Howard Vlieger East Coast 2015 Jan/Feb Tour

Howard will be presenting on the effects of GMO crops and glyphosate use in humans, animals and soils at these meetings. Some of the material will be farmer centric and some will be consumer centric, depending on the audience.

Here is a short biography about Howard for those of you who want to refresh your memory about him or use it to explain these events to your friends and interested neighbors. All of these events, save the one to the students at Chatham (and perhaps Del Valley ??) are public events.

I've got links to the event or the information for the event below.

Please feel free to spread this information to your colleagues, friends, fellow farmers, customers, neighbors.... who might be interested in hearing about the discussion Howard has to offer.

If you have specific questions about things other than event logistics, please get back with me.

Registration and RSVP for these events should be done directly with the host, unless indicated otherwise.
That will help them with their planning, seating and food.

This is a great opportunity for Howard to see a lot of PA - and to meet some exceptional and interesting farmers and folks who support the farming community in PA. And it's also a great chance for people to spend some time listening to Howard, hearing what he has to offer, and having him answer questions you might have.

Here is the itinerary and information about the events as they stand:

Monday, January 26, 2015 - arrive PA late day

Tuesday, January 27, 2015 -  9 - 1pm Chatham University Eden Hall Campus

Wednesday, January 28, 2015: Quiet Creek Herb Farm and School of Country Living (Jefferson County)

GMOs and Round-Up:  The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Featuring Howard Vlieger
January 28, 2015
3-4:30 p.m.
Quiet Creek Herb Farm & School of Country Living
93 Quiet Creek Lane
Brookville, PA 15825
814-849-9662
quietcreek@windstream.net
Please rsvp  by Jan 22, 2015

Deep down Howard is really a soil guy... and came to working with glyphosate and GMO crops after he'd been digging in the soil for a couple of decades.  As such, he can talk practical soil stuff, working with GMO crop and glyphosate to mitigate the effects of those things (like needing special additional nutrients and microbiology because of the chelation effects on plants and microbial life), human and animal health issues..... (he's the fellow who designed the pig study where hogs were fed GMO and non GMO feeds for their lifetimes.) – Dr. Susan Beal


Thursday, January 29, 2015:

9-3pm Organic Valley/The Fertrell Company Producer/Grower Meeting

Miles Township Fire Company
102 Broad Street
Rebersberg, PA

RSVP to Peggy at Fertrell: 800 347 1566 by January 22.

630pm: Chambersburg, PA

GMO Crops and Glyphosate: Is there more to the story than we read and hear in the advertisements?

Marion Mennonite Church
4365 Molly Pitcher Highway
Chambersburg, Pa  17202

Please RSVP to:
Joe Miller
Trickling Springs Creamery
Marketing Manager
Joe@tricklingspringscreamery.com
717-385-4610
www.TricklingSpringsCreamery.com

Friday, January 29, 2015:

9:00 - 3:00 Oregon Ag Meeting, Willow Street (South of Lancaster, PA)

Please contact Amos King for details of location and the schedule for this meeting.
OregonAg247@yahoo.com
717 617 7364

Saturday, January 31, 2015:

Sustainable Farming Practices

Miller's Natural Foods
2888 Miller Lane
Bird in Hand, PA 17505

Please RSVP 717 581 1331

Sponsored by The Fertrell Company, also by Oregon Ag and GMO Free PA
Flyer for this event attached below my signature.

Monday, February 2, 2015: Del Valley - to be confirmed; travel to host site for Rutger's meeting

Tuesday, February 3, 2015: Rutger's meeting Atlantic City

Wednesday, February 4, 2015: headed west.....

Friday, February 6, 2015: Springfield, Missouri

Oregonians for Safe Farms and Families: Radio Ad Resources

Oregon Grassroots GMO Free Playlist. Featuring Josephine County Moms Across America Radio Ad. Oregonians for Safe Farms and Families Donation page.

VOTE YES ON MEASURE 17-58

• Oregonians for Safe Farms and Families   
• GMO Free Josephine County

GMO: Get Money Out!

Monsanto, Syngenta and other outside multinational, multi-billion dollar chemical
corporations will spend over a million dollars spreading lies in our beautiful
valleys.

The truth is that genetically engineered crops:

ü  Threaten our local farms and gardens with genetic contamination

ü  Threaten our local economies

ü  Increase pesticide and herbicide use, polluting our water

ü  Threaten the health and safety of our families

What they are doing to the truth is the same thing they do to genes:
forcefully inserting their version and calling it new and improved. However,
just like the genetic code, the truth doesn’t need to have anything added.

Measure 17-58 will:

ü  Protect our local farms and families

ü  Cost nothing to Josephine County taxpayers

ü  Help all Oregonians stand up for local control

Don't buy the lies!

Find out more about the truth at www.oregoniansforsafefarmsandfamilies.org

NOW IS THE TIME TO STAND UP AND VOTE!

