Re: BD Farming in America
David > If you want good leadership in a democratic organisation, or country for > that matter, it is the responsibility of the membership or citizens to use > their rights to ensure that A) You have good leaders and B) The leaders > carry out the masses wishes. > If only this was possible. In my experience, Positions of power are sought by people in need of power and in their need they are there to pursue their personal goals. We have one (too) long serving council member who -after being reelected at the last AGM- stated 'anything he does not want to happen in the association will not happen'. Too bad he did not say it before the election. This same member has been formally asked to resign by fellow council members, however due to a strickly controlled NZBDA media none of the general membership have heard anything abpout the debilitating effect he has had for many years. We need a free and open media to have a half decent form of democracy. A leadership which enpowers its membership will be supported by the membership. No membership support means they - as a whole- did not support your policies and actions. Glen A
Re: BD Farming in America
Hi! Gary, You make a very valid point. It is fine for those of us who have been around a while to speak in some sort of cryptic short hand, that only we understand, but what about the casual visitor or those early on the path and wondering what it is all about. Good point and one that should be addressed by Allan as the list Sysop. Most of the people on the list are much more experienced than I am. I have been non chemical for a period, organic for a shorter period and Biodynamic for even a lessor period. The further confuse you I am really into Permaculture, Radiesthesia and Radionics! All these fit together for me, into a way of producing food (mainly for me and my family) that is GM Free, Chemical Free and as healthy as we know at this point in time. In our heavily compromised soil in the remote parts of Oz, we have to start with balancing the minerals in the soil and adding a lot of carbon, just to get a soil that was worth starting on. BD, as covered on the list, be it US or Oz or NZ or other, is the cumulating of many years of evolution, starting from the original lectures by RS. RS encouraged us to further develop his work and to add to it. Unfortunately, like happens in some religions, there are those who believe they are the only ones who know the "the truth". On this list there are also many free minded ones who know enough, to know they do not know it all. They are the ones who you should share with. They will admit they can still learn. They will tell you all they know and take time to listen to you. If you have specific questions, feel free to post them to the list. Gil Port Lincoln Oz. gary elliott wrote: > What is it you have, and why should I listen? > > That, my friends, is the nub of what you need to answer.. > > Clarify your message, and foment a revolution of thought in your target > audience. Which is the world.
STOP the release of genetically engineered PHARM crops
Action alert and please forward... Without public debate, food crops are being used to create genetically engineered pharmaceutical drugs and industrial chemicals! It's called "pharming." Three hundred (300) open-air field trials have already been conducted in unidentified locations across the country. While most of these substances are kept secret as confidential business information, a few known examples include a contraceptive, potent growth hormones, blood thinners, industrial enzymes, and vaccines. The ecological implications of hacked genetic code slipping into our food and forests and multiplying is worse than a bad computer virus! CONTACT THE FDA AND YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS (* see sample messages) * SAMPLE LETTER TO FDA: (FDA DEADLINE: Jan 10, 2003.) Food and Drug Administration Dockets Management Branch (HFA-305) 5600 Fishers Lane, Rm 1061 Rockville, MD 20852 Re: Docket No. 02D-0324 I am writing to express my profound concern over the policy that allows food crops to be used to create genetically engineered pharmaceutical drugs and industrial chemicals. There must be a total ban on open-field testing of all transgenic "pharm" crops. Pharm production should take place only within totally enclosed facilities with high security, and only if pollen spread can be prevented. If grown at all, * Licenses to bioengineer common food or feed crops for pharmacologic production should not be granted. * All guidances should be mandatory, not "strongly recommended." * No permits should be granted until there is a requirement that the biotechnology industry assumes all liability for potential losses to farmers, human health, and the environment. * There should be no "confidential business information" exclusions involving any transgenic crops grown experimentally or commercially. Thank you for your attention, (your name, address and date) * SAMPLE MESSAGE TO ELECTED OFFICIAL: Dear Honorable... I am writing to express my profound concern over the policy that allows food crops to be used to create genetically engineered pharmaceutical drugs and industrial chemicals. I don't want pharm crops ending up in the food I feel my family! I urge you to mandate a moratorium on the outdoor release of all transgenic "pharm" crops. Address letters to: Senate: Washington, D.C. 20510 U.S. House of Representatives: Washington, D.C. 20515 or email via: Senators - http://www.senate.gov/contacting/index.cfm House of Representative - http://www.house.gov/writerep or call: US Capitol Switchboard - (202) 224-3121 Laurel Hopwood, Sierra Club Genetic Engineering Committee member http://www.sierraclub.org/biotech/ s'o
RE: CSA names
Allan or anyone please give me some of the best bd sites I want to link them up with mine rex tyler -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Allan Balliett Sent: 06 January 2003 00:54 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: CSA names Martha - The USDA operates a CSA database that can be accessed at their page, at the BDA's page and at the Robyn Van En pages, to name just a few of the portals. that's the place to look for CSAs. I don't know if it would make me happier if they added a 'subscription farming' section. -Allan
Re: Monsanto submitted its petition for comm. of GE Wheat
Merla - Have you listened to the lecture by Vandana Shiva at http://www.ibiblio.org/biodynamics? It's a good introduction about how multi-nationals bring pressure to bear on a traditional food system. It also makes it clear that the multinationals exploit the gift that we the people should have never given them: immortality. This immortality allows them to lay business plans across generations. It allow them to erode local infrasystems at such a slow pace that it is never noticed by ordinary people. It also allows them to change laws that seem so insignificant or so unrelated that their goals are never apparent until they gain their last trivial piece and BAM!, the trap is sprung and the people will need years and piles of lawyers to retrieve their inalienable rights from the maws of the corporation. To create a market for soy oils, the corporations contrived to use economic pressure and legal pressure to make the small edible oil mills/presses that were once in every community in India all but impossible to keep open. Once they could not have their own seed pressed, people turned to store-bought oils. Once there was no recourse, the sesame and mustard oils disappeared and soy oil - - which is not truly edible - - replaced them. Listen to the tape, if you can find the time. In out own country, we've seen similar tactics used to make small slaughterhouses non-viable. I have to drive my beef for an hour in any direction, and yet I can show you the husks of several small slaughter houses that are very close to us. Extensions plan in this area is that all cattle should be sold IN KANSAS. This means that the livestock auctions will also soon disappear. Infrastructure stuff is good. You've laid out some good ideas, Merla. My major concern right now, however, is the contamination of traditional seed by GMOs and the possibility that plantings from seed banks, etc will also be contaminate by 'weed' GMOs. This contamination has not only happened in Canada, it has also tainte the germplasm of traditional corns in Mexico. Hugh has mentioned letting it get worse so it can get better. Socially, this is undeniably true. But some things can be rebuilt through will and insight. Socially, that's pretty much possible. But other things, like traditional DNA, may be lost forever, if allowed to be contaminated with junk DNA. I guess it's obvious to everyone, isn't it, that a GMO has to have dominant genes to be economically viable. that's what they are "bred" for -- dominant traits. It's not like they can easily be bred out of contaminated seed stocks. What you say is necessary, but it is not suffecient.
