That’s Natural! Advocate for Food & Medicine Freedom
Spring 2015
The Original State-Wide Resource for Connecting Local Food Born and Raised in Colorado Since 2005
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“Only the educated are free.” - Epictetus
Walk It Out Fitness This Spring!
Ag Tourism Where To Go
Hemp, Cannabis, and the Natural Medicine Revolution
Product Review
Providence Facial Mask
The CBD Feed
A Serious Discussion About Vaccines
Buying LOCAL = Good for Health, the Environment, and the Economy!
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From the Publisher PUBLISHER: Tisha T. Casida EDITOR: Dean Davis Contributing Authors: Sarah Anderson Curtis Schwab Richard Smith Steve Thompson To subscribe, please send $50 (check made to That’s Natural!) or 2 ounces of .9999 fine silver or $100 worth of tradeable goods (please contact us for this option) to: Tisha Casida PO Box 8944 Aspen, CO 81612
That’s Natural! is a free news-magazine serving Colorado from the Roaring Fork Valley. It is published quarterly, 4,000 + copies are circulated to over 200 locations in population centers across the State. We serve small businesses with their marketing needs and specialize in marketing programs that capitalize on Sustainability - products and services that help people, the environment, and the community. Join our email list for weekly reports and information! Sign up online at www.ThatsNatural911.com That’s Natural! is Your 911 for Food Freedom To advertise, please call: 970-948-0487 Email: info@thatsnatural911.com Media Kit is available for download online.
I know you can feel it too - the wonderful smells and sounds of Spring are dancing into the air, and I couldn’t be more excited as we bring you this issue. We are pounding the pavement (and trails) to educate and inspire people about supporting local producers and businesses, learning about policies that affect our food and medicine, and supporting people and causes that truly make a difference for our community and our world. Making a difference means reaching more and new people about great ideas. And not just ‘lofty’ ideas agreed upon by a panel of ‘experts’ sitting around a table. We are talking about ideas that turn into action. Like growing your own food, taking more walks, getting your emotions in check by healing your body, and visiting and exploring Colorado’s wonder-world of agricultural destinations. Peace begins with our own minds - and having the best food, best medicine, and best surroundings makes that very possible for us. That’s Natural! embraces real action and real solutions and we are proud to be reaching the four corners of our State, because people love to visit and frequent our Colorado farmers, producers, and tourist destinations. The Roaring Fork Valley and Western Slope are the heartbeat of this operation, what an honor to be part of the seeds planted for true sustainability, for generations to come. In Food and Medicine Freedom, Tisha Casida
Since 1988, Western SARE has supported high quality sustainable agriculture that is profitable, ecologically sound, and good for communities through competitive grants and an extensive learning center.
Western SARE will release calls for proposal in mid-April.
• • • • •
Research and Education Farmer/Rancher Professional + Producer Graduate Student Professional Development
Our Learning Center offers research results and practical information for farmers, ranchers, and ag professionals in books, fact sheets, curriculum, multi-media and more – much of it at no cost. Access the Learning Center and find more information about the grants programs at westernsare.org.
See our New Year’s Issue Online at:
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That’s Natural Definitions
Food Freedom: Having the right and ability to consume anything you want for food. Also having the right to grow your own food and process your own food without asking for permission (licenses, fees, registration) from the government. Medicine Freedom: Having the right and ability to take any products or engage in activities (massage, acupuncture, yoga, etc.) to positively benefit one’s health without asking for permission from government. If you are not harming anyone else with your choice, then it should not ever be a question of if you can or can’t do it.
The nutritional, health, environmental, and political information in this newsletter is based on personal experiences and research by the author(s). The author(s), editor, and publisher do not offer medical advice or prescribe the use of diet as a form of treatment for sickness without the approval of a health professional, nor do they accept any responsibility for your viewpoints being expanded or changed. If you do use the information contained in this newsletter without the approval of a health professional, an attorney, or a mentor that you deem worthy of your consciousness, you are prescribing and directing yourself, which is your constitutional right (that we encourage you to exercise), but the author(s), editor, and publisher assume no responsibility.
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basaltmtngardens@gmail.com • 970.379.9713
Food Freedom
Reclaiming Our Ability and Our Right to Grow Food That’s Natural! Reports
One of the hot social topics is the way that wealth (often considered to be money) is created, dispersed, and the gaps in wealth that come from policies and social behaviors. Wealth is not just limited to “money”, though. Wealth, for most of human existence, has included the ability to have food, clothing, and shelter - with (hopefully) the occasional libation and enjoyment of the arts. Being able to grow your own food is one of the greatest and most important types of wealth that we can have
as people. Not only do you reclaim your sovereignty and ability to take care of your nutritional needs, but you ultimately save resources (money and environmental), and you get to have full knowledge of what you are consuming. How powerful is that? Colorado lays claim to a diversity of resources - our land, water, and super-sunny calendar lends itself to growing some fabulous food. From the famous “Rocky Ford Cantaloupes”, to the mouth-watering “Olathe Sweet Corn”, to those delicious “Palisade Peaches” and all-natural, humanely-raised “Grass-Fed Beef ” - the river valleys, plains, and mesas of Colorado feed us, and the country. If you have even just a flower bed outside there is no excuse not to try growing some of your own food. With a quarter of an acre, you can likely feed your entire family.
That’s Natural! Advocate for Food & Medicine Freedom
An entire acre can help feed the community. We know all too well how easy it is to say that you don’t have the time - but we want to encourage you this Spring to try and rethink what your wealth is. And maybe see that the greatest of all types of wealth on the planet, is the very food that you put into your body and brain. How can we fight income inequality, wealth distribution, and ‘bought and paid for’ policies that harm ‘average’ working people? We can teach people how to grow the most amazing and nutritious food, and we can feed ourselves and our loved ones with this knowledge, that can then be handed down for generations to come. The greatest wealth is truly good food. This Spring, start with just a few plants, or jump in all the way with your entire garden - and watch your wealth flourish.