Links to resources, studies and articles for more information:

Measure 17-58 TRUTH for publishing 4.7.14.pdf - (Talking Points)
http://oregoniansforsafefarmsandfamilies.org/

http://www.gmofreejosephinecounty.org/

http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/04/monsanto_syngenta_other_pestic.html

http://m.kdrv.com/kdrv/pm_118157/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=b2rDdBhi

http://www.statesmanjournal.com/proart/20140331/news/303310022/gmo-task-force-scheduled-meet-april?pagerestricted=1

http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_28148.cfm
(has links to safety and environmental studies)

How To Create A Radio Ad (Quick and Easy)

1. Write a Script (15-60 seconds) Scripts
2. Read Script (Video camera mic is best, YouTube Webcam: Upload)
3. Publish Video and script text to YouTube (public, unlisted, private)
4. Email YouTube Link (Done) or Convert YouTube Video To MP3
5. Email MP3 or post MP3 on Google Drive/Dropbox and email link

NOTE: If you use the video camera mic, please figure out a wind screen. (wadded up thin scarves attached with a rubber band will work in a pinch.)

Iowa farmer visits Southern Oregon to discuss GMO-related health concerns | DailyTidings.com

Howard Vlieger's presentation "excerpts" in Seattle, WA Sept. 2013. (Presentation Playlist)

An Iowa farmer who claims pigs exposed to genetically modified organisms suffer more ailments than other animals will speak in Ashland next week in support of a local campaign to ban GMOs here.

Howard Vlieger, of Maurice, Iowa, conducted experiments in which a group of pigs was fed corn and grain treated with GMO herbicides and a control group wasn't. The pigs exposed to GMOs showed digestive, immunity and reproductive problems, while the control group didn't, he said.

As a result, the GMO group needed more antibiotics for E. coli and botulism, he added.
Vlieger, who has conducted studies over the past 20 years, will give presentations Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 28-29, throughout the Rogue Valley. He is being sponsored by GMO-Free Jackson County, a campaign to support a May ballot measure that would mostly ban GMOs locally.

Read More: Iowa farmer visits Southern Oregon to discuss GMO-related health concerns | DailyTidings.com




Sacramento Grange meeting Wednesday January 22


Howard Vlieger's CA/OR Event List

• Wednesday, January 22, 7 p.m. - Sacramento
• Thursday, January 23, 7:30 p.m. - Roseville
• Friday, January 24, 6:30 p.m. - Fair Oaks
• Saturday, January 25, 10 a.m. - Sebastopol
• Saturday, January 25, 3 p.m. - Santa Rosa
• Sunday, January 26, 2 p.m. - Windsor
• Sunday, January 26, 7 p.m. - Petaluma
• Monday, January 27, 1 p.m. - Fortuna
• Monday, January 27, 6 p.m. - Eureka
• Tuesday, January 28th, 2pm, Plaisance Ranch, Williams
• Tuesday, January 28th, 7.30pm, Student Union - Rogue River Room, Southern Oregon University, Ashland
• Friday, January 29th 3pm, RCC Campus, Grants Pass
• Friday, January 29th, 7.30pm, Medford Public Library, Medford 
• Thursday, January 30, 10 a.m. - Yreka
• Thursday, January 30, 4 p.m. - Chico
• Thursday, January 30, 7:30 p.m. - Oroville
• Friday, January 31, 6 p.m. - Laguna Woods
• Saturday, February 1, 11 a.m. - Redlands

Howard Vlieger & Pamm Larry Upcoming Events in Washington State!

Grassroots Volunteers for I-522 & Washington State is Proud to Welcome

Howard Vlieger - Iowa Farmer and GMO Crop Expert &
Pamm Larry - Initial Instigator of Prop 37 in California

Howard and Pamm will be touring the state during the month of September educating the public about GMOs and talking to folks about I-522 and the importance of labeling. Please see the schedule below and come join us for one or more events. Also, feel free to share the calendar and list of events to local groups, family, friends, etc!

SPECIAL EVENT with Both Howard & Pamm!

~ Sunday, September 15th - 6-9pm! ~
Special Event for Howard & Pamm w/ Local Volunteers & Organizers
Where: Blakeley Manor - Community Room - 2401 NE Blakeley St, Seattle 98105
What: This will be a GMO-Free potluck and party to honor Howard & Pamm for coming to our fine state to educate people, support labeling and ballot initiative 522. ALL volunteers & organizers working on the GMO issue are welcome to come join the party!

Please see below for a list of ALL major events and bios for Howard & Pamm!

Online Google Calendar of All Events

Schedule is subject to change & events are still being added.

Pamm still has available time to fill, mostly during the day, so all help is appreciated to make the most of her limited time her in Washington. 

(*Apologies if you received this email more than once. We combined email lists.)