Re: Monsanto submitted its petition for comm. of GE Wheat
At 5:55 AM -0500 1/6/03, Laurel Hopwood wrote: The ecological implications of hacked genetic code slipping into our food and forests and multiplying is worse than a bad computer virus! Perhaps Laurel has said it best. Besides, I saw a lot more energy being put into fear of Y2K than we see in being put into fear of the loss of our co-ev DNA. -Allan
USDA
Allan, I think this was where I found the (one) Tx CSA listed. I know the girl, and have been to her place. If she was growing anything but weeds and dogshit I couldn't see it. I can't imagine how she can claim to be growing food for people unless she's really cleaned up her act in the last year and a half. She had bought a little doeling from me and as I was going to be in the area, offered to deliver for her. She runs a chow 'rescue', and had dogs in cages, dogs on chains, dogs running loose, all of them immediately tried to eat the baby goat (in between attacking each other). She waded in kicking and screaming at them all. I lost a lot of sleep over leaving that baby in that environment. Why did I? Because I was broke, because my husband was with me, highly irritated because her place wasn't anywhere close to where she said it was, because he thought I had too many goats and some needed to go. I was astonished to see her list as a CSA, especially so close to Houston where 'unsuspecting' folk might actually pay her money to grow their food. Since then I've found a couple of farms listed but I don't think it was thru that USDA site.
Cannon Copier?
Dears, I lhave ended up with a remanufactured Cannon toner cartrige (Canon PC (E31/E40) which I have no matching copier. Is there anyone with a Canon copier out there that this fits? It works for the E16, E20, E31, E40, 300, 310, 320, 330, 330L, 425, 430, 530, 770, 710, 720, 730, 740, 790, 920, 950 and 980 models. It lists for around $100 and I can ship it for $50 plus shipping. I need to move it out. Best, Hugh Lovel 706 745 6056 Visit our website at: www.unionag.org
RKM: ACTIVE PERCEPTION: Learning to see through Media Reality
We might perhaps learn something from history by comparing Bush & his Homeland Security with Adolph and his Gestapo, "Enemy Combatant" with "Enemy of the Reich", Desert Storm with Blitzkrieg... and we might recognize that Bush's legislation enables - is indeed designed to enable - domestic concentration camps. We might recall that the German people did not see themselves as aggressors, they were not ogres -- Goebbels convinced them at each stage that they were on the noble defensive. Goebbels was considered a propaganda genius in his time, but by current standards he was but a primitive pioneer. Consider the twisted mind state that has been somehow sold and become the U.S. mainstream... "We are prepared to unleash the most diabolical weapons of mass destruction ever known on a helpless population. And we have a good reason. The leader of those people might someday gather weapons of mass destruction and might then choose to use them on someone." One doesn't argue with such a position, one listens in awe. It's like listening to a cult member. Everything fits together in their mind, especially defenses to all the reasonable arguments. If some one is not in the cult, then they just don't "get it", and their words come from a place of no understanding. Rather than a fixed dogma or a charismatic leader, the "public cult" is guided dynamically by hypnotic television. The posture and the look of concern on the news reader's faces are choreographed with as much precision as are the phony "news" stories themselves. And then there's Oprah & Springer and the whole nine yards of fantasy television worlds. Virtual Reality is here and it doesn't even require special gloves or goggles. Why visit real people, and deal with traffic, when you can sit back with a G&T and indulge in vicarious socialization with people much more interesting than yourself and your friends?... "We are interrupting this broadcast to announce incoming nuclear missiles... press the blue button if you prefer to watch the rest of ER until they hit." Addiction. Television. The Drug of the Nation. The Cult Siren. The All Explaining Oracle. The Collective Consciousness. The Single Source of all important information. Centrally generated Theater which pretends to take the place of a non-existent "public discussion". A more subtle & sophisticated propaganda mind-control machine than any sci-fi writer has been able to imagine. Not the medium so much, but how it is used, the precision with which its potential for enslavement is being exploited. Walter Cronkite perhaps said it best, when asked what characterizes a first-rate newscaster. His answer: "The ability to lie convincingly." The same of course is true for Presidents. Ronald Reagan, contrary to liberal opinion, was excellently qualified for the job of President. As an actor and long-time advertising image, he was perfect for the job of telling interminable lies day after day and getting majorities to swallow it. Bush has that same quality. The Big Lie Gene. The modern President is a personality, not a person of power. He plays no role whatever in policy making. He is briefed after plans have been adopted by what are euphemistically called his "senior advisors". Mr. Prez's concern is more to learn the script, to be in character for his part, to convincingly present a bizarre mythology. Somehow the aggressor must be seen as the defender, the thief as the helper, the exploiter as the humanitarian, the mass murderer as the saviour. With all due credit to the script writers, one must respect the performer who actually expresses the words that convince the multitudes that the Emperor is Clothed. There is one Great Conspiracy, and that is the promulgation of Media Reality. A world of Lies is being sold. There are people in positions of power who know full well it is all lies, and there are people who plot out how events are going to be spun on TV. And there are people who plan out actual strategies, with real goals, and those plans are carried out successfully with real missiles and F-16s. All with no one noticing who really did what to whom, who stole what from whom, nor what economic empires have been established behind the scenes. I don't care who those people are who do these things, but they obviously exist. The point is to understand how the system works. I believe you need to grok this Great Conspiracy before you can begin to see the Real World. "Grok" in the sense of realizing there CANNOT BE a Santa Claus. In the same sense as Believing Your Own Eyes - FINALLY - about the Naked Emperor. If you can see that Media Reality is a form of Theater, that it is a Fable, a Myth, a Distraction, a Matrix, a Virtual Reality, the White Gloves of a magician, a Smoke Screen -- if you can grok this then you can begin to ask the question: "What is the Real World like?" Paying attention to Media Theater is like sitting in the woods with your car radio on loud. Not until
Re: Monsanto submitted its petition for comm. of GE Wheat
Merla, Thank you so much for sharing your insight and hopeful wisdom. I especially like your statement: > You have to try to understand the whole picture and make your plays wherever > you can. I would have to say, though, that the USDA and EPA are *not entirely* "made up of people who have worked in ag chemical corporations and who refuse to finalize scientific reports about the dangers of pesticides." I've encountered a few exceptional souls in the EPA and USDA in recent months--and they need prayers and support too for the "plays" for higher good they are trying to bring about. I'm sure they have many days when they must feel like Sisyphus One of them is delightfully outspoken in support of organic farming--on his own time and with the disclaimer that his views don't represent EPA, etc. But they are there, and who knows, good changes could happen because they are there. Thanks, again. Kara
Re: BD Farming in America
