Child Labour in North America

When we think of Child Labour we often think of sweatshops overseas. However a shocking report by ABC News has revealed that one of North America's largest blueberry producers - Adkin Blue Ribbon Packaging Company located in Michigan, found young children, including one child as young as five working in its fields. The five-year-old girl, named Suli, was seen lugging two heavy buckets of blueberries picked by her parents and brothers who were aged seven and eight. US laws state children must be at least 12 years old to work. Since the announcement, Walmart and Kroger have severed ties with Adkin.

In this age of huge industrialized food processing, it only makes the argument stronger to really think about where your food comes from. If the price seems to good to be true, it probably is. The lowest price is not always the best option. Lowest price often means Made in China or child labour. The next time you pick something up off the shelf, try to consider where it came from.

Support small, local business!

How to Green your Halloween

Let's face it. Halloween isn't exactly the easiest holiday to be environmentally friendly. But you'd be surprised at how much you can do, with little effort. Try these eco-friendly tips to tread a little lighter this Halloween.

1) Try walking with your kids during trick-or-treating as opposed to driving. Not only will it save money and CO2 emissions, but you'll have more fun with your family.

2) Support local farmers by buying locally grown pumpkins and other fall decorations like gourds & squash.

3) Use up that pumpkin! From roasting the seeds, to delicious pumpkin muffins, pie or soup. Finally compost the jack-o-lantern shell when finished.

4) Choose beeswax or soy candles to set that spooky mood. Paraffin candles are made from petroleum and can release harmful toxins when lit.

5) Why waste that cute little lion costume? Hand down costumes to friends & family.

6) And finally....recycle! Don't forget to recycle throughout this halloween season. From candy wrappers, to costumes and decorations. Every little bit counts.

Act Locally

As summer ramps up it is a great time to remind ourselves to act locally. In this day and age, when we walk through our grocery stores, the shelves are stocked with products that are 'Made in China'. And although it has become the norm to eat strawberries year round, we should consider, where our food came from and how much energy it took to produce, nevermind ship it to your local store.

With Farmers' Markets popping up virtually everywhere, it is an easy way to eat locally. Not only does it taste better, but it makes me feel good. Knowing that the tomato I just bought, was cared for by a local farmer who lives just a few kilometers away is well, priceless. If you happen to be in Fernie this summer, be sure to visit the Farmers Market at the Rotary Park on Sunday mornings. Now don't forget to sample a delicious Sweet Cake, a wonderful little cupcake made by my friend Becky. Don't let the lineups deter you, they are worth it!!