Howard - Main Events:

~ TONIGHT! September 10th ~
Skagit Valley Food Co-op - 6:30-8pm
202 South First Street Mount Vernon, WA 98273

~ September 11th ~
Olympic College - 6:30-8:30 pm
 Sponsored by Kitsap Community Food Co-op
Bremerton Student Center 1600 Chester Ave Bremerton, WA


~ September 12th ~
Shelton Timberland Library - 12-2pm
710 W. Alder St, Shelton, WA

Lacey Timberland Library - 3-5pm
500 College Street SE, Lacey WA

The Grange Building - 6-9pm
Sponsored by The Yelm Cooperative 
302 E Yelm Ave, Yelm WA


~ September 13th ~
Vancouver Community Library - 6:30-8:30pm
901 C Street, Vancouver, WA


~ September 14th ~
Republican Booth at WA State Fair - 10am-12pm
Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave SW Puyallup, WA 98371

Sumner Animal Grub - Ice Cream Social w/ Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream - 4-5:30pm
800 Traffic St, Sumner, WA

Fire Station #66 - South Hill  6:30-8pm

Sponsored by TNT Wellness Consulting
9813 128th Street East, South Hill, WA

~ September 15th ~
Blakeley Manor - 3-5pm

Sponsored by Volunteers for I-522 Seattle
Community Room - 2401 NE Blakeley St, Seattle 98105

Special Event for Howard & Pamm w/ Local Volunteers & Organizers - 6-9pm
Blakeley Manor - Community Room - 2401 NE Blakeley St, Seattle 98105

Pamm - Main Events:

~ September 15th ~
Pamm arrives in Seattle!

Special Event for Howard & Pamm w/ Local Volunteers & Organizers - 6-9pm
Blakeley Manor - Community Room - 2401 NE Blakeley St, Seattle 98105

~ September 16th ~
Brickhouse Tavern - 2-3:30pm
109 W 15th St Vancouver, WA 98660

Traditions Café - 7-9pm
Sponsored by Traditions Fair Trade 
300 5th Ave SW, Olympia WA 98501     


~ September 17th ~
Lacey Timberland Library - 11am-2pm
500 College Street SE, Lacey WA

The Grange Building - 6-9pm
Sponsored by The Yelm Cooperative 
302 E Yelm Ave, Yelm WA 98597


~ September 18th ~
GMO OMG Film Screening at Seattle Art Museum - 7-9pm
Seattle Art Museum 1300 1st Ave Seattle, WA 98101

~ September 19th ~
GMO Labeling Fundraiser Concert with The Refusers - 7-11pm
The Crocodile - 2200 2nd Ave Seattle, WA 98121


~ September 20th ~
Quimper Universalist Unitarian Fellowship  - 7-8:30pm
Sponsored by The Green Sanctuary Committee
2333 San Juan Ave Port Townsend, WA 98368


~ September 21st ~
Nash's Farm Store - 1:30-3pm
4681 Sequim-Dungeness Way, Sequim WA

Peninsula College - 6:30-8pm
1502 E Lauridsen Blvd Port Angeles, WA

GMO OMG Move Screening - 9-11pm
Port Townsend Film Festival - Rose Theater
235 Taylor Ave, Port Townsend, WA


~ September 22nd ~
GMO OMG Screening - 6-8pm
Port Townsend Film Festival - Peter Simpson Free Cinema
(The American Legion Hall) 209 Monroe St.


~ September 23rd ~
Fairhaven Public Library - Bellingham - 6:30-8pm
1117 12th Street Bellingham, WA 98225


~ September 24th ~

Skagit Valley Food Co-op - 6:30-8pm
202 S. First St Downtown Mount Vernon, WA 98273


~ September 25th ~
Green Party of Seattle - 7:30-9pm
Phinney Neighborhood Center - 6532 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103 

Limited seating - Get free tickets at: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/461480

~ September 26th ~
Third Place Commons - 7-8:30pm
Sponsored by Sno-Isle Food Co-op & Volunteers for I-522 Seattle
17171 Bothell Way NE Lake Forest Park, WA 98155


~ September 27th ~
GMO OMG Movie Screening - Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) - 7-9pm
305 Harrison St  Seattle, WA 98109


~ September 28th ~

Bellevue/Eastside Event TBA

~ September 29th ~
   Work Party & Potluck for March For Your Food/March Against Monsanto 12-3pm
Sponsored by Volunteers for I-522 Seattle
Blakeley Manor Community Room - 2401 NE Blakeley St, Seattle 98105


~ September 30th ~
Fire Station # 71 - Puyallup - 7-8:30pm
Sponsored by TNT Wellness Consulting
902 7th Street NW, Puyallup WA


~ October 1st ~

Fundraiser featuring Pamm Larry & Jeffery Smith
Sponsored by Marlene's Market
2565 S Gateway Center Plaza Federal Way, WA 98003

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

About Howard Vlieger

Howard Vlieger is a third generation family farmer who has been a “student of the soil,” studying why and how the soil works as it does, since 1989.  Howard lives on the family farm where he was born and raised in northwest Iowa. He assists his son with some of the farming duties.  Since 1992 Howard has been a crop nutrition advisor and has founded two companies to help family farmers reduce their dependency on chemical- based farming and transition to biological and or organic production.  Howard works and teaches as an independent crop nutrition advisor, helping crop and livestock farmers all across the US.

