NOFA-NY announces CSA scholarship for qualifying residents!

For Immediate Release:

Scholarship Program Provides up to $100 Towards Organic Produce for Qualifying Residents of Rochester and Buffalo

The Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York (NOFA-NY) is announcing a program to make local, organic vegetables available to Rochester and Buffalo residents at an affordable price:  the Neighborhood Farm Share Program.  

The Neighborhood Farm Share Program provides qualifying residents of Buffalo and Rochester with financial support to participate in local Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs.

  Participants receive up to a $100 reduction in cost for a CSA share from a local farm. The participant pays the remainder of the cost of the share.  

Interested participants should complete an application for the Neighborhood Farm Share Program as well as a membership form for the CSA.  Both of these are available from NOFA-NY: www.nofany.org/farmshare or by calling – 585-271-1979 ext. 505. 
 


Limited opportunities to obtain fresh produce are one of the key factors that contribute to high rates of obesity and chronic disease.  Many Rochester and Buffalo-area residents are looking for consistent access to sustainably and locally grown vegetables. One method is to buy directly from the farmer through a marketing scheme called, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA).  In the CSA direct-marketing relationship between consumers and a local farm, consumers pay, up front, for a season’s worth of produce and, in return, receive a weekly delivery of the freshest vegetables.  Each share typically feeds a four-person family, although shares can be split to accommodate smaller families and singles.



The project features a mid-summer to fall CSA share, with delivery starting the second weekend in August.  Applications for financial assistance are due August 3rd.  Consumers who are interested in joining CSA and finding out about the scholarship program should contact NOFA-NY at (585) 271-1979 ext 505 or foodjustice@nofany.org. 

God's Glory

I spent this morning outside with the Lord in prayer. I was asking him to use me to reach others and allow my family to be of service to Him. 

And, He spoke to me. He said, "Open your eyes and see My Glory." 

So, I opened my eyes and I looked out over our yard... "Where?" I asked God. 


And, then I saw it... a tiny drop of water sitting on one of the potato plant leaves in our garden. Among the dozens of drops of water on the plant leaves in our garden, this tiny little drop shone so brightly; this little drop of water no bigger than my fingernail. 

The sunshine amplified the radiance of this water drop and its splendor was something I have never seen before. 

Bright white brilliance. Clear as crystal. It sparkled like a precious stone.

I was captivated, but at the same time it hurt my eyes to look at it. It flickered and danced a little bit and then God said to me, "Do you see that drop of water?" 


"Yes Lord, but what does it mean?" 

"That is My Glory. It shines so brightly & is so brilliant, yet, see how small that drop of water is?" 

"Yes, I see." I replied.

"Do you understand? It only takes a tiny bit of My glory to light the darkest places of the world. No matter how small you feel, or how insignificant you may think My work is for you, remember, it only takes a tiny drop of Me to reach others."

I feel that God wanted me to share this with our blog readers today. So, this my message to you... No matter how small or insignificant the work you are doing for the Lord may seem, it is not. 

It only takes a "tiny drop" of His glory to illuminate darkness...

Jesus is the light. 

He radiates God's glory and there is no place He cannot reach.

Precious metals & jewels are put to shame by the stunning and radiant glory of the Lord Almighty. His glory is so wonderful & brilliant that Moses could not even enter the Tabernacle because of the Lord's glorious splendor (Exodus 40). The priests could not enter the Temple because the presence God was so glorious (1 King 8:10-11).

His glory is so much greater than we can comprehend, but it only takes a tiny bit of it to reach others. If you are living for the Lord, if you are glorifying Christ & honoring Him in all that you do and in His Work for you, it is not insignificant. His light will reach others & the glory of the Lord will be revealed for all to see. 

We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. 

2 Corinthians 4:5-6

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. 

John 1:14

The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. 

Hebrews 1:3

Classic Potato Salad

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds un-peeled potatoes (any variety) 
1 to 2 un-peeled carrots
1/2 medium onion (red or yellow) or 2 onions (white and some green) 


Optional Ingredients (add up to 1 cup) 
1 to 2 celery stalks, diced
1 to 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
1/2 to 1 cup firmly packed spinach, shredded 


Dressing Ingredients 
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram or oregano 
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
several generous grindings of pepper


Directions
Cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, place in a stock pot and add just enough water to cover the potatoes. 


Bring the water to a boil over high heat and cook the potatoes until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. 


While the potatoes cook:
• Dice the carrots. Add to a large bowl. 
• Finely dice the onion and add to the bowl, along with any optional ingredients. 
• Prepare the dressing by adding the dressing ingredients to a small bowl and mixing well to incorporate. 


When the potatoes are tender, remove from the heat and drain well. 


