Choice Cuts

Always been asked about the availability of choice cuts and boneless chicken.

I was in a japanese grocery the other day...that's one of my comfort trips when alone. Bought some packs of pickled eggplants and cucumber and had ramen by myself.

Walking through the chiller section, I saw smoked boneless chicken, vacuum packed. Hey, I liked the smoked chicken.

Boneless....there really is a market for this. Think about the cut ups and the boneless niche. Surely will command a premium price for your produce.

Healthy Patty

Chatting with my healthy farming buddy and he gave an idea to make chicken patties. Of course, much like my processed longanizas, these patties should have no preservatives and will just be seasoned using herbs.

Instead of ground, it may be better to have it finely chopped, to get more bite and flavor.

Rolled into balls or formed as patties...healthy and tasty alternative.

Attention Rene...this should be a product that may come out from Patty's Farm :)

Sunballs: Yema

Pressure to have my stocks of liver pate....I brought some packs of Sunshine liver to Elena. Timing, I haven't had lunch, so it was opportunity to sit down for chitchat. Puttanesca, Chocolate Sin...and I saw yema balls.

Those egg yolks rolled into balls is one of my all time favorites! Haven't had a real good one in a long time. Most I've had tasted pastey....more like mashed potatoes. Elena said, it might be it, as an extender.

I tried her yema balls....3 pls :) She said is can get addicting! YES, I agree!!!!! This will look, taste and be healthier....if Sunshine eggs, from our grass fed hens, were used.

Costing...pencil pushing.... OK, I will try. A new commission for my pina-MANNA line. Heavenly balls..yema...I might just call them Sunballs :)

I am excited to see Lori Baltazar...such a sweet tooth! She might love this too.

Another business idea for you.

Mornings@ANC

What can make me turn around? Yesterday, we were headed to Isabela for a quick trip and touch base, before the IFEX event over the weekend. It was a leisurely trip, with me on the wheel. Lunch, dessert of the biggest Blizzard at DQ etc etc etc. Somewhere about San Rafael, Doc Rey gets a call from CITEM and asking if we can guest that afternoon (uhuh, too late) and the next morning at Mornings@ANC.

He passes the phone to me and YES, I will go back :) I like that show and will want to meet the hosts up close and personal...wehehehe....means, watch from the bleachers!

I needed a cooked dish. No cook, but still asked a store staff to dry rub some chickens and stuff with lemongrass. Sounds easy huh? By 11pm, it was ready for charbroiling. I was excited to taste it. After I asked it to be chopped....I noticed this plant like stuff hiding among the chopped pieces. Hmmmmm...can't be tanglad or lemongrass. Looks more like celery to me...and the chicken was far too peppery...ewwwwwww!

Relax....I remembered I had some tubs of pate left in the freezer :)

By 6:30am, I was at my AANI Circle booth getting some dressed chickens for the table setting. Aside from me, there was a couple at the AANI area reading through the other booths' tarpaulins. The moment I entered my booth, they came in and looks like very happy that there was someone to ask about Sunshines. The chat extended to a pleasant one and may translate to day old chicks flying out of Manila :)

Soon after, I went to ABS-CBN. I am always early for appointments, as #1 I am so poor in parking so I scout the place, #2 I like to be early wehehehehhe. Because of that, I got the parking right under the canopy, by the entrance.

Got off and scouted the place...it was near for me to carry my stuff. Good, because I didn't think about bringing the dependable kareton.

Geez...everyone who was guesting in DZMM, Channel 2, Channel 23, ANC...I saw them all. Who drove them, where they got off, what were they wearing when they arrived and the clothes they were carrying to change to.

8:00am came and I walked into Studio 6. The guests for the IFEX promo fixed their own tables. I was the only one doing it solo...but its ok. Don't touch my chicken...because that's only for the camera. I cautioned everyone that it was peppery. The asst floor director and another PA said that the hosts liked their food hot ahahhahahha.

Ok...so fixed up now.


Soon after, the hosts were digging into the liver pate, even before the show started....the very savior. It was most easiest to munch on, w/o destroying the look, as pates are meant to be dug into. So it still looked good through the camera's eyes. I had to replenish the crackers several times!

Got good reviews about my liver pate. Actually not mine...this is a pina-MANNA. Commissioned Elena of Manna Specialty Bakery to do it for me, together with the Gizzard Adobo.

Pressured to have more....decided to go by Elena's store.

You should make your own and sell them. I suggest, don't cut corners and make a good one. The market who will seek for it, demands a good one.

As the hosts of Mornings@ANC said....it was really awesome. Mind you, those comments were made on and off camera :)

As we were tidying up the set, CITEM promo staff asked us to guest again for a Friday morning show in another channel. But, that is already the start of IFEX! Let's see how we will shuffle ourselves.

Down Feathers

Often asked if Sunshines will survive the rainy season when being free ranged already.

Yes.

How? Why?

There are 3 types of feathers.

1) Contour - The ones that you first notice. The feathers that show you the colors? See how they sort of have a combed look when it gets wet? The water just seems to slide.

2) Flight - Allows them to fly :) Notice also how they open their wings when they feel warm...to allow air to their skin.

3) Down - Those fine, short feathers. If the Sunshines already make the water just slide through their contour feathers, the down feathers make sure they are kept warm.

Have you tried shampooing gamefowls? Even if you submerge them already in a pail of water with, you find that they are still dry inside and you have to really toss and tumble their feathers.

