Michigan Farm To School - Blog

USDA issues new nutrition standards for school meals

2012-01-26T07:26:00.000-08:00

Greetings,

After much anticipation, the USDA released the new nutrition standards for school meals yesterday. Part of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, these standards mark “the first major changes in school meals in 15 years”, according to the USDA, by increasing offerings of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and limiting amounts of sodium, saturated fat and trans fats among other changes. The new standards will be phased into school meals programs over three years, beginning with the 2012-2013 school year. See the final rule here and the USDA press release here. Click on the links to see articles about the nutrition standards from The New York Times, The Washington Post, and the Associated Press.

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

All About Food Conference in Macomb County - 2/8/12

2012-01-22T19:25:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

I’m sorry missed one event in the last e-newsletter! Attached you’ll find a brochure and registration information for the All About Food: From Farm to Fork conference in Macomb County coming up on February 8^th. Farm to School is on the agenda!

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

Michigan Farm to School News

2012-01-16T14:18:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year and Happy Martin Luther King Jr Day! Due to the holiday break, this newsletter includes information from last month and this month. Enjoy!

NEWS

Midwest Schools Find Benefits in Serving Local Foods
Check out this USDA Blog featuring a story about the contributions that Farm to School programs in the Midwest, including Michigan, have made to local economies and connecting youth with their food sources.

Info Sheet: Fresh Produce Pilot for Schools in Michigan & Florida
Click here to see the revised info sheet on the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Pilot, which clarifies GAP documentation requirements. Click here to see a flow chart illustrating how solicitation, contracting, and product distribution will proceed under the pilot. The pilot is currently on hold as the USDA manages a protest filed against it. We’ll keep you posted as we learn more.

Values-Based Supply Chains Research

Researchers from the Southwest Marketing Network, Colorado State University and UC Davis have identified issues and keys to success for maintaining values associated with food products as they move through supply chains. Download the initial summary of findings here.

How the Food Industry Eats Your Kid’s Lunch
Read this NY Times Opinion piece about the connection between school food service companies and food manufacturers that feed children through federal Child Nutrition programs.

Lines Grows Long for Free School Means, Thanks to Economy
The economic crisis has contributed to a significant increase in the last five years in the number of students receiving free and reduced-price school meals. Read the full story from the NY Times.

Evaluation of the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program: Interim Report
This report presents results from the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) evaluation for the 2011-2012 school year, and indicates that schools participating in the program increased student consumption of fruits and vegetables by about 15%, on average, as compared to consumption in non-FFVP schools. Check it out here, along with a progress report about Direct Certification in the National School Lunch Program and other Child Nutrition reports.

National Farm to School Month Poster Contest Winners Announced
Congratulations to the three winners of this poster contest! With the support of Annie's Root 4 Kids, the poster contest winners received prize packs and cash prizes for their schools' Farm to School programs. The winning posters which will be used to promote Farm to School Month 2012.

RESOURCES

Back to Basics: How to incorporate scratch cooking techniques into your school kitchen
This webinar from the National Food Service Management Institute showcases school nutrition directors and chefs who address the benefits and potential challenges of including scratch cooking in school meal preparation. The webinar also includes a 30-minute video training session on basic knife skills, sautéing, and cooking grains.

Farm to School Toolkit
Check out this toolkit created by the Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition designed to serve as your one-stop resource to get started or expand farm to school programs.

Model School Board Resolution

Public Health Law & Policy offers a Model School Board Resolution in Support of Establishing a Farm to School Program, which can be downloaded at this link.

New Risk Management Tool to Help Producers Achieve GAP Certification
The free online tool—developed by FamilyFarmed.org with funding from USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA)—includes a comprehensive framework customize on-farm food safety plans.

OPPORTUNITIES

Gladwin Community Schools is looking for more food products from local growers! See attachment to learn more.

FoodCorps is seeking a Research & Evaluation Manager to facilitate the measurement and analysis of FoodCorps’ impact. Applications will be accepted through Jan. 20, 2012 or until a suitable candidate is identified. See the full job description here.

EVENTS

Flint Food For Change Summit
January 21, 2012
MTA Conference Center in Flint, MI
Find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/events/145369318900297/

Wisconsin Farm to School Summit
January 25, 2012
Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan, WI
Register online

Northern Michigan Small Farms Conference: Growing a Regional Food & Farming Legacy

January 28, 2012

Grayling High School in Grayling, MI

Everybody Eats: Cultivating Food Democracy Conference

February 10 – 11^th, 2012

East Lansing, MI

Michigan Farmers Market Association Conference

March 6 – 7^th, 2012

Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center in East Lansing, MI

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

Speak up about the Farm Bill this Sat in Battle Creek!

2012-01-12T15:19:00.001-08:00

Hello my name is Melissa Hornaday. I am an organic farmer here in Michigan that is working with Organic Farming Research Foundation on the Farm Bill campaign. I am reaching out now to make sure you know about two important opportunities this week to voice your concerns about the next Farm Bill.

At this year's Michigan Family Farms Conference, you will have an opportunity to speak with Senator Stabenow's Office about the 2012 Farm Bill. Farmers in Michigan are in a unique place to influence the Farm Bill debate, as our own Senator Stabenow is the Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Participation in this session at the Michigan Family Farms Conference is a great opportunity to represent the diversity of organic and sustainable agriculture in Michigan. Please register for the conference today and make your voice heard in the 2012 Farm Bill debate. To see other sessions and to register follow this link:

http://www.miffs.org/mffc/sessions.asp

How the 2012 Farm Bill Will Affect You

3-4:20 pm Sat January 14th at Lakeview High School Battle Creek, MI

David Schweikhardt, Michigan State University

Jacqlyn Schneider, Senator Stabenow's Office

Find out what is the latest regarding the 2012 Farm Bill and how it will affect your farm operation. Make sure that your voice is heard with Senator Stabenow's Office.

For more information about the 2012 Farm Bill please or how to get involved please contact me or follow this link http://ofrf.org/policy/policy.html

Melissa Hornaday, Great Lakes Organizer
Organic Farming Research Foundation
4751 Trumbull St Detroit, MI 48208
313-525-2372
melissa@ofrf.org
www.ofrf.org

Join the OFRF Action Network Today! http://ofrf.org/action/action.html

FW: [MIDMICHIGANFOOD] Battle Creek area farmers, suppliers, distributors invited -- Breakfast at Michigan Family Farms Conference, Jan 14th

2012-01-10T07:55:00.001-08:00

FYI…

Jekeia Murphy
Academic Specialist
CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University
309 Natural Resources bldg.
East Lansing, MI 48824
P: 517-432-0308
F: 517-353-3834
stilljek@msu.edu

From: "Danley, Cheryl" <danleych@ANR.MSU.EDU>
Reply-To: "Danley, Cheryl" <danleych@ANR.MSU.EDU>
Date: Fri, 6 Jan 2012 16:21:29 +0000
To: <MIDMICHIGANFOOD@LIST.MSU.EDU>
Subject: [MIDMICHIGANFOOD] Battle Creek area farmers, suppliers, distributors invited -- Breakfast at Michigan Family Farms Conference, Jan 14th

Battle Creek area farmers, suppliers, distributors invited -- Breakfast at Michigan Family Farms Conference, Jan 14th

-- Please circulate to interested parties --

Dear Battle Creek area farmers, farm operators, suppliers, and friends,

I am making a special invitation to you meet us for Breakfast at 8:00 at the Michigan Family Farms Conference on January 14 at Lakeview High School. The conference begins at 9:00. As you may be aware, I am working with the Good Food Battle Creek stakeholder group to conduct a Community Food Assessment. We want to get your opinion about building the local agri-food sector in the Battle Creek area.

If you have not registered for the conference, there is still time. In addition, the conference organizers have just announced that Sen. Stabenow has been invited to give the closing statement.

If you need a scholarship please RSVP by Today, Friday, January 6th directly to:

Emily (Buckham) Beutel
Communications Manager

Michigan Food & Farming Systems - MIFFS
Bringing Farmers and Communities Together

172 Natural Resources Building
East Lansing, MI 48824
Ph: (517) 432-0712
Fx: (517) 353-7961
www.miffs.org <http://www.miffs.org>

If you have questions, or you are a maybe, you can email or phone me directly.

Cheryl Danley
313-492-3496 (cell)

Cheryl Danley
Food and Community Fellow
C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems
Dept of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies (CARRS)
Michigan State University
309 Natural Resources Building
East Lansing, MI. 48824-1222
Phone: (517) 432-0309 * Cell: (313)492-3496
Fax: (517) 353-3834
email: danleych@msu.edu <mailto:danleych@msu.edu>
website: www.mottgroup.msu.edu <http://www.mottgroup.msu.edu/>

To unsubscribe from this list, send an email with "SIGNOFF MIDMICHIGANFOOD" in the message body to LISTSERV@LIST.MSU.EDU.

To join this list, send an email with "SUBSCRIBE MIDMICHIGANFOOD" in the message body to LISTSERV@LIST.MSU.EDU.

FW: Agriculture Deputy Secretary Merrigan Introduces New Risk Management Tool to Help Producers Achieve GAP Certification

2011-12-16T12:38:00.000-08:00

FYI!

Enjoy the weekend,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: USDA Office of Communications <usda@public.govdelivery.com>
Date: Thu, Dec 15, 2011 at 3:30 PM
Subject: Agriculture Deputy Secretary Merrigan Introduces New Risk Management Tool to Help Producers Achieve GAP Certification
To: hdombalis@sustainableagriculture.net

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Release No. 0517.11

Contact:

USDA Office of Communications (202) 720-3088

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Merrigan Introduces New Risk Management Tool to Help Producers Achieve GAP Certification

WASHINGTON, Dec. 15, 2011—Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan, along with leaders from food and agriculture organizations, introduced today a free online tool to help U.S. producers of all sizes achieve Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) harmonized standards and certification, helping to further expand economic opportunities for American agriculture. USDA's GAP audit verification program focuses on best agricultural practices to verify that farms are producing, and packers are handling and storing, fruits and vegetables in the safest manner possible to minimize food safety hazards. The free online tool—developed by FamilyFarmed.org with funding from USDA's Risk Management Agency (RMA)—helps farmers design a customized manual to meet GAP harmonized standards and certification requirements, including USDA GAP standards, and mitigate business risks by answering just a few questions.