Howard also works with scientists and researchers around the world to develop effective solutions, based on the latest science, for the real-life problems farmers are experiencing because of GMO crops and the chemicals used in growing them. Howard is a co-author and the primary coordinator of a first of its kind scientific study: the feeding of GMO grain and non-GMO grain to hogs for their lifetime as a meat animal.  Howard is an internationally recognized speaker on the topic of GMOs. He believes people deserve to be educated and know what is in their food.  

Howard serves on the board of directors of the Farm & Ranch Freedom Alliance (FARFA) and the Council for Healthy Food Systems (CHFS). He is a strong conservative and for many years has been a delegate for his county to the Iowa State Republican Convention. His greatest accomplishments are being a Christian husband for 32 plus years to his wonderful wife Pam and father to three young adult children & a proud grandfather of one. 

About Pamm Larry

Pamm Larry, farmer, midwife, businesswoman and a gutsy grandmother of three was so distraught about our modern day food system that she quit her day job and spent her time educating herself on GMOs and how to apply for a ballot initiative. She then went on the road and heard a resounding YES from the people in California to pursue a Ballot Initiative. This effort resulted in the Yes On Prop 37, California Right To Know Campaign of November 2012. 

Grandma Larry and her galvanized cadre of concerned citizens represent the sane, spirited voice of a growing number of skeptical Americans who don't necessarily trust better living through chemistry and who demand labeling of genetically modified foods. 

FIESTY FARMER HOWARD VLIEGER EXPLAINS GMOS FIRST HAND & THE IMPORTANCE OF LABELING

Media | Volunteers for I-522:


Grassroots Volunteers Welcomes GMO Expert Howard Vlieger to Washington State in Support of Washington State Initiative 522 for Labeling of Genetically Engineered Food


Weekly Women's GMO Free News Google Hangout Interview with Howard Vlieger and Pamm Larry (August 28, 2013)

Howard Vlieger will be touring Washington State from September 4 beginning in Spokane and ending in Seattle in support of ballot initiate 522, which would require labeling of genetically modified food or GMOs. He will be speaking to a variety of groups regarding his expertise and research regarding genetically modified crops.

About Howard Vlieger

Howard Vlieger is a third generation family farmer who has been a “student of the soil,” studying why and how the soil works as it does, since 1989. Howard lives on the family farm where he was born and raised in northwest Iowa. He assists his son with some of the farming duties. Since 1992 Howard has been a crop nutrition advisor and has founded two companies to help family farmers reduce their dependency on chemical- based farming and transition to biological and or organic production.

Howard works and teaches as an independent crop nutrition adviser, helping crop and livestock farmers all Howard also works with scientists and researchers around the world to develop effective solutions, based on the latest science, for the real-life problems farmers are experiencing because of GMO crops and the chemicals used in growing them. Howard is a co-author and the primary coordinator of a first of its kind scientific study: the feeding of GMO grain and non-GMO grain to hogs for their lifetime as a meat animal. Howard is an internationally recognized speaker on the topic of GMOs. He believes people deserve to be educated and know what is in their food.

Howard serves on the board of directors of the Farm & Ranch Freedom Alliance FARFA) and the Council for Healthy Food Systems (CHFS). He is a strong conservative and for many years has been a delegate for his county to the Iowa State Republican Convention. His greatest accomplishments are being a Christian husband for 32 plus years to his wonderful wife Pam and father to three young adult children & a proud grandfather of one.


Howard Vlieger Washington September Speaking Tour Online Calendar

For more information on Howard Vlieger:

1. Interview with Howard Vlieger on GMOs - Farm And Ranch freedom Alliance (2011)

2. Yet Another Reason GMOs Suck - Nation Of Change (Oct 2012)

3. Food Sleuth Radio, Howard Vlieger Interview (28 minutes)

About Grassroots Volunteers for I-522

Volunteers for I-522 are a group of grassroots organizers & volunteers from around WA State dedicated to spreading awareness and information about GMOs, the importance of labeling and to provide opportunities to get involved.

About Yes on 522

Yes on 522 provides Washington shoppers with more information about what’s in the food they buy so that they can make the best decisions for their families. More than 350,000 signatures were collected to get I-522 on the November 2013 ballot—second highest number of signatures gathered for an Initiative to the Legislature in state history.

I-522 GMO Grassroots Groups Organize September Speaking Tour For Grandmother Pamm Larry and Farmer Howard Vlieger

Press Release:

I-522 GMO Grassroots Groups Organize September Speaking Tour For Grandmother Pamm Larry and Farmer Howard Vlieger

SEATTLE, WA (August 19, 2013) Washington grassroots volunteers for I-522 have asked Pamm Larry, the initial instigator of the genetically engineered labeling act in California, and Iowa Farmer Howard Vlieger (R) to participate in a statewide speaking tour in September to educate voters on GMO Food Labeling issues and help organize the grassroots troops. Annmarie Gianni Skin Care and Good Earth Natural Foods are funding the fall tour.

