VSH Newsletter July 2008 COLOR

The Island Vegetarian Quarterly Newsletter of the Vegetarian Society of Hawaii

SUPPORTING HEALTH, ANIMAL RIGHTS, AND ECOLOGY VOL. 19, ISSUE 3, JULY-SEPT 2008 Vegetarian School Lunch Inside this Issue: Resolution Passes

Message from the Editor 2 by William Harris, M.D. TV & Radio Listings 3 Readers’ Voices 4 Senate Concurrent Resolution SCR 84, “Requesting the Department of In the News 6 Education and the Hawaii Public School Food Service to Develop Nutri- Local Happenings 8 tionally‑sound Public School Menu Plans That Include Vegetarian and Ve- 2008 Farm Bill 9 gan Meals,” passed the 2008 Hawaii Legislature. Most of the original pro- visions had been removed from its predecessor SB2136, because of objec- Calendar of Events 11 tions from the Departments of Education and Health, and from the Hawaii Animal Rights Corner 12 School Food service itself, but in its final form it received the blessings of VSH Election Results 13 both the DOE and the DOH. From my position the most pertinent parts are Kauai Potlucks/Lectures 16 1 and 3: Vegan Tidbits 18 1. The Department of Education and the Hawaii school food service [should] consider nutritionally‑sound public school menu plans that give students the option of vegetarian and vegan public school meals Public Lectures:* 3. The DOE [should] post on its website a list of schools that have vegetarian and vegan menu options History: our December 1991 newsletter included a petition by member DR. WILLIAM HARRIS, M.D. Eliot Rosen requesting support for HB3195 in the Hawaii State House of “OPTIMIZING YOUR DIET Representatives, which required that an optional low-fat vegan diet to be FOR BETTER HEALTH” Tuesday, July 8th, 7 p.m. made available in schools where students, faculty, or school lunch managers Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse express interest. The bill went nowhere, but in the intervening years members Cheryl Chung, Carol Gabbard, Laurie Veatch, Jim Deutch, and I continued to en- BRUCE FRIEDRICH courage vegetarian school lunch options with Hawaii Food Service manager “EATING FOR PLANETARY SURVIVAL” Gene Kaneshiro, who has since been succeeded by Glenna Owens. Tuesday, August 12th, 7 p.m. In 2001 SCR151, very similar to SCR 84, made it through the Senate, Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse but HCR152, its companion, failed in the House. However, the resolutions generated some interest on the Mainland and the language was used for a HAROLD BLOOMFIELD, M.D. similar bill in California. “MAKING PEACE WITH YOURSELF, Finally in 2008 Freshman Rep. Joe Bertram III, 11th District (Makena- YOUR FAMILY, AND YOUR DIET” Wailea-Kihei on Maui), a raw-food vegan himself, introduced SB2136, a Tuesday, September 9th, 7 p.m. mandate bill “To Require the Department of Health to Develop Nutritional- Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse ly‑sound Public School Menu Plans That Give Students the Option of a Vegetarian School Lunch Meal.” The video of Bertram’s March 2008 VSH *See page 11 for more details and talk is on line (all URLs are listed at the end of this article.) Maui meeting times. (see School Lunch on page 18) MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR by Scott Owen Snarr

Aloha! The Island Vegetarian Last fall when I heard that Jim Brown was retiring from his editing duties after seven admirable years, I jumped at the opportunity to take his place. It is an The Island Vegetarian is published honor for me to be the editor of The Island Vegetarian. This issue marks my quarterly by and for the members of the Vegetarian Society of Hawaii. third. As editor I acquire, evaluate, and select content, lay out the design, and do P.O. Box 23208 other miscellaneous production tasks. Our President Alida and I copyedit, proof- read, and make editorial decisions together. I find this work very involving, but Honolulu, HI 96823-3208 every minute of it brings me joy, and the final product gives me great satisfac- 808-944-VEGI (8344) tion. I feel grateful to be able to dedicate to this project the time and attention it deserves. Visit our website for a restaurant The publication looks essentially the same as before but with slight changes. In the absence of feedback to the contrary, I’m assuming it isn’t broken, so it guide, TV and meeting schedules, doesn’t need fixing. On the other hand, I believe there is always room for im- newsletter archives, and more. provement, and I am aiming for gradual refinements. Comments and suggestions [email protected] are always welcome. VSH.org In the previous issue I launched the Readers’ Voices column but without a proper introduction. There are a mere three people on the newsletter committee, VegHawaii.org and most of our local articles come from a small core of contributers. Letters to the editor have been few and far between. I wanted to create a forum in which Board of Directors everyone could participate, including readers who did not necessarily have the time or interest to write full articles. Thus, Readers’ Voices was born. Readers’ Voices is for you and by you—and we need your participation to make it a suc- President: Alida Rutchick, M.Ed. cess. It appears on pages 4 and 5 in this issue. A topic will be announced, and Vice Pres: Jim Brown Secretary: William Harris, M.D. responses will appear in the following issue. I also want to hear your ideas for Treasurer: Mel Hertz, MBA, CFP future topics. Directors: Karl Seff, Ph.D. The “submission guidelines” inset on page 4 is intended to serve as a re- minder that we always welcome letters to the editor, book reviews, and full- Laurelee Blanchard length articles. Pieces with a fresh slant are gladly received. I encourage students Patrick Moore and first-time writers to give it a try. Not all submissions are right for our publication, but if you have an idea, you are always welcome to run it by me. I will Newsletter Committee take the time to provide feedback and suggest ways to make it work. You can contact me at [email protected]. Include my name or “editor” to ensure that it gets to me, or mail me directly at [email protected]. Scott Owen Snarr Alida Rutchick, M.Ed. Finally, I’d like to give thanks the volunteers who fold, staple, and mail the William Harris, M.D. newsletter and to all of our regular writers who continue to produce appealing reading material. Their articles are the heart of our publication and make its continued production worthwhile. Mahalo to all our volunteers! —SoS

Page 2 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 funny title Meeting with that you see The Veggie Club at in the illus- On TV... tration. Peking University I n m y talk I empha- By Karl Seff, Ph.D. sized the VSH Board member b e h a v i o r a l causes of “Vegetarian” VSH lectures An undergraduate student met me death in the Oahu—Oceanic Cable Ch. 52 at my hotel in Beijing at 3 p.m. on U.S. In 2002, Thurs. 6-7 p.m. Sunday, May 18th. We took a taxi to 400,000 Americans died from to- Go to olelo.org and click on Peking University (the Harvard of bacco, 300,000 from improper diet/ “Oahu Channel 52.” China), walked around for a few exercise, 100,000 from alcoholism, The shows are also online at hours, and then took another taxi to and fewer from each of a series of 6 p.m. on Thursdays. dinner at an elegant vegan restaurant other behavior-related causes. I told Maui—Calabash Cable Ch. 52 in a modern building. A pine forest them in one slide what I personally Tues. 8-9 p.m. stood outside a wall of windows. eat. I read and explained a list of quo- Wed. 6:30-7:30 a.m. (Beijing now has about 30 vegan res- tations from famous people: these Maui schedule is at akaku.org taurants.) After that we took a taxi addressed health, animal welfare, and back to The University for my 7 p.m. environmental concerns. I ended with Big Island—Na Leo O Hawaii lecture. a description of my three best meals. Cable Ch. 54, Sat. 2-3 p.m. I asked my student why she was a The students were quiet, smiley, Kauai—Hoike Cable Ch. 52 vegetarian. She replied unselfcon- and wide eyed. They listened atten- Kauai schedule is at hoike.org sciously: (1) for beauty, and (2) for tively without the squirming that I Online—www.vsh.org/videos.htm the animals. usually see from students who do not McDougall, M.D. Before inviting me, the students understand English well. At the end Check your local listings. (1) had requested to see my vegetar- some questions were ordinary: “Do ian C.V. (they were not satisfied with you take supplements?” They seemed “Cook Healthy Fast” my professional (chemistry) C.V.), to expect the B12 response. “Where do with Dick Allgire and (2) had apparently viewed my you get calcium if not from dairy, Short, quick, vegan recipes VSH lectures on the web. From those, protein if not from meat?” One was Tuesdays: 5 p.m. they asked me to talk about “My remarkable: “Our government advises KITV-4 Three Best Meals.” That was not what us to eat one egg per day. That is not I had intended to talk to them about, what you said. Please discuss that.” so I merged the two topics to give the I told them that China’s increasing affluence is leading to an increased ...and Radio consumption of animal “Healing & You” p r o d u c t s . Ruth Heidrich, Ph.D. T h e r e f o r e Dr. Diane Nomura expect more Terry Shintani, M.D. obesity, dia- Sundays: 8-9 p.m. betes, heart K108 — AM 1080 disease, and Call-in line: 524-1080 cancer. I ex- horted them “Health Talk” to save them- Hosted by Hesh selves from Saturdays: 8-9 a.m. that. K108 — AM 1080 Call-in line: 524-1080