Another good example is when you slaughter and defeather chickens. You have to dip the chcken in boiling water to be able to defeather them. You will find that you really have to mess up the feathers to get the skin wet.

So YES, they will do fine even if they get wet....Just make sure they have a roof over their heads and dry beddings, so they may run for cover when they want to. Also, getting wet is different from soaking wet.

MMS

By 6am, I got a text that Sunshines were enroute to Guimaras already.

This couple has the energy, excitement, enthusiasm....but no real experience in brooding :)

What comes to our rescue? MMS....they were sending pictures of the brooding...I was calling to comment. That exchange went for about 3 or 4 photos/calls. By the 4th photo and call, we were over "comfort zone 101".

Well...we said 101...so it means this will be a whole semester :)

Keeping in touch is a requisite.

Brooder Hut

By 8am, we were crossing a small brook to get to this piece of property in Laguna.

Doesn't the brooder look inviting? Am sure the Sunshines were excited to be let free in there :) The brooder even had a sort of ante room.


Look at them...excited....they were literally jumping to freedom :)

The only thing that was ready when we got there were the three (3) lights. They laid the newspapers when we got there. We guided them in mixing brown sugar with the first drink. Instructed them on placing stones in the drinkers....It was actually good, as we were able to video the preparation of the drinkers...a new input for our presentations :)

When the Sunshines were set free, they were sort of in an OJT. Observed how they all gathered under the three (3) existing bulbs...they knew that they had to add bulbs to keep them warm.

Old And New

Just back from a whirlwind 3days-2nights trip.

First stop was Iloilo: About 1week ago, I got a call for an order of chicks to be picked up in Iloilo to be grown in Guimaras. I suggested that before we send the Sunshines, they may do the seminar in Iloilo. Yes, they went to the seminar and we even visited their farm. Monday, he starts with a trial batch.

The buiding shown above is an old chapel inside the hacienda....I wonder what Zac Sarian and Doc Rey were discussing as they entered :)

The crowd we had in Oton was very receptive and interaction was good during the seminar. I would say we had a 50/50 mix of expats and locals present.

One of growers in the area was a pleasant surprise when he showed up. I may have misunderstood him when he said that farm was quite a distance, I thought he can't make it. I saw Zac Sarian in an animated conversation with him, and taking notes and a photograph...I hope it makes his pages soon :)

We visited also another farm, Dawn's...she does contract growing of white broilers, but practices natural farming around with veggies to keep the flies away.

Lunch was a hearty spread of seafoods.

I have to thank Erik for setting up the seminar with Joachim's The Bazaar Cafe.

Stayed at Grand Dame Hotel in La Paz. Great hotel! Clean, comfortable...highly recommended.

Next day was Bacolod. First time that we took the fastcraft. One of my real friends, Mabol, was there waiting with her van to drive us around Bacolod.

Happy again with the choice of hotel. Planta Hotel is the newest and also by the same owners of Business Inn, so I knew it will be at par to standards. Can't complain :)

We tried Jo's Inato for lunch. Took eons to get our lunch, but it was worth the wait. Binacol (like tinola, using buko juice as water and buko strips) and the inato tasted different from the usual inasal.

Rushed for time, we were late arriving for the Bacolod seminar. I hate being late, moreso when you are pressured by a slow acting power point to unfurl its contents...then you get a non responsive projector cables....but...patience...all is well. We got a Bounty guest. Thank you to Walter and Fely for arranging the seminar venue.

Dinner was at Aboy's...wow.....this left us breathless....no space after all that great food! The simplicity of the cooking enhanced the freshness of the ingredients. I reprimanded Mabol for not taking us there in previous tripsto Bacolod.

Next morning, we invited Walter and Fely for breakfast as a "thank you" for the arrangement. We ourselves didn't eat much as we were going for lunch at Mabol's family's house in Sta Clara. We went around the Pacifica Agrivet branches and did our courtesy calls, went to the tissue culture lab of Tita Julie...then went to their house for lunch. She and Zac were old friends from the garden and orchid societies....so Mabol and I had time to chitchat.

While we were doing the seminar at Silay (thanks to the LGU), Mabol and Zac Sarian went to visit their farm in La Carlota. Not much space..just 800 hectares...and just 4 hectares as backyard veggie farming :)

We have to go back real soon and take a more leisurely trip....with old and new friends, old and new growers, old and new dealers :)

Out Of The Ordinary

The weather is not our usual.

Doc Rey is absent for Kaunlaran sa Agrikultura. Normally, he would be do his Vet ng Bayan segment by phonepatch, but he was in an area that had bad Globe signal.

There was no farm visit and I was with Jojie Lim..I decided to be un-uniformed and donned my cute tennis dress.

Instead of Doc Rey, I did my small talk on the unusual weather and what we have to do to make sure the Sunshines are ok...

1) Beddings - they are meant to keep the ranging Sunshines dry and warm. So keep it clean and make sure they have beddings.

2) Curtains - Don't keep out the cold, as you keep out the fresh air they need. You may have a wind breaker, meaning, have the curtains (with air flow below and outlet above) about atleast 1ft from the housing walls.

3) Make sure they get their dose of herbs for prevention and to give them their armor in this weather. Chop up garlic, chilis, oregano - and put it in their drinking water. Be careful when working on the herbs as they can get potent and have a burning sensation :( The potion will keep the Sunshines warm and healthier.