“Having Pamm Larry come to Washington to help with I-522 is a no-brainer.  She started the GE Labeling initiative movement, and I-522 wouldn't be on our Washington state ballot this November if it weren't for Pamm's efforts in California last year,” explains Sarah Stolar, a coordinator of Volunteer’s for I-522.  “She has been through ALL of this already, so both grassroots groups and the Yes on 522 campaign have a lot to learn from her.  We do not need or want to waste energy reinventing the wheel; we need to take the valuable lessons learned from California's experience and use them to improve our own work.  Learning from California's Prop 37 and not repeating the same mistakes is the only way we can successfully pass I-522.  Who better to help guide the way than Pamm Larry?”

“Washington will finish what Prop 37 started but was waylaid by Chemical and Junk Food Companies in their campaign of misinformation and distractions from the issue which is labeling of our foods,” explains Pamm Larry, Grandmother of three and Label GMO Food movement initial instigator. “We have a right to know what we are buying and feeding our children and ourselves. I-522 is the next step and is everyone's ballot initiative.  When we all unite no matter where we are from, we are a powerful force.  California Grassroots stand with the people of Washington in continuing the fight for the right to know what's in our food.  We will do all we can to assure victory there. I am delighted and honored to have the opportunity to join hands with the people of Washington to let them know about our oppositions dirty tactics in California during Prop 37.   We are uniting across state lines because this isn't just about Washington- it's about all of us. No matter what city, state, or country we live in, every step we take anywhere for food sovereignty is a step for all of us.”

“I have been involved with research and testing of GMOs since 1994. I have seen the damage caused by GMOs at ground level,” says Howard Vlieger, “What is happening to the soil, the crops, the livestock and sadly now the children and people. Can we really believe what we are being told by the companies that say GMOs are the way of future for food production or is there more to the story? Are you willing to bet the future of your farm and the health of your family on the word of GMO companies without exploring the rest of the story for yourself?”

"Every action and decision that we make as individuals and as a company will have an impact on the environment, “states Rachel Pachivas, Annmarie Gianni Skin Care. “We strive to make this as little of an impact as possible. We search out for the best and most sustainable sourcing in everything we do. From the paper that our letterhead is on, to the oil that makes its way onto your skin, there is careful and conscious thought that goes into every decision made. We actively support LabelGMOs and the movement around these issues. A few of us here in the company had volunteered during Prop 37 in California and know how inspiring Pamm Larry is, so of course... we are happy to help her get up to Washington and support I-522. A victory in Washington will be monumental for the food movement... it's time we stand up to Ag-Biotech industry and demand we know what they are putting in our food!”

About Pamm Larry

Pamm Larry, farmer, midwife, businesswoman and a gutsy grandmother of three was so distraught about our modern day food system that she quit her day job and spent her time educating herself on GMOs and how to apply for a ballot initiative. Next, she searched out her team and went straight to the state capital to painstakingly navigate through the bureaucratic muddle of tedious paperwork necessary to put an initiative on the California ballot.

Grandma Larry and her galvanized cadre of concerned citizens represent the sane, spirited voice of a growing number of skeptical Americans who don't necessarily trust better living through chemistry.

Article: 

The Spark Behind the California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act of 2012

About Howard Vlieger

Howard Vlieger is a third generation family farmer who has been a “student of the soil,” studying why and how the soil works as it does, since 1989.  Howard lives on the family farm where he was born and raised in northwest Iowa..   Since 1992 Howard has been a crop nutrition advisor and has founded two companies to help family farmers reduce their dependency on chemical-based farming and transition to biological and/or organic production.  Howard also works with scientists and researchers around the world to develop effective solutions, based on the latest science, for the real-life problems farmers are experiencing because of GMO crops and glyphosate. Howard is a co-author and the primary coordinator of a first of its kind scientific study: the feeding of GMO grain and non-GMO grain to hogs for their lifetime as a meat animal.  Howard is an internationally recognized speaker on the topic of GMOs.

Annmarie Gianni Skin Care

Annmarie Gianni Skin Care is an organic skin care line using 100% natural, certified organic, and wild-crafted ingredients. The team strives to bring their ideals into the eyes of the community. They believe knowledge is power and they love providing information to others on organics and wild-crafting, truth in labeling and transparency, and giving back to the community.

About Yes on 522

Yes on 522 provides Washington shoppers with more information about what’s in the food they buy so that they can make the best decisions for their families. More than 350,000 signatures were collected to get I-522 on the November 2013 ballot—second highest number of signatures gathered for an Initiative to the Legislature in state history.  www.yeson522.com

I am SO upset right now I can hardly believe... - Connie Marie Gashler

Gardner Ted Gashler with his corn (2010)

I am SO upset right now I can hardly believe it!!!!!!!!!!!! - Connie Marie Gashler:

My father, who is 73 and has his phd in agri-business, loves gardening. His little patio garden at my folks condo is his pride and joy. He looks forward to planting all his amazing heirloom seeds each year, and reaping an unbelievably fabulous bounty from the tiny plot. (he knows agriculture/horticulture like no one else... he's like "the garden whisperer") ...well... the other day a dude with a clipboard came by their condo... he was a representative of the City Council there in Centerville, UT. 