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Health & Fitness Advisor
Walk It Out!
Curtis Schwab, TAC Personal Trainer I’m a fitness professional with 35 years in the industry in California, New York City, Aspen as well as Europe and the Middle East. Let’s talk about Americans and the huge issues we’re facing with obesity, diabetes, joint, and breathing problems. I hate to say this, but even with all of the knowledge and information that is out there about ways to live a healthier lifestyle, Americans are getting worse - not better. More than one third of all Americans are considered obese (at least 30 lbs overweight!). And this stat will really get to you - one third of all middle school students are obese. Scared yet for America and Americans? I certainly am alarmed! Being obese takes an average of 9 years off of your life, and the quality of life you do have suffers, with increased joint issues, breathing problems, aches and pains, as well as social stigma. One more awful fact, for each pound of body fat, which is approximately the size of a small loaf of bread, your body has to pump blood through an extra MILE of blood vessels and capillaries! And you wonder why heavy people have shortness of breath! Daily calories are important for the body to function, rebuild, and give us energy. Excessive calories get stored as body fat until you’re starving and your body needs it. We don’t starve in America, we just eat poorly! Fat isn’t genetic. I repeat - fat isn’t genetic it’s caused by poor eating habits and a lack of activity. There are different body types, but all react well to proper nutrition and movement patterns. None of these stats mean anything if you’re not ready to make a change - it has to be important to you in order to keep the commitment. IF you are ready to make a change, let me share the EASIEST, extremely efficient, and most effective way of getting started. Having been in the fitness industry for so long, I’ve seen many exercise fads come and go. Many diets also! Diets don’t work because you go off of them and return to old eating habits, thereby returning to the problem you started with. So here’s the answer in a nutshell... The oldest saying in the gym is: Eat like a king in the morning, a prince in the afternoon, and a pauper in the evening. What and WHEN you eat is 70% of weight loss.
Your biggest meal and most calories should be taken in the morning... Why? Because you have all day to use it and burn it off. Most Americans (many in my family included) eat their big meal at dinner. Then what happens? Americans sit on their butts and watch bad t.v. shows until bedtime. Now, we won’t get into the sitting issue in this report, but sitting is proving to be horribly unhealthy in its own right! Sitting and watching television burns very few calories, so where does the big dinner go that you just ate? It gets stored as body fat. You can’t ‘make up’ your eating for calories already burned. If you starve yourself all day, your body will use muscle tissue instead of body fat for energy. It’s not fair, but true. Also, overweight people don’t need more food than thinner people. They need less food, actually, as they have tons (not literally hopefully) of food stored needing to be burned. Fat doesn’t require sustenance, just muscles and body systems in general. All of that being said, here’s the answer, and it’s so simple it will blow your mind! At dinner, which everyone should eat before 6:00 p.m., don’t eat ‘white food’. There is nothing good for you in it despite what big corporate food producers tell you. White pasta...bad. White bread...bad. White rice... not as bad, but not as good as brown rice. White flour has very few nutrients, but it’s cheap and plentiful. However, that’s part of what got us in this mess, eating this food which is mass produced by giant corporations for profits - not health. Stick with fruits, veggies, meats (some would debate that also), poultry, beans, salads, etc. at dinner. No carbs - eat those early at breakfast and/or lunch. And all of your carbs should be whole grain! Real food that your body can use! Yes it’s a habit to change, but change is the only thing that will solve the problem! The other part of this is simpler still. Exercise... do you hate it? Then don’t exercise, just go for a walk. The American Medical Association (AMA) and American Psychiatric Association (APA) both state the advantages of walking nonstop for a minimum of 30 minutes a day - this will do amazing things for your mind and body! The whole trick is consistency. Do it every evening, after dinner. Daylight savings time is here so there are no excuses for people
Curtis Schwab with his son, Cole Schwab
afraid to walk in the dark, just go for a walk! That’s all it takes! Skip one bad television show at night, and walk instead for 1/2 an hour. You will get over a mile finished in that 1/2 hour, and maybe 2 miles once you’re faster! Really, that’s all it takes. It will not only burn your dinner calories, but boosts your immune system, helps your balance, works your heart muscle as well as all of your lower body muscles. Now some say that they walk all day so they don’t need the walk in the evening... Hah! You’re in this fix aren’t you? So evidently what you’re doing isn’t working for you. You need nonstop dedicated time for your walking system to mesh and get your systems to function together. I had a client who couldn’t bear to give up his beer at night, so I made him walk while drinking it! Funny thing, that lasted for about a week, then he switched to water as the alcohol made him thirsty before he was finished with his walk. He now rarely drinks and goes for an hour walk every night before bedtime... 35 pounds later, he’s in amazing shape and he feels as good as he’s EVER felt. Just walk it out you guys, change your dinner habits, go for a walk in the evenings, and drink water - lots of it! A simple, extremely effective, and low cost answer to fitness in America! Please feel free to contact me through the ‘That’s Natural’ website for any questions you may have about health and fitness. I’m happy to help, and will choose a couple of questions/issues each month to answer publicly as well.