"USDA believes that a strong farm safety net—including effective, market-based risk solutions for producers of all variety and size—is crucial to sustain the vitality of American agriculture," said Merrigan. "Effectively managing risk is important to all producers, and having an acceptable food safety program is in the best interest of consumers, buyers, and the farmers themselves. USDA is proud to have worked with private, public and non-profit partners to introduce this free tool to farmers seeking to gain certification as a Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) producer."

The online tool, part of FamilyFarmed.org's On-Farm Food Safety Project, is the first of its kind and was developed by a broad coalition of farm and produce industry partners. It is available at http://www.onfarmfoodsafety.org/.

USDA's GAP audit verification program, administered by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), focuses on best agricultural practices to verify that farms are producing fruits and vegetables in the safest manner possible to minimize risks of microbial food safety hazards. USDA's voluntary audit based program verifies adherence to the recommendations made in the Food and Drug Administration's Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.

To generate a food safety plan using the tool, the user must answer a series of questions on topics including worker health and hygiene, agricultural water, previous land use, soil amendments and manure, animals and pest control, packinghouse activities, product transportation, agricultural chemicals, and field harvesting. In addition to helping farmers create a food safety plan, the tool offers farmers a full-set of record keeping templates to document their food safety efforts as well as useful food safety resources.

Once users have completed their farm's food safety plan and compiled necessary documentation, they have the capacity to apply for GAP food safety certification, a process asked for by many larger buyers. Large buyers including Compass Group, SYSCO, and Chipotle Mexican Grill supported the project financially and with technical assistance. Groups that participated in the development and review of the tool include: Chipotle Mexican Grill, Community Alliance with Family Farmers, Compass Group, Earthbound Farm, Farm Aid, FDA, NSF Agriculture, Produce Marketing Association, SYSCO, The Organic Center, Western Growers, Wallace Center at Winrock International, Wild Farm Alliance, University of California at Davis, United Fresh Produce Association, and USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

The Obama Administration, with Agriculture Secretary Vilsack's leadership, has worked tirelessly to strengthen rural America, implement the Farm Bill, maintain a strong farm safety net, and create opportunities for America's farmers and ranchers. U.S. agriculture is currently experiencing one of its best years in decades thanks to the productivity, resiliency, and resourcefulness of our producers. Today, net farm income is at record levels while debt has been cut in half since the 1980s. Overall, American agriculture supports 1 in 12 jobs in the United States and provides American consumers with 86 percent of the food we consume, while maintaining affordability and choice. The Obama Administration has aggressively worked to expand export opportunities and reduce barriers to trade, helping to push agricultural exports to record levels in 2011 and beyond. Strong agricultural exports are a positive contribution to the U.S. trade balance, support more than 1 million American jobs and boost economic growth.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 800-795-3272 (voice), or 202-720-6382 (TDD).

STAY CONNECTED:

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If you have questions about USDA activities, please visit our Ask the Expert page. This feature is designed to assist you in obtaining the information you are seeking.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).

--
Helen Dombalis, Policy Associate
National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition
110 Maryland Ave. NE, Suite 209
Washington, DC 20002
phone: (202) 547-5754
fax: (202) 547-1837
email: hdombalis@sustainableagriculture.net
website: http://sustainableagriculture.net
blog: http://sustainableagriculture.net/blog/

FW: Extended to 12/15/11 - Academic Specialist/ Outreach Position - C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at Michigan State University

2011-12-06T10:04:00.000-08:00

Apologies for cross-posting. Please see information below about this Academic Specialist position opening with the Mott Group at MSU. Note that the deadline has been extended to 12/15/11. Please pass this along to others who may be interested and qualified.

Thanks,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

From: Pirog, Rich
Sent: Tuesday, December 06, 2011 12:06 PM
Subject: Extended to 12/15/11 - Academic Specialist/ Outreach Position - C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at Michigan State University

PLEAE NOTE: that the closing date for this position has been extended to Thursday, December 15, 2011.

A position description summary is listed below. Individuals interested in learning more about this position and/or applying should go to:

https://jobs.msu.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1321557704946

to review additional position information.

If the link above does not get you directly to the job posting, go to:

https://jobs.msu.edu

and search for faculty/academic staff position # 5469.

Application deadline is December 15, 2011

Individuals with questions about the position can contact me at the e-mail below. -----Rich Pirog – Senior Associate Director, C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Position Summary

Play a lead role in coordinating and submitting large research grant proposals on behalf of the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems (C.S. Mott Group);
Serve as the point of contact for inquiries about the C.S. Mott Group's research and/or outreach programs;
Coordinate development and expansion of the C.S. Mott Group's web site, posting research and outreach project results as well as marketing of the C.S. Mott Group's programs;
Play a lead role in coordinating and submitting large outreach grant proposals on behalf of the C.S. Mott Group;
Check in regularly with staff and faculty affiliates to stay abreast of project opportunities and provide support on existing grants where needed;
Provide presentations on the C.S. Mott Group's research and outreach programs to MSU and non-MSU audiences as needed;
Serve as coordinator for C.S. Mott Group's advisory board meetings.

Required: A Master's in Business Admin, Communications science, or related food, agriculture, and health disciplines.

Rich Pirog

Senior Associate Director

C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

CARRS

313 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

Phone: 517-353-0694

E-mail: rspirog@msu.edu

Web:: www.mottgroup.msu.edu

FW: Position Posting - Academic Specialist/ Outreach - C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU

2011-12-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

Greetings,

Please note that the deadline for applications for this position with the Mott Group at MSU is December 8^th (next week). Please do share this position posting with others who may be interested and qualified.

Thanks,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

Hello:

A position description summary is listed below. Individuals interested in learning more about this position and/or applying should go to:

https://jobs.msu.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1321557704946

to review additional position information.

If the link above does not get you directly to the job posting, go to:

https://jobs.msu.edu

and search for faculty/academic staff position # 5469.

Application deadline is December 8, 2011

Individuals with questions about the position can contact me at the e-mail below. Rich Pirog – Senior Associate Director, C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Position Summary

Required: A Master's in Business Admin, Communications science, or related food, agriculture, and health disciplines.

Rich Pirog

Senior Associate Director

C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

CARRS

313 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

Phone: 517-353-0694

E-mail: rspirog@msu.edu

Web:: www.mottgroup.msu.edu

FW: Solicitation 2000000700: Fresh Fruit Pilot Program – Request for Proposal

2011-11-28T11:14:00.000-08:00

Greetings,

Please see information below and attached from the USDA regarding requests for proposals to supply produce for the Fresh Produce Pilot program, which is set to begin in Michigan and Florida in January 2012. Produce items for the pilot program include apples, lettuce, blueberries, carrots, grapes and oranges.

All applicable documents for this pilot program can be found on our website http://www.ams.usda.gov/commoditypurchasing. Select Fresh Product Pilot in the dropdown list.

Interested farmers and vendors, please note that details about this program will be shared by represenatives from the USDA in a Farm to Institution session from 2-4 pm on Wednesday, December 7th at the Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo in Grand Rapids. Find more info about Expo at www.glexpo.com.

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

From: Hernandez, Sara - AMS [Sara.Hernandez@ams.usda.gov]
Sent: Monday, November 28, 2011 11:57 AM
To: Hernandez, Sara - AMS
Subject: FW: Solicitation 2000000700: Fresh Fruit Pilot Program – Request for Proposal

Attention Staff and Vendors:

Please see attachment. Solicitation 2000000700: Fresh Fruit Pilot Program – Request for Proposal

All RFP questions should be submitted in writing to James Sprandel at James.Sprandel@ams.usda.gov and Felicitas Lofton at Felicitas.Lofton@ams.usda.gov.

Feel free to direct your procedural questions to the AMS Helpdesk.

· Email: wbscmamshelpdesk@ams.usda.gov

Feel free to direct your technical questions to the WBSCM Helpdesk.

· Phone: 877-WBSCM-4U

Email: WBSCMhelp@ams.usda.gov

Chyra C. Lewis

Contract Specialist

USDA, AMS, Commodity Procurement Division

1400 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20250

Office: (202) 720-6392

Michigan Farm to School News

2011-11-18T13:55:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Please see below for the latest Farm to School news bites!

Enjoy the weekend,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

NEWS

Senate Saves the Potato on School Lunch Menus

Proposed nutrition standards would limit the amount of potatoes and other starchy vegetables that can be served in school lunches and eliminating them from school breakfasts, but the Senate defended the potato by approving an amendment that would prohibit the USDA from setting “any maximum limits on the serving of vegetables in school meal programs.” Read last month’s story from the New York Times here.

School Lunch Proposals Set Off A Dispute

Attempts to make the federally financed school lunch program more nutritious by cutting back on potatoes and adding more fresh fruits and vegetables are being disputed by some food companies. Read the full New York Times story here.

Direct and Intermediated Marketing of Local Foods in the United States, a report released earlier this month from the USDA Economic Research Service found that marketing local foods grossed $4.8 billion in 2008. Check out the report here.

Michigan Farmers Deliver Fresh Vegetables and Fruit for Students’ Lunches

With the help of Michigan State University’s Farm to School Extension Program, local farmers and school service directors are connecting to serve more local, farm fresh produce in school meals. See the press release attached about how Plum Market Food Service is working to get more farm fresh produce into Detroit Country Day Schools.

FoodCorps and Farm to School Month in Local Schools

· Macomb County celebrated the first ever National Farm to School Month in October. See attachment for press release.

· One Michigan FoodCorps member, Daniel Marbury, is working with students at Platte River Elementary School in Honor, MI to help them learn about local and nutritious foods. Watch a video here. Learn more about Platte River Elementary’s new hoophouse and Farm to School Month in Michigan in “A Growing Idea” from Morning Star Publishing Company.

