Avena Botanicals herbalist and owner Deb Soule is hosting “Our Living Earth, Living Soul Series” of four talks about herbs to honor and raise funds in memory of Russell Libby. Libby, long-time executive director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), died in December.

The series will feature Soule and other teachers, all passionate about the health of people and our planet, speaking at Avena Botanicals’ new classroom in Rockport.

Avena Botanicals Medicinal Gardens have been certified organic by MOFGA for 28 years, and founder Deb Soule knew Russell Libby for most of that time.

These Saturday classes aim to bring people together to learn more herbal and nutritional ways to care for themselves in today’s stress-filled world, to explore specific herbs and foods being used in cancer prevention, and to gain a better understanding of why seed and soil quality are essential for growing healthy food and herbs.

The speakers are donating their time, and all proceeds go directly to the Russell Libby Memorial Fund. Classes are by donation only, with suggested donations of $5 to $500.

Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. For information and registration call Avena Botanicals at 207-594-0694.

If you are unable to attend and wish to make a tax-deductible donation to the Russell Libby Memorial Fund, please contact MOFGA at 207-568-4142 or visit www.mofga.org.

Classes

February 16, 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Herbs for Easing Stress and Building Resiliency, with herbalist Deb Soule

March 16, 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Seeds, Soil, and Spirit, with CR Lawn from FEDCO Seeds

April 13, 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Herbs and Meditation for Calming the Mind and Easing Despair and Grief, with herbalists Deb Soule and Kahadish Waadabi

April 27, 10 to noon – Cancer Prevention and Treatment with Herbs and Whole Foods, with nurse practitioner and herbalist Kristina King 

The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), formed in 1971, is the oldest and largest state organic organization in the country. Its mission is to help farmers and gardeners: grow organic food, fiber and other crops; protect the environment; recycle natural resources; increase local food production; support rural communities; and illuminate for consumers the connection between healthful food and environmentally sound farming practices.