Many of us today are asking, "Why should I eat organic? Is there really such a difference?" As research into organic food and farming expands, trends are beginning to emerge validating the multiple benefits of organic - at every stage. Jim Riddle presents concise, understandable and engaging information regarding the value of choosing organic. For more than 30 years, Jim Riddle has been an organic farmer, gardener, inspector, educator, policy analyst, author and avid organic eater. Jim was the founding chair of the Winona Farmers Market Association and the International Organic Inspectors Association, (IOIA), and co-author of the IFOAM/IOIA International Organic Inspection Manual. Jim served on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Organic Advisory Task Force from 1991-2009 and was instrumental in passage of Minnesota's landmark organic certification cost-share program. Jim currently works as Organic Outreach Coordinator for the University of Minnesota's Southwest Research and Outreach Center and is the elected Chair of the Winona County Soil and Water Conservation District Board. He also serves on the Leadership Team for eOrganic (the national Extension Community of Practice for organic agriculture), is the former chair of the USDA National Organic Standards Board and is a leading voice for organic agriculture.

This isn't about eating raw meat! Utilize spring foods to create a healthy, raw outdoor meal. Menu includes Whisky Sun Burger Wraps, Cheeze, BBQ Sauce, Onion Rings, Chips and Dip, and Keylime Pie -- all fresh, raw and delicious! BIO: Terri Wood, one of the Northwest's most respected Plant-based Food Specialists, Gourmet Raw Chefs and Lifestyle Coaches, travels the world sharing her personal knowledge and story of how foundational health principles have reversed her soaring cholesterol levels, need for anti-depressants, high blood pressure and obesity. The information provided in these educational events and any discussions between the customer and an employee, agent or affiliate of Pilgrim's Market are not intended for the diagnosis, treatment, mitigation or prevention of a specific disease or the assessment of a specific health condition. They are instead intended for informational purposes, that when added to other information, aid the participants in making more informed personal decisions regarding their health. They are not intended to replace the attention or advice of a physician or other health-care professional. Anyone who wishes to embark on any dietary, drug, exercise or other lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a specific disease or condition should consult with and seek clearance from a qualified health-care professional. www.aunaturalseminars.com

Make something unique and healthier for your special someone. Raw desserts are healthy, delicious and free from processed foods, such as sugar and flour. This un-cooking class will make you say, "I can't believe this is raw food!" BIO: Terri Wood, one of the Northwest's most respected Plant-based Food Specialists, Gourmet Raw Chefs and Lifestyle Coaches, travels the world sharing her personal knowledge and story of how foundational health principles have reversed her soaring cholesterol levels, need for anti-depressants, high blood pressure and obesity. Weighing nearly 240 lbs. in her 30s, she is now 80+ lbs. lighter and free of all medications in her 50s. The information provided in these educational events and any discussions between the customer and an employee, agent or affiliate of Pilgrim's Market are not intended for the diagnosis, treatment, mitigation or prevention of a specific disease or the assessment of a specific health condition. They are instead intended for informational purposes, that when added to other information, aid the participants in making more informed personal decisions regarding their health. They are not intended to replace the attention or advice of a physician or other health-care professional. Anyone who wishes to embark on any dietary, drug, exercise or other lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a specific disease or condition should consult with and seek clearance from a qualified health-care professional. www.aunaturalseminars.com and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/aunaturalseminars

If you don't know what a GMO is, look it up. We have a RIGHT TO KNOW what is in our food. Justlabelit.org. Yes on Prop 37 in California GMOs are a hot topic in the US and the world. At Pilgrim's Market, we encourage everyone to research the health and environmental risks associated with GMOs. Here is a fun song by Barclay Neumann (preformed at Natural Products Expo West 2012) regarding the concerns surrounding GMOs.

We love to watch our crop grow, and this season we were able to capture it to share with you! Our passion for producing fresh, organic & local produce is unmatched.