Posted on 07/24/2009 3:37:21 AM PDT by nw_arizona_granny
Sustainable Agriculture News Briefs - January 12, 2011
Weekly sustainable agriculture news and resources gleaned from the Internet by NCAT staff for the ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service website. The Weekly Harvest Newsletter is also http://attra.ncat.org/newsletter/archives.html#wh available online.
News & Resources
* CSP 2011 Sign-Up Deadline Extended; New CSP Enhancements Approved and Scored
* Health Leaders Call for ‘Healthy Farm Bill’
* USDA Provides Update on Seasonal High Tunnel Pilot
* “Changing the Way We Eat” Available by Webcast
* California Approval of Methyl Iodide on Strawberry Fields Challenged
* Demo Video of Farm Management Tool Online
Funding Opportunities
* Outreach and Technical Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Competitive Grant
* South Dakota Conservation Innovation Grants
* Grass Energy: Pelletization & Market Development RFP
Coming Events
* MOSES Organic Farming Conference
* ASAP Marketing Opportunities for Farmers Conference
* Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association Annual Conference
__________________________________________________
News & Resources
CSP 2011 Sign-Up Deadline Extended; New CSP Enhancements Approved and Scored
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) reports that USDA has extended the application deadline for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) for 2011 from January 7 until January 21, 2011. The extension will provide a few more weeks for farmers and ranchers to consider whether to submit an application at their local USDA office. Earlier this week, the Natural Resources Conservation Service made available to NSAC the full list of conservation enhancements and conservation practices available for the 2011 sign-up. These include 26 regular conservation practices, 82 conservation enhancements that were also offered in 2010, and 20 enhancements available for the first time in 2011. Six enhancements offered in 2010 have been discontinued. NSAC has posted a list of all the 2011 enhancements and practices, ranked from highest to lowest environmental benefit scores.
http://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/csp-deadline-extended/
Health Leaders Call for ‘Healthy Farm Bill’
U.S. health professionals are calling on new leadership in Congress to make health a priority in writing the next Farm Bill, reports USAgNet. National health leaders, including Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Marion Nestle, have signed onto a “Charter for a Healthy Farm Bill” that calls for a food system that incorporates health into the entire lifecycle of how food is produced, processed, consumed and disposed. Such a food system must protect the environment as well as ensure farmers and workers are fairly compensated. The charter’s principles emphasize a food system that is healthy, sustainable, resilient, fair, diverse, economically balanced and transparent. Read the full charter at HealthyFoodAction.org.
http://www.usagnet.com/story-national.php?Id=58&yr=2011
USDA Provides Update on Seasonal High Tunnel Pilot
Agriculture
Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan has announced that more than 2,400 seasonal high tunnels are being constructed by farmers in 43 states through a pilot project initiated by USDA in fiscal year 2010. USDA also posted a YouTube video of how NRCS-funded seasonal high tunnels are helping farmers extend the growing season, diversify production, conserve water, and reduce inputs. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is providing financial assistance for seasonal high tunnels as part of a three-year trial to determine their effectiveness in conserving water, reducing pesticide use, maintaining vital soil nutrients, and increasing crop yields. The pilot is offered under the Know your Farmer, Know your Food initiative. In FY 2010, NRCS provided $13 million to landowners through its conservation programs to install high tunnels, and additional funding is available in FY 2011.
Related ATTRA publication: Season Extension Techniques for Market Gardeners (http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/summary.php?pub=52)
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentidonly=true&contentid=2011/01/0003.xml
“Changing the Way We Eat” Available by Webcast
“Changing the Way We Eat” is being held in New York City on Saturday, February 12, 2011. Sponsored by The Glynwood Institute for Sustainable Food and Farming, this one-day TEDx event will explore the food system—from what happened, to where we are, to what we are doing to shift to a more sustainable way of eating and farming. A large slate of speakers is scheduled. The goal of “Changing the Way We Eat” is to create new connections and collaborations across disciplines, to unite different areas of the food movement and to introduce the audience to the exciting and innovative work being done in the field of sustainable food systems. Those outside New York are invited to host a viewing party of the live webcast. TEDx has made it simple to host your own viewing party, complete with links to a Viewing Party Tool Kit, which outlines rules and ideas.