· More recently, another Michigan FoodCorps member, Robyn Wardell, taught students at Freeman Elementary in Flint Community Schools about their new hoophouse. See the news video here.

Chicago Public Schools Lunch Buzz:

· Chartwells-Thompson Hospitality Expands Farm-to-School Program to $2.5 Million in Local Produce: Chicago Public Schools, through Chartwells-Thompson Hospitality has spent more than $2.5 million in fresh fruits and vegetables purchased from regional producers and growers. To celebrate National Farm to School Month, students visited Riveridge Produce in Sparta, MI. Read more here from Market Watch.

School Food FOCUS Learning Lab district Chicago Public Schools (CPS) rolled out an exciting new menu item: Rachael Ray's Windy City Chicken with whole-muscle, bone-in chicken leg quarters from USDA Foods! To watch a report from the local Chicago NBC affiliate, click here.

· Chicago Schools Make Big Antibiotic-free Poultry Purchase from a nearby Amish farm. Read the full story on Food Safety News.

Read US Senator Dick Durbin’s (D-IL) op-ed in the Chicago Tribune about CPS’s substantial changes to its school meals program.
An anonymous "Mrs. Q" has been blogging about her experience eating school lunch for the past year on her blog Fed Up With Lunch, and has finally unveiled her true identity last week via the Chicago Tribune, Good Morning America, and USA Today, in announcements timed with the launch of her new book.

RESOURCES

Check out the On-Farm Food Safety For Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Growers Tool developed by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture that is designed to assist fresh fruit and vegetable growers with tools and resources to meet on-farm food safety demands. Click here to access this tool.

Access the Healthy Food, Healthy Farms webinar: “School Food Revolution?" webinar recording and presentation slides from Oct 6 on the Healthy Food Action website.

View the archived "School Nutrition Foundation/USDA GAP in Farm to School and School Gardens Webinar" here.

OPPORTUNITIES

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) Announces the Fourth Annual Growing Green Awards to Honor Extraordinary Contributions in Sustainable Food. A Growing Green Award will be given to an outstanding individual in each of four categories including Food Producer, Business Leader, Food Justice Leader, and Young Food Leader. Cash prizes range from $2,500 - $10,000. See attachment for more details.

USDA’s Rural Development Community Facilities (CF) Grant
This is an opportunity for public entities in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population to develop essential community facilities including those for food systems infrastructure. Click here to learn more.

EVENTS

Get Farming! Fall Workshops offered by the Michigan Land Use Institute

See article here with online registration available here.

Contact Jim Sluyter at the Michigan Land Use Institute at 231-941-6584, ext. 15 or jimsluyter@mlui.org for more information.

· Michigan’s Safe Food Risk Assessment Program offered by the Michigan Land Use Institute and the Grand Traverse Conservation District
Wednesday, November 16, 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City

· Good Agricultural Practices - the GAP Audit offered by Michigan Food & Farming Systems and the Michigan Land Use Institute

Thursday, November 17, 9:00 a.m. - 3 p.m.
NW Michigan Horticultural Research Center, 6686 S. Center Hwy (County Rd 633)
Attendance is limited to the first 50 registrants.

Farm to Institution Meet & Greet Event for West/Southwest Michigan

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

1:30-3:00 pm

Lake Michigan College, South Haven Campus, Rm 141

125 Veterans Dr

South Haven, MI 49090

See flyer attached for more information.

This event is free. Please RSVP to Kendra Wills with MSU Extension at 616.336.2028 or willsk@anr.msu.edu by November 21, 2011.

Great Lakes Fresh Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo

December 6-8 at the DeVos Place Convention Center in Grand Rapids, MI

Find more information and register at www.glexpo.com.

Check out the Farm to Institution session on Wednesday, December 7^th from 2-4 pm!

Michigan Family Farms Conference

Saturday, January 14^th, 2012

Lakeview High School in Battle Creek, MI

Click here for more information.

Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference

Saturday, January 28^th, 2012

Grayling High School in Grayling, MI

Click here for more information.

2nd Annual Beginning Farmer and Rancher Conference

February 18-20, 2012

Grand Rapids, MI

Click here to learn more.

FW: Position Posting - Academic Specialist/ Outreach - C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU

2011-11-18T10:56:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Please see below more information for this position posting with the Mott Group at MSU. Please do share this position posting with others who may be interested and qualified.

Thanks,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

From: Pirog, Rich
Sent: Friday, November 18, 2011 12:47 PM
To: carrs-all
Subject: Position Posting - Academic Specialist/ Outreach - C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU

Hello:

A position description summary is listed below. Individuals interested in learning more about this position and/or applying should go to:

https://jobs.msu.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1321557704946

to review additional position information.

If the link above does not get you directly to the job posting, go to:

https://jobs.msu.edu

and search for faculty/academic staff position # 5469.

Application deadline is December 8, 2011

Individuals with questions about the position can contact me at the e-mail below. Rich Pirog – Senior Associate Director, C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Position Summary

Required: A Master's in Business Admin, Communications science, or related food, agriculture, and health disciplines.

Rich Pirog

Senior Associate Director

C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

CARRS

313 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

Phone: 517-353-0694

E-mail: rspirog@msu.edu

Web:: www.mottgroup.msu.edu

To unsubscribe from this list, send an email with "SIGNOFF MIDMICHIGANFOOD" in the message body to LISTSERV@LIST.MSU.EDU.

To join this list, send an email with "SUBSCRIBE MIDMICHIGANFOOD" in the message body to LISTSERV@LIST.MSU.EDU.

FW: Registration Open for Produce Safety Webinar on November 16 - Addressing Food Safety When Purchasing Fresh Produce

2011-11-10T19:04:00.000-08:00

FYI!

From: Skolmowski, Julie - FNS [Julie.Skolmowski@fns.usda.gov]
Subject: Registration Open for Produce Safety Webinar on November 16 - Addressing Food Safety When Purchasing Fresh Produce

Hello!

On November 16, USDA and SNF are offering the second produce safety webinar in our four-part webinar series during SY2011-12. As past participants of Produce Safety University, you may be interested in attending or sharing the link with others. Registration is available at: www.schoolnutrition.org/producepurchasing

This webinar will include the following speakers:

· Loren LaCorte, USDA FNS, speaking on procurement regulations and the geographic preference rule.

· Stew Eidel and Sarah Trist, Maryland Department of Education

· Diane Duncan-Goldsmith, Iowa City Community School District

Stew, Sarah, and Diane have all been to Produce Safety University and will be a talking about experiences in success stories in Maryland and Iowa. There will be a follow up "Peer-to-Peer" Call for more questions and answers on November 22.

If you missed the GAPs and school gardens webinar but would like to view the archive, it will be available on November 14 at www.schoolnutrition.org/schoolgardens.

Sincerely,

Julie

Julie Skolmowski, MPH, RD, SNS

Food Safety Specialist

Office of Food Safety

USDA Food and Nutrition Service

3101 Park Center Drive, 5th Floor

Alexandria, VA 22302

(703) 305-1093

julie.skolmowski@fns.usda.gov

Farm to School and MI MarketMaker work to improve children's school menus

2011-10-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

As National Farm to School month comes to a close, I wanted to share new information about MI MarketMaker (www.mimarketmaker.msu.edu), which can help schools and other institutional markets connect with Michigan farmers and food suppliers. See below and attached for more information about how schools, hospitals and colleges can use this online venue to link to local food!

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

__________________________________________

Contact: Tom Kalchik

kalchikt@msu.edu/ 517-432-8752

Farm to School and MI MarketMaker work to improve children’s school menus

East Lansing, MI (October 31, 2011) - Every child deserves access to nutritious food. With more than 30 million children eating school cafeteria meals daily, it is imperative that we promote healthy, balanced eating habits to help prevent obesity and other health-related disorders in our youth.

Help celebrate the first National Farm to School Month this October by using MI MarketMaker to find local producers of fresh fruits and vegetables. “The Michigan State University Product Center brought MarketMaker into Michigan because it is a powerful tool to help buyers and producers connect with each other,” says Tom Kalchik, Associate Director of the MSU Product Center. Use the Search function of MI MarketMaker to find growers of specific crops in a local area, or more general fruit, vegetable, meat, grain or other types of products.

“Farm to school programs are growing strong in Michigan,” said Colleen Matts, Farm to Institution Specialist with the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU. “Schools seek a wider variety of local produce for more of the school year as they begin and expand farm to school programs. MI MarketMaker is an opportunity to connect the dots between farmers and school nutrition and food service directors to get local food to our school children.” Along with Florida, Michigan is slated to participate in a USDA Fresh Produce Pilot program starting in 2012 which aims to bring more fresh produce to schools.

Kalchik encourages all school food buyers and farmers interested in selling to local schools to register on MI MarketMaker. The process is easy. Just go to www.mimarketmaker.msu.edu and click on the Register button in the Register Your Business panel. School food buyers need to register by selecting “Buyer” from the dropdown menu, then “Institutional – Education” in the Buyer Type tab. Then complete the rest of the profile, including the information in the Geographic Area tab and Vendor Protocols tab. Remember, the more detail, the more searchable you are and the easier you are to find.

Producers interested in taking advantage of the buy local trend for the school lunch program should also register on MI MarketMaker. If you are already registered user, simply log into your MarketMaker profile and find the “Methods of Sale” area under the type of products you offer. By checking the “Farm to School” box, buyers are able to search for your business as they seek out healthy food purchases for local educational institutions. If you are not registered, go to www.mimarketmaker.msu.edu and click on the Register button in the Register Your Business panel. Select “Farmer” from the dropdown list. Complete your business profile for the crops you produce and the way you produce them (look for the tabs at the top of the profile page for Dairy, Fruits and Nuts, Meat, Vegetables, etc. so you have a complete profile of your farm). In the “Methods of Sales” section, click on the “Farm to School” box. Complete the rest of profile information, remembering that the more detail you provide, the easier it will be for a buyer to find you.