The Aspen Clinic
So Much More Than a ‘Gym’
The Perfect Addition for Optimal Wellness
Tisha Casida Whether you are living in or just visiting the Roaring Fork Valley, you will surely feel the mind-body-spirit energy that encompasses the landscape and the community. The wholeness and purity that we embrace as a community is the driving force behind The Aspen Clinic’s (TAC) extensive list of services for those both living in and visiting the Valley. Executive Director, Amanda Wagner says it best, “We are an individual’s and an employer’s one-stop-shop for all things heath and wellness - nutrition, health coaching, workforce wellness, care coordination and management”. This means that there is something for everyone, and being a part of TAC is the perfect addition to your health and wellness repertoire of activities. Beyond helping people rehabilitate after injuries, TAC Wellness offers workshops and educational talks on a myriad of subjects - there is a wonderful “12 Weeks to a Healthier You” program, an educational program “Clean Eating 101” and “Self Defense”. There is also a variety of classes offered at the Fitness Center throughout the week including: Kick Boxing, Circuit Training, Yoga, Zumba, Cycling, Stretching, and my personal favorite “Guts and Butts” (trust me ladies and gentlemen, this is worth the 30-45 minutes for the amazing toning and benefit to core strength). TAC has an in-house staff of exercise, nutrition and behavior specialists that do much more than just teach you how to use gym equipment - their holistic approach brings in the emotional and mind-based components that are an equally important part of creating a healthy exercise routine. Even if you are a die-hard Valley-ite that rarely enters the gym scene because you are hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, rafting, etc., you will be pleasantly surprised at how even 1-2 times per week at TAC will benefit your performance with these other activities that we love. TAC is the perfect addition to your routine for the expertise
on nutrition and wellness, strengthtraining, and conditioning that will take you to the next level. You immediately feel welcomed and surrounded by a friendly support sys-
tem when you become a part of the TAC member family. There are a lot of places where you can go to “work out”, but only one place in the Valley where you can truly feel and be a part of the mind-body-spirit approach to health and wellness.
ARE YOU
TIRED
OF YOUR OWN EXCUSES? TURN YOUR EXCUSES INTO
ACTION! There's no better time than NOW to prioritize your wellness and fitness! Let us help you get motivated to reach your goals.
TAC Fitness
Safe. Strong. Smart.
TAC Wellness
Mind. Body. Spirit.
FOOD Review
The Butcher’s Block
Tisha Casida
Be warned - if you step into this business and have any of their delicious fare - you will be hooked. I was so happy to stumble upon this locally-owned and operated retail food store on the advice of a friend who said their chili was ‘the best’. As an avid consumer of chili and chile, I decided it was time to find out for my own palate. The Butcher’s Block is an easy gem to find in Aspen - between City Market and the Silver Queen Gondola. They have a delicious menu of prepared foods - including sandwiches made-to-order, salads, soups, desserts, and of course, chili. In addition to being able to satisfy your immediate cravings for food ready to eat - this is a gorgeous deli with fine aged meats, fresh seafood, cheese from around the world, and specialized ingredients for that perfect meal that you are planning. My distributor and I treated ourselves to the “Butcher’s Block Famous Meatloaf Sandwich”, a hearty cup of chili (ground beef, beans, and red chile), and the chocolate cake. There is something about fine food that creates a peace inside your
tummy and your mind (it is said that the stomach IS your second brain (and arguably, some people - me included - would say, it is your first)). The meatloaf was mouth-watering, the chili was perfectly seasoned with layers of flavor and juicy tomatoes, and the chocolate cake, well, it was wonderful - not too sweet - just perfect.
consumer and mouthpiece for supporting local. The Butcher’s Block made my experience one that I will happily talk about for all time to come, and they have my vote as one of the best places to eat in the Roaring Fork Valley. Since they have been in business for over forty years, I am sure this comes as no surprise to anyone who has had the chance to eat and shop here.
Something I have to rave and rant about is the extraordinary customer service. I was greeted like they really cared, my order was taken and promptly filled, and I felt wonderful through the whole experience. Oftentimes businesses can’t live up to the expectations of someone who is a hearty
Stop in, call in an order ahead of time, and enjoy yourself at this wonderful, truly local, family-owned business.
The
Feed
Colorado Nullified Federal Law with Amendment 64
A Win for Food & Medicine Freedom! Cannabis and the Natural Medicine Revolution Getting Big Pharma Out of Natural Cures & Personal Choice
What is CBD? CBD is an abbreviation for “cannabidiol” - a component found in cannabis, that has no psychoactive effects (no marijuana ‘high’ because it is NOT marijuana). CBD has been shown to have properties, when ingested or applied topically, that may benefit your health. CBD is found in greater amounts in “hemp”, which is a type of cannabis, but not the psychoactive strain of plant often referred to as “marijuana”. Hemp is a strain of plant that grows much taller, and can be used for its fiber, oil, and its seeds. Because CBD can be found in greater amounts in hemp (versus other strains of cannabis), that is what is used for CBD hemp oil.
Cannabidiol Research Has Shown - Strong anti-inflammatory properties - Helps the body to not make the chemical that causes inflammation - Anti-convulsive properties - CBD makes cancer cells commit “suicide” without killing other cells - The protection of nerves by inhibiting the processes that damage nerves - CBDs are effective against MRSA (antibiotic-resistant bug) - Cannabidiol is NOT psychoactive (CBD is not THC - they are completely different compounds) You have an “endocannabinoid system” in your body. Every human does! This is one of science’s most exciting discoveries - each of us are basically “pre-wired” with cannabinoid receptors throughout our body! These receptors are most abundant in our immune system and in our brain - two extremely
important functions for optimal health and wellness. There is a lot of research being done on cannabidiol, or CBD. You can go to our website to see a comprehensive list of independent research. So what are the benefits of CBD? It’s a supplement and regulated the same way Vitamins such as vitamin C and fish oil are regulated. We can point you towards research being done but cannot guarantee or make any claims to its effectiveness or uses. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has laws about supplements and how they can be represented. We encourage you to do some research on your own. That’s Natural! is proud to be offering a premium CBD Hemp Oil that has the highest levels of CBD on the market. See more information and research at www.cbdoil.life.
Warning: We are not licensed doctors and we are not approved by any government agency to be able to tell you that anything treats or cures anything.
This is merely an opinion, and we encourage you to break through the big-government and big-pharma matrix to do your own research and learn about positive ways to protect your health.