http://www.tedxmanhattan.org/
California Approval of Methyl Iodide on Strawberry Fields Challenged
A coalition representing farmworkers and environmental groups is challenging the state of California’s approval in December of the agricultural fumigant methyl iodide, a state-listed carcinogen, for use on strawberry fields, according to Los Angeles Times Greenspace. The lawsuit contends the California Department of Pesticide Regulation violated the California Environmental Quality Act, the California Birth Defects Prevention Act and the Pesticide Contamination Prevention Act, which protects groundwater from pesticide pollution, among other laws. Methyl iodide is used as a substitute for the banned fumigant methyl bromide.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/greenspace/2011/01/state-approves-controversial-pesticide.html
Demo Video of Farm Management Tool Online
AgSquared is offering record keeping software for small farms. They have created a demo video of their first release, geared toward simplifying farm management for diversified vegetable growers. The free online software is designed for farm planning and managing a farm plan over the course of the year. The video highlighting the software features is available at the AgSquared website (http://www.agsquared.com/en/product/demo).
http://www.agsquared.com/
>> More Breaking News (http://attra.ncat.org/news/)
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Funding Opportunities
Outreach and Technical Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Competitive Grant
USDA’s Office of Advocacy and Outreach requests applications for the Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Competitive Grants Program (OASDFR). This announcement seeks applications from eligible organizations (institutions of higher learning, nonprofits, and tribal governments) able to provide outreach and technical assistance to socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers and forest landowners within a defined geographic area in a linguistically appropriate manner. The intent of this portion of the OASDFR program is to focus specifically on connecting socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers and forest landowners to USDA programs. The Agency will fund up to $1,200,000 per grant for project activities identified in this RFP. Approximately $19 million will be available through this RFP.
Applications are due February 15, 2011.
http://bit.ly/dS8gKT
South Dakota Conservation Innovation Grants
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announces the availability of $225,000 for state level Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) in South Dakota. South Dakota NRCS is seeking pre-proposals for the state level CIG program that targets establishment of wetland mitigation banks; effective pest management in organic production systems; and innovative water and nutrient management treatment for surface and sub-surface drainage systems including bioreactors. All eligible producers and groups are encouraged to apply, including those who are, or who work closely with, producers that qualify as ‘Beginning Farmers and Ranchers’ under USDA rules.
Application deadline is February 11, 2011.
http://www.sd.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/2011_CIG.html
Grass Energy: Pelletization & Market Development RFP
The Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund is seeking proposals that will lead to the design, fabrication, demonstration and use of a pelletizing system capable of converting at least 1-ton of grass biomass per hour into densified fuel. Projects must be able to identify at least one in-state source of grass biomass that will be pelletized and at least one in-state end-user of the pelletized fuel. Any organization, farm, individual or business that maintains an active and physical presence within Vermont may apply for up to $100,000 in funding for the research and development of a mobile or stationary pelletizing system capable of processing grass fibers into fuel.
Proposals must be submitted by February 28, 2011.
http://www.vsjf.org/what-we-do/grants/apply
>> More Funding Opportunities (http://attra.ncat.org/funding/)
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Coming Events
MOSES Organic Farming Conference (OFC)
February 24-26, 2011
LaCrosse, Wisconsin
Join Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service for their 22nd annual conference, an educational weekend packed with 70+ workshops, 150+ exhibitors, terrific food, foot stompin’ entertainment, acres of food and farming books, and plenty of time and space to network and mingle. The farmer-centered OFC is celebrated as the foremost educational and networking event in the organic farming community.
http://www.mosesorganic.org/conference.html
ASAP Marketing Opportunities for Farmers Conference
February 26, 2011
Swannanoa, North Carolina
Join Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP), local farmers, agriculture professionals, and marketing specialists for this day-long conference with business and marketing workshops designed just for you. The event includes networking opportunities, a resource notebook, and dozens of 90-minute sessions to choose from taught by farming, business, and agricultural leaders of the region.
http://www.asapconnections.org/MOFF2011.html
Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) Annual Conference
February 19-20, 2011
Granville, Ohio
OEFFA’s 32nd annual conference—Inspiring Farms, Sustaining Communities—will feature nationally recognized keynote speakers Joan Gussow and Klaas and Mary-Howell Martens, more than 70 informative, hands-on workshops; a trade show; a fun and educational kids’ conference; great homemade meals featuring local, organic foods; a child care area; and Saturday evening entertainment.
