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Pete’s journey from abandonment to sanctuary
A guest blog by Robin Johnson, Founder of Spring Farm Sanctuary
March 7, 2024
Pete, a 10-year-old Hereford Steer, holds a special place in our hearts. He entered our lives seven years ago, originating from St. Cloud, Minnesota. His journey began in a rather distressing manner when compassionate individuals named Bob and Vicki found him tied to a tree during a harsh January winter. Left to die, their intervention saved Pete’s life.
Bob and Vicki brought Pete into their care, along with another steer, nurturing them in their backyard for three years. However, fate took a turn when the steers managed to break free one day, prompting animal control’s involvement. Facing a difficult decision, Bob reached out to us, coincidentally right around the time of our opening and we gladly welcomed Pete and his brother, Scruffy, into our sanctuary in June of 2017.
Initially known as “Skinny Pete” due to his condition, Pete has since flourished into a robust, full-grown steer. His days are filled with simple joys—being petted, basking in the warmth of the sun, and frolicking with his pals, Walter and Norman (sadly, Scruffy passed away a couple of years ago). Though age may have slowed his pace, Pete’s affectionate demeanor remains unchanged, akin to that of a gentle St. Bernard!
The planning team behind the Dr. Greger “How Not to Age” event share their how his work has impacted them
February 26, 2024
Our February 10 event with Dr. Michael Greger speaking on his book, “How Not to Age” was a huge success. Check out our blog and slide show for details on this popular event. As we reflect on its success, it’s essential to acknowledge the dedicated planning team who made it all possible: Mark Reis-Henrie, Margaret Telfer, Steve Thompson, and Velma Wagner.
They joined the team because Dr. Greger’s work and whole foods plant-based eating have made a difference in their lives. They shared how:
How Not to Age” event inspires hundreds with its hopeful, science-based message
February 26, 2024
We recently hosted an event featuring the renowned Dr. Michael Greger, physician, professional speaker, and author of “How Not to Die” and “How Not to Age.” Organized by CAA’s student chapter and a wonderful planning team as part of Dr. Greger’s book tour, the event drew more than 300 participants. The talk proved highly informative and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Sierra Carter from H.E.A.L. MPLS kicked off the event, setting the stage for Dr. Greger’s talk. The engaging session, filled with hope and backed by science, was followed by a Q & A with insightful questions from the audience. Attendees also had the chance to explore tables set up by like-minded organizations such as Brightside Produce, Lotus Health, and Plant-Pure Communities. Dr. Greger’s book was available for purchase, and he graciously signed copies and took photos with attendees before and after the event. He was even signing books on the sidewalk right up until he had to head to the airport!
CAA’s ten years of growth in income and programming
In the past decade, CAA has experienced remarkable growth in both financial sustainability and the breadth of our support. This growth has enabled us to expand our reach and the extent of our programming. New people have been influenced by our initiatives and new partnerships formed with diverse communities. These have enabled us to amplify our impact on behalf of nonhuman animals and enrich our community.
Over the course of these years we’ve gone from hosting 2 to 3 events a month to 5 to 6 events per month. We deliberately welcome people of all dietary backgrounds to our events. Surveys show that among people who eat animal products, the majority leave intending to reduce their animal product intake.
Our financial growth has been nothing short of extraordinary. As seen in the table below, our income has more than quadrupled during this period. We have seen growth in individual donations, and grant support has emerged as a substantial pillar of our funding. This surge in support underscores the growing recognition of the importance of our work and its tangible impact.
CAA’s auction for animals: Your chance to score great items and make a difference
February 19, 2024
Get ready for another exciting auction to support CAA and our mission of promoting compassion for animals. This year, we have received a variety of exciting and delicious donations. They’re sure to spark your interest and motivate you to bid for a chance to take them home.
The auction features a wide range of fantastic items! Bidding will begin on February 21 and continue through the first hour of the Annual Banquet, on March 9. Visit our auction site to explore all the amazing items available. If an item sparks your interest, click the heart icon to create a watchlist and see how the bidding is going for that item. Place your initial bids and see where the bidding takes you. Keep an eye out for competing bids, as friendly bidding wars often ensue for the most sought-after items!