Hemp, Cannabis, and the Natural Medicine Revolution That’s Natural! Reports
Hemp has been grown in the United States since the 1600’s - the seeds for hemp came over with the Puritans on the ships that sailed from England. Much of what was grown was actually meant for British consumption, and ironically, the first drafts of the Declaration of Independence were created using hemp paper. “Hemp”, which is a term for many varieties of the Cannabis plant, has been used for its fiber, for its oil, and for its seed. The (strain) of cannabis that contains the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is “Cannabis sativa” and usually referred to as marijuana. This is not the (strain) of cannabis that is used for hemp and its associated products. Hemp grows much taller than marijuana plants and hemp does not contain the psychoactive compounds. Thomas Jefferson and George Washington are two very famous founders of our country who grew hemp on their farms. Like many laws that are introduced by politicians to benefit (or harm) certain industries and companies that have contributed (or not contributed) to their election and position - the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, that created numerous difficulties
for all of cannabis production, may have been one of those political documents. Hemp, which at the time was an inexpensive substitute for paper pulp and also for fiber, may have competed with the DuPont family’s new synthetic fiber “nylon”. The Secretary of the Treasury at the time, Andrew Mellon, had invested extensively in DuPont’s nylon business.
“Monsanto Protection Act”). Laws are often created and used to help or hurt companies; to create or disseminate industries. When it comes to our land, what we eat, and the medicines that we take - it is always best to have decentralized policies that allow for consumers to choose what is best for them.
Perhaps the passage of this Act was an attempt to stymie the production of cannabis and related hemp products. In addition to the growing distaste of the federal government’s tolerance for marijuana use (even though the American Medical Association at the time condoned medical marijuana prescriptions and use), this Act and others succeeded in stomping out the industry.
Colorado is one of those States that has nullified federal law (with Amendment 64) and is leading the country in the production of cannabis. Both hemp and cannabis sativa (and the many different (strains) of this plant) are being produced and refined into products that can have benefits for people. That’s Natural! is excited to be a part of this with our very own all-natural, solvent-free, Colorado-grown hemp oil.
That is, until now. Thanks to common sense reemerging for agricultural policy growing hemp is now “legal” in nineteen States. A provision in the 2014 Farm Bill made growing hemp possible with certain stipulations being followed. The consumption of hemp products (which are not marijuana or psychoactive products) is legal in all 50 States (and has been).
If you would like to explore the potential health benefits of this all natural dietary supplement (legal in all 50 states) and used for hundreds of years around the world, we would love to hear from you! Purchase direct from us or one of our sales reps. Interested in becoming part of our growing national sales force? Give us a call or email today!
Laws that stomp out people, companies and industries because of vested interests are nothing new (see Monsanto and the
info@thatsnatural911.com
A SPEN ’ S M OST U NIQUE R ETAIL E XPERIENCE
NOW UNDER TWO FABULOUS BIG TOPS OVER 65 LOCAL ARTISTS AND VENDORS Jewelry : Pottery : Glass : Skincare Chocolates : Candles : Oils & Vinegars : Soaps Photography : Clothing : Paintings : Dog Barkery Oxygen Bar : Fresh Flowers : Heather's Savory Pies : Year Round Farm Stand : ASPEN
315 E. MAIN STREET across from The Hotel Jerome 970.544.2499
BASALT
132 MIDLAND AVENUE in historical downtown Basalt 970.927.3132
Natural Dog Treat Review From @TuckerWucker
All-Natural Goodies from the Aspen and Basalt Emporium & Flying Circus 5 out of 5 Dog Bones!
Zig Zag Dog Treats are all natural, organic, GMO-free and grain-free (served in packages). Three “Arfs” from Tucker! The Barkary Treats are handmade with spelt flour, yogurt, peanut butter and natural ingredients - these have fun shapes and sizes to please all dogs and owners. Tucker says, “I love these with my raw milk!”
Find him on Twitter at @TuckerWucker That’s Natural! Advocate for Food & Medicine Freedom
“If people let the government decide what foods they eat and what medicines they take, their bodies will soon be in as sorry a state as are the souls who live under tyranny.” - Thomas Jefferson
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Page 11
Ag Tourism - Denver/Metro All products need markets to reach new customers, and the Denver-Metro area is the most population-dense area of the State for doing that. Although most of the land is developed for housing and commercial enterprises (hey - there is STILL ample opportunity for growing food in the city) - the availability of markets and restaurants that feature fresh, Colorado fare - is abundant. The stalwart of all markets is The Market at Larimer Square - which is the oldest, continuous market in downtown Denver. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as offering a robust deli case (hot foods, sandwiches, and salads) and freshmade bakery goods (oh my, the pies!) this is a must-stop on your trip to Denver. We strongly advise you to take a look at their map on their website to make sure you find every gem in the market when you visit.
Colorado grows many good things including smart policies and industries! The Wynkoop is THE original brewpub in Colorado. In 1988, this history-making business started and has created the pathway for more craft beers (which, as you hopefully know, is part of what makes Colorado so awesome) and more brewpubs. Such a significant creation would have to have delicious brews and delicious food - and you won’t be disappointed when you visit the Wynkoop. Fermented foods and beverages have been consumed for thousands of years to improve the health and wellness of individuals - so we at That’s Natural! consider beer an essential vitamin - and have first-hand experiences with these medicinal drinks at the Wynkoop (the beers there produced a great Governor, didn’t they?!).
While You’re There… Don’t forget to stop by the Tattered Cover, one of our absolute favorite book stores. Now with two locations! As best said on their website “an experience you can’t download”. Get out there and buy some books on how to grow your own food!
Tattered Cover in Historic LoDo 1628 16th Street Denver, CO 80202
Hours: Mon - Fri, 6:30am to 9pm; Sat 9am to 9pm; Sun10am to 6pm
Tattered Cover at Union Station (across the corner from the main LoDo store)
1701 Wynkoop Street in Historic Lower Downtown Denver Store Hours: Mon - Fri, 8am to 7pm; Sat 9am to 7pm; Sun 10am to 5pm
Denver Urban Homesteading Steve Thompson The Colorado Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (CFVGA) is a collaborative project aimed to bring attention and solutions to the complexities of growing fresh and flavorful produce. As a nonprofit organization created to bring together producers and others in the industry, the CFVGA has members from around the State of Colorado and has just recently concluded their first conference, of which the videos of the breakout sessions are available on their website. If you are a producer that is interested in joining this association and contributing your knowledge, as well as learning from others, please visit: www.cfvga.org. And for you consumers that want to be resilient in your purchasing power - find ways to buy Colorado produce and give your hard-earned money to these farmers who are working hard to bring you fresh, high-quality products!
