The state of Washington may not have passed I522, the resolution that businesses would have to label GMO foods, however the voters of Whatcom and Skagit County voted in favor of it. There are ways to be more proactive for those who may be disappointed that there will not be a new labeling requirement for GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) products. (“A GMO is an organism who’s genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.” – Wikipedia)
The good news for consumers is that many companies that do not use GMO’s may begin to label their products as GMO free. You can find a list of non GMO food company brands at www.undergroundhealth.com. Their printable list includes where you can purchase these brands.
A quote that I live my life by is “be the change you wish to see in the world.”- Mahatma Gandhi. Instead of fighting against a system, I encourage you to try a more empowered approach of leading by example. Paving the way for change by being part of the solution. Be aware of what you are buying and purchase products from companies that fit with your values.
While attending a lecture from Whole Foods Co-CEO John Mackey the question of GMO’s was raised, his very poignant reply was that as consumers we vote with our dollars. Business owners will carry what sells. If we choose items that are labeled GMO Free, we create the demand that businesses will supply. We can see this happening already with Walmart beginning to carry items that traditionally could only be found at a health food store.
A way that you can “be the change” here in Bellingham is to participate in the Bellingham Community Seed Swap and grow your own non-GMO food. What is the Bellingham Community Seed Swap?
“Getting Seeds in to the Hands of the People!”
Bellingham Community Seed Swap
Sunday, January 26th
2:30pm – 5:30pm
The Majestic
1027 North Forest Street Bellingham (Intersection of Maple St, near the Co-op)
2:30pm Doors Open
3:30pm “Basic Seed Saving” talk by Celt Schira
4:30pm Master Seed Saving talk by Brian Kerkvliet
5:30pm Swap Ends & Clean Up
Light Refreshments Will Be Served
Who Should Attend:
* People with Extra Seed, Seed-Potatoes & Edible Tubers to Share
(Please have items in labeled envelopes or containers)
* People without seed who want seeds to grow!
Please, no saved squash seeds or GMO seeds!
By Kerri Burnside
Liz Collins is the winner! Liz, you win a one hour massage gift certificate. You can claim your certificate by contacting Alana Simler, LMP at 360.738.9557 or emailing at lanerchel@yahoo.com!
Congratulations!
Alana
Marine Park! In Fairhaven. Love that spot, especially when the wind is blowing the white caps!
Quite familiar with this location. Marine Park. Was recently handed a copy of Bellingham Muse and am settling into my evening to introduce myself to your creative work. Thanks for making something so inspiring available in our community. Thoughts for much success as you move forward.
Thank you so much, Dawn-Marie! We hope you enjoyed your evening with the Bellingham Muse. We are working hard on the next edition and appreciate your support. If you feel inspired, share the Muse with others!
Alana and Kerri
Nice…good luck ladies w your project
Picture is Marine Park 😉
The photo is of a tree in marine park, just across the railroad tracks from the wastewater treatment plant. Had a great time at the seed swap!
I think the Seed Exchange is an AWESOME idea!!
My girlfriend and I grow alot of our own food right here on our deck(we live in an apartment overlooking Boulevard Park)
Gonna try make the exchange on the 26th!!
Thank YOU!! 🙂
Thanks for the info! Always best to know your options.
I am not qualified due to the nature of being on the board of Sustainable Bellingham for the free giveaway, but what I do want to do is encourage people to attend the 6th Annual Seed Swap! There are a lot of people who attend, and enough seeds for all. I make enough hummus and put out light refreshments for everyone to enjoy during the whole event. I grew many of the seeds easily, and I sat in on some classes during the event and learned a lot! Please come down and join us, even if you don’t have seeds, we will get you started!