their individual desires enough of the time for the group to thrive. They understood/understand the ephemeral nature of human desire and preferences, and in general choose instead to emphasize connection to others and to other forms of life over these individual preferences.
The organic lifestyle is really about understanding these dynamics of community. If we want to eat everything ourselves, and to hell with other forms of life, then let's spray spray spray. But if we truly believe that we are intimately connected in the web of life then now is a good time to find ways to live in harmony with the fungi, the insects, and other humans. And instead of going against natural systems - which promote collaboration, integration and minimizing work by ensuring that other forms of life participate - let's look for ways to cooperate with common ventures and spend lots and lots of time reading about how to improve the ability of humans to work together.
Do you remember how I asked, at the second meeting, who had previously belonged to groups? And few of you were able to say yes? This was not a theoretical question, but one to give me information on how optimistic and pessimistic you are about working together with other humans. And how effective you are at sticking in there when the human imperfections - which are inevitable - begin to surface. When progress within a group does not get made to our satisfaction, how easily do we give up? How irritable do we get when others seem not to be 'getting it'? How easy is it to work with diverse skills, perspectives, abilities to communicate, and so on? How good are we at supporting leadership? How easily are you 'disappointed' and how long do you sit with your feelings of disappointment? Your answers will not reveal much about 'the truth' but will say more about what your life experiences have been and whether you have been emotionally hurt and gotten a chance to work on this hurt.
Before I became a parent, and before I started Sun Eaters Organics, I worked for several years as a behavioral change consultant. And during this time, and since, I was able to listen to the stories of hundreds of people and support them to examine and resolve how their old experiences had become serious limitations to their lives. ALL children who have not been emotionally hurt from a very early age are able to function within human groups. They may have their differences with others but they figure them out and continue to interact. As children get older and they deal with rejection, being treated as better than or worse than, having disappointing experiences, etc then they develop rigid, inflexible ways of dealing with others. Soon these ways get so entrenched that they start to be considered as part of the 'personality' of the child. And then the child, and later on the adult, learn to say - I am the type of person who .....
Is that really true? That those are your traits and you have no choice in the matter? That you could have evolved as a species with gross inflexibility as an inherent characteristic of the group of homo sapiens? Evolution is about the ability to change to better function within the larger world, or to survive changes that are happening in the world around us. And emotional flexiblity may end up being the difference between who can adapt to this crazy and rapidly unfolding environment, and those who can't.
The coop is only one very small step in our needed ability to heal the world around us and to ensure our future survival. Many of us are environmentalists and I think that it is fair to say that without being able to work within a group you will be able to do almost nothing, yes that is right I said almost nothing, as an environmentalist. No matter how much money you have, in the long run the money cannot pay to ensure you will be able to have an impact on the environment. But your ability to function within a group, to inspire the group, to be a good leader or to support good leaders, will do much more to ensure our environmental survival than how much you know about solar panels, or how savvy you are about organic methods, or how much money you have to pay others to work for you. Look at which human communities have survived for hundreds of years and see if you find any that promote individualism, the nuclear family, lone wolves. None. All the human communities that have endured put the needs of the community of life - including the needs of other humans - before their individual desires enough of the time for the group to thrive. They understood/understand the ephemeral nature of human desire and preferences, and in general choose instead to emphasize connection to others and to other forms of life over these individual preferences.
The organic lifestyle is really about understanding these dynamics of community. If we want to eat everything ourselves, and to hell with other forms of life, then let's spray spray spray. But if we truly believe that we are intimately connected in the web of life then now is a good time to find ways to live in harmony with the fungi, the insects, and other humans. And instead of going against natural systems - which promote collaboration, integration and minimizing work by ensuring that other forms of life participate - let's look for ways to cooperate with common ventures and spend lots and lots of time reading about how to improve the ability of humans to work together.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Gratitude List V
I spent the entire day in the shop - except for a couple of hours in the middle of the afternoon. Today is an excellent day to notice all the things for which I am grateful. And these include:
All the amazing people who come into the shop. Today made me really realize that even after the shop goes coop that I will probably be hanging out there on a Saturday, meeting friends and having deep activist discussions.
Getting to balance the books. I LOVE balancing the books, working on the figures, etc. When I was in school I LOVED mathematics and don't get much of an opportunity to do it in my regular life. But at least in the shop I can do it every day and solve all the imbalances that others are struggling with.