Dear Kristy, et. al., I think what you, Jeff, Allan and others, particularly in Hawaii, Texas, the midwest and out on the west coast, have done as regards making BD info available to the public is quite commendable. Also let us not forget the salubrious efforts of Hugh Courtney, without whom we would have little in terms of availability of the Steiner remedies, to say nothing of availability of literature and presence at conferences auch as ACRES. I do not agree that what Alex Podolinsky has done in Australia is any model to copy, as he has run a rigid and even hidebound program where those who venture outside of his box can be excommunicated. But at least he has created a support system for farmers who want to put BD into practice. The BDGFAA (Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association of Australia) arose in response to the need for more openness than Podolinsky allowed, and it wouldn't do to give Podolinsky full credit for their efforts. They have really done a lot--perhaps more than Alex--to spread BD in Australia. Here in the US it has always been my impression--though for a brief period we did have a national extension agent--that there was no real support for farmers from the central organization. If anything there was a cult atmosphere coming from the central offices and I think it discouraged and turned off people right and left. In my own case I have let my membership in the BD Association lapse after 25 years of trying to pull biodynamics forward against the inertia, resistance and cult atmosphere of the central offices. Maybe Greg is being extreme in his criticism, but when Demeter excommunicated him and prohibited Victor Landa from using the term "biodynamic" on any products not certified by Demeter I had my fill of wrongheadedness. I'm calling what I do Quantum Agriculture and I only use the term biodynamic in a transitional way. I don't support the BDA or Demeter in any way at this point. Probably I'm one of those Greg refered to who dropped out because they cannot stomach the dogmatism, obstructionism and cultishness any further. I believe I'm pretty thick skinned or I couldn't have taken it as long as I did. The whole fumble of claiming to be the focus of the CSA movement and then doing nothing--even terminating the CSA conferences--was vexation enough and I should have left then. But there have been enough other blunders, including terminating the national extension program, that I should have identified the BDA as non-viable long ago. As far as I'm concerned they are baggage--excess baggage in my case. I can't see any reason for name calling or getting upset or any of that jazz. I have noticed that I'm reaching a wider audience with field broadcasters by calling my work quantum agriculture instead of BD. I suspect BD has a notorious reputation as being inscrutable, cultish and a big turn-off to many farmers. Really most farmers don't understand quantum mechanics either, but I don't seem to face anything like the rejection of my message by couching it in those terms. My lecture room at ACRES was full this time. I seem to be getting further by leaving BD behind. Does that tell you anything? It's still the same remedies, still the same insights into how nature works, I still talk about Rudolf Steiner and the whole nine yards. I just leave the terminology of biodynamic behind. Quite frankly I think it is just fine that Demeter owns the term. Let them have it. As far as I'm concerned it was a big lead anchor around my waist. Best, Hugh Lovel > >Dear Allan, >We have certainly made ourselves available regionally, and offer advice and >suggestions for numerous growers each year, plus orgainzing educational >events. Jeff Poppen is always also taking in visitors, and holding >educational events, writing and doing the TV shows. Allan, you do a huge >amount of educational work yourself. JPI has its new farmer advisory >program. > >I think we are wishing for an outdated paradigm when we expect to have some >top down organizational figure heads baby us through our movement. This is >the era of the conciousness soul, the age of individuality. What ever is >lacking in the movement is no one fault but our own. Christy Visit our website at: www.unionag.org
Privacy in an age of data (part 3 of a 1996 article by Steve Talbott about Hawthorne Valley Farm)
*** Privacy in an age of data (part 3) From Steve Talbott ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) A mile down the road from my home there is an organic farm, along with a dairy, bakery, and farm store. The store and the Waldorf school across the street are the social center of the community. Because the cow pastures extend along the road as far as our house, my wife and I often go to sleep on summer evenings to the sound of a bell around the neck of one of the heifers. The farm sells part of its produce through an organization known as a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). At the beginning of the season families sign up for "shares" in the farm, based on which they pick up weekly baskets of produce between June and February. The share purchases give the farm a more stable cash flow and are also a kind of insurance against the sort of natural calamity that farms are always subject to. It is understood that if some of the crops fail, the shareholders will receive less -- perhaps to be compensated by other crops. That is, they share in the risks as well as the benefits of the farm. About 55 local families held shares this past year. In addition, there are two groups of shareholders in New York City (about two and a half hours south) and one in a city between -- altogether 175 families or so. There are a few other CSAs in the area, and despite their naturally competitive situation, they have taken to cooperating with each other. For example, they help to make up each other's shortages. During the winter the farmers participate in a study group together, partly in order to assess the values and economic principles underlying their activity. CSAs, as they have developed in this country, were conceived at a village for the mentally handicapped about twenty miles away from here. The first actual CSA was formed a half hour away in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, in 1985. By 1990 there were 37 of them in North America. Today there are about 600. There is a toll-free hotline (800-516-7797) for people who want to locate a nearby CSA. About a mile further on -- through a cow pasture and up a hill -- there is a modest financial institution called the Rudolf Steiner Foundation (named after the originator of Waldorf education). It brings lenders together with borrowers. What distinguishes it from other lending institutions is the fact that the connection between lender and borrower is a principled one, and is not completely depersonalized. Lenders choose what sort of enterprise their funds will support. The lender and borrower are put directly in touch with each other, while the Foundation provides the necessary financial expertise and mediation. The money becomes an expression of conscious human intentions at both ends of the deal. The Foundation typically looks for a group of responsible individuals who can help to "carry" the organization receiving a loan. These individuals may also be asked to guarantee the loan. Of the more than $8 million loaned from the beginning of lending in 1985 through 1995, only $4,400 has had to be written off -- this despite the virtual absence of legal action. Loan recipients range from Waldorf schools to organic farms to publishing ventures to health care facilities to scientific research organizations -- all broadly sharing certain values and understandings. They all seek to fill some urgent need in society. I have selected these particular organizations for description only because they are close at hand and I can speak about them with some knowledge. While they share certain convictions that have taken root in the community where I live, the relevant point here is not so much the particular convictions as the fact that the two organizations are conviction-driven. More than that, they fly straight in the face of the larger trend toward anonymous, data-driven social transactions. The farm's shareholders buy their food this way because it makes a difference to them how the food is grown, what is done to the land in order to grow it, how the animals are treated, and what principles are followed in dealings with farmhands, store clerks, and distributors. This is not to inject "foreign" values into economic activities. Rather, it is to alter the essential economics. It's a simple matter of understanding: if you see that your health is related to the quality of the food you eat, and if the health of the land and social organization around you counts for something, then you will be willing to pay for what you get. Prices in the farm store -- which carries many non-local goods -- tend to be 50 - 100% higher than the "same" goods in a supermarket. But, then, the goods are not really the same. This qualitative difference is exactly what so easily falls out of the picture in the "information-rich, frictionless marketplace" so many Net enthusiasts now envision. Yes, it is easy enough to compare prices between amazon.com and books.com. But the w
Re: Privacy in an age of data (part 3 of a 1996 article by Steve Talbott about Hawthorne Valley Farm)