There are people who say things, and people who do things. James Bertini is one who does things, and is creating a dynamic setting that promotes local producers, encourages education, and empowers people through functional and spirited capitalism. His creation, Denver Urban Homesteading, is located in central Denver, and is very close to the Santa Fe Art District. In his industrial facility, there are places for producers to bring their goods to sell to the community, a kitchen, and plenty of space to expand into a full-out market with various offerings and opportunities to bring in residents and visitors alike. He took the time to explain to us the various types of materials and instruments needed
for bee-keeping. There are wooden hives on the roof and even in the side of the building – James has bees who are working, pollinating, and of course producing one of our favorite foods on the planet – honey. He offers classes for those who want to venture into bee-keeping, and their facility has a piece of equipment that will spin your honey for you, for a minimal cost per pound. Check out the 2015 class schedule, including useful subjects like: Backyard Chicken-Keeping, Restoring Old Wood Furniture (save a tree!), and Permaculture Without Jargon. Mr. Bertini is an outspoken advocate for the individual – he has worked very hard to protect his own company, and while doing so, is working
That’s Natural! Supporting Colorado Agriculture Tourism
Tisha Casida with James Bertini
on some very good journalistic work that illustrates the dangers and powers of too much red tape in government agencies. We applaud you for standing up for small farmers and producers!
Denver Urban Homesteading 200 Santa Fe Drive Denver, CO 80223 (303) 572-3122 Visit their website:
denverurbanhomesteading.com
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A Serious Discussion About Vaccines Richard Smith
As the vaccine debate rages on, it is important for one to educate themselves on the issue. No matter what side one is on regarding vaccination, it is imperative to truly understand how vaccines work and the potential risks involved, and why there is an ongoing debate to begin with. For instance, the current measles outbreak has affected 171 people across 17 States since this year started. This year we saw a record number of cases with 644 people infected across 27 states (cdc.gov/measles). This is alarming for a couple reasons; one being that we were told in 2000 that measles was eliminated in the U.S.; second, a majority of the cases were individuals who were previously vaccinated for measles. However, this scenario is not historically unique. In 1984, 21 cases of measles were reported in Sangamon County, Illinois, in which 100% of the people infected were adequately vaccinated. Another study in 1994 found that measles outbreaks still occurred in school populations despite having between 71-98.8% of those affected immunized(1). Yet another example took place in 2011, where 98 Canadians became infected with measles, with 50% of those having received two doses of the vaccine(5). So the question must be asked, why are those who should be protected still becoming sick and infected? The answer lies within the measles vaccine itself, that’s why its important to understand exactly how it operates. There are mainly two types of vaccines routinely used: live, attenuated vaccines; or inactivated vaccines. The live vaccines include the MMR, chickenpox and the typhoid vaccine. The inactivated vaccines include the flu shot, the polio vaccine and the pertussis vaccine. Both types of vaccines are intended to induce immunologic memory and protect from disease when exposed to the ‘wild’ version of the virus/ bacteria. However, as we will discuss later, this is not always the case.
Measles is a viral infection that causes symptoms typical of most viral infections including fever, cough, runny nose, fatigue, and a skin rash that appears as small red dots with white centers(1). Symptoms generally leave in a week or two and like most viral infections, it is not deadly to those who are well nourished and not immunocompromised. The real danger is to infants, who are still developing an immune system and are unable to inherit natural immunity from a vaccinated mother (more to be discussed on this later). Measles epidemics were common occurrences during the 1800’s in developing countries like the U.K. and the United States. The epidemics were often deadly, with some reports of 20% fatality rates among children(1). However, as time went on, sanitation standards were vastly improved - like cleaner water and safer sewage removal - thus deterring the spread of many infectious diseases(4). Nutrition greatly improved as well, and as more people became what we call the “middle class”, mass starvation was something only seen in the non-industrialized world. A downward trend in mortality from infectious diseases was already taking place many years before medicine like penicillin was widely used in 1944(1). By the 1960’s, with modern nutrition standards commonplace in the developed world, a sharp decline in measles cases were observed even before the vaccine was introduced(1). So, in 1963, when the first vaccine was licensed, measles was already not the danger it once was. For instance, in 1960, the official number of fatalities due to measles was 380. With the population approaching 181 million at that time, the mortality rate was equal to about 0.24 per 100,000(1). So why then, did we need to create a vaccine? Well, if you are Merck and Co., there is money to be made! The original vaccine was an inactivated virus, which was hugely unsuccessful for a
number of reasons: one being the immunity seemed to wane quickly and secondly, complications rising from pneumonia, encephalopathy, and a more severe form of measles called atypical measles(1). Shortly after, a live version of the vaccine was introduced and became more widely used between 1965 and 1967. The live vaccine contains an attenuated virus, meaning it undergoes changes to make it less virulent and ‘hopefully’ not disease-causing. However, the attenuation process is highly inconsistent and not totally error proof, so the virus may remain virulent to some degree and still cause disease(2). Therefore, the vaccine can cause measles infection, also known as “modified measles,” which is likely to be the cause of the recent outbreaks. So it can be reasonably assumed that it is not the natural or wild version of measles causing the outbreaks, but rather the vaccine strain. Yet day after day we hear in the media how it is the children who weren’t vaccinated that are causing the outbreaks, but what evidence do they have to really prove this? The media neglects to ever mention or consider the vaccine strain as possibly the culprit of the outbreaks. Furthermore, evidence shows that the vaccine strain of measles is not necessarily cleared totally from the body, thus it can cause disease and also be contagious(1). This vaccine that induced measles, or “modified measles”, was first discovered in the early 1960’s when the live vaccine was first being used, but it was always assumed that it would only be a subclinical manifestation without severe symptoms. Unfortunately, it has been repeatedly shown to cause disease (like in the outbreaks previously mentioned) and even the more virulent atypical measles(1). However, “modified measles” isn’t the only problem associated with the vaccine. For instance, the vaccine strain has been found in urine and various blood cells and imContinued on Page 17
Ag Tourism - Southwest Colorado The Southwest portion of Colorado includes: Delta, Montrose, Alamosa, Saguache, Chaffee, Archuleta, Fremont, Montezuma, Ouray, La Plata, Rio Grande, Gunnison, Costilla, and Conejos Counties. This part of the Western Slope has a diverse terrain that creates some of the most delicious products available in the State. Olathe Sweet Corn - For some reason, Olathe, Colorado (Montrose County) produces the best sweet corn on the planet. It’s truly the combination of soil and sun, and a science - but when you bite into some of this sweet corn, especially if it has been fire-roasted, coated in local butter from grass-fed cows, and topped with some cracked pepper and Himalayan sea salt, some may think it’s magic. Corn, which has Native American roots (Anasazi), is actually a grass. And the delicious, milky, sugary goodness packed into those kernels? That has come from years, decades really, of breeding varieties of corn. This is actually done by farmers, taking years to perfect (and is completely and totally different than the type of “breeding” done by Monsanto splicing together
vegetable and animals genes). Sweet corn is the heart and soul of many operations in Montrose County, and there is even the “Olathe Sweet Corn Festival” on August 8th.
