Broad Branch Farm

Welcome to Broad Branch Farm! BBF, Ltd. is an 8-acre organic (not certified) farm owned and operated by Anita & Brian Poeppel. Located in central Illinois just 4 miles east of Wyoming, Illinois, the farm is in the heart of what used to be beautiful prairie as far as the eye could see. Although the prairie is essentially gone, the beautiful fertile top soil is still present. And it’s this precious soil that is the foundation for the beautiful organic vegetables produced on the farm.

Like farms of years ago who grew and sold an array of products to support the family, BBF is also a diversified family farm. Broad Branch Farm produces high quality organic vegetables and herbs, healthy pasture raised organic chickens, free range organic eggs, the FarmTherapy line of natural body care, and homemade organic granola.

For more info, go to broadbranchfarm.com
http://www.vimeo.com/5095281

Food, Inc. Documentary Film

I was able to attend a preview of the documentary, Food, Inc. last night.
If you have ever wondered how our food arrives at your local supermarket or drive through restaurant this is a must see movie.

Food, Inc. brings to light why America suffers from many of the food issues that were not present 50 years ago, such as the large increase in diabetes and the spread of harmful bacteria such as e coli. From economic strategy to health ramifications, this movie will open your eyes to the world of Agribusiness. It also demonstrates how consumers can drive the demand for healthier options.

There are a few spots that are not for the faint-hearted. Watching how mass production can lead to e coli risk, which leads to more chemical being introduced to “out-engineer” the problem leads to a vicious circle. These shocking scenes may not be the easy to watch, but they are a vital part of how food gets to our table – and one that everyone should understand.

The movie also shows how food that seems to be a bargain, is actually very expensive when the hidden costs to our health, worker safety and the environment are considered.

The movie will have limited release in Chicago starting on June 19th. Their website has information on release dates and locations www.foodincmovie.com

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Growing Home

Growing Home
Providing Training Through a Non-profit Organic Agriculture Business
Growing Home provides job training for homeless and low-income individuals in Chicago through a social enterprise business based on organic agriculture.
Their program provides experiential learning opportunities and employment in the horticulture field as well as a unique job readiness curriculum that helps reintroduces participants back into the work-force.
Growing Home sells their produce through farmers markets in Chicago south side neighborhoods and CSA. Proceeds from the sales of organic produce are used to support their training program and pay for the upkeep of their farm sites

Check out their website at http://www.growinghomeinc.org

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