Richard-you live in Harlemville, NY? I lived for a shot while in Philmont, NY and visited Copake. I work in another Camphill here in N. Vancouver, BC. Michael - Original Message - From: Richard Kalin To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, January 06, 2003 8:12 AM Subject: Privacy in an age of data (part 3 of a 1996 article by Steve Talbott about Hawthorne Valley Farm) *** Privacy in an age of data (part 3) From Steve Talbott ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) A mile down the road from my home there is an organic farm, along with a dairy, bakery, and farm store. The store and the Waldorf school across the street are the social center of the community. Because the cow pastures extend along the road as far as our house, my wife and I often go to sleep on summer evenings to the sound of a bell around the neck of one of the heifers. The farm sells part of its produce through an organization known as a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). At the beginning of the season families sign up for "shares" in the farm, based on which they pick up weekly baskets of produce between June and February. The share purchases give the farm a more stable cash flow and are also a kind of insurance against the sort of natural calamity that farms are always subject to. It is understood that if some of the crops fail, the shareholders will receive less -- perhaps to be compensated by other crops. That is, they share in the risks as well as the benefits of the farm. About 55 local families held shares this past year. In addition, there are two groups of shareholders in New York City (about two and a half hours south) and one in a city between -- altogether 175 families or so. There are a few other CSAs in the area, and despite their naturally competitive situation, they have taken to cooperating with each other. For example, they help to make up each other's shortages. During the winter the farmers participate in a study group together, partly in order to assess the values and economic principles underlying their activity. CSAs, as they have developed in this country, were conceived at a village for the mentally handicapped about twenty miles away from here. The first actual CSA was formed a half hour away in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, in 1985. By 1990 there were 37 of them in North America. Today there are about 600. There is a toll-free hotline (800-516-7797) for people who want to locate a nearby CSA. About a mile further on -- through a cow pasture and up a hill -- there is a modest financial institution called the Rudolf Steiner Foundation (named after the originator of Waldorf education). It brings lenders together with borrowers. What distinguishes it from other lending institutions is the fact that the connection between lender and borrower is a principled one, and is not completely depersonalized. Lenders choose what sort of enterprise their funds will support. The lender and borrower are put directly in touch with each other, while the Foundation provides the necessary financial expertise and mediation. The money becomes an expression of conscious human intentions at both ends of the deal. The Foundation typically looks for a group of responsible individuals who can help to "carry" the organization receiving a loan. These individuals may also be asked to guarantee the loan. Of the more than $8 million loaned from the beginning of lending in 1985 through 1995, only $4,400 has had to be written off -- this despite the virtual absence of legal action. Loan recipients range from Waldorf schools to organic farms to publishing ventures to health care facilities to scientific research organizations -- all broadly sharing certain values and understandings. They all seek to fill some urgent need in society. I have selected these particular organizations for description only because they are close at hand and I can speak about them with some knowledge. While they share certain convictions that have taken root in the community where I live, the relevant point here is not so much the particular convictions as the fact that the two organizations are conviction-driven. More than that, they fly straight in the face of the larger trend toward anonymous, data-driven social transactions. The farm's shareholders buy their food this way because it makes a difference to them how the food is grown, what is done to the land in order to grow it, how the animals are treated, and what principles are followed in dealings with farmhands, store clerks, and distributors. This is not to inject "foreign" values into economic activities. Rather, it is to alter the essential economics. It's a simple matter of understanding: if you see that your health is related to the quality of the food you eat, and if the health of the land and soci
Fw: STOP the release of genetically engineered PHARM crops
- Original Message - From: Laurel Hopwood <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Monday, January 06, 2003 4:55 AM Subject: STOP the release of genetically engineered PHARM crops > Action alert and please forward... > > Without public debate, food crops are being used to create genetically > engineered pharmaceutical drugs and industrial chemicals! It's called > "pharming." > > Three hundred (300) open-air field trials have already been conducted in > unidentified locations across the country. While most of these substances > are kept secret as confidential business information, a few known examples > include a contraceptive, potent growth hormones, blood thinners, industrial > enzymes, and vaccines. > The ecological implications of hacked genetic code slipping into our food > and forests and multiplying is worse than a bad computer virus! > > CONTACT THE FDA AND YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS > (* see sample messages) > > * SAMPLE LETTER TO FDA: > (FDA DEADLINE: Jan 10, 2003.) > > Food and Drug Administration > Dockets Management Branch (HFA-305) > 5600 Fishers Lane, Rm 1061 > Rockville, MD 20852 > > Re: Docket No. 02D-0324 > > I am writing to express my profound concern over the policy that allows > food crops to be used to create genetically engineered pharmaceutical drugs > and industrial chemicals. > > There must be a total ban on open-field testing of all transgenic "pharm" > crops. > Pharm production should take place only within totally enclosed facilities > with high security, and only if pollen spread can be prevented. > > If grown at all, > * Licenses to bioengineer common food or feed crops for pharmacologic > production should not be granted. > * All guidances should be mandatory, not "strongly recommended." > * No permits should be granted until there is a requirement that the > biotechnology industry assumes all liability for > potential losses to farmers, human health, and the environment. > * There should be no "confidential business information" exclusions > involving any transgenic crops grown experimentally or commercially. > > Thank you for your attention, > (your name, address and date) > > * SAMPLE MESSAGE TO ELECTED OFFICIAL: > > Dear Honorable... > I am writing to express my profound concern over the policy that allows > food crops to be used to create genetically engineered pharmaceutical drugs > and industrial chemicals. > I don't want pharm crops ending up in the food I feel my family! > I urge you to mandate a moratorium on the outdoor release of all transgenic > "pharm" crops. > > Address letters to: > Senate: Washington, D.C. 20510 > U.S. House of Representatives: Washington, D.C. 20515 > or email via: > Senators - http://www.senate.gov/contacting/index.cfm > House of Representative - http://www.house.gov/writerep > or call: > US Capitol Switchboard - (202) 224-3121 > > Laurel Hopwood, Sierra Club Genetic Engineering Committee member > http://www.sierraclub.org/biotech/ > > > s'o > >