If you live on the Front Range, or even in the Vail/Roaring Fork Valleys - you may find yourself traversing the mountains, but never making it further west on the Western Slope. We hope that this encourages you to head west and check out the incredible orchards, roadside-produce stands, bed and breakfast inns, and other exciting activities in this area. If you are looking for some peace, away from the hustle and bustle, and mind-blowing noise of the city (yes, that includes people who live anywhere near Highway 82) - there are many choices for you, just a hop over the hills.
Delta County Apples, Pears & Cherries - At the base of our mountains, and out near the mesas, Colorado has a history of orchards. Delta County, situated between 5,000 and 7,000 feet, has some of the highest elevations of apple orchards in the world. In addition to apples, there are pears, cherries, grapes, and of course peaches, which we mention in the Northwest Colorado section. These products are available at many farmers’ road-side While You’re There... stands, and also at farmers’ markets closer In this part of Colorado, there are places to the ‘metro’-centers on both the Western to stay and enjoy yourself - either spendSlope and Front Range. Paonia Cherry ing a quiet night on the farm at a bed Days is a fun three-day event that celand breakfast, becoming a part of the ebrates these prized cherries July 4th every experience at a dude ranch, doing some year. On the first weekend of October, fishing, riding beautiful horses, jumping Cedaredge hosts the AppleFest, and would on hay bails for a ride behind a tractor, be a fabulous weekend trip to visit a small or getting lost in corn mazes and picking town with a rich history - a great way to pumpkins in patches. On our website support truly local agriculture and agyou will find some of our favorites. tourism.
Ag Tourism - Northwest Colorado The Northwest part of Colorado, including Mesa, Garfield, Rio Blanco, Moffat, Routt, Jackson, Grand, Summit, Park, Lake, Pitkin, and Eagle Counties - houses a diverse landscape from very rocky mountains, to valleys, mesas, and mountain plains. “Food-shed” is a term often used to talk about what products are grown and then how those products may get into consumers’ hands. The Northwest portion of Colorado offers a variety of delicious products that could keep this particular area fed quite well, if the resources were used and ‘diverted’ to do so. Palisade Peaches - Let’s start with the sweet stuff! Most likely you have had the chance to bite into a juicy peach from Palisade and enjoy the delicious mess that ensues. Peaches, available fresh in August and September, can be preserved and enjoyed year-round by being canned, or put into jams/jellies, or being infused into your alcoholic beverage of choice - wine, vodka, and brandy to name the most popular. Yum! One of our favorites includes peachgrowers David and Jamie Cox over at Palisade Produce. Palisade Produce is on the forefront of farming with technological advances, particularly to increase efficiency and ecological balance. Many of the technologies they integrate reduce work and are environmentally friendly at the same time. Between using solar power, recycling as much waste as possible, and pursuing feasible organic methods to deal with tree pests and the elements, these family farmers know how important it is to get high-quality product into the hands
of customers! Find them on Facebook “Palisade Produce”. Grass-Fed Meats The expansive uninhibited high plains around Craig and Steamboat Springs lends itself to raising cows and bison in an extremely crueltyfree and all-natural environment.
David and Jamie Cox of Palisade Produce
Meat that comes from grass-fed animals is naturally higher in “good fats”, and this meat has a much smaller chance of having large amounts of antibiotics, since these cows are not confined to small spaces and get to live happy lives, free, as they should be. Near Steamboat Springs, and nestled under the shadows of the Flat Tops Mountain Range, a fourth-generation farmer by the name of Wayne Shoemaker continues his practice and expertise of raising cattle. The very ground that he works is the family ranch originally homesteaded by his great-grandparents, with a tradition and philosophy of integrity in how their animals are treated and raised. Yampa Valley Beef ’s all-natural, hormone and antibioticfree beef can be found to purchase or enjoy prepared at several fine locations as listed on their website, www.yampavalleybeef.com.
mean that produce and herbs can’t thrive hoop houses offer individuals and businesses the opportunity to capitalize on the closeness to the sun to grow products that are tantalizing and fresh. A That’s Natural! favorite is Osage Gardens, located in New Castle, Colorado and growing certified organic fine culinary herbs for over 22 years. With a farm store, appearances at farmers’ markets, as well as being in Vitamin Cottage, Whole Foods, and several local co-ops and grocery stores - this is an easy buy-local addition to add into your grocery list! Arugula, chervil, chives, dill, marjoram, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage, sorrel, tarragon, thyme, flatleaf parsley, basil, lemon basil, purple basil, Thai basil, and edible flowers will knock your socks off with flavor that can only be achieved when you are sourcing your food so fresh and so close to the food-sheds in the Vail Valley and Roaring Fork Valley!