He asked my dad about his garden, and my dad proudly told him about what he does for it, and about all his fantastic heirloom seeds that he has preserved since the 70's and before. He is especially proud of his corn, that he has specially selected, and fine tuned each year... he has saved seeds from the sweetest and juiciest ears and dried them with care, until they grow absolute corn-perfection. He told the man all about his wonderful corn, and then the man moved on. 

Well.. yesterday my dad got a letter from the Centerville city council saying that he has to RIP OUT all his corn because it is not MONSANTO seed!!!!!!!! 

The letter detailed for him how the City of Centerville only allows Monsanto's "serendipity corn" seed to be planting within city borders. !!!!!!! 

So Monsanto obviously must be funneling $$ to this Podunk city so they can actually keep a thug on PAYROLL to go around and harass old people and normal citizens. 

In this world of drought and famine they are going to make folks destroy crops..... How disgusting... Monsanto's filthy tentacles reach everywhere it seems... my dad (photo) has been an outspoken opponent of the company since he worked with farmers in former soviet countries in the 90's... he even testified before congress once about the illegal practices, and damage the company was doing to the planet. 

He was threatened by them then, and he toned it down after that... but here they are again... trying to show a little old man in his 70's that THEY are boss..... what can be done??????? we are all thinking we want to write to the slc tribune, and to the Centerville papers.... ( Kristina Whitley Gashler , would you write one too???? you have strong literary skills) ... this is just so very very wrong.... please post any other ideas here of what we can do.... — with Kristina Whitley Gashler.

I am SO upset right now I can hardly believe it (Part 2)

Comments:

• Laura Baker Yes, Serendipity corn is patented by Syngenta, not Monsanto, and it is also not actually one of their GMO varieties. However, having said that, I still think this is atrocious. Whether GMO or not, Monsanto, Syngenta, Dow and Bayer are all robbing us of our food security while creating their monopolies and I wouldn't give them a dollar of my business, that would be feeding the beasts and helping fund their takeover. What we need are more people like your father, who have that knowledge and expertise, and maybe a community garden can grow his variety! Heirloom veggies are very important to biodiversity and food security. Your father is a valuable member of society and I hope more people see that soon!

  2 minutes ago · Like
• 

  Connie Marie Gashler from what I understand, there are 2 varieties of serendipity that they have on the market, one is ge and one is not. but there is no way really, to know which is which....

Seed Giants Sue U.S. Farmers Over Genetically Modified Seed Patents In Shocking Numbers: Report

Seed Giants Sue U.S. Farmers Over Genetically Modified Seed Patents In Shocking Numbers: Report

The Supreme Court will hear arguments Feb. 19 in "Bowman v. Monsanto Co.," a landmark court battle that has pitted farmer Vernon Hugh Bowman against the international agriculture corporation over the issue of seed patents. In anticipation, the Center for Food Safety and the Save Our Seeds campaigning groups released a report Tuesday detailing similar cases, titled "Seed Giants vs. U.S. Farmers."

According to the report, Monsanto has alleged seed patent infringement in 144 lawsuits against 410 farmers and 56 small farm businesses in at least 27 U.S. states as of January of 2013. Monsanto, DuPont and Syngenta together hold 53 percent of the global commercial seed market, which the report says has led to price increases for seeds -- between 1995 and 2011, the average cost of planting one acre of soybeans rose 325 percent and corn seed prices went up 259 percent.

Seed patents are a type of biological patent, which are legally protected inventions or discoveries in biology. In the case of Monsanto and other major corporations, that often means patents on genetically modified seeds. In recent years, these and other companies have taken farmers to court for alleged seed patent infringement -- meaning they planted seeds without paying for them.

The issue gets murky when you consider that if a farmer plants legally purchased seeds, then replanted seeds culled from the resulting crop, he is committing what some companies consider a crime.

AllAboutFeed - Wheat growers oppose mandatory GM labelling

AllAboutFeed - Wheat growers oppose mandatory GM labelling

“This initiative is full of contradictory rules,” said WAWG Past President and State Legislation committee chairman, Eric Maier. “A food made of genetically modified ingredients would require labeling when sold in grocery stores, but not in restaurants or delis. That just doesn’t make sense.”(1) Maier grows wheat near Ritzville, Wash., the heart of dryland wheat country. Maier also believes the exemption for alcohol, but not other drinks, would mislead consumers.(2) The proposed mandatory labeling law will not provide any useful information, and US policy on food labeling is that it should provide meaningful information about health or safety.

According to the association  there is no genetically modified wheat in commercial production in Washington State or elsewhere in the United States. The industry is pursuing genetic modification to grow more and better wheat with less impact on the environment, such as reducing chemical usage. Washington State University researchers are also looking for ways to enhance wheat through genetic modification to allow those with wheat intolerance or celiac disease to eat wheat.