Wearing what I want when at Sun Eaters. It's great to have control over such an important thing. I adore being able to wear what I want. And being able to let others wear what they want.
And finally, I love gluten free muffins. I may not be eating these for much longer but while I am, I love the bread pudding like texture that they have.
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You
All the amazing people who come into the shop. Today made me really realize that even after the shop goes coop that I will probably be hanging out there on a Saturday, meeting friends and having deep activist discussions.
Getting to balance the books. I LOVE balancing the books, working on the figures, etc. When I was in school I LOVED mathematics and don't get much of an opportunity to do it in my regular life. But at least in the shop I can do it every day and solve all the imbalances that others are struggling with.
Wearing what I want when at Sun Eaters. It's great to have control over such an important thing. I adore being able to wear what I want. And being able to let others wear what they want.
And finally, I love gluten free muffins. I may not be eating these for much longer but while I am, I love the bread pudding like texture that they have.
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Gratitude List III & IV
It really is weird how this continues to be the hardest blog to keep a running list. Do I have little gratitude for all the many blessings and unfoldings that have happened at Sun Eaters and in my sustainable life? No way. But I think that it is partially because I wish that I was the therapist for my staff instead of their employer. It would make it so much easier for me to stay clear about who they are as humans.
But still I do appreciate many things despite not always being able to notice them. I am superbly grateful for:
The great food. Every day I know that I am going to get a delicious meal that I can handle well. Not many people in the world can say that.
The trust of the staff. Despite feeling like I am sometimes being asked to parent others, I appreciate how much I am trusted to treat the staff well and to think about them with some clarity.
The flexible nature of the business. I work in clothes that sometimes seem more suited for the beach. And I have never had to make any excuses for them. How wonderful!
My relationship with the people who shop in the shop. I think that people feel looked out for if I am around. When I have not been on Roberts St for a few days I truly miss the interaction with people who come to use the shop - for whatever reason. This is such a blessing!
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You
But still I do appreciate many things despite not always being able to notice them. I am superbly grateful for:
The great food. Every day I know that I am going to get a delicious meal that I can handle well. Not many people in the world can say that.
The trust of the staff. Despite feeling like I am sometimes being asked to parent others, I appreciate how much I am trusted to treat the staff well and to think about them with some clarity.
The flexible nature of the business. I work in clothes that sometimes seem more suited for the beach. And I have never had to make any excuses for them. How wonderful!
My relationship with the people who shop in the shop. I think that people feel looked out for if I am around. When I have not been on Roberts St for a few days I truly miss the interaction with people who come to use the shop - for whatever reason. This is such a blessing!
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Gratitude List II
It's been quite interesting trying to keep up with all 3 of my blogs at the same time. Usually it is a bit of a yo-yo with one up two down. So here goes.
I am grateful for:
Finding a wonderful sustainable group online that is organizing an intentional community in Washington DC
Learning so much by having to deal with issues of staff. In many ways we are pushed by being employers to come up with respectful ways of treating people despite feeling financial and social pressures. It reminds me a bit of parenting where the temptation is to drop the principles of 'complete respect for every other human being' and slip into old and tired ways of interacting. Yesterday was no exception and in the end I learned so much.
Chinese Wax Apples. I'm really enjoying these little zingy things.
Seeing bees feeding on the banana flowers in the front garden of Sun Eaters.
I am grateful for:
Finding a wonderful sustainable group online that is organizing an intentional community in Washington DC
Learning so much by having to deal with issues of staff. In many ways we are pushed by being employers to come up with respectful ways of treating people despite feeling financial and social pressures. It reminds me a bit of parenting where the temptation is to drop the principles of 'complete respect for every other human being' and slip into old and tired ways of interacting. Yesterday was no exception and in the end I learned so much.
Chinese Wax Apples. I'm really enjoying these little zingy things.
Seeing bees feeding on the banana flowers in the front garden of Sun Eaters.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Gratitude List I
I am engaging in a fun exercise for the next 10 days. Every day, on all of my blogs - and I have 3 - I am adding in a list of things for which I am grateful in addition to my other posts.
For Tuesday August 12th I am grateful for:
Supportive Staff. Today in particular Petra in the kitchen figured out some good things, and was responsive to my requests to bake a couple of extra things.