Greenhouse Growing - Just because there’s a lot of ground with a shorter sunexposure time and colder weather doesn’t
Free Us From Fluoride
Towns that are Saying NO to Bad Water That’s Natural! Reports
It has recently been reported that the city of Rifle is again debating whether or not fluoride will be put into the water. At That’s Natural!, we stand behind citizens and organizations that are highly questioning the addition of this chemical into our waters. When it comes to dental problems - cavities and other associated issues can be fixed by many other, natural,
That’s Natural! Advocate for Food & Medicine Freedom
preventative, and non-toxic ways that make much more sense that dumping a chemical proven to have detrimental side-effects on the human body into an entire community’s water supply. Let’s be smart about health problems and real solutions, and let’s keep Colorado’s Western Slope Water free from fluoride! www.ThatsNatural911.com
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Ag Tourism - Southeast Colorado Touring the Regions of Colorado
A Weekend Trip to Country Roots Farm That’s Natural! Reports
Situated near the Arkansas River, on the St. Charles Mesa, there is a small family farm with a true passion for growing healthy food. Country Roots Farm, established in 1993 and one of the original existing CSA farms in the country, offers a communitysupported-Agriculture (CSA) program that brings this family’s passion for local agriculture to the palates of people in southeastern Colorado. Country Roots is a family-run enterprise including Ryan, Betsy, and their son Reed. Ryan’s mother, Virginia, who was also an integral part of the operation and very dear to our hearts, is forever a part of this farm in spirit, as she passed last year and is now an angel watching over this wonderful family. When you join Country Roots Farm CSA Program you can be assured that they are growing all sorts of vegetables, some herbs,
and even raspberries! Some of the produce may feature different varieties. For example, when they have heirloom tomatoes, you may be eating Cherokee Purple, White Tomesah, and Vintage Wine varieties. Country Roots believes in growing a wide variety of open pollinated (OP) food to help keep the natural diversity of all the components of the farm strong and healthy. In addition to eclectic, beautiful heirloom produce, Country Roots Farm has goat milk shares, eggs, and turkeys available for purchase. In Colorado to ‘legally’ drink raw (unpasteurized) milk, you must “own a share of the herd”, hence a “Herd Contract” is signed by the consumer. This must be done prior to receiving any milk for consumption. The goats in this herd are the “Jersey Milk Cows” of the goat world. Nubians, Oberhasli, and Alpines make up this mixed herd at Country Roots.
Reed with Grandmother, Virginia
These species of goats give a bit less in quantity of milk, but a much higher grade for consumption. This is an excellent milk for fresh drinking, making yogurt, kefir, and cheese. Free-Range Eggs are available at Country Roots Farm for most of the year. They hand-raise the tiny chicks from oneday old. Eggs can be reserved by emailing or calling them at least 24 hours ahead of time due to the high demand. Many of our readers may be familiar with the deliciousness of truly local free-range eggs, and we strongly urge you to find a local farmer in your part of the world to make your “eggs-perience” one that you won’t be able to stray from. Pastured turkeys are also available at Country Roots, and they typically raise the double-breast bronze variety. Only 15 turkeys are available for purchase, and these are unlike any natural or organic turkey that you have had before. The bio-dynamic operations of the farm and the high-quality certified natural goodness that the birds are consuming creates a healthy turkey that has lived a very happy and humane life. This July, Country Roots Farm celebrates 23 years in business and was THE original advertiser who believed in the founding of That’s Natural!, over nine years ago. We love you guys, and thank you for being such an integral part of our community, State, and world.
Product Review
Rose and Lavender Cleanser and Face Mask Tisha Casida
Providence, located in Glenwood Springs, is a fabulous local store with some of the most beautifully packaged and displayed natural wellness products in the Roaring Fork Valley. If you are familiar with those places, where you walk in and immediately feel welcomed and immersed by the scents and sights of what is around you - this is one of those places. You could spend an hour just looking at the various natural remedies, including: over 100 varieties of dried herbs, teas, tinctures, essential oils and aromas, soaps, salves, lotions, and lovely skin care products. One of the products that I found that I have fallen in love with is the Rose and Lavender Cleanser and
Facial Mask, which is made of white clay. Over the years I have tried many different natural and organic masks and peels on my very sensitive skin. This particular product from Providence has become my absolute favorite for how gentle it is on my skin, and how incredibly soft and smooth it makes my face. It is easy to apply and easy to take off, it smells wonderful, and it is one of those things that just makes me feel good. This product is actually created in Glenwood Springs, and perhaps it is the ingredient of love, that makes this such a great find. I have always believed that the energy of people affects the energy of what they create. And much like the best cooks in the world cook with ‘love’ - these products at Providence are created and packaged with the same care and attention to detail.
Providence also offers: Herbal Consultation, Therapeutic Massage, Acupuncture, and Reiki. You can also go online to check out the classes that they offer, including: MomTo-Be Yoga and Herbal Class, Honoring the Female Cycle, Tea 101, and a Medicine Making Series. Providence is the perfect local resource for knowledge and products to fulfill your healing and health maintenance needs, we hope you will visit their location and enjoy the other great amenities in Glenwood Springs while you’re there.