http://www.oeffa.org/eventprofile.php?eventid=852&sjt=events
>> More Events (http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/)
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New & Updated Publications
An Illustrated Guide to Growing Safe Produce on Your Farm
http://attra.org/attra-pub/summaries/summary.php?pub=350
Persimmons, Asian and American
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/summary.php?pub=10
Label Rouge: Pasture-Based Poultry Production in France
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/summary.php?pub=224
Question of the Week
What information can you give me on organic strawberry production in a hoop house?
http://bit.ly/ezQl8s
Ask a Sustainable Agriculture Expert
Submit questions to our professional staff online
http://attra.ncat.org/ask.php
ATTRA Webinars
Insuring Diversified and Specialty Farms: Is USDA’s AGR-LITE Insurance Program Right for You?
January 20, 2011
10:00 AM Central Time
http://attra.ncat.org/webinars2011/agr-lite/
Organic Apple Production and Marketing (A Beginner’s Guide)
January 27, 2011
12 Noon Central Time
http://attra.ncat.org/webinars2011/apples/
ATTRA Spanish Newsletter
Subscribe to Cosecha Mensual (Monthly Harvest), ATTRA’s Spanish-language e-newsletter
http://attra.ncat.org/espanol/boletin.php
Subscribe to the Weekly Harvest
https://www.thedatabank.com/dpg/427/personal2.asp?formid=signup
Comments? Questions? Contact us
http://attra.ncat.org/management/contact.html
Weekly Harvest and ATTRAnews Archives
Digital versions of recent and archived Weekly Harvest and ATTRAnews newsletters are available online. ATTRAnews is the newsletter of ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service.
http://attra.ncat.org/newsletter/archives.html
The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service - ATTRA - was developed and is managed by the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT). The project is funded through a cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service (http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/index.html).
Visit the NCAT Web site for more information on our other sustainable agriculture and energy projects.
http://www.ncat.org/sarc_current.php
copyright 2011 NCAT
This message contains the following:
1. Kid O Products Recalls Baby Rattles Due To Choking Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11092.html
2. Teething Rings Recalled by Calisson Due to Ingestion Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11093.html
3. Toy Mobile Phones Recalled by Discovery Toys Due to Choking Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11094.html
4. Marker Völkl USA and Kästle Recall Ski Bindings Due to Fall Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11095.html
5. White-Rodgers Recalls Home Heating and Cooling Thermostats Due to Fire Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11096.html
Local farmers produce year round
Up on the hill above the Romanesco bed stand two unheated hoophouses. Over near
the treeline stands another. Inside them, it’s not quite summer, but it feels and
smells like early spring. In the houses closest to the Romanesco patch, densely
packed rows of rainbow chard, arugula, and carrots are growing directly in the soil
underneath cloth-like row covers that keep in the heat and most of the moisture.
The chard and the arugula look like they will be ready to harvest in a few weeks,
the carrots are the length of my pinky and intensely sweet because freezing temperatures
cause carrots and other root vegetables to concentrate their sugars. All of these
vegetables were slated to be harvested and on sale at the Wegmans flagship store
in Pittsford before Christmas.
.-————————————————
Zimbabwe police order destruction of city maize crops
Harare councillors held an emergency caucus meeting on 11 January 2011 at Harvest
House following the slashing of maize in the city and came out with the following
position;
Harare City councillors dissociate themselves and condemn the ongoing barbaric destruction
of the staple maize crop in the high density areas of the city.
Council has never
made such a resolution. The MDC is a pro-poor political party and is fully behind
all livelihood support programmes among them urban agriculture.
Job S. Ebenezer and Technology for the Poor
In 1993, Dr. Job Ebenezer, former Director of Environmental Stewardship and Hunger
Education at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) established a container
garden on the roof of the parking garage of the ELCA offices in Chicago. The hope
was that the roof top garden would serve as a role model for creative use of urban
space throughout the country. Dr. Ebenezer proved the feasibility of growing vegetables
in plastic wading pools, used tires and feed sacks.
Baltimore’s new city rules clear the way for an urban agricultural renaissance.