A feeling of lightness. Now that there is so much help from others in the evolving cooperative, I do not feel as weighted down with solo responsibility.
Sailing Camp. My son is thrilled with his experience and I get some clear hours to buckle down. Mutual satisfaction
A good broker. My broker - Glenroy Andrews - called me to see if I had a shipment coming in. He is a very funny man and has really really gone out of his way for me. He deserves a big mention.
Delicious Chinese Wax Apples - One of my friends said that they taste like packaged water! Amazing how nature has found some fruit and vegetables that are just like bottled water but without the plastic poisons.
Yaay!
For Tuesday August 12th I am grateful for:
Supportive Staff. Today in particular Petra in the kitchen figured out some good things, and was responsive to my requests to bake a couple of extra things.
A feeling of lightness. Now that there is so much help from others in the evolving cooperative, I do not feel as weighted down with solo responsibility.
Sailing Camp. My son is thrilled with his experience and I get some clear hours to buckle down. Mutual satisfaction
A good broker. My broker - Glenroy Andrews - called me to see if I had a shipment coming in. He is a very funny man and has really really gone out of his way for me. He deserves a big mention.
Delicious Chinese Wax Apples - One of my friends said that they taste like packaged water! Amazing how nature has found some fruit and vegetables that are just like bottled water but without the plastic poisons.
Yaay!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Shop Volunteers Needed
Dear Friends,
I am pleased to report that we are continuing to make huge positive strides towards the establishment of the Co-op and the ordering of the container which would enable us to offer a much wider variety of goods to our customers. However, there is still much to do (we want to place the container order within the next week or so) and we need to concentrate even further on this effort without too much distraction so I am asking for volunteer assistance in the shop for this week and perhaps the week after.
The volunteer services would be to answer the phone, deal with customers and generally anything that requires to be done around the shop. The shop is open from Tuesday to Saturday and each day comprises 3 3-hour shifts (9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., 12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m.). The minimum volunteer time is 1 shift but you could take more – for which you would have my undying gratitude!!! The work is not too strenuous and I would give you a 5-10 minute training session when you arrive at the shop to begin your shift. I will also be there throughout the day and available to answer your questions but I will be focused on the other matters and not on the everyday running of the shop.
Given that it's the summer hols, perhaps some of you have older kids (who are responsible) who would like to grab this opportunity to get a small taste of what the world of business is like (and maybe through this, even to get involved in a deeper way with the larger initiative itself). We all know that we can't underestimate our kids and the wonderful things that they are capable of doing. Although it's volunteer work, they would be earning a life experience and that's a lot. I have no objection to you coming along with them to help as well. Look at it as a bonding experience for you and them.
Please, please volunteer. We need your help!
I am pleased to report that we are continuing to make huge positive strides towards the establishment of the Co-op and the ordering of the container which would enable us to offer a much wider variety of goods to our customers. However, there is still much to do (we want to place the container order within the next week or so) and we need to concentrate even further on this effort without too much distraction so I am asking for volunteer assistance in the shop for this week and perhaps the week after.
The volunteer services would be to answer the phone, deal with customers and generally anything that requires to be done around the shop. The shop is open from Tuesday to Saturday and each day comprises 3 3-hour shifts (9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., 12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m.). The minimum volunteer time is 1 shift but you could take more – for which you would have my undying gratitude!!! The work is not too strenuous and I would give you a 5-10 minute training session when you arrive at the shop to begin your shift. I will also be there throughout the day and available to answer your questions but I will be focused on the other matters and not on the everyday running of the shop.
Given that it's the summer hols, perhaps some of you have older kids (who are responsible) who would like to grab this opportunity to get a small taste of what the world of business is like (and maybe through this, even to get involved in a deeper way with the larger initiative itself). We all know that we can't underestimate our kids and the wonderful things that they are capable of doing. Although it's volunteer work, they would be earning a life experience and that's a lot. I have no objection to you coming along with them to help as well. Look at it as a bonding experience for you and them.
Please, please volunteer. We need your help!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
So Lucky!
I have been very lucky many times in my life. Even with the kind of luck that makes me win things. I have won:
1 bottle of Scotch the first time I played Bingo - at 12 years old
A camera
A set of stereo speakers
Small amounts of lottery money
Many bets
And who knows what else since I always forget to check my lottery tickets.