4) Keep you flock report and advise us weekly, so we may monitor and be alerted for potential problems.

5) Build the housing on an elevated, flood free area.

Logic and common sense plays a lot when you give care and attention to something.

Socializing Is Important

Farm visits by your veterinarian are most important. If not possible, send pictures often. In a previous post, we agreed that photos do talk and tell the story of the rearing of the Sunshines. At the very least, keep in touch at least once a week.

In the photos above, w/c were agreed to be amended already by the owner, several factors have to be changed.

1) Multi batch separated by a net only. Should be at least 15meters apart.

2) The shelter has no beddings. Have some rice hull there to keep the dry, especially in this weather.

3) The land is big. Give the Sunshines the space it needs, for ranging, 1sq meter per bird. Notice how bald the ranging area is? The caretaker said 4days, it went bald already. Its not that they are overly eating..it is because they are in small area, so you think they eat fast.

4) Very few feeders

Overall, good....given that biosecurity and space requirements aren't met.

Hopfully when we go vistit again...we are now utilizing and playing with the large property and use the shaded and grassy areas :)

Chickens Feed The Fishes

Two days ago, I get a quite frantic call from a veterinarian who's worried about his present Sunshines on the range.

I thought he got the wrong number, as he knew Doc Rey's contact.

Nope, he clicked on the right contact..he wanted to speak with me as he was embarassed to ask Doc Rey. Thought balloon right away...."he must have done something he knew wasn't right" hahahhha.

Ok, what age? What range did you use (because he just harvested)? I wanted to make sure.

I preempted the answer already in my mind, following my just blown thought balloon...YUP, he used THE SAME ranging area. The very area he just harvested from.

"Don't you remember about how to break cycle of the bacteria? That some need chickens as hosts for them to survive and spread????" You need to let brooders and ranging areas rest. To break that cycle.

No vaccines, no antibiotics are being used.

Now he can sound a little more frantic, as he already let out his can of worms.....calm down...chop up some chilis, ginger, garlic and add them in the drinking water.

That was 2days ago and I asked him to advise me. He didn't, so I called.....The sunshines are happy now, and transferred to another area.

Conversation led to other things. His family was asking why will he want to take care of chickens, well he said initially : nice to look at seeing running all around, food on the farm's tables. Later on, people were buying from them. He takes care of about 1000-1500 a month.

After pencil pushing and co-relating their expenses chicken raising and fishpond expenses...hey the chickens fed the fishes! He was now laughingly telling me that no one now questions the chickens in the farm.

Hope that after we do the Visayas loop, we be able to visit him in Tarlac. Our media friends might find interesting the veterinarian venturing into sustainable farming...going against practices, BUT knowing that there are points in the exact science that can't be thrown away and will always be the foundation of farming.

He is equally excited about the visit and the marketing that it will do to his town.

Where's my natural farming tandem? This might be the best venue to kick off our pages :)

BTW, when I told Doc Rey about his vet friend being shy to call him, he said "tell him just think the Sunshines have colic"...diba kabag yun? lol

Buhay Pa, Timplado Na

That should be in quotation marks...like...

"Buhay pa, timplado na"
Still alive, when seasoned

Why in quotation marks? It was coined by Jojie Lim and she is scared it might be snatched again from her wehehehhehehe.

What does she refer to?

WRONG, not just the Sunshines.

YES, to the pork and chickens that are raised eating grasses, herbs, veggies in all their fresh glory and having their food mixed with fermented veggie and fruit juices.

Since their subsistence consists of the herbs etc, they are seasoned to taste even prior to slaughtering.

Not just a tagline there...but truth and reality!

So Mam Jojie, this is like a registration to Intellectual Property Rights for you. Nice one!

Daily Flock Report

I posted this in sunshinechicken e-group, but thought that everyone needs this, even lurkers.

This is daily. Have a table for:

DATE - daily report

AGE OF CHICKS - daily, it may seem obvious, but easier to look at that, than
count

# OF CHICKS - # of chicks in your flock daily

FEED CONSUMPTION - this will show you if you are feeding enough and properly

# OF MORTALITY - daily, I hope none :)

REASON FOR MORTALITY - so we know how to correct situations. Are there
predators? Were they on top of one another? Color of manure? etc

ACTION TAKEN - what did we do to remedy the problem?

MEDICATION/VACCINE GIVEN - what did we give the chicks?

WEEKLY WEIGHT - weigh every 7days, so we can monitor and anticipate problems

HARVEST DATE - record when you took some for dressing

# HARVESTED - record number, if not all harvested

WEIGHT AT HARVEST - how much did they weigh

Home Along The Range

The moment Doc Rey saw this housing, he immediately asked me to take a picture. Firstly because he liked the ingenuity, of using obviously scrap materials.

He had several comments for the owner, regarding brooding and ranging area..but of course I will discuss that first with him....then maybe interact with the others over the e-group.

We May Do A Seminar There

Do you want a seminar in your area?

Maybe you can coordinate a group or your LGU to contact us to do one, there.

If you don't have access to a group or LGU, let us know, so we may schedule one in your location, depending on requests we receive.

Blog Or Egroup?

I am so torn between making posts in the blog or the e-group. I can't have a lot of topics in my mind all the time :(

Deliberated...but making the blog exciting, will keep the lurkers and readers around. The e-group is where we interact and exchange ideas.... hmmmm you guys are quiet in the blog, we could have interacted there.

