HWFC Coop Scoop: Cheers to the Earth March/April 2023

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By Rebecca Angel

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Natalie Criscione

By Rebecca Angel

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By Ruth Ann Smalley

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By Melanie Pores

By Deanna Beyer

By Deanna Beyer

Glass Recycling Pilot Zero Waste Capital ambitious Glass Recycling the Co-op, to ensure recycled rather than make it successful, we throwing clear glass home, bring it to the

Natalie Criscione remembers shopping at the Quail St. Honest Weight location. She wears many hats: educator, writer, artist, musician, property manager, advocate, volunteer. She loves being part of the Coop Scoop team!

Ruth Ann Smalley PhD, is our Content Editor. An educator and writer, with a 4-digit Co-op member number from the early 90s, Ruth Ann offers wellness, writing, and creativity coaching through her practice at www.vibrant-energies.com or www.ruthannsmalley.com.

Colie Collen is a flower farmer and designer raising a funny little kid in Troy. You can find her work at www.flower-scout.com

Anastasia Rodgers is the new Education and Engagement Specialist at HWFC. They love learning, creating and having as much fun as possible along the way! They can be reached at: education@honestweight.coop

Carol Reid, our Assistant Editor, is a retired cataloger at the New York State Library, where she worked for over 35 years. She wrote a 10-year blog called “Typo of the Day for Librarians” and has been a Co-op member since the 1980s.

Letter from an Editor

ty and doctorvisits and various new health regimens I’ve had to adopt due to these sudden revelations has greatly intensified my personal yearlong ordeal.

melts the fragile fluff to slush, only to rush back in and refresh the landscape once again.

This change in the earth brings me to the theme of this issue, “Cheers to the Earth” and how the articles connect to this melding of seasons. With the sunbeams, I normally take a quick mental health walk twice a day, where I notice a small recharge of my body. I learn from the article by Dr. Madeline that there’s no coincidence with how I’m feeling and the increase of sunlight; the sun benefits our minds and bodies. Hmm, now I understand why they call it a mental health walk!

Letter from an Editor

By Mathew Bradley

But obviously, I’m not the only one who’s been struggling with such issues—whether for oneself or one’s family members, friends, or colleagues; whether Covid-related ornot; whetherserious orroutine. It’s enough to make you downright sick, and often quite desperate and depressed to boot. People have been afraid to make or keep their medical appointments, to go in for testing, or to even be around other afflicted people. Mental and emotional illnesses have been exacerbated and are sadlyon the rise. But there are also a lot of resources available online right now, and there’s hope that we can finally beat the Virus and deal withwhatever else might be currently ailing us.

When the snow clouds develop, I normally watch the flakes settle down on the lawn. I brainstorm what to make in the kitchen while the grey skies cling high. This time around, I need not worry because I’m turning to page 14 and making Melanie’s nut-filled muffins. Something wholesome and filling that doesn’t even need butter? Sign me up.

FBy Carol Reid

his has been a rather fraught year for me and not just for the obvious Covid-related reasons. I’ve also learned that I have two different physical

Tinally, we’ve arrived at that time of the year where the sun and snow tussle in a constant back and forth. I watch with simple pleasure as they exist together on my lawn. The sunlight melds with the frozen white dimples, and dances along its edges. It

Honest to Goodness

Fresh News!

Hulsether is a teacher and writer currently based in Saratoga Springs, NY. Her first book, Capitalist Humanitarianism, is forthcoming from Duke University Press. www.dukeupress.edu/capitalist-humanitarianism

Mathew Bradley is our Layout Editor. He has been the Lead Designer at Honest Weight since the new store. Outside he enjoys writing band, tending to his garden, and training his English Cocker Spaniel, Cricket, for field work.

Honest Weight Welcomes the 11th Free Food Fridge!

Almost three years ago, Jammella Anderson started a conversation to address food apartheid in the Capital District. The result of that conversation–and a whole lot of work by Jammella and their team–is The Albany Free Food Fridges! The fridges offer a 24/7, no questions asked, access point to food for anyone experiencing food insecurity. They are filled and funded through volunteers and collaborative community resourcing (see Scoop Nov/Dec 2021). Our own fridge has recently arrived, nestling among the wintery gardens, yearning for summer. Soon it will be painted in vibrant

Then the sun finally moves back into hold, retiring the snow to muck. The warm glow assists the sleeping crocus flowers' growth and invite their beauty into view. Similarly in concept, we read about Ruby Silvious’s method of taking what most would consider trash and transforming it into fine art. A true visual ode to the earth: reuse!