National Farm to School month in October and the USDA pilot program in Michigan for farm to school purchases provide great opportunities to improve the diets of school children and increase economic development in Michigan. MI MarketMaker can help school lunch buyers and growers make these programs successful and bring more fresh, local produce to Michigan children.

For more information about MI MarketMaker, visit www.mimarketmaker.msu.edu or contact Tom Kalchik at kalchikt@msu.edu or 517-432-8752. For more information about Michigan Farm to School, visit www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu.

###

FW: Action needed TODAY to support School Food in the Farm Bill!

2011-10-28T11:27:00.000-07:00

---
Sheilah Davidson
Policy Program Manager and Stakeholder Liaison
sdavidson@schoolfoodfocus.org
845 339-2824

School Food FOCUS
Public Health Solutions
40 Worth Street, Floor 5
New York, NY 10013
http://www.schoolfoodfocus.org/

School Food FOCUS is a national collaborative that leverages the knowledge and procurement power of large school districts to make school meals nationwide more healthful, regionally sourced, and sustainably produced.

Hi all,

Please see a note below from our colleagues at School Food FOCUS regarding a call for action to support school food in the Farm Bill.

Enjoy the weekend,

Colleen

From: Sheilah Davidson, School Food FOCUS [sdavidson@schoolfoodfocus.org]
Sent: Friday, October 28, 2011 11:55 AM
Subject: Action needed TODAY to support School Food in the Farm Bill!

IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED!!

PLEASE CALL MICHIGAN SENATOR STABENOW TODAY TO SUPPORT SCHOOL FOOD IN THE FARM BILL BEING SHAPED RIGHT NOW!

The Food and Farm Bill is a vital opportunity to develop policies that deliver affordable, regionally produced food to schools. In order to get their priorities in ahead of the Supercommittee deadline for budget cuts, the House and Senate Agriculture Committee leadership is planning to rewrite the Food and Farm Bill by Thursday, November 3. This would be the fastest farm bill decision-making process in history!

Your action is critical because you are in or near a key congressional district, and because FOCUS has relatively few districts nationwide that are as well placed. Please call Senator Stabeno at (202) 224-4822 with the message below.

Please start with the basic message in italics below and add one or more of the bulleted talking points, focusing on what you think your member will be most open to. For example, Senator Stabenow is interested in access to fruits and vegetables.

The Message: I am a constituent and stakeholder of School Food FOCUS, calling Senator Stabenow to say: School food can be central to the solution of childhood obesity and the Farm Bill can help school districts bring in more healthful food. Strengthening small and mid-scale farms and supporting regional processing facilities are vital to more healthful, sustainable school food procurement. The nation's core anti-hunger and sustainable farming programs are equally important, and should not be pitted against one another. There are no cost provisions within existing programs that can meet these goals. For example (pick one)

· I support increased access to healthful foods for school districts, especially in underserved markets. For example (pick one)

o Congress should protect existing programs that provide incentives for regional producers to sell minimally processed foods to school districts.

o School districts in underserved areas should be eligible to apply for funding that targets access to food.

· I support policies that increase access to regionally grown foods for schools. For example (pick one)

o I urge you to reauthorize Food and Farm Bill programs that support regional school food supply chains.

o Please ensure that any new regional development programs' funds can also be used to support improvements along school food supply chains.

o Congress should encourage USDA agencies to purchase regional foods for school food service.

o Congress should encourage USDA to recognize schools that serve regional foods in their school meal programs.

Note: If the staffer seems interested, you can offer to share the full document outlining School Food FOCUS policy recommendations.

Thank you for taking action!

FW: NOV. 5th - 2011 Community & School Gardener Networking Meeting: Register now!

2011-10-26T14:07:00.001-07:00

FYI!

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

matts@msu.edu

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

From: Scott, Anne C. [mailto:annemisener@ANR.MSU.EDU]
Sent: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 2:47 PM
To: YOUTHGROW@LIST.MSU.EDU
Subject: NOV. 5th - 2011 Community & School Gardener Networking Meeting: Register now!

Hello Michigan school and community gardeners!

2011 Community School Gardener Networking Meeting NOV.5th is just a week and 1/2 away!

Location: Wayne County Community College Eastern Campus in Detroit! (5901 Conner Street, Detroit, MI)

Don't delay! Register now:You can register by clicking here or get in touch with Anne Scott (scottann@msu.edu or 517 353 0751) or Michelle Jackson (smallvillefarms@gmail.com or 313 721 8220).

Here is a sneak peak at some of the sessions planned: Land Use, Planning and Land Banking, Serving School Garden Grown Food in the Cafeteria, Horticulture Vocational Training for Young Adults with Disabilities, the Farm Bill and Why it Matters, Classroom-based Hands-on Gardening, the WISE Woman Gardeners

OPEN SPACE: Open Space offers an opportunity for participants to spark discussions and network around shared interests. You initiate a topic or join one of most interest to you.

YOUTH TRACK!: Youth ages 10-17, 9:30-4:00, The day is looking to be FULL of creativity, expression, and …of course, FUN. As part of the youth track we will learn to shoot video, create questions and conduct an interview. We will apply skills to collect footage for a "message video" about school and community gardening. We will also learn about marketing produce, youth/adult stereotypes and positive youth/adult partnerships, team work and communication.

For more details or to updates by visiting www.miyouthandfood.msu.edu, find us on Facebook, or contact Anne 517 353 0751 scottann@msu.edu or Michelle 313 721 8220 smallvillefarms@gmail.com.

Hope to see you there!

~CSGNM Planning Team

Farm Bill Action Alert

2011-10-24T20:42:00.000-07:00

FARM BILL 2012 IS BEING WRITTEN NOW!

We Have Only 1 Week To Increase Access to Healthy Food In America.

October 24, 2011

Today is Food Day and it's the perfect time for you to ensure access to healthy food for you, your family and your community. Congress is writing the 2012 Farm Bill proposal by November 1st.

YOUR CALL TO CONGRESS TODAY WILL ENSURE JOB CREATION, HEALTH AND RESILIENCY TOMORROW!

It's critical that we each take action to influence the primary legislative tool that ensures the viability of organic farming in America.

CALL YOUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TODAY!

Senator Debbie Stabenow can be reached at (202) 224-4822,

Senator Carl Levin can be reached at (202) 224-6221,

and go to http://www.house.gov/ to find the number for your Representative

Talk to a person, or leave a message, BUT PLEASE MAKE CONTACT!

The Points to Make Are Simple:

* I am your constituent. I want you to support the fastest growing form of agriculture in America- Organic Farming. You must increase funding for critical organic programs in the Farm Bill proposal to the Super Committee.

* Organic programs ensure job creation and economic growth.

* You must increase funding for:
          o Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative.
          o Organic Data Initiative.
          o National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program.
          o National Organic Program.
          o Conservation Programs.

Please Call your Congressional Delegation TODAY!

Join the Organic Farming Action Network Today! http://ofrf.org/action/action.html

P.S. - Don't forget to share this with your friends and family!

This email was sent by: Organic Farming Research Foundation
P.O. Box 440, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA

--
Melissa Hornaday, Great Lakes Organizer
Organic Farming Research Foundation
4751 Trumbull St Detroit, MI 48208
313-525-2372
melissa@ofrf.org
www.ofrf.org

Join the Organic Farming Action Network Today! http://ofrf.org/action/action.html

FW: This Week : Farm to School in the Great Lakes

2011-10-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Please see news and opportunities below from Vanessa Herald, our Farm to School Coordinator for the Great Lakes Region. Happy Farm to School Month!

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

303 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

From: Vanessa Herald [mailto:vherald@wisc.edu]
Sent: Wednesday, October 19, 2011 4:03 PM
To: JoAnne Berkenkamp; Sara Tedeschi; Matts, Colleen; Julia Govis; Laura Hormuth; Julie Fox
Subject: This Week : Farm to School in the Great Lakes

Hi All,

Happy Week 3 of National Farm to School Month! Hope the month of celebration is treating you well. Please keep us all posted on your Farm to School Month events. All the week’s news is below, please send out to your farm to school networks.

Best!

vanessa

A. Farm to School Month Poster Contest!
The National Farm to School Network and Annie's Root 4 Kids will be giving away $1,000 to three winning Farm to School programs in celebration of the first National Farm to School Month! Download the full contest rules and submission guidelines for more information.The deadline is October 31. Feel free to use the language in the For Your Information section.

B. Check out the new designs added to the Farm to School Month Shop last week at: http://www.printfection.com/Farmtoschoolmonth
Printfection is running a few good sales through through this Thursday:

Coupon Code: SuperDuperShip (free shipping)
Coupon Code: SuperSave$10 ($10 off $50 or more)
Coupon Code: Scary35% (35% off $100 or more)

Share your Farm to School Month Events!
Please continue to share your Farm to School Month activities with the Network folks. Send event details (before or after they occur!) to info@nationalfarmtoschoolmonth.org

Bonus Lunch Bites Webinar This week

Farm to School: Cooking with Children in the Classroom - Thu, Oct 20th, 2011 11am CST
Want to learn tips for bringing dynamic cooking experiences to children? Ever wonder which recipes work best in the classroom setting? Whether you are a community organizer, parent or teacher, this webinar will offer key considerations and solutions to cooking in the classroom. https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/244218009

NPR is looking for School Lunch Stories
NPR is on the hunt for “a story of a stand-out school lunch leader we should know about? Or a unique local supply chain in your district?” Please, please share your tale with the NPR folks at thesalt@npr.org. The original blog post and news stories can be found at this link:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2011/10/12/141264343/supply-labor-money-keys-to-getting-more-local-food-into-schools?sc=fb&cc=fp

Healthy Schools Campaign Hiring Manager of Prof. Dev for Education and Wellness
Healthy Schools Campaign (HSC) is seeking a full-time Manager of Professional Development for Education and Wellness to support teachers, principals and other school employees (e.g., school nurses, resource coordinators, administrators) as they become health and wellness leaders in Chicago schools.