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 3 SUBMISSION Readers’ Voices Why are you a meal, blood pressure of 118/72, GUIDELINES total cholesterol of 150, enormous vegetarian? energy as evidenced by still playing half-court basketball 2-3 hours a week as well as doing regular car- The Island Vegetarian welcomes sub- In the last issue we asked you dio and weight training 3 times a missions. to send us your “elevator speech” week. I take no Rx or OTC meds in 150 words or less that answers and do not suffer from arthritis, Have a comment about a current event, this question. Thanks to those of heart disease, constipation, obesity, an article we printed, or the newsletter you who participated in the first type 2 diabetes, or anything that in general? Write a letter to our editor, Readers’ Voices. Your responses are requires meds. I firmly believe that 75-200 words in length and marked as below. A few submissions may that all creatures have a right to life “Letter to the Editor.” have been lost because of a glitch. and not just be relegated to satisfy a If you submitted one but don’t see tongue that has overridden intelli- Have a question about health or nutri- it here, please resend it, and we will gence and developed a craving for tion? Mark it as “Ask Dr. Bill” and it print it in the next edition. flesh and blood. will be answered by VSH Board Mem- ber Dr. William Harris. Karl Seff, VSH Board Member: Mary Young: (All of the following is said For a long time I’ve believed Want to try your hand at writing? We softly with a little grin, as though it vegetarianism was the most ethical are always in need of articles by local were unimportant) way to eat because of the environ- writers about the various aspects of “I am 70 years old, and my mental damage caused by raising vegetarianism, especially those of local chances of getting a heart attack are livestock and transporting it to interest or about current events. Arti- pretty close to zero.” market and also because of what cles should be 300-500 words in length. If there is time for more, I say, I’ve learned about fish farming. We also need book reviews on current “My dad had two heart attacks, so But I didn’t know if I had the will- books with a pro-vegetarian message. If when I turned 50 I realized that I power to give up meat and fish you inquire, we can supply you with was getting into the age range for permanently. So a few years ago I titles of some books that we would like those and began to worry about it. joined the Vegetarian Society of to see reviewed. When I was 53, I became a vegan. Hawaii hoping to get some positive I could be dead in the morning for influence from like-minded people. All submissions must be accompanied any number of reasons, but it won’t That’s when I became more aware by a full name and phone number so be because I stood in the heart- of the animal-rights side of things. I that we can verify the author. Students attack line.” came to believe that as a human I may wish to include their ages, grades, I might add in further discus- have lots of choices in healthy or schools. We reserve the right to edit sion, “Well, I'm 70, and there’s food—an animal should not have to for accuracy, clarity, length, and rele- nothing wrong with me and there suffer and die so that I can enjoy a vance to the mission of our organiza- never has been, except that I’m a meal. I’ve been a vegetarian for tion. little plump (then I pinch a little over a year ago now, and it’s much spare tire and broaden my grin).” The submission deadline for the next easier than I expected. newsletter is September 1, 2008. Hesh Goldstein: I have been a vegetarian since Kevin Nesnow: Please send submissions (electronically 1975 and a vegan since 1990 be- Becoming a vegan has been the only) to: cause it is easier on my body. I greatest choice of my life. I feel have a bowel movement after every [email protected] (continued on next page)

Page 4 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 (continued from previous page) sources and save our planet, not to Nicole Gose: mention saving the animals and our I went vegetarian when I first better physically, mentally, and spiri- health. really made the connection between tually. Physically I’m in the best actual living, breathing animals and shape of my life. Eating a plant-based Leatrice Wolfe: the meat on my plate. I had known diet coupled with regular exercise has given me enormous energy, strength, I am a vegan for ethical and hu- before what animal a steak came mane reasons. I stopped eating meat from, for example, but I had never and confidence to be my best. I love forty years ago because I became really thought about it too much. trying new foods, and with thousands aware of the suffering the animals go One day, however, I actually of edible vegetables on this planet, I through for food. Once my eyes and thought about the consequences of my have no shortage of choices. Also, vegans have the lowest rates of physi- heart were opened to the facts, I chose actions and learned that by going what I felt was the path of least harm, vegetarian I could save over 100 ani- cal and mental diseases in the world. the path of perpetuating life. By being mals’ lives each year. Less than a year Mentally, I feel good knowing that no vegan, I am creating more peace in- later I read “Diet for a New America” beings were harmed in feeding me. I stead of violence in the world. I and decided to go vegan. From the enjoy tending plants in my garden, and so spiritually I feel balanced and am respecting all life rather than in- book I discovered that consuming flicting harm. dairy contributes to more beef and in communion with nature. Finally, I Animals are sentient beings. They veal consumption and that the eating can look into the eyes of animals with want to live just like human beings of eggs supports even more torture a great sense of compassion and love do. Who am I to take away their free- and death for chickens. I essentially knowing that I live to help them live. dom and right to live? I am here to became vegan for animal compassion protect them, to live in harmony with reasons, but I have also since discov- Eva Uran: them, and to learn about love and ered the health and environmental I was born a vegetarian. Origi- compassion. Being vegan is a con- benefits. nally our species was designed to be scious way I share my love and com- vegetarians and frugivores like the apes. Our teeth and intestines are passion every day. I feel grateful that my eyes and heart were opened so The Greatest Book structured for vegetarian diets, not for many years ago. meat. I can think of every reason un- on Vegetarianism der the sun—health, moral, ethical, What’s the greatest book on vege- Bonnie Yang: aesthetic, environmental, and plane- tarianism ever written? It’s up to you One day I realized that I love tary—to be vegetarian. Meat is just to answer this question for the next dogs, and whenever I see a dog I can’t revolting, and it stinks! edition of Readers’ Voices. It could be help but touch it and smile. But why I’ve just recently viewed “Fast a book covering any aspect of vege- did I eat chicken, steak, and mutton? Food Nation,” more powerful than a tarianism—health, nutrition, science, This question annoyed me for a thousand words, a must-see DVD lifestyle, animal rights, environment, long time. Then I figured it out. No showing the evils of the slaughter- or all of the above. It could be any- matter whether chickens, sheep or house and the callous attitude toward thing from a cookbook to a religious cows, they have emotions like hu- feces in your meat and pollution of text. mans, they have their own families rivers! Makes me so glad I’m a vege- Tell us the title of the book, the like we do, they feel frightened when tarian. author(s), and if possible, the pub- they are killed. If one of our family If we want to save the forests of lisher and original publication date. members was bullied, we’d feel very the Amazon from being converted to Then, in your own words (150 or less) angry, and if a relative was killed, cattle grounds, it is imperative that we tell us why it’s so great. we’d be very sad and never forgive all become vegetarian or we lose our S e n d y o u r a n s w e r s t o the killer. But why do we kill animals “green lungs” forever. Becoming a [email protected] with the subject line and ignore their quivering like a per- vegetarian will save our natural re- “Greatest Book.” We’ll print as many son? When I realized the rich emo- as we can in the next issue of Island tions of animals, I stopped eating Vegetarian. Responses that are too Have an idea for a topic you’d like them. I decided to stick to being a long or off topic will be truncated or to see in Readers’ Voices? We’d vegetarian, because no matter what omitted. Thanks for your participa- love to hear it. Share it with us at kind of beings they are, their lives are tion! [email protected], and we’ll consider all equally important. using it in a future issue.