All the potatoes to cool slightly for 5 to 10 minutes, and add them to the bowl of vegetables, along with the dressing. Mix well to incorporate and chill before serving. Add additional salt or other seasonings to taste before serving. Tip: adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley is a great additional seasoning! 

Recipe courtesy of What the Bible says about Healthy Living Cookbook

Potato Salad with Green Beans

Ingredients
2 pounds un-peeled potatoes (any variety) 
2 tablespoons olive oil 
several dashes of salt
several generous grindings of pepper
1/2 pound green beans
1 small red onion
1/2 pint grape or cherry tomatoes


Basil Vinaigrette Ingredients
1 garlic clove
6 tablespoons olive oil 
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
20 to 30 fresh basil leaves (about 1/4 cup firmly packed)
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
several generous grindings of pepper


Directions 
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 


Cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes and put the potatoes, olive oil salt and pepper into a large bowl. Toss to completely coat and transfer the potatoes to a shallow roasting pan. 


Bake the potatoes for 20 minutes, stir with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, and return to the oven. Then begin checking them every 10 minutes or so. Depending on the size and type of your potatoes, the total cooking time will range from 30 to 45 minutes. They are done when they turn golden brown and are tender when pierced with a fork. 


When the potatoes cook: 
• Break off the stem ends from the green beans and add to the potatoes during the last 5 to 7 minutes of baking time. 
• Dice the onion and add to a large bowl; add the tomatoes to the bowl. 
• Prepare the dressing; chop the garlic in a food processor, add the remaining ingredients and process until smooth. 


After the potatoes and green beans have cooked and cooled, add them to the bowl with the onions and tomatoes. Add the dressing and toss. Serve at room temperature. Makes 6 servings. 

Recipe courtesy of What the Bible says about Healthy Living Cookbook

Black Bean & Corn Salad

I serve this crisp, slightly sweet combination as an appetizer with tortilla chips. As simple as it is, this recipe gets the most ardent compliments! 

Ingredients
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup fresh (or frozen, thawed) whole-kernel corn 
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
3/4 cup minced onion
1/3 cup chopped cilantro 
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed & drained




Directions
Bring the first 7 ingredients to a boil in a small saucepan. Reduce heat, and simmer for 2 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Combine vinegar mixture, corn and remaining ingredients in a large bowl; cover and chill. Yields 4 cups.

Recipe courtesy of 501 Delicious Heart Healthy Recipes

The Way I See It: Unity

uni·ty

noun\ˈyü-nə-tē\

Definition of UNITY

1

a : the quality or state of not being multiple : oneness

2

a : a condition of harmony : accordb : continuity without deviation or change 

3

a : the quality or state of being made one : unification

4

: a totality of related parts : an entity that is a complex or systematic whole

John 17: Jesus' prayer - that there would be unity among his disciples; that they will be 'one' and united with each other - just as the Father is in Jesus, and Jesus is in the Father. 

This is a complete unity - there is no separation as they are one with each other; 

they do not deviate from one another; God never changes. 

Ephesians 4: Unity in the Body of Christ - always be humble, gentle and patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults. Stay united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with one love and peace. There is one body and one Spirit.

There is one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one Faith, one baptism, 

one God & Father, who is over all and in all and living through all. Eph. 4:4-5

Christ is the head of his body; the church. Christ makes the whole body fit together perfectly & each part does its own special work... so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. Eph. 4:15-16




Romans 10:9: If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord", and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.


As believers, we have an enlightened freedom in Christ, but some will have convictions at times during their walk. But as Paul tells us in Romans 14 - we are to accept all believers, even those weaker in their faith, and not argue with them about what they think is right or wrong. We are told to be tolerant of believers who have different practices than us. He feels that people on both sides of an issue can be genuine believers and he does not think the issues that are fought over are essential to the faith. 

If a believer is following Christ, making Him the Lord of their lives, and honoring Him in what they do - then who are we to argue with, judge or condemn them?

Romans 14:17-19: the Kingdom of God is[...] of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.


The purpose of the Church (the body of Christ) to teach & make disciples of believers, so that they can go out and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. Look at all of the denominational splits today... the Church (body of Christ) has been spending to much time arguing with each other over who is right and who is wrong. 

If there is disunity, intolerance and fighting among believers, the Church's testimony is not convincing to the world. 

God is calling His church; He is calling Christ's bride. Set aside our differences; set aside those things that are not worth arguing over. Stand up for our Savior (and our Savior alone!). Rise up together, united, as one body in Christ. Join hands with each other and proclaim Christ as loud as we can to all of the nations!


Matthew 28:19: Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.


Mark 16:15: And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. 

God is calling us, Church. Can you hear? 

Not all who have ears hear...