Baltimore’s Board of Estimates approved a policy last December allowing community
groups that have been using a plot of city-owned land for five years or more to
lay claim to it. Under the policy, administered by the Planning Department and the
Department of Housing and Community Development, the city does not sell the land
directly to the community group; it sells the land for $1 per lot to a land trust,
which in turn draws up an agreement allowing the group to use it for free.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Stories here:
City Farmer News [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=fclqmpbab&et=1104239974104&s=1304&e=001RJE1RD0-HpVI9d_Lh92fSz4rf9SMt6vMmLAUuYl0kC9OGxo7cffaWU6UQR00XmAMGKDESgfZDOd6vZsAslX07iBzJT52wWHrYpJN5EkT3xRermoQNo29Ag==]
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Michael Levenston
City Farmer - Canada’s Office of Urban Agriculture
1978-2011
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This message consists of the following:
1. GE and Professional Series Brand Dehumidifiers Recalled Due to Fire Hazard,
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11088.html
2. Infant and Toddler Footed Pajamas Recalled by Pajamagram Due to Choking Hazard,
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11089.html
3. Men’s Sherpa Shirts Recalled by Foria International Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard,
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11090.html
4. Children’s Hooded Sweatshirts and Jackets With Drawstrings Recalled by Hot Kids Due to Strangulation Hazard,
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11091.html
Free Webinar
Organic Apple Production and Marketing (A Beginner’s Guide)
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Noon Central Standard Time
Commercial-scale organic apple production has entered the mainstream. Once thought of as practically impossible, profitable organic apple production is now a reality for established apple growers from coast to coast. And the techniques for successful organic apple production are backed up by research and recommendations from universities such as Cornell, Michigan State, and Washington State.
But the path to profitable commercial organic apple production isn’t easy. Organic apple growers face many hurdles, from pest control and certification to marketing. But if you’re willing to tackle these hurdles, the profits may well be worth the effort.
To find out what’s involved in profitable organic apple production, and whether this business is right for you, register for our free webinar titled “Organic Apple Production and Marketing (A Beginner’s Guide).”
Presented by the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), this organic apple webinar will be broadcast on Thursday, January 27th, at 12 Noon Central Standard Time.
Some of the topics to be covered in this hour-long webinar include the following:
* Overview and trends in organic apple production and marketing in the U.S.
* Organic apple production techniques for different regions of the country.
* Disease control with organic fungicides and disease-resistant varieties of apples.
* Insect and mite control with kaolin clay, pheromones, and new-generation pesticides
* “Farmscaping” to optimize biological control with beneficial insects
* Control of vertebrate pests in orchards such as deer and voles
* Non-chemical weed control in organic apple orchards
* Economics and marketing of organic apples—how can I make a profit?
The speakers for the webinar are Tammy Hinman, a horticulturalist, and Guy Ames, an experienced apple grower. Both speakers currently work for the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT). Hinman and Ames provide technical advice to apple growers nationwide through the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA), with funding provided by USDA. Ames and Hinman are also coauthors of ATTRA’s new publication on organic apple production, which will be available this winter.
This January 27th webinar on Organic Apple Production is free, but registration online is required.
To register for the webinar, visit this website:
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/282739802
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm239718.htm
Surtex Foods Recalls “Oaxaca String Cheese La Original” Because Of Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Surtext Foods Co.
323-357-5900
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 10, 2011 - SURTEX FOODS CO. of Los Angeles is recalling Oaxaca string Cheese La Original in their 17.63 oz/ 500 gr presentation because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus.
Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
Staphylococcus aureus the bacterium responsible for producing toxins in foods, can cause gastrointestinal illness that usually begins 1-6 hours after eating contaminated food. The most common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, headache, muscle cramping, and temporary changes in blood pressure and pulse rate may occur. The illness is usually mild and most patients recover after one to three days. In a small minority of patients the illness may be more severe. In these cases, some people, especially the very young and old, may require medical treatment for dehydration from vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Oaxaca String Cheese “La Original” ( 17.63 /500 gr presentation) was distributed in California through retail stores and distributors.
The recalled product comes in a 17.63 ounce (500 gr), clear plastic package marked- Oaxaca String Cheese, “La Original de Oaxaca” with a UPC code of 8 90512 00104 2, Lot # 1360912 with expiration date 01/09/2011
No illnesses have been reported to date.