BDAAA Statistics
The BDGFAA (Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association of Australia) arose in response to the need for more openness than Podolinsky allowed, and it wouldn't do to give Podolinsky full credit for their efforts. They have really done a lot--perhaps more than Alex--to spread BD in Australia. This isn't to raise a snit, folks. This is just fact checking for an article I'm working on. Dear Australian BD people, is it accurate to say, as the media often says, that there are 2,000,000 acres and 700 farms under the BDAAA? This is simply a statistical inquirey. Thanks k-Allan
Re: BD Farming in America
> I'm really excited about the JPI farmer advisory program. I guess I > haven't paid attention to it. can you tell us more about it? Hi Allan, I pasted this from their (Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics web site www.jpibiodynamics.org), which is where I heard about it, so I'd like to learn more about it myself. I am glad that they are doing it also. Christy The Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics in cooperation with experienced biodynamic farmers is offering the following Advisory Service: Biodynamic Farm Conversion Farmer to Farmer Advisory Service Real farmers, offering practical advice through visits to your farm as well as through seminars dealing with nuts and bolts biodynamic agriculture, rather than armchair imaginations. East Advisor: S. Storch Midwest Advisor: D. Morgan West Advisor: G. Nonini For information and a schedule of our seminars, contact: Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics, Inc. PO Box 133 Woolwine, VA 24185 Tel: (276) 930-2463 Fax: (276) 930-2475 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: BD Farming in America
Dear Allan, The comments relating to the age of individuality...I think we can see that it is an obvious trend, yes, this is evident in the dispertion of extended families, lack of community, and the end of a more tribal way of living. So- as we become aware that this is happening, we can, out of our own conscious freedom and free will take on the responsiblity to work out of a place where we have an true interest in others. Where we purposefully and intentionally find love for others as a direct result of our own true self realization.So, its a time of real spiritual opportunity. >>I guess I read too much Wendell Berry, but I > thought the idea of 'age of individuality' and 'maximum personal > freedom' were concepts sown in us by the system that finds both > democracies and 'free people' easier to control than people who can > still access the traditional support relationships of husband/wife, > home/neighborhood, church/community, city/county and so on. I propose it is the opposite, that this 'system' is a result of our evolution into this age of individuality and that this also somehow bears a significant relationship with our deep diving into materialism ( I know others on the list could help me better understand this, anyone, Hugh, Glen??) > >I think we are wishing for an outdated paradigm when we expect to have some > >top down organizational figure heads baby us through our movement. This is > >the era of the conciousness soul, the age of individuality. What ever is > >lacking in the movement is no one fault but our own. Christy > > Tell me more about this, Christy. I don't really understand what you > are saying in the paragraph above, and, to me, it comes across as > uncharacteristically mean spirited. I meant we have to take the bull by the horns (gotta love that biodynamic pun) and accept responsibility, and not blaim the BDA or Demeter or who ever for any lack of co-hesivness within the biodynamic movement. I think expecting these organizations (of what- 3 or 4 staff) to carry the movement is an old fashioned way of looking at things. The most progressive is local, regional, trust based, reltationship based, person to person. These are the buzz phrases of 'our movement', so this is why I suggest that these organizational figure heads are relics of an outdated paradigm. Now, I would rather ask, what would the ideal organization born out of the new age look like? Could it be national, and still be effective? Really ask, and work it out as an ideal, through this list serv, and then take that as a first step to creating it. That sounds like fun! On another note, Lawrence Goodwin, Ph D (at Duke University & author of the Populist Moment) said that he has never seen a voluntary social movement be defeated by its opponent, it has always defeated itself. Happy new year!! Christy
Re: Privacy in an age of data (part 3 of a 1996 article by Steve Talbott about Hawthorne Valley Farm)
No, I'm an hour north of Boston in Hollis NH. Steve Talbott lives in Harlemville NY. - Original Message - From: mroboz To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, January 06, 2003 2:13 PM Subject: Re: Privacy in an age of data (part 3 of a 1996 article by Steve Talbott about Hawthorne Valley Farm) Richard-you live in Harlemville, NY? I lived for a shot while in Philmont, NY and visited Copake. I work in another Camphill here in N. Vancouver, BC. Michael
Re: BDAAA Statistics
- Original Message - From: Allan Balliett <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Tuesday, January 07, 2003 5:55 AM Subject: BDAAA Statistics > Dear Australian BD people, is it accurate to say, as the media often > says, that there are 2,000,000 acres and 700 farms under the BDAAA? > > This is simply a statistical inquirey. > > Thanks k-Allan Hi Allan You seem to be jumping around all over the place on this! We have two BD organisations 1 Alex Podolinsky's - the Biodynamic Research Institute BDRI - legal owner of the Demeter trademark in Australia - this organisation has lost a lot of members in recent years because they were no longer willing to put up with the rigid and unforgiving attitudes therein. 2 BDFGAA now called Biodynamic Agriculture Australia (Cheryl Kemp who sometimes writes to this list is education officer for this organisation) - formed by a bunch of rebels, many from the AP organisation - membership rising dramatically they probably DO have 700 members You have to be real careful with acreages quoted - this is a big country and one or two large size pastoral (grazing) properties under organic or BD management could distort the figures heaps. To which of these two organisations do you hear the 700 farmers + 2million acres ?? I think Hugh Lovel's comments below are pertinent to this "I do not agree that what Alex Podolinsky has done in Australia is any model to copy, as he has run a rigid and even hidebound program where those who venture outside of his box can be excommunicated. The BDGFAA (Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association of Australia) arose in response to the need for more openness than Podolinsky allowed, and it wouldn't do to give Podolinsky full credit for their efforts." Cheers Lloyd Charles
Epiphany
EPIPHANY, 2003 1:15Dissolving the dynamized paste of the three gifts of the Magi into the warm water - a golden color, a golden aroma. 1:30Strring, stirring, stirring, singing my stirring songs: Dona Nobis Pacem, Ego sum pauper, nihil habeo, cormeum dabo and Christmas Carols: Un Flambeau, Jeanette Isabelle, the Holly and the Ivy, We three Kings of Orient Are, Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht 2:30Done, rest the stirring spoon Rest the body 2:45Prepare the gear - half gallon of preparation in the bucket, half gallon in the backpack. Look out the window - it's snowing! Snow pants, snow boots, snow jacket, hat, mittensand snowshoes. 3:00Feed the dogs, feed the sheep 3:15Begin sprinkling the goldfrankincensemyrrh.(this may take almost two hours, so must get going a bit before 4:00) Pungent fragrance recalls the hour of dynamizing on New Year's Eve. Time for the snowshoes, the plowed driveway ends. The woods are exquisitely lovely with fresh powdery snow on every evergreen branch. Down the gully, up the gully, turn right at the Back of Beyond. Meander along the meandering saltmarsh banks of the tidal creek. This moment could not be more beautiful. Sprinkling the gifts of the Three Wise Men - the wisdom, the spirit, the victory of life over death. It is with heart-high gladness that I do this deed, that I welcome and support the hard-working elementals with these forces. 4:15Almost done, one more field to go. The dogs join me joyfully romping in the snow. 4:45Done. Exhilaration, gratitude Cordelia