A Serious Discussion About Vaccines, Continued Continued from Page 13
mune cells of patients with autoimmune diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune hepatitis(2). Thus, there is evidence that the vaccine strain can persist in the body for many years and cause disease rather than offer protection. Yet, to me, the biggest issue is the loss of natural immunity that mass vaccination has created, particularly since the 1960’s. Natural immunity, unlike vaccine induced immunity, is generally ‘lifetime protection’. Vaccine immunity wanes over time, it may last up to 25 years, but some research predicts it may even be lost in as little as 10 years(1). Therefore, vaccines may only postpone the onset of contracting a given disease that immunizations are intended for. Natural immunity comes after exposure to the wild virus or bacteria by means of natural occurrence and not artificial immunity(4). Antibodies from natural immunity are much more effective at clearing a pathogen from the body, and can be passed naturally from mother to child via the placenta and breast milk(2). Vaccine induced antibodies are not produced in the mammary gland, so they cannot be transferred via breast milk. Mucosal, or natural exposure to a virus via the mucous membranes, is needed to transfer immunity by breast-feeding. Vac-
cinated mothers also have less antibodies in the blood compared to naturally acquired immunity, hence the placenta is also an unreliable source to transfer any vaccinated immunity the mother may have(2). Consequently, infants are at a dire risk for contracting measles if born to a vaccinated mother because they are unable to acquire any immunity that would protect them. Thanks to vaccines, with mass vaccination beginning in the 60’s, most people were not allowed to contract measles at a safe age and therefore pass on natural protection to their offspring(2). Infants are particularly susceptible to disease due to their underdeveloped immune systems and therefore it is not practical to give a newborn a live vaccine. We have created a generation that will be born without the protection they need from a virus that is still around thanks to the idea of artificial immunity. Is the measles vaccine justified? Why was it created in the first place? How do we know how effective it actually is? More research needs to be done to really get a definitive answer, but we cannot look past how much money vaccines make for the industry, so undoubtedly profit is a big and driving force. As far as the effectiveness goes, we must remember that, for obvious ethical
That’s Natural! Discussions About Health & Wellness
reasons, vaccines cannot be tested by way of randomized control trials like other medications. Their effectiveness is based on how well it makes the individual produce antibodies and statistical data collected after it’s unleashed upon the public(2). Nonetheless, there is an ever increasing movement to make vaccination mandatory and subject to law, but we cannot forget the questions that vaccines continue to bring up and the rights we have as individuals. The debate rages on. “Things do not happen. Things are made to happen.” - John F. Kennedy References:
1. Dissolving Illusions: Disease, Vaccines, and the Forgotten History. Humphries, Suzanne and Bystrianyk, Roman, 2013 2. Vaccine Illusion: How Vaccination Compromises our Natural Immunity and What we can do to Regain our Health. Obukhanych, Tetyana, 2011 3. Vaccine Epidemic. Habakus, Louise Kuo, et al. Skyhorse Publishing, 2012 4. Anyone Who tells You Vaccines are Safe and Effective is Lying. Here’s the Proof. Coleman, Vernon. European Medical Journal, 2011 5. Poland, Gregory A., and Robert M. Jacobson. “The Re-Emergence of Measles in Developed Countries: Time to Develop the Next-Generation Measles Vaccines?” Vaccine 30.2 (2012): 103–104. PMC. Web.
www.ThatsNatural911.com
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That’s Natural! Friends & Finds We believe that every human being has a right to health, education, the arts, and to be a part of the local economy. We believe that entities and products that encourage this should be promoted. We believe that educating the public about the inherent truths of our health, our education, our culture, and our economy is paramount to our rights as citizens. We believe in resilience and the power of a free market economy. We believe in the power of a consumer. And we believe all of THAT is very NATURAL! That’s Natural! Barn Dog Ranch Raw Goat Milk & Goat Milk Products Olathe, CO 970-417-0468
The Aspen Clinic (TAC Fitness) 1460 E Valley Rd, Suites 100 & 221 Basalt, CO 81621 www.theaspenclinic.org
Silverpeak Apothecary 520 E Cooper Ave. Aspen, CO 81611 www.silverpeakapothecary.com
Eagle Crest Nursery 400 Gillespie Drive El Jebel, Colorado, 81623 www.eaglecrestnursery.com
Tonic Juicery 320 Main St., Suite 102 Carbondale, CO www.tonicjuicery.com
Sure Thing Burger 729 E Valley Rd. Basalt, CO 81621 www.surethingburger.com
Jubilee Family Farm 5476 5700 Road Olathe , CO 81425 www.jubileefamilyfarm.com
TOWN 348 Main St. Carbondale, CO 81623 www.towncarbondale.com
Big B’s Organic Apple Juice Delicious Orchards Paonia, CO www.bigbjuices.com
Bonfire Coffee 433 Main St. Carbondale, CO 81623 www.bonfirecoffee.com
Carbondale Co-Op 559 Main St. Carbondale, CO 81623 www.carbondalecommunityfoodcoop.org
Avon Bakery & Deli 25 Hurd Lane, Avon, CO 81620 www.avonbakeryanddeli.com (970) 949-3354
National Young Farmers Coalition Representing, Mobilizing, and Engaging Young Farmers to Ensure Their Success www.YoungFarmers.org
Half-Pint Naturals 100% Chemical, Petroleum & Preservative Free Products www.halfpintnaturals.com
Weston A. Price Foundation Dedicated to restoring nutrient-dense foods to the human diet www.westonaprice.org
www.humanfoodproject.com
Art Exchange Aspen 7 Santa Fe
“Road of a Morning” Wood Block Print, Image Size 10.1/2” x 12” Size Gustave Baumann
“Indian Dancer” Gene Kloss Image Size 6”x7” Frame Size 17”x 18.3/4” Museum Foundation Reproduction
“Anasazi Flowers” Oil on Canvas Image size 8”x10” Charles Collins
Silver Sage Collection
“Woman Plastering” Kenneth M. Adams Image Size 6”x7” Frame Size 17”x 18.3/4” Museum Foundation Reproduction
www.aspen-santafe.com Please inquire: silversagecollection@gmail.com