The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the FDA which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem. NO OTHER PRODUCTS OR BATCHES FROM THIS COMPANY AND/OR PRODUCT THAT HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED WERE AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL.
Consumers who have purchased “Oaxaca String Cheese “La Original” ( 17.63 /500 gr presentation), UPC code of 8 90512 00104 2, Lot # 1360912 with expiration date 01/09/2011, are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (323) 357-5900 Monday through Friday, 8am through 3pm PST.
###
Arrest Made In Threat Against Helix High School
An arrest was made in connection with a threat called in Friday morning against
Helix High School, prompting a campus lockdown.
MORE DETAILS:
http://www.10News.com/tu/5VJQhA4c3.html
[Man was 40 years old, no name.
Threat was to shoot a bunch of kids, as I understand it.
granny]
Thanks, Ruth. Updates appreciated.
This message contains the following:
1. Prairie Mountain Inc. Recalls Youth Jackets Due to Strangulation Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11097.html
2. Alpha Industries Recalls Children’s Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings Due to Strangulation Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml11/11098.html
Multaq (dronedarone) - Drug Safety Communication: Risk of Severe Liver Injury
AUDIENCE: Cardiology, Gastroenterology
ISSUE: FDA notified healthcare professionals and patients about cases of rare, but severe liver injury, including two cases of acute liver failure leading to liver transplant in patients treated with the heart medication dronedarone (Multaq). Information about the potential risk of liver injury from dronedarone is being added to the WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS sections of the dronedarone labels.
BACKGROUND: Dronedarone is a drug used to treat abnormal heart rhythm in patients who have had an abnormal heart rhythm during the past six months. Dronedarone was approved with a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) with a goal of preventing its use in patients with severe heart failure or who have recently been in the hospital for heart failure. In a study of patients with these conditions, patients given dronedarone had a greater than two-fold increase in risk of death.
RECOMMENDATION: Healthcare professionals were reminded to advise patients to contact a healthcare professional immediately if they experience signs and symptoms of hepatic injury or toxicity (anorexia, nausea, vomiting, fever, malaise, fatigue, right upper quadrant pain, jaundice, dark urine, or itching) while taking dronedarone. Healthcare professionals should consider obtaining periodic hepatic serum enzymes, especially during the first 6 months of treatment. Additional information for Healthcare Professionals, for Patients and a Data Summary is provided in the Drug Safety Communication.
Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of this product to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:
* Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
* Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178
Read the complete MedWatch 2011 Safety summary, including a link to the Drug Safety Communication, at:
Tell us how we are doing:
You are encouraged to report all serious adverse events and product quality problems to FDA MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
Acetaminophen Prescription Products Limited to 325 mg Per Dosage Unit: Drug Safety Communication
AUDIENCE: Pharmacy, Pain Management
ISSUE: FDA notified healthcare professionals that it has asked drug manufacturers to limit the strength of acetaminophen in prescription drug products, predominantly combinations of acetaminophen and opioids, to 325 mg per tablet, capsule, or other dosage unit, making these products safer for patients. This action will help to reduce the risk of severe liver injury and allergic reactions associated with acetaminophen. A Boxed Warning highlighting the potential for severe liver injury and a Warning highlighting the potential for allergic reactions (swelling of the face, mouth, and throat, difficulty breathing, itching, or rash) will be added to the label of all prescription drug products that contain acetaminophen.
BACKGROUND: Acetaminophen, one of the most commonly used drugs in the United States, is widely and effectively used in both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) products to reduce pain and fever. Examples of prescription products that contain acetaminophen include hydrocodone with acetaminophen (Vicodin, Lortab), and oxycodone with acetaminophen (Tylox, Percocet). OTC products containing acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) are not affected by this action. Information about the potential for liver injury is already required on the label for OTC products containing acetaminophen. FDA is continuing to evaluate ways to reduce the risk of acetaminophen related liver injury from OTC products. No drug shortages are expected, because the 3-year implementation period should permit adequate time for necessary reformulations.
RECOMMENDATION: Healthcare professionals were reminded to advise patients not to exceed the acetaminophen maximum total daily dose (4 grams/day), and not to drink alcohol while taking acetaminophen-containing medications.