BUT no doubt, the e-group is a healthier ground for interactivity :)

So I may blog about growers and post pictures...then we may give our reactions within the e-group. Fair huh.

Iloilo CONFIRMED

WHAT: Raising Sunshine Chicken
WHEN: May 04, Monday, 9-11am
WHERE: The Bazaar Cafe, 2nd fl New Market Arcade, Oton Iloilo
WHO: Doc Rey

Venue was given for free, thank you to Erik. In reciprocating generosity, may we request all attendees to buy at least PHP100 worth of food or drinks? Thank you very much.

Bacolod CONFIRMED

WHAT: Raising Sunshine Chicken
WHEN: May 05, Tueday, 2-5pm
WHERE: Villamonte Barangay Hall; Ylac St, Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod City
WHO: Doc Rey

FREE SEMINAR, venue complements of the Barangay Villamonte

If you have to commute, tricycle drivers may take you there.

For questions, you may reach me at (0917) 847-2639

I have to thank "Fely" for being the liason officer :)

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sunshinechicken

We have opened a yahoo group for our growers and dealers.

This will be a perfect venue to learn from one another and exchange notes. Reading others' experiences and comments will broaden how we look at things.

This will be better than emailing us.....this way, we get to interact.

See you there...BUT, I will give you reason to check back this blog often. I am torn between posting there or here. I decided to have interaction there and for you who want to just read, then this blog will offer you visuals :) Curiosity will make you want to join ahahhahaha.

Sunshine At AANI QC

AANI Herbal Garden and Livelihood Center was relocated to the PHILCOA entrance of Quezon Memorial Circle.

Better location, parking is good and the area is now airy and more visible.

Our dayold chicks' sales are handled by AANI office. Our booth will carry our dressed chickens, naturally farmed produce and other Organika products.

Instead of painting our booth...we decided on murals.

As Native

Some growers have found a niche in selling to the local market. "HOORAY" for them!

It may sound surprising to the marketing man how a perceived expensive and high end commodity now has penetrated the local market...as in the markets in the locality of the grower.

Years of work and patience for consumer awareness to eating tasteful and healthy....and more so, bringing back to your area the income by giving work to the farmhelp (if not self employment), to the ladies instead of giving the dressing machine a spin and business to yourselves :) Educating the housewife about deciding on what is rightful spending....getting value for your money!

Think about health benefits, work for the locals, TASTE oh yes the taste....and as a cook, notice that our Sunshines don't shrink when cooked because no chemicals to make them bloat. That in itself is a lot of savings that translates to maybe equal almost in pricing to the industrial chickens.

They say that they have a quick turnaround amongst the local market because it is PARANG NATIVE. I quickly caution them, to tell the truth and be proud about their product being LASANG NATIVE.

Silay CONFIRMED

LGU of Silay is hosting a seminar for Raising Sunshine Chickens on May 06 at 2pm-5pm.

Venue will be at the Rizal Cultural and Civic Center, fronting Silay City Hall, just 6mins away from the airport.

Everyone who is interested is invited to come and join...FREE SEMINAR. No need to preregister. Just go there early :)

You may reach me at (0917) 847-2639

Lasang Native

I had been getting email and calls..."Is your Sunshines native chickens"?

That is the reason we used the tagline "LASANG NATIVE"...

Although the Sunshines taste like our native chickens, manok tagalog, bisaya manok, or whatever regional term we have for the Filipino native chickens....we don't, won't, nor claim that the Sunshines are OUR native chickens.

Why? Because, much as they really do taste like the natives, our Certified F1 Sunshine Chicks are from the Certified Parent Stocks that we import are from SASSO of France. We will not claim to the fame of OUR native chickens, nor will we disclaim the research and development of SASSO of France. SASSO is known in the free range chicken industry as the leader, and develops and maintains the strains of pure colored chicken farm breeds. They go through a natural selection for taste and preferences of the different regions in France and clients' requirements. We are proud to be carrying SASSO.

We studied and continue to study our Philippine conditions and market preferences and decided on which strains to bring in to comeup with what we offer to you as Sunshine Chicken. First we brought in the a heavy pure farm breed, that gives us the colorful Sunshines. We next reintroduced the Naked Necks that are sturdier under tropical conditions and have a thinner skin that gourmets prefer. We are now thinking of a new strain to add to our existing line :) All those, to satisfy the different growers' and farmers' needs and wants.

THE_start

When Zac Sarian, Doc Rey and I made the Feb trip to Davao for the PVMA, it was primarily for Doc Rey and his seminar. Zac and I knew we were going to enjoy Durian and whatever comes our way after. I asked Tere of Earthkeepers to set us up with the infamous Andry and Jojie Lim, and of course a farm visit with her co-author Dante Delima.

That trip was enjoyable and educational. Doc Rey was only with the group for the lastday, so what we saw was just heresay for him :) When he saw Andry's and Jojie's naturally farmed pigs....he had a lot of questions. Very normal for a veterinarian. We would take that he didn't know his craft, if he accepted the natural farming practice without resistance. That is granting that he is a veterinarian of the 80s.

Things happen and get delayed for reasons....

1) We are working on a book for "Raising Sunshines". Busy schedules have sidelined it, but it is all ready to be edited, illustrated and printed.