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 5 IN THE NEWS

takes to protect them and their fami- tion. For participants with diabetes, Food Recalls Spoiling lies.” the risk of death was twofold com- Consumers’ Appetites Indeed, the survey found that pared to those who consumed the nearly nine out of ten Americans fewest eggs. (89%) would like to see food stores Cholesterol intake is positively PRESS RELEASE—Food safety sell more fruits and vegetables that correlated to an increased risk of fears have moved to the front of the come from local farms, and over two- coronary heart disease. One large egg checkout line—well over half of thirds (69%) said they would pay contains approximately 215 mg of Americans (57%) say they have actu- slightly more for such produce. cholesterol. The American Heart As- ally stopped “In today’s sociation advises eating less than 300 eating a par- e n v i r o n m e n t mg a day and less than 200 mg for ticular food, “Nearly nine out of ten Americans consumers are those with heart disease. There is no temporarily or would like to see food stores sell seeking fresher biological requirement for dietary permanently, more fruits and vegetables that ingredients, giv- cholesterol. as a result of a i n g l o c a l l y recent recall. come from local farms, and over grown food Djoussé L, Gaziano JM. Egg con- Addition- two-thirds said they would pay providers an sumption in relation to cardiovascular ally, close to slightly more for such produce.” important ad- disease and mortality: the Physicians’ three-fourths vantage they Health Study. Am J Clin of Americans (73%) say they believe haven’t really had in the past,” said Nutr.2008;87:964-969. that the number of food-related recalls Conroy. has increased in the past year. An even higher percentage (76%) indicate they The survey was commissioned by De- American Egg Board are more concerned about the foods loitte and conducted online by an in- they eat than they were five years ago. Meddling with Cali- dependent research company on April The survey results show that con- 21, 2008. The survey polled a nation- cerns are especially high around re- fornia Anti-Cruelty ally representative sample of 1,110 calls of meat products. Specifically, consumers. The survey has a margin Ballot Initiative consumers say they are most con- of error of +/- three percentage cerned by beef recalls (78 percent), points. PRESS RELEASE—Government followed by chicken recalls (67%), documents recently obtained by The recalls of fresh fruit and vegetables Humane Society of the United States (53%) and recalls of dairy products Increased Egg (HSUS) reveal that the American Egg (53%). One-third (33%) say they Board (AEB) is involved in an illegal think fresh fish is “not at all” or only Consumption Linked scheme to divert $3 million of federal “somewhat” safe. funds to lobby voters against an anti- “These findings underscore how to Mortality cruelty ballot initiative that would urgent it is for food manufacturers to provide basic protections to California do all they can to address the problem PRESS RELEASE—In the Physi- farm animals. The same documents of food recalls head-on,” said Pat cians’ Health Study I, which included show that the USDA—charged with Conroy, Deloitte LLP’s vice chairman 21,327 participants with an average overseeing the activities and expendi- and U.S. Consumer Products practice 20-year follow-up, researchers found tures of the AEB—has known about leader. “The results of the survey in- that those who consumed seven or the AEB’s planned illegal activities dicate that over half of today’s con- more eggs per week had an almost 25 for months. sumers may drop your product if they percent increased risk of death than believe you are not doing what it those with the lowest egg consump- (continued on next page)

Page 6 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 fering. the Humane Society of the United (continued from previous page) “The jig is up,” said Wayne States, Farm Sanctuary, and other California Secretary of State De- Pacelle, president and CEO of The animal protection groups, family bra Brown certified The Prevention HSUS. “The Egg Board is permitted farmers, veterinarians, and public of Farm Animal Cruelty Act for to market eggs to consumers, not to health professionals who have joined placement on the November 4, 2008 serve as a war chest for factory farm together in an effort to launch a ballot after Californians for Humane lobbyists fighting to deny animals statewide initiative for the November Farms (CHF) submitted the signa- enough living space merely to turn 2008 ballot—one that will improve tures of nearly 800,000 citizens in around and spread their wings.” the lives of millions of farm animals support of the initiative. The measure in California. would prevent some of the worst fac- Visit the following websites for more tory farming abuses such as confining information: Dairy Products Don’t animals in small crates or cages— Veal Crates: specifically, veal crates for calves, www.hsus.org/farm/camp/totc/ Help Weight Loss battery cages for egg-laying hens, and Battery cages: gestation crates for breeding pigs. www.hsus.org/farm/camp/nbe/ Paper in May’s Nutrition Reviews But the AEB had already ap- Gestation crates: Has Strong Implications for Dairy proved a resolution to reserve $3 mil- www.hsus.org/farm/camp/totc/ Industry’s Multimillion-Dollar Ad lion to oppose the act—despite the Campaign fact that it is legally prohibited from Californians for Humane Farms is a undertaking any activity designed to nonprofit organization sponsored by PRESS RELEASE—A new scientific influence voters, legisla- review in May’s peer- tion, or ballot initiative reviewed journal Nutrition campaigns. In March Reviews shows that people CHF requested that the who consume dairy prod- USDA prevent the AEB ucts are likely to gain from using the funds for weight or show no effect illegal political activity. in terms of body weight or In response, the USDA body fat. Two large obser- and AEB claimed that the vational studies led by money was for general Harvard researchers, one consumer education in including 12,829 adoles- any state and not intended cents and the other involv- to influence the political ing more than 19,000 adult process. However, inter- men, found that dairy con- nal USDA documents sumption is linked to obtained by The HSUS weight gain. Of the 49 reveal that the AEB randomized controlled clearly intends to use the studies analyzed for this $3 million to defeat the review, two showed California ballot initiative weight gain, and most of and that the USDA is well the studies, 41, showed no aware of the AEB’s plan. effect. The only studies CHF has renewed its call showing weight loss were for the AEB and USDA to led by industry-funded rescind the Egg Board’s researchers. unlawful plans to use “A thorough analysis these funds to influence of the scientific literature the outcome of an elec- shows that dairy industry tion and threatened to claims about weight loss litigate, if necessary, to have no factual basis,” prevent AEB from inter- This milk ad aimed at teens is part of a deceptive campaign that suggests drinking milk can help you lose weight. (See Dairy Ads on page