In this issue of the Coop Scoop, entitled “Heal,” Rebecca Angel writes about her own experience with healing heartburn; Melanie Pores makes what’s good foryou also taste good withher delicious Date-Sweetened Smoothie recipe; Ruth Ann Smalley gets to the root of things with an article on Regenerative Agriculture; and [etc.]. We’re hoping that all of the articles and information contained herein will contribute to helping all of us on our personal journeys toward renewed health and healing.

Let’s all sit back, feel the pages in our fingers as we turn the pages and feel the earth’s warmth wrap around us. Cheers!

colors, like the network of other fridges throughout the Capital Region.

Now, to answer the question buzzing around the co-op lately: How can individuals contribute to the fridge? The fridges have a volunteer program for cleaning and filling, and volunteers sign up for weekly/monthly time commitments visit freefoodfridgealbany.com to learn more. However, our fridge is a little unique! Anyone can take direct action while shopping at the Co-op, by buying anything from the shopping list below, and walking them right out to the fridge! Every little bit will help. Health code prohibits individuals from putting in any food in any of the fridges that they have been made or brought from home.

We’ve started with a modest plan that includes some of the “easier” plants to grow (including: lettuces, tomatoes, zucchini squash, pole beans, peppers, and various herbs) and hope to expand our planting based on what works (or doesn’t) this

Acceptable Items

Produce: Hand Fruits (Apples, Bananas, Oranges), Fresh Vegetables (Carrots, Greens, Onions, Potatoes, Mushrooms)

Beverages/Dairy: Non Dairy Milk, Milk, Cheese Sticks, Single Serve Juices/Coffee/Iced Tea/Water, Eggs, Butter, Single Serve Yogurt (with a spoon!)

Deli:

Sliced Deli Meats & Cheeses, Pre-made Sandwiches and Salads (still sealed)

Freezer: Bread, Frozen Pizzas, Veggies, Fruit, Veggie Burgers & Meat Alternatives, Chicken Nuggets, Frozen Fish, French Fries, Ice Cream/Popsicles, TV Dinners

Deanna Beyer

Ruth Ann Smalley

Coop Scoop

BY LIZA MOLLOY

Lucia

If you would like to donate money to the project, on a one-time or regular basis, you can help by signing up for the Free Food Fridge Patreon.

By Deanna Beyer

What is a Co-op?

lOl

Triple Bottom Line:

If you’re new to Honest Weight, you might be wondering what makes us different from any other grocery store. There are lots of things, but probably the biggest is that we’re a community-owned co-op!

Of the three words in our mission state ment–the list that can spark the most ambivalence in our socially minded customer base. Sure, it’s good to serve people and invest in environmental sustainability. But how does profit align with the other pillars of Honest Weight? Where does the everyday consumer or member-owner fit into the economic structure of the Co-op?

To answer these questions, we need to understand Honest Weight’s structure as a community-owned cooperative . This is the term for a special kind of business organization. What makes the business “special” is its ownership and benefits structure. Honest Weight is voluntarily owned by the people who use it (i.e. the everyday consumers of the Capital region) and it exists for the benefit of members (i.e. the 10,533 current members who currently have a share in Honest Weight).

There are other kinds of co-ops, too. Producer-owned cooperatives put power in the hands of the producers of agricultural and commodity goods, who band together to share risks and gains, and to negotiate for fairer prices on the market. Worker-owned cooperatives–which can exist in any industry–are owned, managed, and operated for the direct benefit of workers themselves.

One difference between a cooperative and a more traditional business is that, in the former case, budgeting processes tend to be more transparent and participatory. Honest Weight publishes an open breakdown of

Salad, Hot Bar, and Cafe are Back, with

Just follow these simple steps:

• Locate the collection bins near our bike lockers

• Only place clear, clean glass in the bins

• Make sure to remove both the lids and little plastic rings (labels are ok)

away with more questions than answers. This is by design! The best way to live up to our values is to continually reflect on what more they might require of us, and how we might do a better job of “walking our talk.”