He is calling; can you hear? Will you say "yes" to Him? 

Will you set aside your differences with other believers, and stand up & proclaim Christ, and Christ alone?

Some of the Most Nutrient Dense Foods

Nutrient density is a measure of the amount of nutrients a food contains in comparison to the number of calories. A food is more nutrient dense when the level of nutrients is high in relationship to the number of calories that food contains. By eating these nutrient dense foods, you get all the essential nutrients that you need for excellent health, including vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, essential fatty acids, fiber and more for the least number of calories. 


These nutrient dense foods help protect the body against illness and disease, are also either low in fat or a source of healthy fats; high in protein, which aids in muscle growth and repair; and high in fiber, which maintains normal digestive functions.

Salmon

Salmon is considered a super food because it is high in protein, a good source of iron, low in saturated fats and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for a healthy heart and cardiovascular functioning. The American Heart Association recommends consuming fatty fish such as salmon twice a week. A typical 3-oz. serving of Atlantic salmon has 175 calories, 10 g of fat, 0 sugars and 19 g of protein.

Eggs

Eggs are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including choline, which aids in brain development and memory. They are also high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contain healthy fats. The yolk contains much of the fat and is also a source of iron. A typical egg has 75 calories, 6 g of protein, no carbohydrates and 5 g of fat. 

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, which play a role in the prevention of heart disease and cancer. They are also a source of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, iron, potassium and vitamins C and E. A typical large sweet potato has 162 calories, no fat and 6 g of fiber.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a grain alternative to refined, processed breads such as white or wheat bread. It is gluten-free and thus appropriate for people with food allergies or intolerances. Quinoa has more protein than other grains, and is a source of iron, riboflavin and magnesium. Just 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa has 5 g of protein, 5 g of fat and 5 g of dietary fiber.

Beans

Beans are high in dietary fiber and protein, but low in fat. The fiber in beans helps to keep blood sugar levels steady, keep cravings down and lower overall calorie consumption. Include a variety of dry beans or low-sodium canned beans in your diet, including navy, black, red, pinto and kidney beans. A typical 1-cup serving of boiled black beans has only 1 g of fat, 15 g of fiber and 15 g of protein.

Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants which help fight free radicals that contribute to illnesses such as cancer. Such antioxidants may also prevent cataracts, glaucoma, heart disease and ulcers. Blueberries are low in calories, have no fat and are low in sugar compared to other fruits such as melons. A 1-cup serving of blueberries has only 84 calories, no fat and 4 g of dietary fiber.

Walnuts

Walnuts are considered a super-food due to their many health benefits including protection against cancer and heart disease, maintaining cognitive function, and providing protection against inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis. These nuts are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered "good" fats. A 1/4-cup serving of walnuts alone provide 90 percent of the daily quota of omega-3s recommended.

Spinach

Spinach is a rich source of vitamin C, calcium and antioxidants that aid in the prevention of disease. It also contains carotenids, which may assist in preventing macular degeneration, poor eyesight that may lead to blindness. Spinach also contains nearly 200 percent of the daily value required of vitamin K, which helps in reducing bone loss.

Oats

Oats are low in fat, and high in dietary fiber which assists in healthy digestion and waste elimination. Heart-healthy oats help keep blood glucose levels even thanks to their low-sugar and high-fiber content. This makes them a healthy grain alternative for diabetics or people who are trying to lose weight. A 100 g serving of raw oats has only 1 g of saturated fat, 11 g of dietary fiber and 17 g of protein.

Joel Fuhrman, M.D., author of Eat for Health, also created rankings of foods according the nutrients they pack - vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, etc. The ANDI ranking system he created stands for “Aggregate Nutrient Density Index” and ranks a food’s nutrient density on a scale from 1 to 1,000.

The ANDI scores are calculated by evaluating an extensive range of micronutrients, including vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidant capacities, and by dividing the nutrient level of a food by its caloric content. The motivation behind creating this index was to emphasize the importance of eating foods that are rich in nutrients on a per calorie basis.

For example, kale - a dark leafy green - scores 1,000 while soda scores 1.

As provided by Whole Foods, here are the top 10 most nutrient-dense green vegetables and their respective ANDI scores: 

1. Mustard/Turnip/Collard Greens – 1000

2. Kale - 1000

3. Watercress – 1000

4. Bok Choy/Baby Bok Choy – 824

5. Spinach – 739

6. Broccoli Rabe – 715

7. Chinese/Napa Cabbage – 704

8. Brussels Sprouts – 672

9. Swiss Chard - 670

10. Arugula - 559

References

The Superfoods Rx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients; Wendy Bazilian, Steven Pratt and Kathy Matthews; 2007

101 Foods That Could Save Your Life; David Grotto; 2007