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 7 enjoy their yearly fair, and I envied company has introduced a Rewards VSH Reaches Out them, from my vantage as an alumnus Card, designed to reward their best to Schools of Groveland Park Grade school in St. customers. Customers simply com- Paul, MN, where the snowdrifts plete an application form and begin by Bill Harris, M.D., reached the window sills in January earning points, one for every dollar Founding VSH Board member 1938, and the radiator chatter spent. For every 250 points earned, drowned out our teacher’s voice. the customer earns a ten dollar dis- At the invitation of Jim Frisbie, count. Huckleberry also offers a 5% school coun- discount on non-sale vegetarian food selor at Sun- items to VSH card-holding members. set Elemen- The discount, however, cannot be tary School piggy-backed with the Rewards Card. across from In May Down to Earth also un- S u n s e t veiled a new customer rewards pro- Beach on the gram. Rewards Card members, who North Shore, can sign up for free, receive a free VSH mem- reusable Down to Earth shopping bag, b e r s P a t exclusive manufacturers’ coupons, M o o r e , deep-discount Super Saver specials, G e o r g i e advance notice of store specials, dis- Yap, and counts on Down to Earth wear, a free Bill Harris Down to Earth newsletter, and “Excit- participated ing Rewards.” Their three locations in the annual on Oahu will continue honoring a 5% Children’s VSH discount, which currently is Health & Georgie Yap addresses children at the Health & Safety Fair. given on top of the Rewards Program; Safety Fair just show your cards at checkout. The on May 28th. As one of 13 groups Local Health Food King Street store in Honolulu has discussing such topics as “Gangs & been enlarged with new and more Graffitti in Your Community” and Stores Revitalized modern shelving and wider aisles. “Cyber Bullying/Internet Safety” and Down to Earth also has two locations with two exercise stations manned by Two locally owned and operated natu- on Maui. the USMC, we presented “Healthy ral foods stores, Huckleberry Farms Both Huckleberry Farms and Foods v. Junk Food.” As examples of and Down to Earth, are revitalizing Down to Earth have long been sup- the former, Georgie brought carrot their stores with major renovations porters of the Vegetarian Society. In and celery sticks, raw almonds and and have launched customer rewards addition to giving discounts to our walnuts, one baggie per child, for four programs. members, Down to Earth has been 25-minute, 16-child groups of 3rd Huckleberry Farms comprises two generously donating vegan refresh- through 6th graders. stores, a natural foods store and a vi- ments for VSH monthly lectures on We tried to stay on topic, but the tamin and supplement store, both lo- Oahu. contrast between the healthy fruits cated in the and vegetables in our PowerPoint N u u a n u slides and the chips and soft drink S h o p p i n g pictures was pretty obvious. The kids Plaza on the already knew most of it, and Georgie corner of recorded some informed comments Nuuanu Ave. “They (fast food joints) only care and School about the money, not the customers,” St. Recent “Don't eat anything fried,” and “Arti- remodeling ficial sugar causes cancer.” has made Sunset Elementary School has the these stores look and feel of old Hawaii but with more attrac- The soup and sandwich bar at Huckleberry Farms boasts a vari- the perks of modern educational tech- tive. The ety of quick vegan snacks and meals. nology. The children seemed to really

Page 8 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 include schools in all 50 states and $50 million per year. This is the 2008 Farm Bill Washington, D.C. Previous funding only federal program that actively Fails to Fight was for only 14 integrates fresh states, with a “Congress abstained on a per- fruits and vege- Childhood Obesity budget of $9 fect opportunity to fight the most t a b l e s i n t o million per serious public health problems of school meals. year. • F u n d s The 2008 Farm Bill recently enacted this country: childhood obesity into law by Congress is a dramatic • Food produc- authorized for disappointment. The number one tion policy con- and skyrocketing rates of heart USDA to pur- cause of death in this country is tinues to re- disease, cancer, and diabetes.” chase fruits and chronic disease related to the over- main “fat and v e g e t a b l e s consumption of fat and cholester- sugar” production policy. About 1 (mostly processed) and other high- ol—yet the new Farm Bill continues percent of Farm Bill payments go to fiber plant foods were reduced. to support, in the main, the production fruit and vegetable growers. Most Since 2002 the budget for these of foods high in fat, sugar, and choles- disturbing is the fact that 80 percent foods has been $200 million per terol. or more of the commodity payments year. It is now $190 million with The Farm Bill affects American benefit producers of meat, cheese, slight annual increases. With infla- eating habits through the three pillars and junk food. Therefore, a reduc- tion the budget will remain below of nutrition policy: promoting a par- tion of overall subsidies is generally the 2002 level when the next Farm ticular food environment, education, positive. The new Farm Bill de- Bill comes up in 2012. creases aggregate outlays for spe- and incentives for healthy behavior. Congress abstained on a perfect cific commodities in part by lower- Any new programs bolstering the pil- opportunity to fight the most serious ing the income lars of incen- public health problems of this coun- limit for a farmer tives and edu- try: childhood obesity and skyrocket- “Subsidies for unhealthy food to be eligible for cation will ing rates of heart disease, cancer, and payments. The continue to be production designated in the diabetes. Precisely because of poor income limit was destabilized by 2002 bill—the most wasteful in diet today’s youth will live fewer lowered from $2.5 the decrepit years than their parents for the first Farm Bill history—are being m i l l i o n t o first pillar, time in history. With its override of $750,000. While a w h i c h i s continued under the 2008 bill.” the President’s veto, Congress has step in the right dominated by passed a Farm Bill that will provide direction, this is far from the target subsidies for unhealthy foods. Subsi- food production subsidies that con- income limit of $200,000 sought by dies for unhealthy food production tinue to focus on inputs for fatty, sug- the President and reform-minded designated in the 2002 bill—the most ary, and processed foods. The price Members of Congress. wasteful in Farm Bill history—are tag for this Farm Bill will average $60 • Congress eased planting restric- being continued under the 2008 bill. billion per year. America spends $1 tions on subsidized land until 2012 Given the higher cost of fresh fruits trillion each year on health care re- for selected fruits and vegetables and vegetables, and the growing con- lated to chronic disease. Half a decade destined for canning and for only a cern about child obesity, it is a tragedy is too long to wait. We urge Congress small percentage of farm land in a that this Food Bill does not prioritize to make the best of every chance to handful of states. For the vast ma- a healthier food environment. promote a healthier food environment. jority of agricultural land, this Farm Here are some key aspects of the Congress will have another chance to Bill maintains that fruits and vege- 2008 Farm Bill: support good nutrition when the Child tables “must be destroyed prior to Nutrition Act comes up in 2009. • There was one conspicuous victory harvest” or the land permanently for healthy food policy. The 2008 loses eligibility for federal support. Founded in 1985, the Physicians Farm Bill aids the fresh fruit and This provision illustrates well that Committee for Responsible Medicine vegetable market through an in- Congress has yet to associate food (PCRM) is a nonprofit organization credible expansion of the Fresh production policy with Americans’ that promotes preventive medicine, Fruit and Vegetable Snacks Pro- health. conducts clinical research, and en- gram. Incidentally, this program • Funding for the Department of De- courages higher standards for ethics also gets fruits and vegetables to fense Fresh Fruit and Vegetable and effectiveness in research. kids. Funding is more than $1 bil- Program was maintained at a paltry lion for 10 years. The program will the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 9 VSH Events 2Q2008

Professional Ironman triathlete Brendan Brazier discussed elements of his best-selling book The Thrive At his lecture and cooking demon- Diet at the VSH meetings in June. stration in May, Maui Chef John Cadman explained the complexi- ties of creating attractive and appe- tizing school lunch meals.

Chef Jennifer Flynn drew a crowd of 150 people to watch her demonstrate simple cooking techniques for super- foods that will “get you glowing.”