Seasonal Local Produce

Get involved!

HW’s Finance Committee meets at 6pm on the last Tuesday of each month. Meetings are open to all members.

For more information, email:

What could be fresher than all of your favorite produce arriving daily from local farms? (could we include a couple of relevant farm names here?It’s growing season and we’ve got farm-fresh fruits and veggies from all over the area. So, whether you’re looking for nNon-GMO sweet corn, crisp cucumbers, or super juicy, tiny strawberries, we’ve got you covered! Be sure to check out all the beautiful new arrivals next time you’re here.

By Natalie Criscione

Peace Pagodas are symbols of non-violence; they bring together people from all creeds and nationalities to promulgate unity and peace. Throughout the world, there are currently around 80 Peace Pagodas, two of which are in the United States. One of those is in the Capital Region—right in our own backyard!

You may have heard of the Grafton Peace Pagoda, and even seen its brilliant white dome rising above the surrounding woodlands. Although it has been a sanctuary and retreat for nearly 30 years, recent efforts to develop the surrounding habitat have threatened the future tranquility of the area.

“Friends of the Peace Pagoda” recently began a grassroots movement to generate the funds needed to purchase and preserve nearly 250 acres of threatened land around the Grafton Peace Pagoda. Besides being a unique natural space for thriving plant and animal life, the land holds Mohican sacred sites and is rich with Native American history, which is woven into the story of the Pagoda’s beginnings.

It was Hank Hazelton (an activist for Native Americans) who first approached Jun Yasuda (a Japanese Buddhist Nun from the Nipponzan Myohoji order) in 1983, with an offer of land for the purpose of building a “Monument for Peace.” Jun was on the steps of the NY State Capitol at the time, where she had again been fasting for a cause. This time, her fast was an effort to raise awareness, support, and freedom for the Native American activist Dennis Banks.

In October of 1985, work began on what would eventually become the Grafton Peace Pagoda. Since the Nipponzan Myohoji order cannot solicit money for any reason, the structure was built entirely through donations which included labor, funds, and materials (new and recycled).

Finally, in the fall of 1993, the Pagoda was dedicated. It is a place of welcome and retreat for visitors throughout the world. As the website (http://www.graftonpeacepagoda.org/) attests, “Representatives of many faiths: Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Native Americans, Baha'is, Sufis, Buddhists, Spirituals and Agnostics have all been drawn to this special place.” It is surrounded by trees, forests, and easy hiking trails where, according to an AllTrails review, “it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring.” Yet the solitude that draws so many visitors to the Peace Pagoda throughout the year is not to be taken for granted.

“Friends of the Peace Pagoda,” like so many small grassroots groups, is passionate and committed. Their dedication to land preservation is not only crucial for the environment but is also an historical and spiritual imperative for future generations.

During the month of March, while you are at the checkout line at Honest Weight, you will be asked if you’d like to round up for the Grafton Peace Pagoda. The answer is “YES!” to land preservation. And, if you’d like to become even more involved in the effort, send an email to: hricks09@gmail.com. Peace!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUBY SILVIOUS

The Tea That Became Art: An Upcycling Story

By Natalie Criscione

Looking back on our lives, we often realize that there was a moment no matter how imperfect, of awareness or choice, without which we would never be where we are today. Although we are all presented with such moments every day, we often turn away from them or fail to even notice them in the first place. But, what if we were open to a moment’s possibility? Where would it lead us? How does one become aware enough to look beyond what is known? To grapple with “what if”? What does it mean to live in that kind of present? In both her life and art, Ruby Silvious explores what it means to be present to such possibility.