(1) Prop. 37 is full of absurd, politically motivated exemptions that make no sense. It requires special labels on soy milk, but exempts cow’s milk. Dairy products, eggs, meat and poultry are all exempt. Fruit juice requires a label, but alcohol made with some of the same GE ingredients is exempt. Food sold in a grocery store requires a label, but the same food sold in a restaurant is exempt.  (NoONProp37)

Bad Seed: The Truth About Our Food

Bad Seed: The Truth About Our Food

In the last thirty years global demand for food has doubled. In a race to feed the planet, scientists have discovered how to manipulate DNA, the blueprint of life, and produce what they claim are stronger, more disease-resistant crops.

However, fears that Genetically Modified Food may not be safe for humans or the environment has sparked violent protest. Are we participating in a dangerous global nutritional experiment?

This informative film helps the viewer decide if the production of genetically modified food is a panacea for world hunger or a global poison.

Washington wheat growers oppose GMO label initiative | capitalpress.com

Washington wheat growers oppose GMO label initiative | capitalpress.com

Though genetically modified wheat is not yet commercially available, the Washington Association of Wheat Growers on Feb. 11 came out against an initiative that would mandate labeling of food made with GMO ingredients.

Eric Maier, a Ritzville, Wash., wheat farmer and past president of WAWG, said the impact of Initiative 522 on wheat farmers would be negligible at this point, since a genetically modified wheat variety is still likely seven to 10 years away from commercial cultivation.

The association opposes the initiative in its entirety.

"It's just bad policy," Maier said.

According to the association, foods produced through genetic modification are indistinguishable from foods produced through traditional means, and requiring mandatory labeling misleads consumers by falsely implying differences where none exist.

In an association release, Maier said the initiative is full of contradictions. For example, a food made of genetically modified ingredients would require labeling when sold in grocery stores, but not in restaurants.
WAWG also accuses I-522 supporters of trying to mislead the public by claiming the initiative will avoid export market disruption. The association says the initiative has nothing to do with export markets, but is part of an effort to create an "unnecessary and expensive regulatory system that will ultimately hit Washington consumers in the pocketbook."

Wheat leader ramps up image campaign

Thursday, December 01, 2011 11:00 AM 

Farms will face challenges in the future

By Eric Maier,
President,
Washington Association of Wheat Growers | Posted: Friday, April 20, 2012 9:00 am 
 
RITZVILLE - I am writing you today about a challenge ahead of farming communities throughout Eastern Washington. The challenge is real and it affects more than those involved in advocacy groups and organizations. Our challenge is apathy and ignorance.

Not just apathy within our own communities and governments, but apathy outside our circles. As farmers, we have been silent about the obstacles we've overcome and the importance of our work. I used to think it was "someone else's job" to tell the story of farm life and agriculture.

My job was to sit on the tractor and to harvest the best crop possible. It was up to some staffer I didn't know to advocate for me. Well, even the greatest staffer is only one voice. I am now seeing first-hand the consequences of a silent farming community.

The mission of the Washington Association of Wheat Growers is to work for solutions to problems of the farm, the farm home and rural community using united, organized action to represent, protect and advance the social, economic and educational interests of wheat farmers of Washington State.

In today's world of instant media and information, this protection requires us to share the stories of our farm families. I encourage all of you to look at advocacy as a vital tool necessary for our farms' survival.

Farmer’s use of genetically modified soybeans grows into Supreme Court case - The Washington Post

Farmer’s use of genetically modified soybeans grows into Supreme Court case - The Washington Post

Farmer’s use of genetically modified soybeans grows into Supreme Court case

AJ Mast/For the Washington Post - Farmer Hugh Bowman poses for a portrait on his Sandborn, Ind. farm, Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2013.

By Robert Barnes, Published: February 9

In SANDBORN, Ind. — Farmer Hugh Bowman hardly looks the part of a revolutionary who stands in the way of promising new biotech discoveries and threatens Monsanto’s pursuit of new products it says will “feed the world.”

“Hell’s fire,” said the 75-year-old self-described “eccentric old bachelor,” who farms 300 acres of land passed down from his father. Bowman rested in a recliner, boots off, the tag that once held his Foster Grant reading glasses to a drugstore rack still attached, a Monsanto gimme cap perched ironically on his balding head.

“I am less than a drop in the bucket.”

Yet Bowman’s unorthodox soybean farming techniques have landed him at the center of a national battle over genetically modified crops. His legal battle, now at the Supreme Court, raises questions about whether the right to patent living things extends to their progeny, and how companies that engage in cutting-edge research can recoup their investments.

What Bowman did was to take commodity grain from the local elevator, which is usually used for feed, and plant it. But that grain was mostly progeny of Monsanto’s Roundup Ready beans because that’s what most Indiana soybean farmers grow. Those soybeans are genetically modified to survive the weedkiller Roundup, and Monsanto claims that Bowman’s planting violated the company’s restrictions.