The best part is that the proceeds from the auction will go towards funding the many impactful programs that CAA offers throughout the year. By participating, you will not only acquire wonderful items, but also contribute to our mission of making a difference for animals. You can feel proud of your support and the fantastic items you’ll bring home to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this opportunity — check out the auction items now.
Serving compassion: Monthly vegan luncheons for Simpson Housing residents
February 19, 2024
Did you hear the exciting news? We’ve launched a monthly program to serve delicious vegan lunches at Simpson Housing! In January, we kicked it off with creamy tomato basil and potato leek soups accompanied by grilled cheese sandwiches. Six dedicated volunteers cooked delicious food and forged connections with residents as they served them and dined together. Not only did they make a positive impact for the residents, but they also built connections with each other while cooking and cleaning up. By serving plant-based meals to these unhoused individuals, we show compassion for both humans and nonhuman animals.
Our monthly luncheons take place at 128 W 33rd St, Minneapolis and will serve around 25 residents each time. Simpson Housing Services provides shelter for approximately seventy unhoused individuals every night and collaborates with community groups to provide meals for the shelter residents. Learn more about Simpson Housing Services and their programs.
Spicy highlights from the 13th Annual Vegan Chili Cook-Off
February 19, 2024
More than 170 individuals, including over 60 students, gathered for the 13th Annual Vegan Chili Cook-Off on February 3rd. Attendees sampled a variety of vegan chilis and voted to determine the winner of the prestigious Chicken Trophy. Attendees had fun mingling and making new friends while savoring the delicious chilis.
The highly anticipated event crowned Lulu EthioVegan as the winner of the Vegan Chili Cook-Off! It was extra special that they were first-time contestants and are new to the Twin Cities restaurant scene. Other competitors were La Cocina de Ana, The Howe Daily Kitchen and Bar, Mill Valley Kitchen, and TRIO Plant-Based. They all showcased their culinary skills with creative and flavorful chilis.
Introducing our new Program Assistant: Yosan Worota
February 12, 2024
CAA is pleased to introduce Yosan Worota, our new part-time Program Assistant! We welcome her dedication to animal welfare and passion for amplifying diverse voices. Over the past five years, she has a remarkable track record of volunteering for leadership roles within CAA. It all started when she interned as a program assistant after her freshman year in college.
During this time, she started getting more involved with CAA as a volunteer. Her involvement includes being Co-chair for the 2020 Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge and the planning team for the 2020 Annual Banquet. We were also happy to have her author an article for our Minnesota Veg Living magazine and speak at World Day for Farmed Animals. Most crucially, she led the establishment of a student chapter of CAA at Macalester College.
The majesty of Barney: Rescued and thriving at Herbivorous Acres
February 12, 202
Meet Barney, a remarkable resident of Herbivorous Acres sanctuary. This 5-year-old Saanen goat captivates the hearts of visitors with his presence and inspiring story of survival. He was rescued alongside his mother, Bunny, in 2019 from a dairy farm in Wisconsin.
Barney’s story began when he was just a few months old. He was deemed unprofitable in the dairy industry due to his gender. It’s a heartbreaking reality, but male goats are typically sold for meat since they do not produce milk. Fortunately, the farmer agreed to surrender Barney as well as his mother. This act of compassion not only saved Barney’s life but also ensured that he could remain by his mother’s side, providing them both with a chance at a new life filled with love and care.
California’s new animal welfare legislation offers Minnesota a path toward more humane farming
‘Prop 12’ restrictions will likely alter the way hogs are raised in Minnesota.
A guest blog by Julie Knopp, CAA Board Member, as originally appeared on MINNPOST
February 6, 2024
In Minnesota, hogs outnumber humans. With roughly 15 million pigs sold each year, Minnesota is the second largest pork producing state in the nation.
As of Jan. 1, new animal welfare legislation known as Proposition 12 took full effect in California, impacting thousands of Minnesota hog farmers. Approved by California voters in 2018 and upheld by the Supreme Court in 2023, Prop 12 establishes minimum space allowances for egg-laying hens, breeding pigs and calves raised for veal. The law also prohibits the sale of meat and eggs from producers that do not comply with these requirements.
As some Minnesota hog farmers adapt to Prop 12, we have an opportunity to reconsider conventional agricultural practices and raise the ethical standard for animal farming in our state.