February 25, 2005 Meeting, Coop Connections Building

Present: Fifteen members Guest: Rio Thomas, Small Potatoes Gleaning Project

The meeting was called to order by Max Morange, President. After member introductions, Max

presented our guest, Rio Thomas. Rio presented the Small Potatoes Gleaning Project whose

purpose is to work toward local food security by making local farm and garden surplus available to

hungry people in our community. Last year the project gleaned 60,000 pounds of surplus

crops in Whatcom County. The project works not just to feed but to nourish by encouraging good

nutrition, trying unfamiliar vegetables, and having food preservation workshops. Often

hunger and obesity co-exist. Rio explained the Millennium Declaration to End Hunger in America and

asked us to contact our federal and state representatives in its favor.

Following Rio, Peter Willing gave a report on the County Council meeting concerning the diminishing

supply of construction aggregate in Whatcom County. The conundrum is that gravel is

found beneath prime agricultural soil and is vital for its drainage. The effect on farming of extracting

the gravel and returning the soil is unknown. Options are being considered but have not

been decided.

Max proceeded with the introduction of upcoming events suggested by the Executive Board. They

include the following: (1) In May a visit to a cheese making farm in the Bow/Edison area

followed by a wine and cheese tasting at Slough Food; (2) an ice cream “social” open to the public

through Mallard's Ice Cream as a fundraiser in July; (3) the Harvest Festival fundraiser

on September 11, 2005, at the Fairhaven Village Green, co-sponsored by Whatcom Farm Friends; (4)

a wine and cheese tasting fundraiser on the November 4th Art Walk at three venues in

downtown Bellingham.

Other event ideas were a microbrewery festival in August on the waterfront including a “home

brewing” competition; a tuna canning; a honey tasting; a salmon tasting. Jeremy said he

would set up a tuna canning in March (date TBA) and took a list of interested people. Ann suggested

a “Fish Fest” in the late summer or fall. She also gave facts concerning federal

legislation to open marine offshore to fish farming, the National Aquaculture Act, and the impact it

would have on wild fish.

Glenn Denkler asked for volunteers to man a membership booth once a month from June until

September at the Fairhaven Farmers' Market on Wednesdays. In addition to presenting

membership information, there would be a food demonstration of some kind.

The next Slow Food meeting will be April 1, 2005. Location will be announced on the Fourth Corner

Slow Food website.