The position is part of the Chicago Partnership for Healthy Schools, a multi-faceted program dedicated to establishing healthy school environments that promote student wellness and achievement, and address the health crisis of childhood obesity. The Chicago Partnership’s current focus is Go for the Gold, a three-year partnership with Chicago Public Schools and others to challenge and support schools as they make improvements to their school food, nutrition education, physical activity and physical education programs. Schools are making these improvements as part of their participation in the USDA’s HealthierUS School Challenge, a key component of the First Lady’s Let’s Move initiative.

The coordinator’s role will be to implement existing programs and develop new programs to support teachers, principals and other school staff to be health and wellness leaders in their schools. More information and the application can be found here.

USDA NIFA Accepting Applications for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program

The Request for Application for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) is now available, and applications are due by November 22, 2011. Projects will be awarded in 2012 and performed between October 2012 and September 2013. Approximately $19 million is expected to be available. More information is available here: http://blogs.usda.gov/2011/10/14/nifa-now-accepting-applications-for-the-beginning-farmer-and-rancher-development-program/

Updates from USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

"How Procurement Works: Planning, Executing, and Administering a Competitive Procurement" is available as a free online procurement training. The training is open to the public and Topic 2 provides detailed information about each stage of the procurement process for the Child Nutrition Programs. For more information, including registration, visit the USDA Farm to School Team's policy webpage athttp://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/F2S/f2spolicy.htm. Click on "USDA Online Procurement Training."

USDA Support for Rural Development Communities Facilities Program

FNS recently published a memorandum encouraging school food service facilities, Head Start centers, pre-schools, adult day care centers, child day care centers, and food preparation centers to consider the USDA’s Rural Development Community Facilities Program grants and loans as a funding option to upgrade their community’s child nutrition facilities and purchase equipment to improve access to healthy, locally, or regionally grown products. Grant information can be found here: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HCF_CF.html

National Farmers Union Curriculum Focuses on Nutrition and Food System

National Farmers Union’s (NFU) “Growing Good Taste” curriculum provides teachers with lesson plans that address healthy nutrition, responsible eating habits, and connecting food to America’s family farms and ranches. The lessons also emphasize knowing the food supply system from field to fork. Many of the activities have students preparing food items to gain a better understanding of healthy ingredients. NFU’s curriculum is available free of charge and may be found at http://www.nfu.org/education/education-materials. There are four different one-hour lessons for grades 1-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Additional lessons for collegiate and adult students are also online. These lessons originally were written for volunteer leaders to teach youth attending Farmers Union summer camps and day classes.

October is National Farm to School Month!
Visit www.farmtoschoolmonth.org for Details.

Vanessa Herald
Great Lakes Region Farm to School Network Coordinator
Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems
University of Wisconsin - Madison
608.263.6064
vherald@wisc.edu

www.cias.wisc.edu
www.farmtoschool.org

FW: MI Farm to School Training Opportunities for School Food Service Directors - Oct 17th, 19th, and 21st

2011-10-12T15:50:00.001-07:00

Greetings Michigan school food service directors,

We still have some space available in each of the three Farm to School trainings listed below. Please RSVP to me by 5 pm on Thursday, October 13^th if you’re interested in attending! See details below.

Thanks,

Colleen

Are you interested in starting or expanding a farm to school program? If so, please join us for one of the Michigan Farm to School: Scaling Up and Branching Out regional trainings the week of October 17^th!

This series of afternoon training sessions is being offered by the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU through the new MI Farm to School Grant Program (http://www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu/index.php?id=348). Funded by the WK Kellogg Foundation, the MI Farm to School Grant Program provides farm to school planning and implementation mini-grants to school food service directors at schools/districts with 50% free and reduced rates or greater. Eight MI Farm to School grants were awarded this first, pilot year, and all grantees will attend the training nearest them. We’re happy to extend the invitation to Michigan school food service directors interested in starting or expanding their farm to school programs!

MI Farm to School training dates and locations are as follows:

· Monday, October 17^th, 12-4:15 pm

Grayling Charter Township

2090 Viking Way

Grayling, MI 49738

· Wednesday, October 19^th, 12-4:30 pm

Kent County Michigan State University Extension Office

775 Ball Ave NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

· Friday, October 21^st, 12 – 4:30 pm

Livingston County Michigan State University Extension Office

2300 E Grand River Ave., Suite 111

Howell, MI 48843

The first hour of the training will focus on starting farm to school programs and the step-by-step guide to connecting with local farmers and purchasing local products. The remainder will focus on expanding farm to school programs, offering a greater range of products through more avenues. Tools and information from Produce Safety University, a national training offered by the National Food Service Management Institute and the USDA, will also be shared. The agenda is the same for each training, but we hope to draw on the farm to school experiences of attendees.

Please RSVP to me at matts@msu.edu or 517.432.0310 to reserve your spot for any one of the training opportunities. RSVPs will be taken on a first come first serve basis as we have space constraints in a couple of locations. More details will follow!

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

303 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

Farm to School News - National Farm to School Month edition!

2011-10-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

Greetings and Happy National Farm to School Month! Here’s the latest farm to school update:

NEWS

October is National Farm to School Month!

Join as a Farm to School Month Partner by e-mailing info@farmtoschoolmonth.org. Click here for Farm to School month resources and materials!

Updated State by State Farm to School Legislation document now available

This updated document (attached) provides summaries and links to legislation regarding farm to school, now passed in 35 states!

NFSN receives CDC Community Transformation Grant

The National Farm to School Network at Occidental College has received a CDC Community Transformation Dissemination Grant to support access to and interest in healthy food and farm to school initiatives in low-income communities and communities of color nationwide.

Fresh Produce for Schools

As announced in July, the USDA Agriculture Marketing Service and Food and Nutrition Service is preparing for a pilot program to bring more fresh produce into schools in Michigan and Florida with entitlement dollars. Information about the program, including an info sheet and a chart of the process, is now available online.

USDA Farm to School Website Updates

· A new interactive map has been added to guide you to farm to school contacts at state government agencies and Cooperative Extension offices across the country.

· Resources on local meat, eggs and dairy, including grading and inspection of meat and poultry and availability of slaughterhouses, have been added to the Food Safety section of the website found here.

Census Releases State-by-State Poverty Data

U.S. Census Bureau released new data that show the extent of poverty, including child poverty, in every state in 2010. Visit FRAC’s website for state-by-state charts on poverty and child poverty.

September MarketMaker Newsletter highlights Farm to School

Check it out here.

Governor Draws Health, Wellness Lessons from MI Good Food Charter

In mid-September, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder shared his ideas for improving health and wellness, including farm to school and healthier nutrition standards at schools. Full text of Governor Snyder’s address is available here. On a related note, Keith Creagh, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture, spoke about food access in this piece from Lansing’s Channel 6 news.

Montague Area Public Schools and Whitehall District Schools attempt to set world record for the “most people eating apples at one time" – with Michigan apples! See attachment for press release.

Washtenaw County: Farm to School programs recognized nationally in October

Schools all over the nation are celebrating the first National Farm to School Month thanks to a resolution passed by Congress last year. Click here to read more about what's happening with Farm to School in Michigan.

Flint and Detroit schools are participating the USDA Community Eligibility Option Program, a pilot program that provides all students, regardless of economic status, with two free meals and snacks each school day if 40% or more of the children in a school/district qualify for free lunch. Click here to read the full story about Flint School District, and read more about Detroit Public Schools here.

Federal government requirements force some schools to increase lunch prices, possibly for multiple years to come

A new rule, “Paid Lunch Price Equity,”which is based on how much the government reimburses schools for free lunches has led to increases in the cost of lunch in at least 12 Genesee County area school districts. Read the full story here.

Scaling-up Connections between Regional Ohio Specialty Crop Producers and Local Markets: Distribution as the Missing Link

This Ohio State University report explores the opportunities for scaling up distribution of local fruits and vegetables in Ohio through conventional distribution and retail methods. Read the full report here.

RESOURCES

"School Health Guidelines to Promote Healthy Eating and Physical Activity"
Just released by the CDC, this guide includes information about healthy school environments and farm to school.

“Farm to School for parents” Webinar

An archived version of the webinar is now available here.

The Michigan Junior Chef 2011 Cookbook, with a food service edition, and videos are now available online.

MIFFS has released online a project report titled "Maximizing Engagement To Minimize Food Safety Risk: Improving Training and Regulatory Impacts for Small Processors, Producers, and Food Entrepreneurs".

Iowa Farm to School Toolkit to Celebrate Farm-to-School Month
This toolkit (attached) is a template for other locations to use to celebrate the month!

OPPORTUNITIES

Michigan Economic Development Corporation in partnership with Michigan State University and Michigan Department of Agriculture is offering financial support to farmers, non-profit organizations and educational facilities to construct hoop houses, high tunnels, unheated greenhouses or other passive solar system in Michigan. See flyer attached for more information about the Farm to Food Program.

Submit your original video that shows creative ways students are tackling the problem of childhood hunger to USDA's Ending Childhood Hunger Video Contest. Click here for more information on how to enter.

The Culinary Trust announced a grant program for culinary professionals to help implement Michelle Obama's Chefs Move to Schools initiative. Small grants may be used for gardens, curriculum, cooking classes, cafeteria, etc. Information and application can be found here.

Small Grant Program for Schools Promoting Healthy Eating and Physical Activity
The U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health has a small grant program for schools interested in promoting health eating and physical activity. To be eligible, 80% or more of students must qualify for federal food programs. Grant funds are to be used to help schools meet the requirements of the Healthier U.S. School Challenge, the USDA’s recognition program. Five grants of $5,000 each will be awarded. Click here for more details.