Donate, Join, or Renew today! Vegetarian Society of Hawaii Membership Application/Renewal Form

Yes, please enroll me as a member. My dues Please Print are enclosed (add $4 per year for a foreign SAVE address): on Multi-Year 1 yr. 2 yrs. 3 yrs. 4 yrs. 5 yrs. Name(s):______Memberships/ Regular Renewals! Street:______$20 $38 $54 $68 $80 Full-time student City:______$12 $24 $36 $48 $60 Members receive a Couple or Family quarterly newsletter State, Zip:______$30 $57 $81 $102 $120 and discounts on Life membership $400 Home Phone: ( ) products and serv- $______additional tax deductible donation Work Phone: ( ) Contact me about volunteer opportunities. ices at vegetarian- friendly restaurants Please check one: E-Mail: and health food Vegan (no animal products at all) # ______D______Ex______Vegetarian (no flesh, fish, or fowl) stores. Associate (not yet a vegetarian)

Page 10 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Vegetarian Society of Hawaii Calendar of Events July-September, 2008

DR. WILLIAM BRUCE FRIEDRICH HARRIS, M.D. “Eating for “Optimizing Your Diet Planetary Survival” for Better Health” Tuesday, August 12th, 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 8th, 7 p.m. Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse* Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse* We all love animals, care about global poverty, and want to con- Dr. Harris brings 57 years of personal experience to the serve resources and minimize our topic, having gone from lacto-vegetarian to raw vegan. He will carbon footprint. In this provocative talk long-time peace and discuss the pros and cons of each step with referenced Power- social justice advocate Bruce Friedrich will apply Socrates’ Point slides, including the origins of all nutrients, protein, lim- admonition that “the unexamined life is not worth living” to iting nutrients, supplements or no, snake oil salesmen past and our food choices, examining recent science around the global present, health controversies, and how the U.S. government food crisis, global warming, nutrition, and animal sentience. makes people fat and sick by its own bureaucratic policies. Bruce Friedrich is vice president of campaigns for PETA, A vegan for more than 40 years, William Harris, M.D., is the world’s largest animal rights organization. Bruce has ap- a founding and current director of the Vegetarian Society of peared on the Today Show, Hardball, The O’Reilly Factor, and Hawaii. Prior to his retirement he was an emergency physi- most other cable news shows and has been interviewed re- cian and the director of the Kaiser Permanente Vegetarian peatedly by all of the United States’ most influential newspa- Lifestyle Clinic. He received his medical degree from the Uni- pers. Before joining PETA 12 years ago, Bruce spent six years versity of California, San Francisco and is the author of The running a shelter for homeless families and the largest soup Scientific Basis of Vegetarianism. kitchen in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Harris will also be presenting on Maui: Mr. Friedrich will also be speaking on Maui: Tuesday, July 15th, 7 p.m., Friday, August 15th, 7 p.m., Cameron Center, 95 Mahalani St., Wailuku Cameron Center, 95 Mahalani St., Wailuku

HAROLD BLOOMFIELD, M.D.

“Making Peace with Yourself, Your Family, and Your Diet”

Tuesday, September 9th, 7 p.m. Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse*

To make peace with yourself, you may have to give up a lot. You may have to stop worrying about what others think and forgive yourself, your parents, and your ex. You may have to grow to appreciate yourself exactly as you are and not as you wish you could be. Why bother? Or who cares, you might say. Your peace of mind, your love and work relationships, and your moment-to- moment vitality may be at stake. Making peace with yourself and others is a personal challenge that is certain to bring you enormous and lasting satisfaction. To live peacefully, be a vegan. Over the past twenty-five years Harold H. Bloomfield, M.D., has been a leading light in the movement to return health and the human spirit to all of us. A Yale-trained best-selling author, he has led millions of people to integrative healing, emotional literacy, and quintessential peace. Dr. Bloomfield has appeared on national television shows including 20/20, Oprah, Larry King Live, Good Morning America, and CNN. His work has been featured in Time, Newsweek, Forbes, USA Today, the New York Times, and many other magazines and newspapers. He is a faculty member with the International University of Professional Studies on Maui. Dr. Bloomfield will also be speaking on Maui Wednesday, Sept. 10th, 7 p.m. Cameron Center, 95 Mahalani St., Wailuku

*The Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse is located at 404 Kapahulu Avenue 0.2 miles behind the Waikiki-Kapahulu library, across from the Chevron Station.

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 11 Animal Rights Corner

house judiciary committee, where it Slaughter Investigation Update on was held. Live Pig Transport We thought that this year, with the Prompts Changes grisly theft and murder of Caddy by Cathy Goeggel Manuma fresh in the minds of so in Law VSH member many, the politicians would respond Animal Rights-Hawaii founder to the public outrage over his death. PRESS RELEASE—On May 20th the The slaughter of dogs has always been Humane Society of the United States Pigs are no longer being imported treated with a wink and a nod in Ha- welcomed news from Agriculture Sec- from Canada because the Canadian waii society and exists because our retary Ed Schafer that the USDA will dollar is worth more than the US dol- politicians have been unwilling to implement a ban on slaughter for hu- lar; however, the cruel transport con- take a stand for suffering animals. man consumption of cattle unable to tinues from Hutterite colonies in Calls to the Chair of the Judiciary stand and walk unassisted. Montana and ranches in northern Committee produced no information “This is long-anticipated but wel- California, and there is an increased on the votes of the individual mem- come news,” said Wayne Pacelle, number of pigs going to Maui for bers. I e-mailed every member of the president and CEO of The HSUS. slaughter. This adds at least two more committee, asking that he/she state “For too long sick and crippled ani- days to the poor pigs’ journey. his/her position on SB 3146. Only two mals have been allowed into the food Don Quijote grocery stores have responded—and neither answered my supply, putting consumers at risk and ceased selling “Island Pork” following simple question. subjecting injured and sick animals to our campaign launch in February. The members of the House Judi- needless torment. This loophole con- However, Star, Times and Safeway ciary Committee are: tributed to the unacceptable abuses we documented at the Hallmark slaughter still sell this, even though the label is Tommy Waters, Chair plant. . . . We hope USDA broadens deceptive. Kyle Yamashita the rule to include auction houses, to We are also have a petition Blake Oshiro, Vice-Chair require immediate euthanasia of against long distance live animal Ryan Yamane downers, and to apply the rule to pigs transport, and we welcome assistance Cindy Evans and other livestock, not just cattle.” getting signatures. We hope to per- Hermina Morita The New York State Senate Con- suade retailers to stop selling “Island Alex Sonson sumer Protection Committee unani- Pork.” Contact Cathy at Josh Green mously passed legislation that will [email protected]. Ken Ito also safeguard the state’s food supply. Alex Sonson S. 7847, sponsored by Sen. Frank Pa- Sylvia Luke It’s about Compassion, davan (R-11), would require all ani- Joseph Souki mals too sick or injured to walk to be Not Culture Angus McKelvey immediately and humanely eutha- Barbara Marumoto nized. It will also prevent these ani- by Cathy Goeggel Kimberly Pine mals from entering the food supply. VSH member Cynthia Thielen The bill will now be considered by the Animal Rights Hawaii founder We have begun a petition drive to full state Senate. present, hopefully, thousands of signa- “We are delighted that this legis- The 2008 Hawaii State Legisla- tures to the next legislature in 2009. lation moved through committee ture was, we hoped, an opportunity to If you would like to help, please con- unanimously, and we look forward to see the passage of a law prohibiting tact Anjie at potteringpuck@yahoo. passing it in the Senate. It’s a measure the human consumption of dogs and com. that is long overdue,” said Sen. Pada- cats. SB 3146 passed easily through van. the senate and was then heard by the (continued on next page)