“It was not like magic happened immediately,” said Ruby. Magic was not what she was looking for. In fact, it was quite far from her mind. Yet, when Ruby Silvious and her sister sat down for a cup of morning tea in 2013, they noticed something they hadn’t before: the possibility for a new art canvas. Tea bags. Not new tea bags, but used tea bags. An unlikely canvas, to be sure. They dried out their tea bags and emptied them of their tea leaves. Although the bags were stained and the edges uneven, Ruby and her sister saw something promising in the nontraditional canvas. “We just thought, the stains could be beautiful; the stains could be poetic,” said Ruby. Hence began Ruby’s journey of exploration. For the next couple of years, she tried out various media (watercolor, markers, gouache, and acrylics) on the tea bags, incorporating the tea stains into her finished piece. As Ruby began to further experiment on the tea bag canvas, she made some discoveries: “black tea has the best stains and rooibos tea has cinnamon-y

Though Ruby had always been drawn to creative activities as a child in the Philippines, and later in the United States, she worked most of her adult life in administrative positions and did not consider herself an artist. Art was her hobby, something she did in her down time. Attending art workshops was a way to be part of her community and learn a little something, too. Art was just something she loved and hoped to someday share with others through local exhibits in the Hudson Valley area. But Ruby’s path and role as an artist took an unexpected turn when she lost her job at the end of 2015, and decided to devote herself full-time to painting on tea bags and other nontraditional canvases. The following year, her daily experiments led to the publication of 363 Days of Tea for which she challenged herself to create something

Specials. We also accept SNAP benefits.

How is Honest Weight part of the local food system?

important to you, we’re one of the best places around to shop. Co-ops form strong relationships with local, small-scale producers, which means you can find products that aren’t typically available at traditional supermarkets. At Honest Weight, we work with over 285 local farms and 319 local producers; that list is always growing. And because we get daily deliveries, it means fresher, lower-impact food that hasn’t travelled across the country for days.

Shopping for special dietary needs? We get it. It’s easy to find tasty food alternatives in every department at the co-op. Our friendly staff can also make suggestions if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices, as many of them are on special diets, too!

various nontraditional canvases, her tea bag art developed an online following. That is when the magic happened—it took on a life of its own. Ruby’s tea bag art went viral and, within art communities and tea communities throughout the world, so did she.

A quick glance at her website

gram, or Facebook page is enough to

hold items) at Everyday Low Prices. We

Ruby, in her home studio, with her current collection of pieces

”

”Without even trying, I make something so ordinary, a found object, look beautiful.

know that Ruby has become an international sensation. Her art has been exhibited in museums throughout the world. The CV on her website and her social media pages document her exhibits, awards, publications, and residencies throughout the United States and beyond: Germany, France, Japan, Italy, UK, and Spain. In 2020, Ruby exhibited locally at The Albany Institute of History and Art, where some of her pieces now reside in their permanent collection.

Ruby shares stories of workshops she’s conducted. Through teaching, she has found a deep connection with others as she witnesses her students discover their own expressive potential. As she taught a group of German children in the spring of 2022 how to paint on tea bags, Ruby was reminded of something else, too: “I don’t really need to speak; I can just demonstrate and they know exactly what to do.” Whether she is working with children or adults, she has found that “Art is a language on its own.” It bridges traditional language barriers. It brings people together for a common purpose. It nurtures connections, builds relationships, and encourages participants to share their impressions of the moment. Art creates a space where ideas are exchanged and thoughts shared, sometimes without any words at all. As a workshop instructor, Ruby arrives with plans for her students, teaches them techniques that she has learned, and guides them to their own finished pieces. The benefits are mutual, as she often returns to her studio to further explore a new canvas, brush stroke, or color palette inspired by one of her students. Her artistic journey is rich with such moments.

Painting on tea bags led Ruby to explore other kinds of non-traditional surfaces. “I gravitate toward smaller canvases,” she said. Her journey has led her to pistachio shells, pastry bags, broken egg shells, discarded adding-machine tape, leaves, junk mail, wine corks, and other unexpected or imperfect canvases. “It’s made me more aware of what potential canvases can be,” she said, “you can use just about anything.” During the pandemic, with so much online ordering, Ruby found herself painting on corrugated cardboard. When she travels, she notices things like the cork coasters in Japan, and she thinks to herself, “I could paint on that.” Ruby saves paper bags and coffee cups, things that most of us would absently discard.

Sometimes instead of painting on the canvas, she folds it into origami designs. Her set of “Oribrami’s” (bras) folded from used pastry bags or food wrappings are a highlight of many of her exhibits. Her up-cycled shoes made from salvaged paper have become so popular that designers have noticed them and recreated wearable versions (Vogue Italia, March 2019). In her 2019 book, Reclaimed Canvas: Reimagining the Familiar, Ruby provides highlights from her collection as she “sparks creativity and pushes boundaries, challenging the way people think about the world around them.”