2) While brainstorming for Kaunlaran sa Agrikultura over DWWW, an idea flashed for a nice segment. We will keep quiet on this first :)

3) Jojie got different batches of free range chicks and was able to compare growth. She wanting to be more conclusive, she got a 2nd batch.

4) Our seminar in Davao coincided with a time that Andry and Jojie were also in Davao and had the time to go visit farms and showed us their Sunshine chicks.

5) Those visits were eye openers to both parties. Doc Rey was now asking Andry and Jojie a lot of questions. We now had all the time, no rush, to rationalize and put perspective to why science and natural farming should work together and learn from one another. The Lims also saw the logic to what a veterinarian's experience, knowledge and steadfast science has to offer in terms of team play.

They were discussing beddings, feeds, length of intestines, fermented juices etc....

Doc Rey was so awed and renewed after seeing how Tibaw is able to sustain his farm. Seeing the fishes happy and swimming in the dikes...from where he was eating freshly caught fish and really good vegetables in his tinolang manok.

You can see the excitement in his voice, questions and voice! No doubt, everyone's never ending thirst for knowledge will work in sharing. One must study new things, to take care of what's old.

6) Lightbulb!!!! My initial concept for the radio segment may now be translated "in writing", in series and will be for distribution nationwide. Verbal agreements made and final discussion over cafe latte, decaf, green tea and frapuccino....four (4) people, four (4) different drinks. Diverse personalities that blend and meet. Four of us, Andry, Jojie, Doc Rey and I. There is incidentally a 5th person involved for a cameo role.

See for yourself the baby steps....things happened so fast that I missed the most symbolic...when Andry, from below, was throwing the sacks of rice straws to Doc Rey at street level. Doc Rey catching it and Jojie was lugging it to the trunk. As usual, I was comfortably seated under a shade....taking pictures as a disguise for being so tamad.


Symbolic also is how you see Andry and Doc Rey in pictures? Jojie is behind, below or simply taking pictures. Same with me.

Teasers? Let's hope the ones in the background work faster....as we have the "TO DO" assignments.

Easers to be done....to ease the mind of farmers :) Options will be offered to you...you choose what is a workable blend for you. Team play dictates no right nor wrong. Let us come up with our own "3in1" for you.

If we didn't tickle your mind to what we are up to....then we have to reinvent ourselves.

Jojie's Crib

When natural farmers engage in a project, cost cutting and practicality also are in play.

See Andry here, beside the Sunshine Crib of Jojie Lim. Jojie says the cost is about PHP200. The metal sheet makes sure no rats may get to your bebes. The mosquito net, protects it from predators and mosquitoes. The bell attached to the mosquito net, should alarm the caretaker if there is an intruder :)

This size of crib takes care of about 30 Sunshines til 21days....the size and price, is perfect for a household "grow your own chickens" project. Incidentally, Doc Rey commented to Jojie that brooders don't need that height, plus it doesn't have proper ventilation. They agreed that the cost may be cut into half because the sheet may make two brooders.

Jojie has so many ideas....let's wait for her protocol...coming up.

Sunshines In Eden

Years ago, I got a call to call a "room 911"..I thought it was a joke! Same thing now, I wasn't sure about going to Eden :) The trip was fun filled because of the company we had and going through the winding road of the mountains seeing Mt Apo was a clue to what we will see. I was enjoying eating my whole Marang, drumstick style....just gorging on the fruit while holding on to the stem. Wasn't sure if I wanted to put down my Marang, but equally excited to see the chirping chicks.

The farm is perfectly nestled on the slopes of a very cool and quiet Eden. The Sunshines have a perfect view of the city.

No wonder they were weighing in perfectly when we saw them at 21days. The ranging area as being prepared. As of today, they were happily sipping their water, viewing the fantastic view

Bacolod/Iloilo Loop UPDATES

We are just finalizing schedules. Updated April23, 2:51pm.

Working on May 04 for Iloilo, a 2-5pm schedule. Getting a Cafe venue, 15mins away from the city, as FREE venue. That way we are able to offer a FREE SEMINAR, as long as you order snacks and drinks. Very fair!

May 05, Bacolod. 2-5pm, Villamonte Barangay Hall. That is along Ylac St, Brg Villamonte. They say tricycle drivers would be able to take you there if you have to commute. This is in the City proper, and about 15-20mins from the ferry area. Complements of the Barangay...we are able to give this FREE SEMINAR in Bacolod. Just do good to another person :)


If you are interested, you may contact (0917) 847-2639. There will be a PHP300 fee for the seminar, depending if we get a host venue or not.

We will be doing farm visits. This will be an exciting trip as Mr. Zac Sarian will be in our company.

If you miss the seminars but wish to speak with us, call me on the CP.

See you :)

TJ's Agri Gimik

On May18, TJ is hosting an affair that coincides with Mika's bday. He will include seminars for his rare fruit member friends for high value crops, vermiculture, goat raising, and free range chicken.

Am not sure if this will be open to all to attend, but he said he has posted this event in sites...so I am presuming free.

WHERE? Baliuag Bulacan

Happy Easter

What did you do today?

We got in at dawn, missed the alarm to go to radio Kaunlaran sa Agrikultura, and we were waken up by the ringing of the cellphone. Guess who? Waaaaaaaaasssss Jackie from DWWW...........so Doc Rey did his Vet ng Bayan segment by phone patch.

Since there was no radio to go to anymore, slept a bit more. By about 6am, we got a text from Siniloan Laguna, if we may check his poultry building.