Healthcare professionals were encouraged to inform patients that there is no immediate danger to patients who take these combination pain medications, and patients should continue to take them as directed by their health care provider. The Drug Safety Communication provides additional information for healthcare professionals, information for patients, a data summary and a list of all affected products.
Read the MedWatch safety alert, including links to the FDA Drug Safety Communication, Q&As, and Consumer Update, at:
Tell us how we are doing:
You are encouraged to report all serious adverse events and product quality problems to FDA MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
________________________________
Why we shoot deer in the wild (A letter from someone who wants to remain
anonymous, who farms, writes well and actually tried this)
>
> I had this idea that I could rope a deer, put it in a stall, feed it up
>on corn for a couple of weeks, then kill it and eat it. The first step in this
>adventure was getting a deer. I figured that, since they congregate at my cattle
>feeder and do not seem to have much fear of me when we are there (a bold one
>will sometimes come right up and sniff at the bags of feed while I am in the
>back of the truck not 4 feet away), it should not be difficult to rope one, get
>up to it and toss a bag over its head (to calm it down) then hog tie it and
>transport it home.
>
> I filled the cattle feeder then hid down at the end with my rope. The
>cattle, having seen the roping thing before, stayed well back. They were not
>having any of it. After about 20 minutes, my deer showed up— 3 of them. I
>picked out a likely looking one, stepped out from the end of the feeder, and
>threw my rope. The deer just stood there and stared at me. I wrapped the rope
>around my waist and twisted the end so I would have a good hold..
>
> The deer still just stood and stared at me, but you could tell it was
>mildly concerned about the whole rope situation. I took a step towards it, it
>took a step away. I put a little tension on the rope .., and then received an
>education. The first thing that I learned is that, while a deer may just stand
>there looking at you funny while you rope it, they are spurred to action when
>you start pulling on that rope.
>
> That deer EXPLODED. The second thing I learned is that pound for pound, a
>deer is a LOT stronger than a cow or a colt. A cow or a colt in that weight
>range I could fight down with a rope and with some dignity. A deer— no Chance.
>That thing ran and bucked and twisted and pulled. There was no controlling it
>and certainly no getting close to it. As it jerked me off my feet and started
>dragging me across the ground, it occurred to me that having a deer on a rope
>was not nearly as good an idea as I had originally imagined.. The only upside is
>that they do not have as much stamina as many other animals.
>
> A brief 10 minutes later, it was tired and not nearly as quick to jerk me
>off my feet and drag me when I managed to get up. It took me a few minutes to
>realize this, since I was mostly blinded by the blood flowing out of the big
>gash in my head. At that point, I had lost my taste for corn-fed venison. I just
>wanted to get that devil creature off the end of that rope.
>
> I figured if I just let it go with the rope hanging around its neck, it
>would likely die slow and painfully somewhere. At the time, there was no love at
>all between me and that deer. At that moment, I hated the thing, and I would
>venture a guess that the feeling was mutual. Despite the gash in my head and the
>several large knots where I had cleverly arrested the deer’s momentum by bracing
>my head against various large rocks as it dragged me across the ground, I could
>still think clearly enough to recognize that there was a small chance that I
>shared some tiny amount of responsibility for the situation we were in. I didn’t
>want the deer to have to suffer a slow death, so I managed to get it lined back
>up in between my truck and the feeder - a little trap I had set before
>hand...kind of like a squeeze chute. I got it to back in there and I started
>moving up so I could get my rope back.
>
> Did you know that deer bite?
>
> They do! I never in a million years would have thought that a deer would
>bite somebody, so I was very surprised when ..... I reached up there to grab
>that rope and the deer grabbed hold of my wrist. Now, when a deer bites you, it
>is not like being bit by a horse where they just bite you and slide off to then
>let go. A deer bites you and shakes its head—almost like a pit bull. They bite
>HARD and it hurts.
>
> The proper thing to do when a deer bites you is probably to freeze and
>draw back slowly. I tried screaming and shaking instead. My method was
>ineffective.
>
> It seems like the deer was biting and shaking for several minutes, but it
>was likely only several seconds. I, being smarter than a deer (though you may be
>questioning that claim by now), tricked it. While I kept it busy tearing the
>tendons out of my right arm, I reached up with my left hand and pulled that rope
>loose.