Ruby has also discovered that her small canvases, when put together, become something larger. She was inspired by the idea of the Boro kimono which developed out of necessity during the medieval period in Japan; it

involves the practice of reinforcing clothing and textiles by sewing together discarded scraps of fabric. With her growing supply of used tea bags (many donated by friends and followers), Ruby began to experiment with them in a different way: she “sewed” them together and created kimonos, dresses, and shirts. It was the natural next step in her journey: “I love the concept of the Boro kimono—tattered. That is what I do with my art. Without even trying, I make something so ordinary, a found object, look beautiful.”

In exhibits around the world, museum goers flock to see Ruby’s creations. As they view her pieces, they also come to see the ordinary objects from which they were crafted in a new way and are perhaps challenged to see themselves differently too. Perhaps they become more present to the paradigm of possibility.

While we so often wait for just the right moment, Ruby reminds us to pause and see the beauty that is right in front of us, right now, no matter how fleeting or fragmented it might be. “I’m definitely drawn to just ordinary things,” she says. Through her work “the idea of imperfection and impermanence and being ephemeral” are ideas that are not only part of art, but also part of life. Ruby hopes that her artwork will “inspire people to look beyond what is traditional” and to consider the poetry that is held so precariously in those teabag-moments that daily exist for each of us in the simplest of gestures and rituals. Our challenge is simply to be present for them.

Look for images by Ruby and other artists on the seed packets in the Hudson Valley Seed Co display.

”Art is a language on its own.

-Ruby Silvious

Health For Non-Majors: Sun, Cholesterol, and Vitamin D

By Dr. Madeline

Did you know your skin is an organ? In fact, it’s the largest organ in the human body. One of its many functions is to absorb sunlight to help you make vitamin D.

“How?” you may ask.

Our skin stores a cholesterol-based

But storing 7-dehydrocholesterol is just the beginning of the story. There are many more steps before vitamin D is fully activated. (See chart)

Here is how it works. The liver makes 7-dehydrocholesterol and sends it to your skin. UV light from the sun converts it to cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). Once transformed, the molecule moves from your skin into your bloodstream and back to your liver where it is updated to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (Vitamin D2). It then gets released back into your bloodstream and flows around until it reaches your kidneys, which convert it to the active form of vitamin D (1,25 dihydroxycholecalciferol or calcitriol).

These are some of our products that provide a baseline amount of vitamin D. Check with your healthcare provider to nd something speci c to your needs.

So, how much vitamin D do you need? Probably more than you are getting. Research has demonstrated that most people are vitamin D deficient. So, what should you do?

The only way to really know your vitamin levels is to get a blood test through your healthcare provider. They will check your vitamin D3 levels, as there is a risk of overdosing on supplemental fat-soluble vitamin D. For those of us who live in colder climates or whose bodies do not make 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, Vitamin D2 is often prescribed, as it fast-tracks the process. Most over-the-counter vitamins, however, are in the D3 form which allows you to bypass the sunshine step so your body can do the rest. Again, it is always wise to check with your doctor first. Although sun protection is highly recommended in any climate, remember that while sunscreen protects your skin from burns, it also blocks UV light—the first essential conversion toward making vitamin D.

Understanding how molecules move through our bodies in the complex ways required for optimal nourishment, such as those needed to make vitamin D (skin,liver, kidneys, cardiovascular system—heart and blood vessels), we gain a deeper insight into how the human body words as a whole, beautiful, and connected system.

Not intended as medical advice. We encourage shoppers to consult their health care provider and/or research before beginning any new regimen.

Double Up Food Bucks!

Double Up Food Bucks is a nationwide fruit and vegetable incentive program, servicing millions of SNAP users, active in 20+ states at over 800 farmers markets, CSAs, farm stands, mobile markets, and grocery stores. The program gives shoppers $1 for every $1 spent with SNAP, so you can purchase even more produce.

A match of up to $20 a day could mean $40 for healthy foods. Why is this important? Because too many people don’t have access, even with government aid, to the amount of healthy food needed to support families. Sign up is free and the dollars never expire.