So we went the Manila East Road route, visited friends in Teresa, the new poultry building in Siniloan wanting to be seen, another grower in Barras and ate in Morong. It was a most enjoyable late lunch of fresh Kanduli in Miso, halabos na suaje (you know its fresh when the balat is crisp and easily peels off) and the unforgettable ampalaya/radish salad. Perfect with just plain rice.

We thought today would have been a DWWW, and AANI regular Sunday. But then, today is Easter, it isn't regular. And again...we are always unpredictable :)

Tomorrow we fly to Davao...schedules have to be met and be on time.

What I didn't notice today....or was I driving fast? There were no signs of commercialism in the Easter celebration. Something good for me.

Ready To Range

Brooding is the most important phase in the success of raising chickens. No amount of good genetics, premium brand of feeds etc can spell the result....you need proper brooding:

1) space requirements
2) proper heat
3) fresh air, right ventilation
4) adlibitum feeding
5) fresh water
6) clean beddings
7) all of the above...all the time...always. We can never stress this enough.

Hard to do huh?

Well, there are farmers/growers who have been selling the "Ready To Range Sunshines".

One grower in Sinait, Ilocos Sur had been featured many times by Manila Bulletin, Bannawag and Agriculture Magazines.

CRH

Carbonized Rice Hull

Some people really make CRH for use in organic fertilizers. In Isabela where we are based, we have the luxury of CRH from the many rice mills around. The coveted CRH is a byproduct and can be taken with a telephone call :)

How do you, as a raiser of free range chickens, acquire for yourself? You may use some charcoal and rice hull as alternative source of heat. Put holes around tin pails/drums. Have rice hull and some charcoal and ignite. The burning rice hull will give off heat. You may also burn coconut husks or shells :)

Instead of throwing away the resulting material inside your drums, mix them with sand and make them as beddings in your brooders and pens. Very good for diarrhea prevention...remember your own medication?

I like Black..looks clean to me. I also like the caring detail the grower here has given to his babies. He built them a perch stand! Thoughtful that it is natural for chickens to want to perch and that also helps them safe from predators.

Incidentally, you may even sell your organic fertlizers to your neighbors, from your Sunshine's waste :)

theculinarians.com

In the F&B World, Jan-Feb 2009 issue, Sunshine Chicken was featured.

Browsing today, I thought that the foodies in your might find this site interesting: theculinarians.com

They have samplers of F&B World issues....so click on this to read about Sunshine Chicken, and yes about Chef Sunshine too :)

Unpredicatability

That best describes our schedules :) Not that I'm complaining.

Yesterday, we were supposed to have driven back to Isabela for a quick trip before we fly to Davao. Holidays gave us the alibi to just work in our computers inroom and was too lazy to pack and go. Also, staff will be on break too so many things to check before they leave.

What wakes us up this morning? A request for a seminar tomorrow morning. Several out of town deliveries ordered today! We also have to make some deliveries as there is only one driver left in Manila. Well, Tuesday is not a regular delivery day for us, so we are not manned for this. But, we are very flexible and always ready .... used to the unexpected, expecting already the unpredicatable and making do with situations :)

A Mandaluyong delivery crops up....hmmmmm I remember wanting to try 1521 Restaurant...hope to experience their cooking.

Impromtu Seminar, April 8

Due to demand we are scheduling one tomorrow.

WHAT: Raising Sunshine Chicken
WHERE: ORGANIKA; Regalado cor Quirino Hway (across Regalado gate of SM Fairview)
WHEN: Wednesdy, 9am, April 8
WHO: Doc Rey
FEE: PHP350

You may register at the door. See you :)

Are We Tired?

Surprising how many people do visit our blog. Well, surprising shouldn't be the right term, as we get website statistics and surely we are able to gauge our visitors in terms of their location, what they read, what time of the day etc. You may not believe this, but these days we get over 550 pages read every day, by about 150 visitors daily. The statistics show average. So that is from day1, when there were no readers.

I get comments from people I just met, who upon realizing the product represented (well I am always in uniform), blurt out that "I read you a lot". They are from food industry, farming, hobbyists, entreprenuers and yes, from bored people also, whose source of entertainment is sufing :) Almost 30% of daily visits are from returning readers. Thank you :)

A lot of you comment that we are all around, all the time. How do we do it? It must get tiring!

Well, for some points:

1) The company we keep when doing the trips to farms, is always enjoyable. Its just like dinners and lunches, I don't do business stuff. So, rule #1, make sure it is a pleasurable group...the business aspects should just fall into place, and NOT the core of the company. IF it has to be....ok...we may travel in separate cars :)

2) Always look at it as pasyal. Long drives...time to enjoy the scenery. Have you really taken time to drive down old and coastal roads? Instead of doing all the fast express ways that offer you field fires as views?

3) Opportunity to eat and discover new things. I love going to the markets, or stopping by the roadside stall to buy sea salt or dried seaweeds. Asking vendors how to best enjoy it, how to prepare them.

4) Meet your growers upfront. Does a lot when real rapport is created. Let them know you. At the end, you get other insights and learn a lot....that takes away your aching muscles from the trip.

5) You may travel comfortably. I have mastered packing the things we need, and doing it lightly. On the plane, we take a big suitcase half full and stock the carry on with the projector and laptop inside. When we get to the location, I still have a small case with wheels to lug around my laptop and projector. Going home time, they fit back inside the check in luggage.