Re: BD Farming in America
Glen: Good to know you're still out there listening and your new guru status has not affected your demeanour. > In my experience, Positions of power are sought by people in need of power Of course, why else would they take on thankless jobs and become targets for snipers. Hopefully they will use their power for the benefit of all. > We have one (too) long serving council member who -after being reelected at > the last AGM- stated 'anything he does not want to happen in the association > will not happen'. Too bad he did not say it before the election. > This same member has been formally asked to resign by fellow council > members Then the system is working, the fact that his fellow councillors are aware of his shortcomings reduces his power. There's no way to ensure our own version of perfection in all councillors. > We need a free and open media to have a half decent form of democracy Very, very true. Some years ago I used get the NZBD Association journal I remember they used to publish your somewhat vitriolic letters attacking the then leadership, is that what you mean? I believe that all executive council minutes should be published. > A leadership which empowers its membership will be supported by the > membership. > No membership support means they - as a whole- did not support your policies > and actions. Ah if it was only so! My experience is that if the membership is happy with the way things are going, they become complacent and happy to leave all the work to the few, who in their craze for power do all the work. The resultant apathy is not good for the organisation. Good to hear from you again David C - Original Message - From: "Garuda" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Monday, 6 January 2003 7:47 PM Subject: Re: BD Farming in America > David > > If you want good leadership in a democratic organisation, or country for > > that matter, it is the responsibility of the membership or citizens to use > > their rights to ensure that A) You have good leaders and B) The leaders > > carry out the masses wishes. > > > If only this was possible. > In my experience, Positions of power are sought by people in need of power > and in their need they are there to pursue their personal goals. > We have one (too) long serving council member who -after being reelected at > the last AGM- stated 'anything he does not want to happen in the association > will not happen'. Too bad he did not say it before the election. > This same member has been formally asked to resign by fellow council > members, however due to a strickly controlled NZBDA media none of the > general membership have heard anything abpout the debilitating effect he has > had for many years. > We need a free and open media to have a half decent form of democracy. > A leadership which enpowers its membership will be supported by the > membership. > No membership support means they - as a whole- did not support your policies > and actions. > Glen A > >
Re: BD Farming in America
Gary: I'm sorry but I find your reply somewhat cryptic so I am not sure where you are coming from so forgive me if my answers are confused. > What is it you have, and why should I listen? > > That, my friends, is the nub of what you need to answer.. > > Clarify your message, and foment a revolution of thought in your target > audience. Which is the world. I am afraid that I am not capable of changing the world enmass to Steiner/BD and I am not sure that it is what the world needs right now, such a conviction is the province of fanatics, I do think that eventually the world will change to Steiner/BD or something similar. Having said that, I do believe in the Stephen Covey principle that I can effect a small circle around me and that will ripple out to the world. BDNOW is a part of that ripple. > Messages designed to only stroke the committed never go far. > > Please, stop nattering about BD America, or BD Australia. > > What is it you have to say? > > Tell the world. I thought I was answering a post about BD in America when I write a volume on the subject I'll let everyone know. > This talk about "democratic process", "leadership".. "membership". do > you think Jesus, Buddha or Henry Ford had to make decisions this way? A curious grouping. I assume that you espouse dictatorship as the way to go. I hope the world is progressing past that, I have been a part of organisations in the past who came together as a team and had success far beyond what they could expect as individuals. They didn't need a guru, just to pull together and contribute. > Power and influence in this life is assumed... don't try to negotiate it. If > the BD message is worthy package it, and tell it. You got me on this one mate, think I'll go and discuss it with the cows. David C - Original Message - From: "gary elliott" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Monday, 6 January 2003 1:39 PM Subject: RE: BD Farming in America > > > What is it you have, and why should I listen? > > That, my friends, is the nub of what you need to answer.. > > Clarify your message, and foment a revolution of thought in your target > audience. Which is the world. > > Messages designed to only stroke the committed never go far. > > Please, stop nattering about BD America, or BD Australia. > > What is it you have to say? > > Tell the world. > > This talk about "democratic process", "leadership".. "membership". do > you think Jesus, Buddha or Henry Ford had to make decisions this way? > > Power and influence in this life is assumed... don't try to negotiate it. If > the BD message is worthy package it, and tell it. > > More you. > > Gary Elliott > > -Original Message- > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] On > Behalf Of D & S Chamberlain > Sent: January 5, 2003 8:31 PM > To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > Subject: Re: BD Farming in America >
Re: BDAAA Statistics
Lloyd - Podolinsky's 1999 publication "Introctory Lectures Vol 3" reverences the Biodynamic Agricultural Association of Australian , the BDAAA. The Podolinsky organization that you mention is, I believe a separate food quality certification group. The figures I'm trying to substantiate are probably from an article on the ABC rural pages and from an interview with an Australian model who has taken up biodynamics. These may be figures from Tompkins. I've heard rumours that AP's group is in decline. I think it is important to not propagate bad figures, but 'getting the facts' is very difficult, eh? Thanks, Lloyd -Allan
Re: Epiphany
Thank you Cordelia Same activity taking place up here in eastern Maine today with several stirring and singing the songs - I wonder how far this net of intention for welcoming new elemental life extended across the globe today? There is hope and possibility in the midst of all the doom and destruction! Ron -Original Message- From: Cordelia Lane <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Date: Monday, January 06, 2003 6:24 PM Subject: Epiphany >EPIPHANY, 2003 > >1:15 Dissolving the dynamized paste of the three gifts of the Magi into the >warm water - a golden color, a golden aroma. > >1:30 Strring, stirring, stirring, singing my stirring songs: Dona Nobis >Pacem, > Ego sum pauper, nihil habeo, cormeum dabo > and Christmas Carols: Un Flambeau, Jeanette Isabelle, the Holly and the >Ivy, We three Kings of Orient Are, Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht >2:30 Done, rest the stirring spoon > Rest the body >2:45 Prepare the gear - half gallon of preparation in the bucket, half >gallon in the backpack. Look out the window - it's snowing! > Snow pants, snow boots, snow jacket, hat, mittensand snowshoes. >3:00 Feed the dogs, feed the sheep >3:15 Begin sprinkling the goldfrankincensemyrrh.(this may take almost two >hours, so must get going a bit before 4:00) Pungent fragrance recalls the >hour of dynamizing on New Year's Eve. > Time for the snowshoes, the plowed driveway ends. > The woods are exquisitely lovely with fresh powdery snow on every >evergreen branch. > Down the gully, up the gully, turn right at the Back of Beyond. > Meander along the meandering saltmarsh banks of the tidal creek. > This moment could not be more beautiful. > Sprinkling the gifts of the Three Wise Men - the wisdom, the spirit, the >victory of life over death. > > It is with heart-high gladness that I do this deed, that I welcome and >support > the hard-working elementals with these forces. > >4:15 Almost done, one more field to go. The dogs join me joyfully romping >in the snow. > >4:45 Done. Exhilaration, gratitude > >Cordelia > >