Page 12 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Haven on Earth: For Blanchard, farm animals are (continued from previous page) not “commodities” to be exploited by Leilani Farm Sanctuary humans as food and labor. Rather, Just four days earlier California each one is to be appreciated as a lawmakers approved legislation to by Barry Sultanoff, M.D. unique individual with real personal- strengthen the state’s food safety and ity and flair. Indeed, every animal at humane slaughter laws. A.B. 2098, This article originally appeared in the the sanctuary has its own special introduced by Assembly member Paul Maui Weekly, June 25, 2008. Re- story, the thumbnails of which are Krekorian (D-43rd), passed the As- printed with permission of the author. told, along with engaging photos, on sembly unanimously yesterday. the colorful LFS web site, A.B. 2098 strengthens Califor- Become the peace you wish to see in www.LeilaniFarmSanctuary.org. nia’s current law protecting downed the world. Most of the rescued animals at the animals by prohibiting slaughter- —Mahatma Gandhi sanctuary escaped deplorable condi- houses, stockyards, auctions, or deal- tions. Lehua the donkey had been liv- ers from buying, selling, or receiving Leilani Farm Sanctuary (LFS), in ing under the dark crawl space of a them and by prohibiting slaughter- Haiku, is an idyllic, peaceful place, a dilapidated house, Larry the goat houses from butchering or processing microcosm of the kind of harmonious spent ten lonely years tied up in a them. The HSUS praised the action planet that some idealistic humans rancher’s front yard, and Charlee the and urged the Senate to follow suit dream of and wish to actualize. On cat had been discarded in a restaurant and send the bill on to Gov. Schwar- nearly eight heavenly acres of rolling dumpster before giving birth to kit- zenegger for signature. tropical land a community of goats, tens. Ned the goat was saved from the San Bernardino County District donkeys, cats, and chickens enjoys its butcher’s knife. Attorney Michael Ramos, who pur- full measure of animal life, nurtured Daisy the hen, rescued from the sued animal cruelty charges against by human helpers. For those who now-defunct Makawao Egg Farm, two employees of the Hallmark/ choose to volunteer at LFS this repre- was one of several dozen chickens Westland plant, also testified at the sents a deep calling—to the practical (continued on next page) hearing. One of the employees has task of extending kindness and sup- pleaded guilty to illegally moving a port to these four-legged and finely- non-ambulatory animal. feathered beings. Laurelee Blanchard, the sanctuary’s founder and visionary, is unwav- ering in her mission to foster the hu- VSH Board mane treatment of animals. She’s a devoted educator who believes that Re-Elected exposing others to the joy of interacting with animals living in healthy The results of the VSH Board natural environments can awaken election for the 2008-2010 term are their hearts and help evoke compas- as follows: sionate behaviors toward all non- 161 ballots, including two ab- human life. stentions, were returned, and the cur- In Laurelee’s view the human- rent Board members were re-elected animal interface has become deeply overwhelmingly. Congratulations to corrupted in modern times by a pre- these devoted volunteers. We also vailing attitude of commercialism, thank those who participated in this which in its worst aspect promotes the process by sending in their ballots. torture of animals for food production Please be aware that new volun- through a barbaric system of factory teers, including potential new Board farming. LFS has been created, in members, are always welcome. Call part, as a modest antidote to such cal- the vegi hotline (808-944-VEGI) to lous indifference: it is becoming a Leilani Farm Sanctuary founder Lau- learn more about opportunities. model community that offers a hope- relee Blanchard cradles Ned the goat, Mahalo! ful window into a new, more enlight- who was saved from the butcher’s ened way of interacting with animals. knife.

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 13 (continued from previous page) testimony to how happy and fearless who had been de-beaked, then they now feel.” crammed together inside of tight Blanchard, who is cages. When that commercial opera- also a Coldwell tion suddenly shut down, the chickens were left, abandoned and suffering, Banker real estate agent and a director of without food and water. Blanchard the Vegetarian Society and her friends proceeded to rescue of Hawaii, has this to them on a moonlit night last summer. say about the evolu- Now, at LFS, life is very different for these rescued animals: Lehua and tion of her home into a sanctuary for ani- Jenny, the resident donkeys, amuse mals, and her lifetime with their antics—and for the more calling as an animal adventurous Lehua offers wet kisses; rights activist: “Help- Lewis the goat skillfully massages visitors with his head; people-friendly ing animals is richly rewarding for me. Maizee, a “broiler chicken” rescued Henny, Penny, and Jenny enjoy their perch on a swing These animals are from the dinner table of a kind doctor at Leilani Farm Sanctuary. lucky to have been who decided to donate her to LFS saved but unfortunately are only a sign skills are also sought. Also on the rather than eat her, loves to be em- LFS wish list are volunteers for in- braced and scampers with a quick, drop in the bucket compared to the ten billion farm animals raised and stalling rain gutters on the goat house lively step toward visitors; elegant killed for food each year in the U.S. and painting the barn. Pearl, an indoor-outdoor cat, engages I believe the best way for anyone to Monetary donations to LFS, even humans with her soft touch and win- help animals is to stop eating them. small amounts, can go a long way ning ways. toward giving these and other rescued Judy Elam, a recent visitor to the By adopting a vegan diet we can make the biggest difference for the animals a new lease on life. Checks sanctuary, comments: “I think when animals.” can be mailed to LFS, P.O. Box you go there, you realize this is more LFS is in need of volunteer help. 792200, Paia, 96779. (Non-profit than just another happy ‘animal res- Tasks include barn cleaning, brushing 501(c)3 status is pending.) cue’ story. These animals clearly LFS can be contacted via the website, adore Laurelee as much as she loves the animals, and trimming the goats’ hooves. Fundraising and graphic de- www.LeilaniFarmSanctuary.org or by them, and their friendliness is clear email at info@leilanifarmsanctuary. org. There are some who believe that human beings rightly have exclusive dominion over all the animals, which are to be used to satisfy human whims. Others, however, view the human role as one of responsible stewardship and cooperative living in harmony with all life on earth. LFS exists as a living testament to the birthright of every sentient being to have a quality life of gentle compan- ionship, in safe community with others.

At Leilani Farm Sanctuary the love flows both ways.

Page 14 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 one ham- (Dairy Ads continued from page 7) Protecting Our Planet burger is says Amy Joy Lanou, Ph.D., an assis- by Hesh Goldstein, MSNutri r o u g h l y tant professor at the University of 165 lbs. If North Carolina at Asheville and the the people lead author of the new paper. “Con- Whenever anyone talks about protecting our planet, they always bring of Indone- sumers who see ads featuring slim sia ate as up two issues: cutting emissions and celebrities and add dairy to their diets much beef developing clean alternative energy. in hopes of losing weight are likely to per person Sounds great, huh? Nothing would be gain weight instead. Even children as the peo- who consume low-fat milk are at risk near as effective in cutting emissions, protecting our resources, and helping ple in the for unhealthy weight gain.” U . S . , i t our planet as the masses adopting a These findings have important would take only 3.5 years to clear In- vegan diet. Consider these facts as implications for a multimillion-dollar donesia’s 280 million acres of forests. depicted by John Robbins in his book, dairy industry advertising campaign Likewise with Costa Rica and its peo- featuring Brooke Shields, Glenn “The Food Revolution.” According to studies, it takes ple, it would take a year. There are Close, and other celebrities. more species of birds in one square 5,214 gallons of water to produce four Two national dairy organizations mile of Amazon rain forest than in all “quarter pounders,” 1,630 gallons to agreed last year to halt dairy weight of North America. The life forms de- produce 1 lb. of pork, and 815 gallons loss advertising because existing re- stroyed in the production of each fast- search does not support its claims. to produce 1 lb. of chicken, whereas it only takes 23 gallons to produce 1 lb. food hamburger made from rain forest That agreement came in response to a beef are 20-30 different plant species, of lettuce, tomatoes, or potatoes. Let petition filed by the Physicians Com- 100 different insect species, and doz- me put it another way: if you shower mittee for Responsible Medicine ens of bird, mammal, and reptile spe- each day for seven minutes using a (PCRM) with the Federal Trade cies. Commission. Rather than honor this shower with a flow rate of two gallons a minute, you are using 14 gallons of If these same 2.5 acres are used to agreement, however, the dairy indus- produce wheat, corn, rice, potatoes or water a day (seven minutes times two try has reworded its ads. The current cabbage, then 15–23 people can be gallons), or 98 gallons a week. ads, such as one featuring Brooke fed. If that same 2.5 acres is used to Rounding that up to 100 gallons a Shields, still falsely imply that dairy produce beef or eggs, one person can product consumption is linked to week, in 52 weeks you would be using 5,200 gallons of water each year be fed. To produce milk or chicken, weight loss. two people can be fed. to take daily showers. Compare that to Dr. Lanou, a senior nutrition sci- If the subsidies to the flesh indus- the 5,214 gallons of water it takes to entist with PCRM, has also published try were taken away and the costs of produce 1 lb. of beef: you can save a paper in the highly regarded journal clearing forest in India were included, Pediatrics and is an authority on child more water by not eating those four “quarter-pounders” than you will by the cost of one hamburger would be health as well as weight maintenance $200.00. not showering for a year. in both adults and children. For a copy So, the next time you read an arti- The calories of fossil fuel ex- of the new paper or an interview with cle or editorial about “saving the pended to produce 1 calorie of protein Dr. Lanou, please contact Jeanne S. planet,” and none of the above is men- McVey at 202-686-2210, ext. 316, or from flesh is 78, whereas the calories of fossil fuel to produce 1 calorie of tioned, you should realize that profits [email protected]. are being protected over the welfare protein from corn or wheat is 3. If the of the people. Do the math yourself grain that is currently fed to animals Founded in 1985, the Physicians and you will realize that it is not to get them ready for consumption Committee for Responsible Medicine rocket science to know the road to is a nonprofit health organization that were made available to humans, there would be no grain shortages in the travel is the vegan road. Its destina- promotes preventive medicine, espe- tion? The health of the planet and its world. cially good nutrition. PCRM also inhabitants. The amount of greenhouse- conducts clinical research studies, Aloha! opposes unethical human experimen- warming carbon gas released by driv- tation, and promotes alternatives to ing a typical American car in one day, is about 6.5 lbs., whereas the amount Source: The Food Revolution (2001), animal research. John Robbins, Berkeley, USA: Conari released by clearing and burning Press enough rain forest to produce beef for