6) Lastly....the first step is, know that you WILL LOVE IT!

Hmmmm just thought about a travelogue. Why? I just got an email from a travel agency, if they can post an ad on our website hahahaaha.

Alternative Heat

Hanged


Or set on hollow blocks

Charcoal may be used to keep your chicks warm. Burning rice hull or ipa, may also be used as alternative source of heat. Compost material is also a good idea for keeping your chicks warm and close to their natural brooding temperature. Just make sure that the chicks can't be burned :)

Doc Rey suggests that if you are using electric bulbs or gas brooders, have on standby, alternative means to brood. The time spent thinking, planning and preparing may mean that they start crowding and piling up one on top of the other. Wanting to get heat and pushing against one another, extols a lot of pressure on them.

Naked Necks, TJ Of Baliuag Bulacan

I asked TJ 2weeks ago how his Sunshine naked necks were doing. "Maganda, kasi pangit sila" Brought a smile to my lips. Can't blame the description, because true, the naked necks are not the cutest chickens to see. As bald, day old chicks, maybe....but as adults...well look at it this way , they seem easier to slaughter :)

Louis of SASSO of France says that it is sturdier and will do better under our Philippine conditions. The skin of this strain is thin, and the trained tounges will know that it is better.

We have alloted our Naked Necks to our growers, who have seen the benefits over our regular full feathered ones. Sometimes we have some left and our Solraya stores carry it on retail.

Today, Zac Sarian revisits Baliuag, Bulacan. He had featured TJ several times in the past in the Agriculture Magazine of April2008, Manila Bulletin, Bannawag and Panorama. Time to listen to what TJ has to say. He has good comparisons as before he loaded with the naked necks, he was just through harvesting his full feathered ones. Also, he fostered some 300 chicks for a friend taken from another stock. So he was able to compare three batches.

Look at TJ's Feb22 batch of the new line of Sunshines. They were just supplemented with unmedicated feeds, left free to range on living grass...no antibiotics nor hormones. Not even vitamins nor probiotics.


TJ got a lot of interest going for the naked necks. Yes, true, the strain is sturdier...BUT then, TJ has always proven to do well with his wards.

Today at 6weeks...he is thinking about loading the same bald ones soon.

PIFGEX 2009- UPDATED

That is the Philippine International Flora and Fauna Garden Expo 2009.

We joined this trade show last year and found the market to be very receptive.

Got a good location. Corner. Fronting a special landscape setting. Diagonal to the stage area. Sunshine growers are welcome to come and use the venue for marketing their products.

A seminar had been scheduled for us on Saturday, July 18 at 2pm.

See you at the World Trade Center on July 16-19 :)

Thinking About Cebu

While doing our bookings just now....it crossed my mind to make a sidetrip to Cebu from Davao, before planing back to Manila.

UPDATE: We decided not to fly to Cebu from Davao. Since we will be visiting the Visayas area soon, then we will do a Cebu seminar.

Seminar in Cebu? Text me if you are interested so we may swing a schedule there. (0917) 847-2639

Making Life Easier

Often been asked about choppers/shredders. The ones out in the market before were very expensive stuff but useful to have around as it allows you to concentrate on other issues other than personalities when you have a lot of manpower.

At PHP35,000, this is a good buy. 6.5hp and shreds 500kilos/hour...not bad :)

If you have little space, then cut and carry should be it for your Sunshines. A chopper will be handy for you. Making your fermented fruit and plant juices will be sisiw now wehhhehehe.

Solraya will be carrying this and may accept orders from you.

Take Time

Yesterday was week2 of the 5000 heads in a brooder of an entrepreneur. At week1, Doc Rey already suggested moving some to ease up space. They were using pig pens and Doc Rey was instructing to open up the walls to let fresh air in.

At week2, the farm manager was alarmed that the pens were crowded as the Sunshines were growing fast. He said the ranging pens were ready. Doc Rey said he will check that day.

When we got to the farm, the chicks were ranging, happily! We caught the farm manager nervous as it was starting to rain and the skies were gloomy.

His nervousness was right and with basis!!!! If he took time and waited, he will have had several options:

1) Doc Rey may have suggested to open up the brooding area more
2) Just release in the ranging area the number o Sunshines that will ease up the space in the brooders
3) Have rice hull (ipa) as beddings in the shelters
4) Elevate or install bamboo floorings for the shelters

Why?

1) They are just 2weeks old, they would be better off inside brooders for protections from predators.
2) They need the heat from their beddings
3) When ranged, even with adlib feeds, they will still prefer grass. They will prefer to play, instead of ensuring that they be able to get first their nutrition for the 21days
4) Rain water will make the ground wet, so elevation will be a good idea

Everything said and done, the farm helps had to work double time last night. So far, no calls. No news is good news :)

Moral of the lesson....don't be too excited and in a hurry. Assess situations. There are no rules to follow in natural farming...but let common sense guide you. AND, when asked by your veterinarian to wait...surely he knows that it isn't a life or death situation yet.

Postbrood

One of our Sunshine growers in Gen Santos, is the hubby of the former executive assistant of a very good friend of mine. That was eons ago....the years that we were still golfing, gulping, jetting and all other INGS.