>
> That was when I got my final lesson in deer behavior for the day.
>
> Deer will strike at you with their front feet. They rear right up on
>their back feet and strike right about head and shoulder level, and their hooves
>are surprisingly sharp... I learned a long time ago that, when an animal -like a
>horse —strikes at you with their hooves and you can’t get away easily, the best
>thing to do is try to make a loud noise and make an aggressive move towards the
>animal. This will usually cause them to back down a bit so you can escape.
>
> This was not a horse. This was a deer, so obviously, such trickery would
>not work. In the course of a millisecond, I devised a different strategy. I
>screamed like a woman and tried to turn and run. The reason I had always been
>told NOT to try to turn and run from a horse that paws at you is that there is a
>good chance that it will hit you in the back of the head. Deer may not be so
>different from horses after all, besides being twice as strong and 3 times as
>evil, because the second I turned to run, it hit me right in the back of the
>head and knocked me down.
>
> Now, when a deer paws at you and knocks you down, it does not immediately
>leave. I suspect it does not recognize that the danger has passed. What they do
>instead is paw your back and jump up and down on you while you are laying there
>crying like a little girl and covering your head.
>
>
>
> I finally managed to crawl under the truck and the deer went away. So now
>I know why when people go deer hunting they bring a rifle with a scope......to
>sort of even the odds!!
>
> All these events are true so help me God... An Educated Farmer
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm240012.htm
Candy Dynamics Recalls Toxic Waste® brand Nuclear Sludge® Chew Bars all flavors — Net wt. 0.7 oz (20 g) package
Contact:
Eileen O’Neal
317-228-5012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 13, 2011 - Circle City Marketing and Distributing doing business as Candy Dynamics, Indianapolis, IN, is issuing a voluntary recall of all Toxic Waste® brand Nuclear Sludge® Chew Bars, all flavors, Net wt. 0.7 oz (20 g) package. The product is imported from Pakistan.
A recent test performed by the California Department of Public Health has indicated that a lot (#8288A) of the cherry flavor of the above-listed product contains elevated levels of lead (0.24 parts per million; the U.S. FDA tolerance is 0.1 ppm) that potentially could cause health problems, particularly for infants, small children, and pregnant women.
Out of an abundance of caution, the company has determined to recall all lots and all flavors of the product distributed from the product’s inception in 2007 through January 2011.
The products are identified as: Toxic Waste® Nuclear Sludge® Cherry Chew Bar (UPC 0 89894 81430 6), Toxic Waste® Nuclear Sludge® Sour Apple Chew Bar (UPC 0 10684 81410 7), and Toxic Waste® Nuclear Sludge® Blue Raspberry Chew Bar (UPC 0 89894 81420 7). Each chew bar has a net wt. of 0.7 oz (20 g).
No other “Toxic Waste®” brand product is affected by this recall.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The recalled Nuclear Sludge™ Chew Bars were distributed nationwide in retail stores and through mail orders.
The company has discontinued distribution of the cherry flavor and had previously discontinued distribution of the other two flavors.
Candy Dynamics is sending recall notices to its direct customers. Anyone in possession of the recalled product should telephone the company for information on destruction of the product. Please call Eileen O’Neal at 317-228-5012 (Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm EST) for further information.
Acetaminophen Prescription Products Limited to 325 mg Per Dosage Unit: Drug Safety Communication
AUDIENCE: Pharmacy, Pain Management
ISSUE: FDA notified healthcare professionals that it has asked drug manufacturers to limit the strength of acetaminophen in prescription drug products, predominantly combinations of acetaminophen and opioids, to 325 mg per tablet, capsule, or other dosage unit, making these products safer for patients. This action will help to reduce the risk of severe liver injury and allergic reactions associated with acetaminophen. A Boxed Warning highlighting the potential for severe liver injury and a Warning highlighting the potential for allergic reactions (swelling of the face, mouth, and throat, difficulty breathing, itching, or rash) will be added to the label of all prescription drug products that contain acetaminophen.