EVENTS

USDA and the School Nutrition Foundation are offering a webinar titled “Applying Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) to Farm-to-School and School Gardens”

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

2-3:15 pm EST

Click here to register

FRAC Webinars:

· Child Nutrition Reauthorization: Putting the Act into Action Webinar
School Year 2011-2012 - New Opportunities to Increase Nutrition Resources for Low-Income School-Age Children
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
1 – 2 pm EST
Click here to register

· Afterschool Meals Matter Conference Calls: Reducing Administrative Barriers

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

1:00 pm EST
Click here to register

· Afterschool Meals Matter Conference Calls: Building School Participation

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

1:00 pm EST

Click here to register

Michigan Nutrition Standards Toolkit Training

November 7 – 11, 2011 from 8 am – 3 pm at sites around Michigan

· Monday, November 7^th – Kent County Health Department, Grand Rapids

· Tuesday, November 8^th – Oakland Intermediate School District, Waterford

· Wednesday, November 9^th – Winding Brook Conference Center, Shepherd

· Thursday, November 10^th – Marquette-Alger RESA, Marquette

· Friday, November 11^th – Grand Traverse Resort, Acme

See attached flyers for details and a link to register.

School Nutrition Association of Michigan Conference

November 11-13, 2011

Grand Traverse Resort

Traverse City, MI

Click here to register

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

303 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

FW: RFP for Healthy Schools Mini-grant program due Oct 13th

2011-10-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

FYI

2012 OMH Healthy School Environments Action Learning Collaborative

Award Announcement Letter

September 1, 2011

SUBJECT: Application for 2012 Healthy School Environments: Promoting Healthful School Food, Nutrition Education, Physical Activity and Physical Education.

Dear Colleagues,

This letter is to announce the launch of a Request for Proposal for participation in the Office of Minority Health Healthy School Environments Action Learning Collaborative.

We hope you can share with your networks in order to have the widest pool of applicants possible, and to ensure that schools and organizations in underserved communities learn about this opportunity.

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants are individual public schools (non-charter) located in the 50 states, and the District of Columbia that participate in the National School Lunch Program and have a low income student population of 80% or greater (as determined by percentage of students eligible for free and reduced school meals). Not-for-profit organizations that have been directed by a school to apply for the award are also eligible. Applicants must also be official USDA Team Nutrition Schools.

Purpose of Program

The purpose of Healthy School Environments: Promoting Healthful School Food, Nutrition Education, Physical Activity and Physical Education is to support schools in low income communities as they strive to improve the long term health and success of students through the successful adoption of the USDA's HealthierUS School Challenge standards.

Grant Period: January 1, 2012-December 31, 2012

Deadline to Apply

Online applications must be submitted by no later than 5:00 p.m. EST on Thursday, October 13, 2011. Print Applications must be postmarked no later than October 13, 2011.

Award Announcement Date: December 1, 2011

How to Apply

You can download the application from OMH website on the following link: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/Assets/pdf/Checked/1/HSEALC.pdf

Email completed application to iestrada@minorityhealth.hhs.gov and send by surface mail the completed application and cover letter signed by the project lead and the school principal.

Reporting

Since this is a learning endeavor, an interim and final report of lessons learned, and input in the final report of the Action Learning Collaborative are conditions of the utilization of the funds.

Information and Assistance

For information on the application and/or the award contact Isabel M. Estrada-Portales, Ph.D. at iestrada@minorityhealth.hhs.gov or 1-800-444-6472.

Dear Advisory Committee Members,

Today is the day! So, we are launching today the Request for Proposals.

You can find a link to the RFP here: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/Assets/pdf/Checked/1/HSEALC.pdf

Also, a link to the whole Action Learning Collaborative is here: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/templates/browse.aspx?lvl=3&lvlID=578

Please, forward this to all your contacts. Use Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and any other means available.

Let's all give it our all and see what we get.

To our children!

ALC Link: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/templates/browse.aspx?lvl=3&lvlID=578

RFP Link: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/Assets/pdf/Checked/1/HSEALC.pdf

To be a health leader, be a follower of OMH on Twitter!

Isabel M. Estrada-Portales, Ph.D., M.S.
Director of Communications
Office of Minority Health Resource Center
1101 Wootton Parkway, Suite 650
Rockville, MD 20852
800.444.6472, ext. 223
minorityhealth.hhs.gov

iestrada@minorityhealth.hhs.gov
https://twitter.com/MinorityHealth

It is not the avoidance of conflict that leads to peace; it is the responsible and respectful handling of differences that establishes peaceful principles.

There are two kinds of people, those who do the work and those who take the credit. Try to be in the first group; there is less competition there." Indira Gandhi

A leader is best when people barely know he exists.
Not so good when people obey and acclaim him.
Worse when they despise him.
Fail to honor people,
They fail to honor you.
But of a good leader, who talks little
When his work is done, his aim fulfilled,
The people will say, "We did this ourselves."
- Lao-tsu

MI Farm to School Training Opportunities for School Food Service Directors - Oct 17th, 19th, and 21st

2011-10-05T04:28:00.000-07:00

Greetings Michigan school food service directors,

This series of afternoon training sessions is being offered by the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU through the new MI Farm to School Grant Program (http://www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu/index.php?id=348), which provides farm to school planning and implementation mini-grants to school food service directors at schools/districts with 50% free and reduced rates or greater. Eight MI Farm to School grants were awarded this first, pilot year, and all grantees will attend the training nearest them. We're happy to extend the invitation to Michigan school food service directors interested in starting or expanding their farm to school programs!

MI Farm to School training dates and locations are as follows:

· Monday, October 17^th, 12-4:15 pm

Grayling Charter Township

2090 Viking Way

Grayling, MI 49738

· Wednesday, October 19^th, 12-4:30 pm

Kent County Michigan State University Extension Office

775 Ball Ave NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

· Friday, October 21^st, 12 – 4:30 pm

Livingston County Michigan State University Extension Office

2300 E Grand River Ave., Suite 111

Howell, MI 48843

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

303 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

Re: Permaculture + Leadership + You: Tuition Deadline

2011-09-25T22:37:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

What would it feel like to wake up each morning knowing that
your life is profoundly aligned with your deepest values and
passions? Come envision a new future for yourself and for
our planet, rooted in sustainability, permaculture and
community. Read more @ http://commoncircle.com/pdc

The suburban permaculture and regenerative leadership retreats
we have coming up in northern and southern california will
change your life. Take a moment to read some of the amazing
things nearly one hundred past participants have said about
the program about their experience, and then make the leap
into the world and life you always wanted. You can read
some of the reviews at http://commoncircle.com/reviews

What: Regenerative Leadership & Urban Permaculture Design

Where: October 23 - November 4th - San Francisco Bay Area, CA
or December 17 - Dec 31st - San Diego County, CA
or April 7 - 22nd - Eugene, OR

-- We accept most financial aid, grants and Americorps awards
-- and you can get college credit for our programs. We also
-- offer highly flexible payment plans. Sign up early and
-- bring a friend FREE (contact us for details)!
--
-- Get more details @ http://www.commoncircle.com/pdc

"Common Circle's Permaculture Design course was a genuine heart
and mind opening experience. If you are interested in finding
how you can be part of the life giving earth healing solution
in today's global ecological and social crisis this course
gives you an in depth and extensive overview of what it takes
to make it happen. " - Jessica M, Course Graduate

During the workshop, we will talk about:

* Smart nature-inspired design principles
* Rainwater catchment and storage
* Greywater - smart water re-use with plant filters
* Food forests & garden design for food abundance
* Eco-psychology and Regenerative Leadership
* Intentional community design and dynamics
* Bio-remediation and toxic waste cleanup
* Natural building design - cob, strawbale and more
* Soil biology and regeneration
* Sustainable transportation and fuels
* Green business and sustainable economics
* Natural patterns and principles
* Everything you ever wanted to know about plants and soil!

When we speak about leadership, we speak about regenerative
leadership that makes people come alive because their deepest
passions come truly aligned with their day-to-day lives. It's
the kind of leadership our world needs most today -- not
leadership rooted in authority, but leadership rooted in
hope, inspiration and vision through alignment of values
and actions.

People come to our programs expecting to learn a ton about
plants - and they do, but they also learn a lot more about
people, leadership and community-building. Again - just go
read what past participants have said about our
life-altering programs.

--
-- Get more details @ http://www.commoncircle.com/pdc
--

Sign up before November 1st and you can bring a friend
with you with a huge discount on the tuition. We still
have a couple spaces left in the San Francisco course and
the December program is starting to fill up. Don't wait,
sign up today!

--
common circle education
14525 sw millikan way, suite 17760, beaverton, or 97005

Joanna Macy & Larry Korn - Regenerative Leadership and Urban Permaculture Design Certification Program - Los Altos, CA

2011-09-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

We're deeply honored to announce an incredible permaculture design
and regenerative leadership course with Larry Korn
(www.larrykorn.net), Joanna Macy (www.joannamacy.net), Kevin
Danaher (www.greenfestivals.com) and other amazing instructors!

With powerful instructors and a deeply rich curriculum grounded
in social/urban/suburuban permaculture and regenerative
leadership, this is the most powerful and complete permaculture
training available. As the nation's leadership, sustainable
living and permaculture school, Common Circle Education changes
people's lives. Join us to build the life you've always wanted
and the world where all beings thrive.

-- More info @
http://commoncircle.com/marketer/link.php?M=6340953&N=130&L=23&F=T --

Join an unforgettable program in leadership, permaculture and
sustainable design in California with the world's most renowned
instructors and change your life, your community and your
planet. Not only do Common Circle Education courses offer the
most complete curriculum of any similar course, but the people
who come to the programs make this the most powerful leadership
training offered anywhere.

What: Permaculture Design & Regenerative Leadership Certification
Who: Larry Korn (www.larrykorn.net)
Joanna Macy (www.joannamacy.net)
Where: The incredible Hidden Villa, Los Altos Hills, California
see www.hiddenvilla.org to get a sense of the
incredible retreat site where we hold these life-
changing programs!
When: October 23 - November 4th

-- More info @
http://commoncircle.com/marketer/link.php?M=6340953&N=130&L=23&F=T --

During the workshop, we will talk about:

"My experience in the course was invaluable. I find myself with a
new permaculture lens that I can put on at will, and see the world
around me in a way that I feel leads to making more conscious
decisions and living better in harmony with the earth."
- Deborah F., Course Graduate

This course will combine critical design skills with leadership,
nature connection, and most importantly an urban focus, building
and exceeding upon the internationally-recognized Permaculture
Design Certification curriculum. Our programs offer by far the
most complete curriculum of any similar course -- with a huge
focus on leadership, personal growth and community design as well
as green business.