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 15 Kauai Potlucks and Lectures

Chef Jennifer Murray shows off her “Divine Baking” samples at her cooking demonstration at the VSH Potluck/Lecture held April 6th. “A Vegetarian Diet Is the Easiest and Best Way to Protect the Earth” was the Recipe judge Mark Reinfeld, co-owner title of the lecture by Gordon LaBedz, of The Blossoming Lotus Restaurant, M.D. at the June potluck luncheon. Dr. presents a gift certificate from Papaya’s LaBedz is a family physician who re- Natural Foods to Carol Ann Davis- sides on Kauai. He’s been a vegetarian Briant for her winning recipe (below) advocate for more than thirty years. at the VSH potluck luncheon and lecture in May.

Recipe judge Jessica Murray (right), Carol Ann’s Raw co-owner of The Blossoming Lotus Carrot-Ginger-Coconut Restaurant, congratulates Annalia Rus- sell of Kapaa for her winning Japanese- Soup American Rice recipe in April. by Carol Ann Davis-Briant

• 1 cup organic almond milk or coco- Hollan Hamid (left) of Poipu was the nut water (unsweetened) winner of the recipe contest at the June • 1 pkg. Hawaiian Sun Frozen coco- VSH potluck luncheon and lecture on nut milk or other coconut milk Kauai. Hollan is joined by recipe • 6 to 8 organic carrots judge Jennifer Murray, co-owner of • 4 large cloves garlic the Blossoming Lotus Restaurant in • 1 piece fresh ginger, about 1-1½” Kapaa. • Curry (to taste) • Turmeric (to taste) • Cumin (to taste) • Dill, fresh (to taste) • Organic tamari or organic veggie “Better than Bouillon” (to taste) Monthly vegan potluck luncheons and Spices (to taste) A video lecture, “Health Food vs. • lectures are held at 12:30 p.m. on the Healthy Food,” by Jeff Novick, R.D., Blend all in Vitamix until smooth and first Sunday of each month at the Ka- recorded at a VSH meeting on Oahu warm—around 100 degrees paa Neighborhood Center on Kauai. earlier this year, was well received by Admission is free for those who bring the more than 50 people who attended a dish. All others are welcome with a the Kauai event in May. $5 donation.

Page 16 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 According to the Department of Chickens, who aren’t even included in Slaughterhouse Labor, nearly one in three slaughter- the only federal law designed to pro- Workers: house workers suffers from illness or tect animals killed for food, have their injury every year; in other manufac- throats slit while they’re still con- Dying for a Job turing jobs, the rate is one in 10. Kill- scious and are scalded to death in ing animals who do not want to die is tanks of hot water by the millions. by Lindsay Rajt inherently dangerous work. As chick- Even if you aren’t sympathetic to ens are hung by their legs to be killed, the plight of workers or animals, con- The “head table” at the Quality Pork they fight back—beating their wings sider this: The same uncaring system Processors slaughterhouse in Austin, and scratching and pecking workers. that allows workers to be exposed to a Minnesota, is not a place of honor. Cows and pigs who are still conscious toxic mist of animals’ brains and ani- Until recently, it was where workers when they are hung up by their hind mals to be scalded alive also allows cut up pigs’ heads and shot com- legs kick and thrash. carcasses contaminated with feces and pressed air into their skulls, causing Workers on the killing floor are in vomit, tapeworms and abscesses, to their brains to come tumbling out. At constant contact with feces, vomit and be sent down the line. The meat in- least 18 employees who worked the diseased animals, so it’s no surprise dustry is not going to change, but we head table have developed a mysteri- that they often fall ill themselves. One can: It’s time to leave the broken bod- ous neurological illness as a result, study of slaughterhouse workers by ies of animals off our plates and go with symptoms ranging from weak- the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School vegetarian. ness and fatigue to acute paralysis. of Public Health found that half tested In all, according to figures re- positive for campylobacter bacteria, Lindsay Rajt is the assistant manager cently released by researchers, at least which can cause diarrhea, stomach of vegan campaigns for People for the 24 slaughterhouse employees—possi- cramps and fever. Ethical Treatment of Animals; 501 bly more—in Minnesota, Indiana and A worker at a Smithfield slaugh- Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510; Nebraska have the illness. All of the terhouse told Human Rights Watch www.GoVeg.com. affected employees worked in a part that he had breathing difficulties at of the plants that used compressed air work and red rashes on his arms and to remove pigs’ brains. Researchers hands: “I think I have an allergic reac- believe the air turned some brain mat- tion to hogs. But I’m afraid to say ter into a fine mist that was inhaled by anything about this because I’m afraid the workers; the plants have since dis- they will fire me.” continued the practice. One of the most serious hazards While these are isolated inci- for slaughterhouse employees is the dents—most slaughterhouses do not high line speed. Workers must hoist, use this technique, and the condition kill or cut several animals each min- is not thought to be transmitta- ute, usually with few breaks. Some ble—illnesses, injuries and even aren’t even given time to relieve deaths at slaughterhouses are shock- themselves during their shift. A Team- ingly routine. What’s even more ster investigator told The Nation shocking? If you eat meat, you are magazine that during meetings with funding the daily exploitation of these slaughterhouse workers, “People were workers. crying, talking about being covered in diarrhea the entire shift because the Correction supervisor wouldn’t let them go to the bathroom.” In the previous issue of The Island Vegetarian, page 18, we mistakenly When employees are forced to work covered in their own waste, you truncated the email address of can imagine how the animals are James Han of Salad Creations. His treated. Improperly stunned hogs kick correct email address is and scream as they are drowned in [email protected]. We apologize for any inconvenience tanks of scalding-hot water, used to soften their skin. Cows struggle as the this may have caused. skin is ripped from their bodies.

