Vet Sells Veggies at the Farmers’ Market June 26, 2008
Posted by cafigallo in Uncategorized.Tags: farmer, farming, gardening, market, small farms
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In downtown Petaluma, California, Iraq war veteran Matt Mccue brings the carrots, squash, gree
ns and a cornucopia of his other garden crops to sell to his neighbors in Sonoma County. Matt’s story – at least up to the point that he had gotten his training in sustainable farming – can be found here on our site. The happy ending, so far, is Matt having a job
doing something he loves and for which he is appreciated. He’s also helping to begin the rejuvenation of the small, local farm – a resource sure to become more of a treasure for all of us in the years ahead.
Why Farmers Need to Speak Out Against War June 26, 2008
Posted by cafigallo in Uncategorized.add a comment
- America’s rural communities have taken the hardest toll in both Iraq and Afghanistan. According to the Carsey Institute at the University of New Hampshire, “the death rate for rural soldiers is 60% higher than the death rate for those soldiers from cities and suburbs.”
- We are losing our farmers. There are eight times as many farmers in the US over the age of 65 as there are under the age of 35. This is a national crisis that threatens our very ability to feed ourselves, effecting our quality of life and security of our nation.
- Our veterans are coming back to our same communities. These communities, already lacking in the employment opportunities for its young families, are also lacking in the much needed medical and mental health services. “Our rural members”, says Paul Rieckhoff, President of Iraq and Afghan Veterans of America, “are having the hardest time.” (more…)
Veterans Village Eases the Rough Transition June 15, 2008
Posted by cafigallo in Transition.Tags: care, temporary housing, Transition
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From the battle field to the tomato field is a long way psychologically. We’re not going to see many soldiers gracefully making that trip as we try to help them find their places in the agriculture community. That’s why it’s so important that organizations like Veterans Village set an example for supporting veterans as they readjust to civilian life and life away from the violence and tension of Iraq and Afghanistan.
Here’s a video featuring the founders of Veterans Village and some of the people who appreciate and add to what they are doing.