You'll learn how to create sustainable, thriving human systems,
from green houses and organic gardens, to local micro-economies
and communities, using sustainable design principles that are
applicable to every human system, from businesses, communities,
and cities to personal relationships.

"The experiences I have had and people I have met through
Common Circle has been life changing. On these trips, a
community is created and everyone's individuality is honored,
welcomed and celebrated as you work together each day to
prepare meals, confront issues large and small and discover
how each and every one of us can be the change that we wish
to see in the world." - Marlee F, Course Graduate

Because of our unique focus on Urban and Suburban solutions,
our courses are radically different from most other programs,
teaching permaculture as a design science rooted in nature.
With most of the world's population in cities, we must
meet people where they live with real sustainable solutions.

-- More info @
http://commoncircle.com/marketer/link.php?M=6340953&N=130&L=23&F=T --

Starting by learning the lessons from nature with some of the
world's most renowned organic farming experts, we will then look
at how to apply what we learned from the soil and the water to
building sustainable, lasting institutions.

Common Circle Education is the nation's ecological design and
sustainable living school with courses in Oregon, Hawaii and
California; our instructors are some of the most well-known
leaders in sustainability, organics and permaculture design.

We hope you will be able to join us for this incredible,
life-changing experiential course!

Much gratitude,

Vladislav for Common Circle Education
commoncircle.com

--
common circle education
14525 sw millikan way, suite 17760, beaverton, or 97005
LOVE US ON FACEBOOK:
http://commoncircle.com/marketer/link.php?M=6340953&N=130&L=29&F=T

FW: USDA Announces Grants to Improve the Health and Future of America's Children

2011-09-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

FYI! This presents another opportunity to increase local food purchases as more fruits and veggies are added to school menus through this program.

Colleen

From: Yezak, Jennifer [mailto:Jennifer.Yezak@osec.usda.gov]
Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2011 4:32 PM
Subject: USDA Announces Grants to Improve the Health and Future of America's Children

Good afternoon,

Below is a news release announcing grants to improve the health and future of America's children. See the press below for grants awarded to your state. A copy of the news release is also attached. If you have any questions feel free to call me.

Best Regards,

Jennifer Yezak

Director, Office of External & Intergovernmental Affairs

USDA / 202-205-9994 / 202-720-6643 or 202-255-7061

USDA Announces Grants to Improve the Health and Future of America's Children

Team Nutrition Initiative Works to Alleviate Childhood Obesity and Promote Physical Activity

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2011-- Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced investments across the country to help children develop positive nutrition and physical activity habits that can lead to healthier lifestyles. The grants will provide nutrition education materials, resources for children and parents, and technical assistance and training for school food service providers and communities participating in the National School Lunch and Child and Adult Care Food Programs. The $6.4 million in funding supports elementary and secondary schools applying for the Healthier US School Challenge, a key component of the First Lady's Let's Move! initiative to end childhood obesity within a generation.

"If we want to build a strong economy and win the future, then we also need to win the race to educate our kids," said Vilsack. "And that means making sure that the 32 million kids who eat school lunches every day are fueled by nutritious food and healthy habits. With that winning combination we can help to reduce and prevent childhood obesity and ensure more healthful future for every child in America."

States will provide training and technical assistance to school food service staff in making school meals healthier, with more fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat milk products on the menu, during the two year grant period. Grantees will also promote the use of USDA Foods and teach children to make healthy food choices through hands-on nutrition education experiences. Parents in these states will be offered information on how to support healthy habits at home.

States had the opportunity to apply for up to two Team Nutrition Training Grants for fiscal year 2011, competitive and/or non-competitive. The non-competitive grant funds are awarded as a basis to support States in their efforts to significantly increase the number of schools applying for the Healthier US School Challenge. States that guarantee a specific number of HUSSC applications during the grant period received a non-competitive award. The 31 States receiving grants include:

	Competitive	Non- Competitive
Alaska		$48,326
Arizona		$25,000
California		$19,777
Connecticut	$300,000	$49,854
District of Columbia	$282,005	$27,890
Florida	$236,850	$34,905
Georgia	$340,080
Idaho	$198,853
Indiana	$82,920	$40,000
Iowa	$304,097	$39,120
Kansas	$300,062	$49,909
Louisiana		$49,916
Maine		$26,206
Maryland	$195,884	$49,999
Michigan	$299,869	$49,100
Minnesota	$284,914	$47,727
Mississippi		$41,837
Missouri	$294,531
Montana	$339,333
Nebraska	$251,641	$35,600
New Mexico	$249,988
North Dakota		$28,283
Ohio		$27,000
Oregon		$41,555
Pennsylvania	$334,466
Rhode Island		$40,858
South Dakota	$289,628	$34,967
Vermont	$238,575	$24,181
Washington	$188,947
West Virginia	$268,064	$48,304
Wisconsin	$264,878	$19,640

Improving child nutrition is a focal point of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act that was signed by President Obama last December. This legislation reauthorizes USDA's Child nutrition programs, including the Summer Food Service Program and the National School Lunch Program, which serves nearly 32 million children each day. It will allow USDA, for the first time in over 30 years, the chance to make real reforms to the school lunch and breakfast programs by improving the critical nutrition and hunger safety net for millions of children. The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act is the legislative centerpiece of First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! initiative. To learn more, visit www.LetsMove.gov.

More information on the Team Nutrition Training Grants and how schools can become Team Nutrition and Healthier US School Challenge schools is available at teamnutrition.usda.gov.

Michigan Farm to School News

2011-09-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Check out the latest Farm to School news and info!

NEWS

FoodCorp Launched! Michigan FoodCorps members arrived in Michigan last month to start their service terms. The New York Times, Time and Parade's Dash Magazine all ran features (among a host of other great blog pieces) about the launch of the national FoodCorp program! Check them out, and share with your friends and colleagues:

· Click here for the NY Times piece by Mark Bittman

· Click here for the Time story

· Click here for the Dash story

Oregon State Legislature passes HB2800, the Farm to School and School Garden Bill

With unanimous bipartisan support from both the Oregon House and Senate, the Farm to School and School Garden bill was passed earlier this summer. Check out the press release here and the bill here.

School Food Reimbursement Rates Updated

The USDA has issued the national average payments/maximum reimbursement rates for meals and snacks served to children in the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, and afterschool snack programs for the new school year. These rates, along with those for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), were published in the July 20, 2011 Federal Register and are effective July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2012.

Value of Donated Foods Adjusted for each lunch served by schools in the National School Lunch Program and for meals served in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) was also announced. For the period of July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2012, the national average value is 22.25 cents per meal. For additional information from the Federal Register, click here.

Michigan Farm to School's School Food Budgets two-pager has been updated with this reimbursement and donated foods information. Click here to learn more about school food budgets including common procurement methods, funding sources, and typical costs for school food service programs.

EVENTS

MSU Product Center: Making It In Michigan 2011

October 19, 2011

Lansing Center, Lansing, MI

http://www.makingitinmichigan.msu.edu/

Tools for Schools: Go! For Implementing Michigan’s Nutrition Standards

Sponsored by Michigan Department of Education, Michigan Department of Community Health and United Dairy Industry of Michigan, this free training for teachers, administrators, school health staff, food service professionals, parents and health champions will focus on using the new Michigan nutrition standards at schools. See attachment for dates and locations.

Conference Call Series: Afterschool Matters

FRAC has initiated Afterschool Matters, a new monthly conference call series, to discuss different aspects of the Afterschool Meal Program. The next call is on September 14 at 1 pm and focuses on Conducting Outreach for the Afterschool Meal Program. Register for the first Afterschool Matters call here.

Save the dates for future calls:

· October 12, 1 p.m. -- Reducing Administrative Barriers

· November 16, 1 p.m. – Building School Participation

· December 14, 1 p.m. -- Recruiting and Supporting Large Sponsors

2011 Community School Gardener Networking Meeting

November 5, 2011 from 9am-5pm

Wayne County Community College, Eastern Campus in Detroit, MI

If you plan to attend, please fill out this brief survey to help organize this year’s event and shape it best for you.

Click here to learn more about the event.

RESOURCES

FRAC’s Afterschool Meal Guide

This online resource can help afterschool programs get ready to receive federal funding through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and participate in providing healthy afterschool meals to children. Learn more here.

National Kids Count Data Book

The Michigan League for Human Servies in collaboration with the Annie E. Casey Foundation has released the annual Kids Count Data Book, a comprehensive resource on the well-being of children in the US featuring state-specific data. This year's book focuses on the impact of the national recession on children. The report is available at www.kidscount.org.

On-Farm Food Safety Questionnaire for Food Service Personnel

This food safety questionnaire by the University of Minnesota aims to provide food service directors questions to ask and the types of answers to listen for as they work with local farmers to get farm fresh produce into their schools. See attachment for the guide.

Check out these Farm to School Resources from USDA Food and Nutrition Service:

OPPORTUNITIES

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is accepting pre-applications for projects under the State of Michigan’s Community Development Block Grant Farm to Food and Downtown Infrastructure Grant programs. Submissions for the 2011 program will be accepted until October 21, 2011. Click here for more information. If you have any questions, please contact Katharine Czarnecki at czarneckik@michigan.org.

Whole Kids Foundation School Garden Grant Program

The Whole Kids Foundation in collaboration with Whole Foods Market and FoodCorps is providing grants of $2,000 to support school garden projects! School garden projects at any stage of development - planning, construction or operation - may apply! Click here to learn more and apply. Applications are due December 31, 2011 at 5PM.

Happy September, and all the best for a great school year!

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

303 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

2011 MGHC Conference - Registration open

2011-09-09T11:58:00.000-07:00

Guaranteed room rates at the Park Place Hotel have been extended to 9/12/11!

Attendees who require lodging should make their reservations by then.