BACKGROUND: Acetaminophen, one of the most commonly used drugs in the United States, is widely and effectively used in both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) products to reduce pain and fever. Examples of prescription products that contain acetaminophen include hydrocodone with acetaminophen (Vicodin, Lortab), and oxycodone with acetaminophen (Tylox, Percocet). OTC products containing acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) are not affected by this action. Information about the potential for liver injury is already required on the label for OTC products containing acetaminophen. FDA is continuing to evaluate ways to reduce the risk of acetaminophen related liver injury from OTC products. No drug shortages are expected, because the 3-year implementation period should permit adequate time for necessary reformulations.
RECOMMENDATION: Healthcare professionals were reminded to advise patients not to exceed the acetaminophen maximum total daily dose (4 grams/day), and not to drink alcohol while taking acetaminophen-containing medications.
Healthcare professionals were encouraged to inform patients that there is no immediate danger to patients who take these combination pain medications, and patients should continue to take them as directed by their health care provider. The Drug Safety Communication provides additional information for healthcare professionals, information for patients, a data summary and a list of all affected products.
Read the MedWatch safety alert, including links to the FDA Drug Safety Communication, Q&As, and Consumer Update, at:
Spa Massage
Posted by: “Debbie Harlan”
This is a spa treatment from the Arizona desert. Select a large, flat smooth
stone, the size of your palm. Heat stone in a low temperature oven until
warm
but not hot. Rub some scented massage oil into the stone and use this heated
rock to give your partner a soothing massage. The heat from the stone
relaxes and penetrates the muscles. Use up to 15 drops of essential oil per
1 oz. of unscented oil. Start with less drops, you can always add more.
Keep your New Year’s resolution to lose weight this year!
Try The Cinch® Plan! Clinically tested.† Cinch is also specially formulated
to help you break the diet cycle so you:
Keep muscle you have.
Burn fat you don’t need
Lose inches you don’t want.
Lose the pounds that are weighting you down
The Cinch Inch Loss Plan includes great tasting products and full support,
including a website with recipes, informative articles, and community
message boards.
http://www.cinchpla n.com/aromathyme
Valentine’s Day Heart Tin
http://www.aromathyme.com/candles.html
Daily Aromatherapy Tip
brought to you by AromaThyme.com
Scent of the Month Club
Aromatherapy Sea Salt Rub
Posted by: “Debbie Harlan”
2 cups sea salt
1/2 cup sweet almond oil
1/2 cup macadamia nut oil
1/2 cup sesame seed oil
1 tsp. vitamin E
1 tb. dried, ground lavender, rosemary, mint or other ground herbs.
1-2 drops essential oils of Lavender or your choice.
Combine and use in the bath for rough, dry skin.
click here for more recipes http://www.aromathyme.com/recipes.html
Try this one for Valentine’s Day.
Posted by: “Debbie Harlan”
A Sensual Massage Oil.
4 drops Ylang Ylang
3 drop Geranium
2 drops Lavender
1 drop Bergamot
1 oz of carrier oil like sweet almond
click here for more recipes http://www.aromathyme.com/recipes.html
Seed Ordering time again...
Below is my list of heirloom seed suppliers.
Anyone have any to add?
http://rareseeds.com
http://www.bountifulgardens.org
http://www.history.org/History/CWLand//nursery1.cfm
http://www.fedcoseeds.com/
http://www.woodprairie.com
http://www.filareefarm.com
http://www.heirloomtomatoes.net/
http://heritageharvestseed.com/
http://www.johnnyseeds.com/
http://www.landrethseeds.com/
http://www.nativeseeds.org
http://www.gardennursery.com/
http://www.plimoth.com/
http://www.rhshumway.com
http://www.ronnigers.com/
http://www.sandhillpreservation.com/
http://www.seedsavers.org/
http://www.seedsofchange.com/
http://virtual.clemson.edu/groups/seed/heirloom.htm
http://www.southernexposure.com/index.html
http://monticellostore.stores.yahoo.net/plants-—seeds-seeds.html
http://victoryseeds.com/
http://www.heirloomacresseeds.com
Don't expect to experience a banner growing season like last year again in my lifetime, but those yields are what keep us old-timers struggling to get our seeds in every year.
I see Granny hasn't posted since Mon.
Yeah! We’re back in business!
I couldn’t get to this thread through my links for a while. Now, it appears to be working again.
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