Profile Producer

By Deanna Beyer

Hunger Free America estimates that this past year has seen a 67% increase in food- insecure New Yorkers. And here at Honest Weight we’re on track to have the highest redemp-

tion of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits that we’ve seen in a single year. Which is why we’re so excited to participate in Double Up Food Bucks!

Vibrant Health

By Pat Sahr

In 1992 Mark Timon, a nutrition scientist, invested a few thousand dollars of his savings to begin manufacturing a comprehensive health care product called Green Vibrance. The formula included 38 carefully selected ingredients designed to aid detoxification, provide antioxidant protection, and rehabilitate the digestive tract.

In 2002 Timon met Ted and Paige Parker, who were fans of his product. In the year that followed, Paige started selling Green Vibrance in her health food store, and Ted was hired as Vibrant Health's Director of Sales. By 2007 the Parkers were able to combine their business and sales experience to purchase Vibrant Health and establish a company headquarters in Connecticut. Since then the company has successfully added many new products, connected with retailers around the country, and created a “robust e-commerce platform.” As a result, “Vibrant Health has been featured on the Black Enterprise List of the nation’s 100 largest black-owned businesses and has also made the Forbes list of black-owned businesses to support.”

What makes the Green Vibrance products so special? In short, the ingredients are nutrient dense, each one chosen for its unique health benefits. Green Vibrance comes in various formulas including extra protein, and nutrients for joint, digestive, and urinary tract support. Most contain every necessary vitamin and mineral for a balanced daily diet, but also include spirulina, wheatgrass, probiotics and L-glutamine. In addition, Vibrant Health products are certified Non-GMO, vegan friendly,

In New York State, Double Up has contributed to 1.1 million pounds of healthy food sales to over 24,000 customers, at more than 130 sites spanning 23 counties.

Visit our Service Desk to sign up and go to honestweight.coop for more information on the program.

and are gluten, soy, and dairy-free. Green Vibrance products, as well as their pet supplements, can be found in the Wellness Department at the Co-op. Go to vibranthealth.com for more information about the full line of Vibrant Health products.

Pat Sahr has been a member of the Co-op since 2005. She contributes to the Coop Scoop as the writer of the Producer Profiles. Sahr says, "It’s a pleasure being part of the Honest Weight family, and I've especially enjoyed communicating with the various producers whose products are sold at the Co-op!"

Corner

Herbal Nervine Teas for Stress Support

By Michelle Polacinski

Winter can be a stressful season considering the holidays, the continuous pandemic, and the cold weather that drives us indoors. Sometimes we find ourselves isolated under warm blankets with our favorite book or television show, unable to leave the house. That said, it can be easy to experience multiple bouts of fatigue, random muscle aches, and headaches. Adding a hot cup of herbal tea may be

Instructions for Great Tea

For each of the following herbal tea recipes, make sure to boil and simmer any roots on low with the pot covered for at least 15 minutes, preferably in a glass saucepan. For leaves and flowers, pour near-boiling water over the herbs, cover, and let set for at least 15 minutes before straining.

Destress from Work

After a long day of work, you may feel a significant amount of stress, making it difficult for you to relax and do anything other than scroll through your phone. This inability to unplug and destress from work energy or work mindset can make it feel like our work day is much longer than it really is.

Once your work day is over, try going for a short walk outside, do a quick yoga routine, or take a shower to change your mindset and allow your body to relax. Below is a great tea recipe for any post-work stress and fatigue:

Post-Work Tea

1 tsp chamomile

1 tsp lemon balm

2 tsp dried or fresh hops

Curing a Headache or Migraine

Headaches and migraines can add even more stress to an already stressful day. Sometimes stress can create inflammation and lead to further irritation, making it difficult to rest. While dealing with a headache or migraine, it may be best to avoid screens and instead, take a nap, or a hot epsom salt bath. Sometimes eating dark chocolate may help as it contains high levels of magnesium, the lack of which can cause headaches. If you experience constant headaches and migraines, it is best to avoid inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, and sugar. The following tea recipe will quickly provide relief from most headaches and migraines:

Migraine Tea

1 tsp feverfew

1 tsp lemon balm

1 tsp red raspberry leaf

Aches and Pains

Life’s stressors (work, home, diet) can some times make our bodies feel achy. Stress tends to deplete our magnesium supply which can lead to aches and pains in our backs, shoulders, necks, and more painful periods for people with uteruses.