Registration is now open for the 2011 Michigan Green Health Care Conference being held on Wednesday, October 5 at Park Place Hotel, Traverse City. The Michigan Green Healthcare Conference is intended for individuals that work in the health care field. Specifically, it is for sustainability officers, dieticians (there is a food track), nurses and individuals affiliated with engineering facilities and environmental services departments. This conference is designed to teach individuals in the health care field tactics to reduce their ecological footprint.

Highlights include:

. Keynote speaker: Health Care Without Harm's founder and CEO, Gary Cohen

. Senior Leadership Perspective on Sustainability Panel containing hospital Vice Presidents and CEOs

. Two tracks (Food and General) so more information is covered

. Healing Creek Tour or Healthy Food Hospitals Round Table at Munson Medical Center

This is the first year the conference is being opened up to vendors and sponsors. See links for more information.

Brochure link: images.magnetmail.net/images/clients/MHHA/attach/MIGreenConference_2011_FINAL.pdf

Vendor registration: http://www.deq.state.mi.us/eforms/greenhealthcare-vendor-workshopregistration.html

If you have any questions contact Paige Hathaway (phathaway@mha.org) at the MHA.

This email, including any attachments, may contain confidential information and is intended solely for use by the individual to whom it is addressed. If you received this email in error, please notify the sender, do not disclose its contents to others, and delete it from your system. Any other use of this email and/or attachments is prohibited.

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6215 W St. Joseph Highway, Lansing, MI 48917

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Re: The Permaculture and Sustainability Across America 2012 Bicycle Tour

2011-09-07T20:55:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

You know that at Common Circle Education, we're busy changing
the world -- and we take our responsibility as the nation's
leadership, sustainable living and permaculture school
seriously. Today we're announcing our most powerful program
yet - a cross-country permaculture design course on bike.

More details @
http://commoncircle.com/marketer/link.php?M=6340953&N=129&L=37&F=T

Come ride your bicycle with us across the country learning
about and promoting sustainability and permaculture. Our most
powerful program yet - a supported cross-country tour (support
vehicle, meals and lodging included) to farms and
sustainability sites, integrated with our award-winning
permaculture design and regenerative leadership certification
and much more -- this program will change your life.

This three-month intensive course combines our Urban
Permaculture and Regenerative Leadership Certificate training,
followed by a Wilderness First Aid training before we head on
the road cycling from Eugene, Oregon all the way across
America to Washington DC (we'll be roughly following the
TransAM bike route – about 4200 miles), promoting and
learning about sustainable living and intentional communities.
The stunning places you will visit on this program and the
extraordinary people you will meet will challenge and inspire
you..

Who: You and your neighbors who care about a sustainable
future for America. As always, all of our programs are
designed for beginner and intermediate cyclists.

Where: Eugene, Oregon to Washington, DC

When: June 1 - August 31, 2012

More details @
http://commoncircle.com/marketer/link.php?M=6340953&N=129&L=37&F=T

This program is about sustainable community living –
through the extensive training and preparation, the group will
form a self-contained community on wheels that will cycle
across the nation learning and promoting sustainable living.
Because all of our programs are always designed for beginner
and intermediate cyclists, we will teach you how to fix your
own flats, fundamentals of bicycle mechanics, wilderness first
aid, many safe bicycle touring skills, and provide you with
the best possible routes. The permaculture training at the
start of the course will give you a very thorough foundation
in sustainable community design. Our experienced program
co-facilitators will help facilitate the entire program,
holding the community container and sharing their experience
and guidance along the way — but otherwise serving
primarily as members of the community.

Here are some quick facts about this program:

--> Includes our Urban Permaculture Design and Regenerative
Leadership Certification training
--> Includes our Oregon Sustainability in Motion Bike Tour
--> Includes a Wilderness First Aid certification training!
--> We will be following the TransAM route – roughly 4000 miles.
--> Average of 60 miles per day (~4-8 hours per day) with
rest/service days roughly once per week
--> This is a supported tour – a vehicle carries all the gear.
--> Meals are included – organic and vegan ingredients and
menu will be provided, group members take turns cooking
--> Experienced and knowledgeable tour support staff team
will cycle with the group.
--> Camping accommodations for most of the program

Aside from the amazing places you will visit on this course,
the most inspiring and transformational aspect of this program
is undoubtedly the incredible community that will form
throughout the course. The depth and richness of dialogue of
each of our programs naturally leads to friendships and
relationships that last well past the expedition itself.
We've often heard comments from participants who mention
that they have never experienced community the way that they
have during a Common Circle Education program.

Want to know more? Call us or email!

Much gratitude,

Vladislav for Common Circle Education

--
Common Circle Education
phone: 1-800-376-3775
web: www.commoncircle.com
mail: 14525 SW Millikan Way, Suite 17760, Beaverton, OR 97005
LOVE us on Facebook:
http://commoncircle.com/marketer/link.php?M=6340953&N=129&L=29&F=T

FW: RFP for Healthier US Schools Mini Grant -- attached

2011-09-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

FYI

Jekeia

Jekeia Murphy
Academic Specialist
CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University
309 Natural Resources bldg.
East Lansing, MI 48824
P: 517-432-0308
F: 517-353-3834
stilljek@msu.edu

From: Danley, Cheryl
Sent: Thursday, September 01, 2011 10:44 AM
Subject: RFP for Healthier US Schools Mini Grant through HHS Office of Minorities Health

Dear Friends,

This mini-grant is a great opportunity for innovative school health teams at 5 public schools across the country in low-income and underserved areas to receive $5,000 to help their school meet the USDA's Healthier US Schools Challenge. Awardees will be nationally recognized as supporting First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move campaign!

Applicants must be individual (non-charter) public schools located in the 50 states, and the District of Columbia that participate in the National School Lunch Program and have a low-income student population of 80% or greater (as determined by percentage of students eligible for free and reduced school meals). Not-for-profit organizations that have been directed by a school to apply for the award are also eligible. Applicants must also be official USDA Team Nutrition Schools.

Cheryl Danley
Food and Community Fellow
CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systemsat MSU
Phone: (517) 432-0309 * Cell: (313)492-3496

From: Isabel M. Estrada-Portales [mailto:iestrada@minorityhealth.hhs.gov]

Today is the day! So, we are launching today the Request for Proposals.

You can find a link to the RFP here: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/Assets/pdf/Checked/1/HSEALC.pdf

Also, a link to the whole Action Learning Collaborative is here: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/templates/browse.aspx?lvl=3&lvlID=578

Please, forward this to all your contacts. Use Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and any other means available.

Let's all give it our all and see what we get.

To our children!

ALC Link: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/templates/browse.aspx?lvl=3&lvlID=578

RFP Link: http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/Assets/pdf/Checked/1/HSEALC.pdf

To be a health leader, be a follower of OMH on Twitter!

iestrada@minorityhealth.hhs.gov
https://twitter.com/MinorityHealth

It is not the avoidance of conflict that leads to peace; it is the responsible and respectful handling of differences that establishes peaceful principles.

There are two kinds of people, those who do the work and those who take the credit. Try to be in the first group; there is less competition there." Indira Gandhi

To unsubscribe from this list, send an email with "SIGNOFF MIDMICHIGANFOOD" in the message body to LISTSERV@LIST.MSU.EDU.

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[BE THE CHANGE] Regenerative Leadership + Urban Permaculture Design Certification - California Programs

2011-08-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

What: Regenerative Leadership & Urban Permaculture Design

Where: October 23 - November 4th - San Francisco Bay Area, CA
December 17 - Dec 31st - San Diego County, CA

During the workshop, we will talk about:

--
-- Get more details @ http://www.commoncircle.com/pdc
--

We hope you will be able to join us for this incredible,
life-changing experiential course!

Much gratitude,

Vladislav for Common Circle Education
commoncircle.com

--
common circle education
14525 sw millikan way, suite 17760, beaverton, or 97005

FW: Launch of National Farm to School Month Website and materials

2011-08-29T06:22:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

Please see information below from about National Farm to School Month, including resources available on the new website, from Anupuma Joshi, the Director of the National Farm to School Network.

Best,

Colleen Matts

Farm to Institution Specialist

CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

Michigan State University

303 Natural Resources Building

East Lansing, MI 48824-1222

517.432.0310

www.mifarmtoschool.msu.edu

From: ajoshi@oxy.edu [mailto:ajoshi@oxy.edu] On Behalf Of Anupama Joshi

October is the 1^st National Farm to School Month!

As you know in November 2010, Congress approved a resolution introduced by Representative Rush Holt (NJ) to officially designate October as National Farm to School Month. The passage of House Resolution 1655 demonstrates the growing importance and role of Farm to School programs as a means to improve child nutrition, support local economies and educate children about the origins of food.

I am delighted to inform you that the website we have been developing for National Farm to School month,www.farmtoschoolmonth.org, is now LIVE! The website houses general information about Farm to School Month as well as host of resources we developed in partnership with Pyramid Communications. All materials may be downloaded and used by any organization or individual seeking to promote Farm to School Month.

We are also seeking partners to help us spread the word and distribute these wonderful resources. If your organization would like to be listed as a partner, please send an email to info@farmtoschoolmonth.org.

Here's a sample of the resources you will find at www.farmtoschoolmonth.org:

· A Communications Toolkit contains basic information about promoting National Farm to School Month, including a sample press release, social media suggestions and sample newsletter language.

· Downloadable logos.

· A fact sheet that explains Farm to School and National Farm to School Month and offers suggestions for how teachers, families, school food service professionals and farmers can get involved throughout October and beyond.

· A PowerPoint slideshow including the Farm to School Month logo and basic facts and statistics about Farm to School. Customize it to fit your needs.

· A sample menu that shows how you might incorporate language about Farm to School Month into your cafeteria menu.

· A poster, PSA ads and Spanish versions of most of the materials are coming soon.

We are extremely excited to celebrate the connections that are happening all over the country between schools and local food, and request each one of you to circulate this information through your lists to help us reach as many organizations, schools and farmers as possible to celebrating the first ever Farm to School Month!

Best,

Anupama

Anupama Joshi

Director, National Farm to School Network

UEPI, Occidental College

Tel: (323)-341-5095