Re: Epiphany
Last night started to think about the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi and looked it up in its entirety since I could only remember fragments of it. Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen The Three Kings Prep arrived in the mail from Wisconsin on time today. It has been clear and sunny all day with a few grey clouds on the horizon over distant north and eastern mountains, the Selkirks and the Cabinets. I said my usual prayer I sing when I'm outside (Pardon the spelling, but it's been a long time since I wrote it): Om namo arihantanam Om namo sidanam Om namo ariianam Om namo vajianam Namo loa sava sa-anam Eso panche namukaro Sava pava panasano Mangalam chi savez sim Padamam havi mangalam. I stirred the little bit of the goldfrankensensemyhrr mixture in a little well water from our hot bucket on the wood stove in my ceramic mixing bowl with a wooden spoon and added a little more than a 1/2 gallon of warm water from our warm bucket--enough just to go around the inside of our game fence and around Green's cabin and the strawberry and potato beds we had outside the fence. I was glad I had my sorrels on since I didn't have on my snowshoes. Huckleberry, Sumo and Swimmer accompanied me and broke trail. At 4:10 the sky had turned to grey with warm gold on the southwestern horizon. The visible sliver of the moon was high. I repeated my Om namo arihantanam prayer several times and flung out the liquid with my wisk broom every ten steps through the crusty snow. I made it around the orchard and Tristan and Crystal's graves, around the valerian bed and full circle. I poured what little I had left on the sweet cicely in the middle of the old part of the veggie garden where we started our BD ministrations years ago, I can't remember when. Finished at 4:55. I hope that we have enough love and good vibrations to satisfy the elementals and that all the times I have put on BD compost and sprayed BC, 500, and 508 over the years and the several times 501 will be enough. Best wishes to all, Merla ron poitras wrote: > Thank you Cordelia > Same activity taking place up here in eastern Maine today with several > stirring and singing the songs - I wonder how far this net of intention for > welcoming new elemental life extended across the globe today? > There is hope and possibility in the midst of all the doom and destruction! > Ron > > -Original Message- > From: Cordelia Lane <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Date: Monday, January 06, 2003 6:24 PM > Subject: Epiphany > > >EPIPHANY, 2003 > > > >1:15 Dissolving the dynamized paste of the three gifts of the Magi into the > >warm water - a golden color, a golden aroma. > > > >1:30 Strring, stirring, stirring, singing my stirring songs: Dona Nobis > >Pacem, > > Ego sum pauper, nihil habeo, cormeum dabo > > and Christmas Carols: Un Flambeau, Jeanette Isabelle, the Holly and the > >Ivy, We three Kings of Orient Are, Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht > >2:30 Done, rest the stirring spoon > > Rest the body > >2:45 Prepare the gear - half gallon of preparation in the bucket, half > >gallon in the backpack. Look out the window - it's snowing! > > Snow pants, snow boots, snow jacket, hat, mittensand snowshoes. > >3:00 Feed the dogs, feed the sheep > >3:15 Begin sprinkling the goldfrankincensemyrrh.(this may take almost two > >hours, so must get going a bit before 4:00) Pungent fragrance recalls the > >hour of dynamizing on New Year's Eve. > > Time for the snowshoes, the plowed driveway ends. > > The woods are exquisitely lovely with fresh powdery snow on every > >evergreen branch. > > Down the gully, up the gully, turn right at the Back of Beyond. > > Meander along the meandering saltmarsh banks of the tidal creek. > > This moment could not be more beautiful. > > Sprinkling the gifts of the Three Wise Men - the wisdom, the spirit, the > >victory of life over death. > > > > It is with heart-high gladness that I do this deed, that I welcome and > >support > > the hard-working elementals with these forces. > > > >4:15 Almost done, one more field to go. The dogs join me joyfully romping > >in the snow. > > > >4:45 Done. Exhilaration, gratitude > > > >Cordelia > > > >
Re: Epiphany
Same activity taking place up here in eastern Maine today with several stirring and singing the songs - I wonder how far this net of intention for welcoming new elemental life extended across the globe today? There is hope and possibility in the midst of all the doom and destruction! I stirred and sang with the intent of healing and love and peace with a close friend. We went out into the light snowfall close to 5PM and created a magical circle spraying around Dupont Circle, DC in the streets.To my surprise people smiled at us and only one person asked me what I was spraying in a delighted kind of way. My prep spraying prior to this inside of the circle is not complete and perfect for this area, downtown DC. I prayed to the elementals beforehand - I hope that I did not do them a dis-service. I will begin to stir and put out the regular BD preps this week to feed them. There is a lot of concrete here . . Perhaps I should consider a radionic broadcast of the preps? Peace and love, Mary Ann _ MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Re: BD Farming in America
Alright - Guru status! at last do I get a certificate - Original Message - From: "D & S Chamberlain" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Tuesday, January 07, 2003 11:31 AM Subject: Re: BD Farming in America > Glen: Good to know you're still out there listening and your new guru status > has not affected your demeanour. > > > In my experience, Positions of power are sought by people in need of power > Of course, why else would they take on thankless jobs and become targets for > snipers. Hopefully they will use their power for the benefit of all. I always live in hope of such an occurrence. > > > We have one (too) long serving council member who -after being reelected > at > > the last AGM- stated 'anything he does not want to happen in the > association > > will not happen'. Too bad he did not say it before the election. > > This same member has been formally asked to resign by fellow council > > members > Then the system is working, the fact that his fellow councillors are aware > of his shortcomings reduces his power. There's no way to ensure our own > version of perfection in all councillors. The other limitations of the system however perpetuates this negativity for years longer than necessary, and wastes far more opportunities than we can really spare. Are we not all on the same team? Should not all interested parties be involved to their abitlities, as a community, instead of being separated as threats to each other? > > > We need a free and open media to have a half decent form of democracy > Very, very true. Some years ago I used get the NZBD Association journal I > remember they used to publish your somewhat vitriolic letters attacking the > then leadership, is that what you mean? I believe that all executive council > minutes should be published. My 'vitriolic letters' contained challenging information some would consider liabilous, however I have never been pursued on such charges, as what I outlined was true. The corruption of the system allowed such things to occur and be perpetuated over many years. After some 6 years on the council, trying to deal with it "nicely" I was very angry, about such things occurring in a organisation selling integrity. Anger is an emotion I believe is at times very appropriate, and I certainly felt