1826 Comments

Canada catching on to blessings of biotech crops

Canada catching on to blessings of biotech crops | Government content from Western Farm Press

Agriculture is one of the great engines of the Canadian economy–and much of our success in recent years comes from advances in technology that allow us to grow more food on less land.

On our farm in Saskatchewan, we’ve grown GM canola for almost 10 years. There are obvious advantages for us on the farm, but this technology benefits all Canadians. Boosting our productivity keeps food prices down and helps protect the environment.

Anti-biotech activists seek to turn back the clock on this progress. They fail to see the science behind the benefits. They want warning labels to demonize ordinary products, reduce consumer confidence, and hurt an entire industry, even as food and health organizations around the world have endorsed the adoption of GM crops.

For me, the issue is personal. I have two young daughters, and we feed them what we grow on the farm. That includes food with GM ingredients. As a parent, I’m very comfortable feeding my children food produced from GM crops.  But I’m inundated with anti-biotech propaganda while shopping at the grocery store. I’m irritated by irrational labeling… like “GM Free” stickers on products that don’t even have a GM counterpart. Thanks for the “warning!” Parents have enough to worry about these days when feeding our families, we don’t need more unsubstantiated fear tactics.

Genetically Modified Crops Implicated in Honeybee Colony Collapse Disorder

Genetically Modified Crops Implicated in Honeybee Colony Collapse Disorder

As the disappearance of honeybees continues, researchers are trying desperately to discover the cause of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). General concensus at this point is that there is more than once cause and the latest culprit may be genetically modified crops. This is one area of research being neglected as mainstream scientists insist GM crops are safe.

For the last 100 years, beekeepers have experienced colony losses from bacteria, (foulbrood), mites (varroa and tracheal) and other pathogens. These problems are dealt with by using antibiotics, miticides and and other methods of pest management. Losses are slow and expected and beekeepers know how to limit the destruction. This new mass die-off is different in that it is virtually instantaneous with no warning of the impending collapse.

John McDonald, a bee keeper in Pennsyvania with a background in biology, speculated that genetically modified crops could play a role in CCD. Although the government constantly reassures us that these genetic manipulations are safe for both humans and the environment, his hope is that looking more closely at these issues might raise questions about those assumptions.

Millions Spent Defeating Prop 37-GMO's: Why They Don't Want Us To Know W...

Howard Vlieger began studying GMO crops in 1994 and is fortunate to work with some of the lead scientists in the world on research projects involving GMO crops. The real life experience that he has from being a farmer and working with farmers all across the US gives him a unique perspective on GMOs. Howard has been giving presentations to educate people about GMOs for more than 6 years in 13 states.

Howard serves on the board of directors for the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance (FARFA) and the Food Freedom Foundation.

Show Highlights:
Howard Vlieger and his organization Verity Farms have been researching the affects of genetically engineered crops on the soil, animals and humans since 1992. What they have learned and see every day in 2012 is beyond spooky.

GMOs topic of discussion at Northeastern Organic Farmers Association of New York’s winter conference

GMOs topic of discussion at Northeastern Organic Farmers Association of New York’s winter conference

Saturday afternoon at the Northeastern Organic Farm Association of New York’s winter conference Dave Rogers and Dr. Michael Hansen kicked off their session on the importance of labeling genetically modified organisms by asking the audience members to play the devil’s advocate and argue in favor of genetically engineered (GE) crops.

The two men came prepared. They presented research showing that GMOs do not yield more than a natural crop, there is no successful climate or drought-ready crops and that, over time, GMOs actually need more pesticides than non-GE crops.

“What people should know is that there are these questions and uncertainties pertaining to risks. These genetically engineered substances are in 75 percent of the processed foods in the supermarket and in some of the fresh produce as well,” Rogers said, “It’s a system that is built on legal protection and control of the market place and it shuts down other lines of inquiry and research that could be very beneficial.”

Hansen has been working on getting the GE food bill, requiring manufacturers to label GMOs through legislation for the last 27 years.

Sequim woman to testify in favor of genetically engineered food labeling (2012)

Sequim woman to testify in favor of genetically engineered food labeling 

A local proponent of labeling genetically engineered foods will be in Olympia today and Friday to testify before the House and Senate hearings committees, part of an organic farming contingent of nutritional, agricultural and environmental advocates descending on the state capital.

“It’s so critical to us as farmers to have the managing of [genetically modified organisms] in Washington state,” said Kia Armstrong, marketing director and advocate for Nash’s Organic Produce and Farm Store in Dungeness.

Two state legislators have introduced bipartisan GMO labeling bills in the House and Senate.

Sen. Marilyn Chase, D-Shoreline, is sponsoring Senate Bill 6298, and Rep. Cary Condotta, R-Wenatchee, is sponsoring House Bill 2637.

Both require labeling of foods that are produced using genetically engineered materials or genetically modified organisms.

Armstrong, who led the GMO Awareness Group of Sequim in two informational demonstrations downtown last year, said she plans to testify before the Senate hearings committee today and the House committee Friday in favor of the legislation.