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 17 (School Lunch continued from page 1) For my part, I don’t hold the school lunch program responsible for VSH school lunch website: SB2136 failed as noted above, but childhood obesity. It’s the junk food www.vsh.org/links_Lunch.htm after modifications to some of its that permeates society and TV adver- Whereases and Therefores it became tising, all federally subsidized by the Rep. Joe Bertram III, 11th District at SCR84 SD1, cleared the last hurdles, USDA and tax- 808‑586‑8525 and was passed deducted by the IRS [email protected] with the assis- “After sporadic VSH efforts that’s causing it. But “Vegetarian School Lunch Meal”: tance of about 34 spanning 15 years, the 2008 the Hawaii DOE got vsh.voip‑info.org/Bertram.html individuals and soft drinks out of the organizations (in- Hawaii Legislature has fi- school vending ma- John Cadman: cluding HMSA) nally endorsed the concept chines a couple of [email protected], who sent in posi- that vegetarian meals may years ago and that www.thebeanpages.com tive testimony be a healthy school option.” was huge step. vsh.voip‑info.org/Cadman.html So, after spo- SCR84, if imple- radic VSH efforts mented vigorously, Positive testimony to SCR84 SD1: spanning 15 years, the 2008 Hawaii could be another. www.vsh.org/SCR84%20SD1.pdf Legislature has finally endorsed the Text: concept that vegetarian meals may be Contacts and Websites www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/get a healthy school option. Where it goes status2.asp?billno=SCR84 from here is anyone’s guess. How- Patricia Hamamoto: Superintendent ever, VSH has put up a school lunch Hawaii Department of Education: page and will link it to the DOE Vege- doe.k12.hi.us/about/meet_the_supt. tarian School Lunch URL when it ap- htm pears. Using these as a springboard, [email protected] Vegan Tidbits perhaps some interested vegetarian parents can continue the process we Hawaii Board of Education: by Scott Snarr began. www.boe.k12.hi.us/ A fitting finale to this win was our Oprah’s Vegan Makeover May 13th speaker, John Cadman Office of School Facilities and Sup- Few people on Earth can thrust a from Haiku Elementary School on port Services, School Food Service cause into the spotlight the way Oprah Maui. To our knowledge, John is the Director, Glenna Owens at 733‑8400 Winfrey can. In May, twelve years only school food service manager in [email protected] after declaring she would never eat Hawaii offering USDA-reimbursable another hamburger, Oprah put the ve- vegetarian options to students on a Office of Hawaii Child Nutrition Pro- gan diet on center stage as she under- regular basis. John’s strategy to meet grams, Child Nutrition Specialists, took a 21-day vegan cleanse under the the USDA requirement of 18% pro- Alice Toguchi‑Matsuo or Kenneth guidance of bestselling author and tein by weight of food is to use beans, Ortiz at 587‑3600 spiritual counselor Kathy Freston. and his web page displays many veg- “I never imagined meatless meals gie bean recipes, bean lore, and Office of Curriculum, Instruction, and could be so satisfying,” Oprah pro- strategies for properly cooking beans. Student Support, Coordinated School claimed on the second day of her new His video “A Successful Vegetarian Health Specialists, Dave Randall or regimen. But after her vegan chef de- School Lunch Program: One Man's Shirley Robinson at 733‑9141 ext. parted, she confessed to occasional Commitment,” will show on Olelo 329 frustration and meat cravings. and the other Public Access TV sta- Although in the end she did not tions sometime after June 1, 2008, but Department of Health, Departmental devote herself entirely to veganism, it’s already on line. School Health Coordinator, Cathy she said she will never think about Cadman gave us a very clear and Yamamoto Tanaka at 586‑4437 food in the same way again. “I’ve entertaining overview of the history [email protected] reached a new level of awareness and practicalities of the school lunch about food, eating, and the whole program, and I hope that interested DOE school lunch website: process of how it gets to my table. . . . parties country-wide will take advan- doe.k12.hi.us/foodservice/toolkit/ tage of it in concert with the veggie index.htm (continued on next page) school lunch pages at DOE and VSH.

Page 18 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 the veggie vow are the island nation’s March began a bicycle journey (continued from previous page) environmental minister, the legislative stretching 3000 miles from Singapore I consider it true grace to be able to speaker, and the mayors of the two to the Great Wall of China in an effort eat anything in a world of increasing largest cities, Taipei and Kaohsiung (a to raise awareness about global warm- food shortages and starving people. sister city of Honolulu). ing. “This has been exactly what we If their hopes were that more of Citing the meat industry as the top intended: enlightening. I will forever public would follow their lead, then contributer to global warming, Sam be a more cautious and conscious their wishes came true. An impressive hopes the attention he draws will eater.” one million people signed the pledge move others to adopt a vegetarian diet You can read her full blog at to go veg. It’s likely, however, that the and take up cycling as an alternative www2.oprah.com/foodhome/food/ bulk of them were already vegetari- to driving cars. cleanse/blog/blog_main.jhtml ans, since an estimated 1.6 million, or Sam set off from his home in Sin- seven percent of Taiwanese, eschew gapore on March 10th with the Seventh-Inning Dissent meat. equivalent of a mere US $1000 and a Where in the world can one wit- Also during the anti-global warm- bicycle nicknamed ‘Xiao-Hei’ (‘Little ness five men in seven-foot-tall flam- ing drive, Taiwan’s third largest city, Black’). Over the past hundred days boyant sausage costumes racing Taichung, introduced its 10-measure his journey has taken him through his around a baseball diamond except at a “No Regrets” policy. Every Thursday homeland Malaysia as well as Thai- Milwaukee Brewers home game. An from July onward will be Green land, Laos, and his last known loca- homage to the local meat-processing Thursday, when people are encour- tion, Hanoi, where he participated in industry, the seventh-inning Sausage aged to eat vegetarian and ride a bike. the environmental event, “CO2, Kick Race is a surefire crowd-pleaser. But The policy also encourages people to the Habit: Towards a Low Carbon not everyone in Milwaukee is pleased eat more fruits and vegetables and Economy.” about it. take the stairs more often instead of Sam expects to reach his destina- Brewers’ first baseman and home the elevator. tion, Beijing, in early September. He run wonder Prince Fielder, who an- says from there he will continue on to nounced in the preseason that he had 2 Wheels Good; 4 Wheels Bad Europe if time and finances permit. become a vegetarian, took his com- The journey of ten thousand miles You can see hundreds of pictures mitment one step further by protesting begins with the first step. These an- in his blog and leave some words of the Sausage Race. Objecting to the cient words of Lao-Tzu ring true to- encouragement in his guest book: glorification of a product of animal day for ‘Sam’ Yeoh Beng San, who in www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/3268 cruelty, Fielder vowed not to swing at any pitches at the bottom of the sixth inning or field any balls at the top of the seventh. He has even held a sign during the race that read “Baseballs, not Meatballs.” When asked how he felt about the fact that baseballs are made with leather, he retorted, “I think you should express your anger by hitting them as hard as you can with a bat.”

More Island Vegetarians Politicians in Taiwan who talk about slowing global warming are putting their veggies where their mouths are. A number of prominent public officeholders have pledged to become vegetarian to show their commitment to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Among those who took Friends and supporters gathered to wish Sam Yeoh (right, on bicycle) good luck as he embarked on his 3000-mile bicycle journey.

the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008 Page 19 Vegetarian Society of Hawaii NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID P.O. Box 23208 HONOLULU, HI Honolulu, Hawaii USA PERMIT NO. 645 96823-3208

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Page 20 the Island Vegetarian ◆ July-September 2008