In this case, it can be helpful to take a hot epsom salt bath and eat foods high in magne sium such as dark, leafy greens, dark chocolate, nuts, and avocados. In other cases, these pains can stem from your nervous system needing some support.

Body Aches Tea

1-2 inches of fresh ginger root and/or fresh turmeric

2 tsp red raspberry leaf

3-4 dried or fresh hibiscus flowers*

*A note of caution: Hibiscus is known to decrease blood pressure. If you have low blood pressure, please use with caution or consult your doctor.

Disclaimer: This is not intended as medical advice. If you are uncertain or concerned with how your body might react to the herbs mentioned, especially with how they may react to certain medications, please consult with your doctor and a reputable herbalist. Always listen to your body and take herbs with caution. Most if not all of the herbs mentioned can be found in the bulk herb section at the co-op.

Fresh News!

Yummy

Cholesterol -Friendly Mu ns

By Melanie Pores

ccording to Emily Schmidt, a registered dietitian at the Mayo Clinic, making dietary changes should be the first step in lowering cholesterol for people with elevated cholesterol levels.

ADouble Up Food Bucks!

Dry ingredients:

2 ¼ cups oat bran

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp cardamom

1/4 tsp nutmeg

¼ cup chopped pistachios

¼ cup chopped walnuts

¼ cup raisins, dried cherries, or other dried fruit

1/2 Tbsp baking powder

Wet ingredients:

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 to 3/4 cup pitted date pieces, soaked overnight or 1/2 to 3/4 cup date paste or maple syrup*

2 cups applesauce

1 ¼ cups plain unsweetened soy milk

Double Up Food Bucks is a nation wide fruit and vegetable incentive program, servicing millions of SNAP users, active in 20+ states at over 800 farmers markets, CSAs, farm stands, mobile markets, and grocery stores. The program gives shoppers $1 for every $1 spent with SNAP, so you can purchase even more produce.

2 servings egg whites or 2 servings chia or flaxseed eggs**

1. Preheat the oven to 425° F.

By Deanna Beyer

Hunger Free America estimates that this past year has seen a 67% increase in food- insecure New Yorkers. And here at Honest Weight we’re on track to have the highest redemp-

With this in mind, I decided to create a tasty, yet healthy way to lower cholesterol, incorporating several of the top cholesterol-lowering foods, including oats, nuts, seeds, apples, soy, and avocados. I hope you enjoy starting your day with one of my heart-healthy cholesterol-friendly muffins.

From the Archives: “Prize Pies”

2 Tbsp almond butter

3 Tbsp avocado oil

A match of up to $20 a day could mean $40 for healthy foods. Why is this important? Because too many people don’t have access, even with government aid, to the amount of healthy food needed to support fami lies. Sign up is free and the dollars never expire.

2. In a large bowl combine all the dry ingredients.

3. Stir in the sweetening of choice.

tion of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits that we’ve seen in a single year. Which is why we’re so excited to participate in Double Up Food Bucks!

* If you like a sweeter muffin, you may want to add 3/4 cup sweetening, instead of 1/2 cup.

In New York State, Double Up has contributed to 1.1 million pounds of healthy food sales to over 24,000 customers, at more than 130 sites spanning 23 counties.

4. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes. Test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out moist but not wet.

Visit our Service Desk to sign up and go to honestweight.coop for more information on the program.

Forty years ago, in March of 1983, Honest Weight launched a baking contest that became an annual event through the remainder of the 80s. It was “designed to create an awareness of just how delicious and nutritious natural foods baking can be, as well as to

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Ann Lapinski is retired from her first career as a nutritionist and her second career as an attorney for the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation. She loves the new adventures that retirement brings to her. She has been a member of HWFC since the early 1980s.

** To prepare a vegan version, prepare chia or flaxseed eggs, by combining 1 tablespoon of ground chia seed or ground flaxseed with 2 tablespoons of water for each vegan “egg” serving and let soak for 10 minutes before adding.

Melanie Pores is a retired bilingual educator, an HWFC member since 1978, and the facilitator of HWFC’s Spanish Conversation Group since 2015, currently on Zoom, Fridays 10am to noon.