But this time I got a great jackpot. The opportunity to talk to some of the most interesting people in the Caribbean about the most interesting topic - sustainable planting and gardening. And it is a paid job. How I love to make the phone calls and hear the passion in the voice on the other end.
Today I got to speak to 'Bounce', an urban gardener in La Horquetta. I can't wait to see his little space - he said that most of it is on the pavement. The amount of different plants he has in his lot will make your mind boggle.
And I also get to read online about all these amazing people doing amazing things. Saving the culture of Shamans in Suriname, figuring out how to prevent erosion on steep mountains in St. Vincent, figuring out aquaculture in impoverished communities in Haiti. For all the yucky stuff about Homo Sapiens, there are 10 wonderful things. And I get to read about the wonderful ones all day!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Organic Planting Class
Today was the last session of the four weeks of the Organic Gardening Class. What a wonderful experience it was to find a largish group of like minded individuals willing to sit on a Sunday morning and learn a lot! We covered most of the fundamentals of Organic Gardening and threw in some permaculture for good measure.
But people are hungry! They want more. They want the communing, the sharing of perspectives, the expanding of consciousness. This is not only about how to get rid of aphids, or how to make a compost heap. This is about how do we live our lives.
Today, Ivan Laughlin came to talk to us about his experience of living in an intentional community in Las Lomas - close to the airport. He practiced organic farming in his plot and really got a chance to continue his relationship with the land that had been started while he was still a boy. He told us about Royer - a Dominican man who deeply understood the land and how to communicate and cooperate with it. Everyone wanted more.
So we will continue to do a few more sessions. One to look at some permaculture and organic gardening DVDs, one to visit a Carib 'shaman' who practices forest gardening, and a couple more to meet with people who have expertise in different areas - banana farming and ground provisions.
I am blessed.
My First Home Grown Salad
Finally, two bowls of something that I have grown!
When I lived in California, I used to grow all kinds of things organically in my garden. When I was hungry I could step outside and picks scores of types of lettuce, fresh eggplant, onions, chive and garlic, tomatoes and zucchini. And within a half an hour I had a steaming bowl of ratatouille surrounded by a fresh salad of mixed greens. It was amazing!
So it was a joy today to step outside armed with a nail scissors and pick a large bowl of arugula and a couple of types of baby lettuce. It always tastes better when you grew it yourself.
The First Meeting of the Cooperative
I just realised that I forgot to take pictures yesterday - Awwww!
When I looked around the room with all these beautiful people there to make a world affirming choice I had to hold back my feelings of joy. The gene pool was astounding! There were people from all the corners of the globe and Trinis with all ways of life. It will be interesting to see an organization with this level of diversity.
The meeting ran from 4 to 6PM and I had to run out to another meeting. But I heard that they had to sweep people out! That's what happens when the chemistry just clicks.
Several things became clear; that we have to prioritize our mission statement, and that there is a strong desire to continue the shop. So now the work begins.
On Monday a few of us will meet to examine the business feasibility and to come up with a business plan. Others will focus on the legal end of things. And yet others will focus on fundraising. There's quite a bit to be done so if you have any free time please volunteer for something - even if it is a one time thing for a few hours.
When I looked around the room with all these beautiful people there to make a world affirming choice I had to hold back my feelings of joy. The gene pool was astounding! There were people from all the corners of the globe and Trinis with all ways of life. It will be interesting to see an organization with this level of diversity.
The meeting ran from 4 to 6PM and I had to run out to another meeting. But I heard that they had to sweep people out! That's what happens when the chemistry just clicks.
Several things became clear; that we have to prioritize our mission statement, and that there is a strong desire to continue the shop. So now the work begins.
On Monday a few of us will meet to examine the business feasibility and to come up with a business plan. Others will focus on the legal end of things. And yet others will focus on fundraising. There's quite a bit to be done so if you have any free time please volunteer for something - even if it is a one time thing for a few hours.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Making a Mountain
I am really really drawn to mountains these days. Perhaps it is the stillness, the silence and the soberness of these large folds on the surface of the earth that makes me want to be cradled by them. But just as important are the energetic mountains that we create. The accomplishments that pile shovel upon shovel, bucket after bucket with the occasional earthquake thrown in for good measure.
And Sun Eaters Organics now has a mountain that it has created. Sometimes I hear doubts that this is a 'serious' business and not some plaything that I - the socialite wife of a banker (are my laughs loud enough) - have created to while away my many hours of free time! Wishful thinking.