OK to express it then. Every action has an opposite and equal reaction. As a Sun Neptune in Libra being, I have been blessed and challenged, with an ability to express 'the reaction' to circumstance and especially abuse. What I confronted in those letters sure appeared to me as abuse of every ethical and moral code you may like to present. Others know this to be true. The sad thing is the dreages of those days still linger on polluting the organisation to this day. As we have seen on this list - a BD free speech zone- we have developed through our rage and separateness and developed into a more mature forum where these things can be bought forward, discussed and acted upon by those who see fit. So a Association newsletter can act as a forum for discussion amoungst far flung members. Editors control as they wish, so best to not have one, if you want truth. The BDANZ is still far from building any sense of 'community' with the resource they have available. It is still a small club /cult imaging the views of the few. The longer they stay as a exclusive cult, the quicker they become irrelevant. Who needs them? > > > A leadership which empowers its membership will be supported by the > > membership. > > No membership support means they - as a whole- did not support your > policies > > and actions. > Ah if it was only so! My experience is that if the membership is happy with > the way things are going, they become complacent and happy to leave all the > work to the few, who in their craze for power do all the work. The resultant > apathy is not good for the organisation. And so we see another negative manifestation of the craze for power. How about people brimming with enthusiasm who are resourced by the community for the good of the community providing exciting new avenues of exploration and possibilities. Is this not a 3 fold social order ideal? I have been inspired and broadened these last few years through the wealth of imput coming through this ALIVE stream of enthusiastic 'members' on BDNOW who dare to be heretics and live Biodynamics in their lives as it expresses for them , and then share it. Now how can this ethos been bought into the life of the BD associations? Get rid of the deadwood paranoics and swing all available resources into action! We got a PLANET to save. Its nice to have a few moments to comment cheers GA > > - Original Message - > From: "Garuda" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Sent: Monday, 6 January 2003 7:47 PM > Subject: Re: BD Farming in America > > > > David > > > If you want good leadership in a democratic organisation, or country for > > > that matter, it is the responsibility of th
Re: Monsanto submitted its petition for comm. of GE Wheat
Allan: I tried this and it wouldn't work for me. I even tried downloading the whole file and only got 52K. I don't remember any one else commenting on listening to it, so I may not be a one off. David C - Original Message - From: "Allan Balliett" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Tuesday, 7 January 2003 12:01 AM Subject: Re: Monsanto submitted its petition for comm. of GE Wheat > Merla - > > Have you listened to the lecture by Vandana Shiva at > http://www.ibiblio.org/biodynamics?
Re: BDAAA Statistics
Allan: That figure is very old, I doubt anyone knows the real figure. I wouldn't put too much faith in our media's figures. David C - Original Message - From: "Allan Balliett" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Tuesday, 7 January 2003 5:55 AM Subject: BDAAA Statistics > >The BDGFAA (Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association of Australia) > >arose in response to the need for more openness than Podolinsky allowed, > >and it wouldn't do to give Podolinsky full credit for their efforts. They > >have really done a lot--perhaps more than Alex--to spread BD in Australia. > > This isn't to raise a snit, folks. This is just fact checking for an > article I'm working on. > > Dear Australian BD people, is it accurate to say, as the media often > says, that there are 2,000,000 acres and 700 farms under the BDAAA? > > This is simply a statistical inquirey. > > Thanks k-Allan > >
Fw: BDAAA Statistics
Hi Allan, As of yesterday we have 950 members! Not bad for an organisation started in 1989! No idea of land under Biodynamics - we are working on developing that data base. Around 50 members certified (a guess, seeing as Biodynamic certification for our farmers is done by NASAA and BFA) We have put over 500 people through workshops in the last financial year, and the previous year. We encourage our members to use all the preparations at least 4 times per year, and to cover all of their arable land each time. (Other BD groups we hear only get the preps out on the land they are actually cultivating this year (if it is wet)- so that is where I doubt the figures on area given) We also encourage them to use Horn Manure when it is dry, not just after rain, as we find the use of prep 500 actually brings in moisture and rain. It also readies the soil to have instant take off when the rain does come, and then it doesnt have to wait whilst the farmer plants and hopefully gets around to spraying out. We also have some of our farmers flying on their preparations to large areas of land - 4,500 acres etc. - I can send you a story Alan from this next News Leaf coming out if you would like to run it! We have got Hugh Lovel coming out here in February, and will be running 4 x 3 day live in workshops around Australia. The interest is phenomenomal - I am being overwhelmed by the bookings! We have also written courses for the TAFE (Technical Education) Organic Module yearly courses and have a special 40 hour module elective. We have applied for funding this year to also write a BD Trainers course so we can accredit our BD trainers when they have done the course so they can teach as well. We have many local and regional groups around Australia, who do prep making and they also support many local BD practitioners. Our preparation sales have increased 100% in the last year! So we are getting it out there!! Cheryl Kemp Education and Workshop Coordinator Biodynamic AgriCulture Australia Phone /Fax : 02 6657 5322 Home: 02 6657 5306 email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] web: www.biodynamics.net.au - Original Message - From: "Lloyd Charles" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Tuesday, January 07, 2003 10:27 AM Subject: Re: BDAAA Statistics > > - Original Message - > From: Allan Balliett <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Sent: Tuesday, January 07, 2003 5:55 AM > Subject: BDAAA Statistics > > > > Dear Australian BD people, is it accurate to say, as the media often > > says, that there are 2,000,000 acres and 700 farms under the BDAAA? > > > > This is simply a statistical inquirey. > > > > Thanks k-Allan > > Hi Allan > You seem to be jumping around all over the place on this! > We have two BD organisations > 1 Alex Podolinsky's - the Biodynamic Research Institute BDRI - legal owner > of the Demeter trademark in Australia - this organisation has lost a lot of > members in recent years because they were no longer willing to put up with > the rigid and unforgiving attitudes therein. > > 2 BDFGAA now called Biodynamic Agriculture Australia (Cheryl Kemp who > sometimes writes to this list is education officer for this organisation) - > formed by a bunch of rebels, many from the AP organisation - membership > rising dramatically they probably DO have 700 members > > You have to be real careful with acreages quoted - this is a big country and > one or two large size pastoral (grazing) properties under organic or BD > management could distort the figures heaps. > > To which of these two organisations do you hear the 700 farmers + 2million > acres ?? > > I think Hugh Lovel's comments below are pertinent to this > > "I do not agree that what Alex Podolinsky has done in Australia is any model > to copy, as he has run a rigid and even hidebound program where those who > venture outside of his box can be excommunicated. > The BDGFAA (Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association of Australia) > arose in response to the need for more openness than Podolinsky allowed, > and it wouldn't do to give Podolinsky full credit for their efforts." > > Cheers > Lloyd Charles >