Anyhow here is some of what you, me and the crew at Sun Eaters Organics have done over the past two years.
- Stimulated local organic production to the point where we have at least 10 active growers from whom we can get thoughtfully grown food - from one consistent supplier 2 years ago.
- Learned organic certification procedures and started getting several farms ready for certification.
- Served almost 10,000 organic vegan meals with mainly local content.
- Saved 10.000 containers from entering the landfill by using reusable glass bowls for lunches.
- Always, yes always, paid staff on time and above average salaries.
- Taken no loans from banks, lending agencies or government bodies.
- Grown an entire front yard forest after breaking up a concrete Woodbrook front yard
- Familiarized plant quarantine, customs, Caribbean Airlines with organic produce and how to treat it.
- Motivated several other freestanding businesses to begin carrying organic goods in their shops
- Taught multiple people organic gardening techniques
- Exposed Trinidad to its first in-depth look at Rudolph Steiner's work - especially the Waldorf approach to teaching
- Created a Port of Spain recycling depot
- Conducted the first Organic Raw Food Workshop in Trinidad and Tobago - and getting ready to organize some more
- Conducted on site lectures on the environment and organic farming for High School and Primary School students
- Presented to the American Women's Club and the UK Women's Club on issues of sustainability
- Attended a trainer of trainers workshop on Organic Farming techniques
- Created an environment where groundbreakers can feel at home
- Sent out 5000 plus newsletters exposing the national population to issues of sustainability and the environment in a locally relevant fashion
- Conducted 3 camps for children
- Hosted a Christmas show for sustainable products
- Built hundreds (or maybe thousands) of pounds of good, healthy organic soil by composting ALL of our kitchen and shop waste
- Deeply involved in training a Fulbright Scholar researching organic agriculture in Trinidad and Tobago
- Saved tens of thousands of shopping bags by never ever buying a new bag for selling our produce
- Saved tons of toxins from going into our water supply by only using natural mopping and other cleaning products with the exception of dishwashing liquid when we run out.
- Started a local Soap Nuts venture
- Provided extensive support for many conscious activities by advertising on newsletter and in the shop and by suggesting attendance to shoppers
- Saved reams of paper by minimal printing of marketing material and extensive online presence
- In the process of transforming the agricultural sector and consumer behaviour by converting to the first Cooperative Shop that is in the open retail sector and ensuring that the shop is deeply organic and also does not sell animals that have not lived out their natural life span
Not bad for two years, almost non-existent funding and almost 100 percent local input - produce and human resources. Maybe we should get a little cocky.
Of course there are many things that could be or could have been done better. But I am deeply hopeful that as the Cooperative develops and there are 20 plus people who, like me, have a deep and abiding commitment to the environment and putting people before profit, that many of these snags will be worked out.
So Congrats to all the Crew at Sun Eaters Organics - past and present crew and customers.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
If I can do it .........
Well, today took the cake. I can only say thank god that I am vegetarian and that the global food crisis has not yet arrived. My first two chickens ran away - only to reappear briefly 3 months later. The next two were killed by the cat next door. And then finally today I got a rooster and a hen to add to my collection.
All I can say is that I never saw anything run so furiously as that rooster did on accidentally falling out of a hole in the bag. I was transporting him and his sister from Petit Valley. So there we were on Sydenham ave, him with his legs spread as widely as they could be, making the new world record look slow. And if there was anyone around to laugh, I would be hearing the cackling a mile away as I stood dumbfounded, the other chicken still in the sack in my hand, my computer in a bag on my back, my handbag lolling at my side and a skirt almost touching the ground trying to decide how to catch this crazy creature.
And so picture me tucking the skirt in my hip and the two of us running each other around for 15 minutes. And then me with a few towels in hand trying to now catch the hen who had run out of another hole and now herself was squawking and flying and running and flapping wings and hiding in a canal until finally she stopped, still hiding her head as though I could not see her. So I dropped the towels on her and put her in a bucket - wrapped up in towel - and deposited her in the cage.
If I had to consider the energy efficiency of this transaction: there is no way that eating those scrawny chickens could give me back what I expended trying to catch them. No way!
So I know that I need time to master this 'grow your own food' thing. I hope that the food crisis can wait for me to get good at these parts. I need those chicken eggs when times get touch.
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