I have not seen Patty in maybe 20yrs. Agrilink 2007....we were both like "huh...I know you..." Ayun, she used to be the executive assistant of Vic at PLDT. You know her job...she was the ONE we all bugged for the small needs we had. She retired, I guess her hubby decided that she assisted him instead of getting bombarded by Vic's friends anyway. Now, as pastime, she and Rene are into farming in Gen Santos.

You think they raised Sunshines in 2007? Nope! Agrilink 2008...now it was just Rene who comes up to me an introduced himself as Patty's hubby.

Point is....he took time to think and prepare. He started with 100. Now, we are at 200 every 2weeks.

Am not sure if it was because he read about my business idea post on "ready to range" chicks, or did he read Zac Sarian's article on a good endeavor? Or must be both! Rene was asking about meeting him to discuss the "ready to range" prospects.

Time and schedules haven't allowed us to meet..that was about 2weeks ago.

Today, before lunch, I got a text asking about 1week old Sunshines for Gen Santos. I gave the texter Rene's number. Late this afternoon, Rene texts that he sold 100 "postbrood" Sunshines, for PHP90 each.

See....very me. Why discuss feasibilities and pencil pushings. Easier to get to practice pronto!

Nice new term..."postbrood".

Looking forward to visit Patty's Farm.

Its Our Playsure

We know we have full schedules ahead as next week we visit growers in the Northern Luzon area.

So Sunday afternoon, decided to take a good night's sleep and start off early Monday for a relaxed schedule. To do what? To visit new growers' ranging areas and dealers. HAHAHHAHAHHA...yes I hear a big laugh! But its different when there is no schedules, no hotel bookings...like stay and do whatever :)

First stop yesterday....a new ranging area in Bulacan. We thought that we will see the brooders here. Doc Rey wanted to check on it because they got 100 on day1, 100 on day2 and wanted to get 700 the 3rd day. Doc Rey just alarmed him on the space requirements, so he opted to get 300 on the 3rd day. His brooding HAD to be checked. On the way to the farm, we realize that he was brooding in the Metro, but we may see the ranging area he was preparing.

Perfect location. Very near Metro Manila....logistics play an important role.

Anyway...what's my story here...

I was surprised to see a young man. I would say he looks 20s to me. He is a Medical Doctor but really wants to be an entrep-farmer. He followed his parents' wish first. Now, that he has proven himself, became a successful doctor...he now wants to do what he really wants :)...farming and business.

His profile as a doctor, entrepreneur wanna be, his wife's business - all those were different from the other growers - our talk also brought out great business ideas from moi! I will discuss those in other threads. Interesting ideas...promise :)

Wait! Am sidetracked here.....my heart's blab here is the "FOLLOW FIRST"... "OBEY FIRST"

Davao Seminars

(Updated April 03)

Seminars on Raising Sunshine Chicken from Day1 to Harvest by Doc Rey

DAVAO CITY
April 13, Monday, 3pm
Microtel Inn, Function Room, Damosa Gateway Complex, Angliongto Road, Lanang
FEE: PHP300, with snack. Pls go early and just register at the door.

MATI CITY
April 14, Tuesday
This will be a FREE seminar, as we are being sponsored by the Province of Davao del Sur.
Everyone is invited

Please coordinate with us thru text (0917) 847-2639 and email info@solraya.com

Genaro's Bangus Grill

If you see our growers featured in agriculture magazines, you may want to know that we equally market the restaurants that use our chickens :)

For the Jan-Feb 2009 issue of F&B World, when we were interviewed and featured, we invited the crew to sample Sunshines at Zucchini's restaurant. F&B World mentioned them in that issue and the next issue of March-April had Zucchini's featured too :)

Now to Genaro's.... they are based in Santiago City, Isabela where we are based too. Having lunch by drive thru, at their gate side grill, is normal for us. I always ordered fish as the name connotes, is supposed to be their specialty.

Sometime ago, rare time that we go there for dinner and decided to dine in. Oh they have native chicken and Monterey pork too. I order for Sinampalukang Manok, only to be told that the supply is very erratic. Hmmmmm.....small talks that led me to talk about Sunshines. And yes, send her 10 chickens the next day for testing.

That is history. They had been ordering consistently.

About 2weeks ago, I thought of making "Sunshine Chicken is being served at Genaro's Bangus Grill" as our tagline for the radio ads for Region2. Really worked! The sales have doubled. And Grace the owner, appreciated the fact that we made effort to look after marketing too. Obviously, she makes good, I do too :)

Last night, brainstorming about employees handling tips and how to cut down on workload as Grace did the cooking...we brought up the idea of new recipes, ones that stir far from the inasal every corner available. Oh yes, keep the classic tinola and sinampalukan...but get going with offerings that only you have, at least for the moment. Offering that you know you started.

That brought the conversation to my smoking chicken. I shared a recipe of a relative, that I amended to make it easier for me to do. We now look forward to introducing Smoked Sunshine Chicken at Gabriel's of Genaro's.

Gabriel's of Genaro's...That is their new outlet. Strategic, along Maharlika Hway, across the 24hr Mercury Drugstore in Santiago City, Isabela.

Continuous Marketing

Planning marketing is my main duty now for Sunshine Chicken. It is a hair line away from selling. Marketing is harder in my eyes, as the selling comes after you have projected and made known your company and product.

Always going, straight lines and circles...of course we have to forever compliment the marketing for our growers too. We plan to embark again (as if we don't always do weehehheheheh) on farm visits for our growers that may be featured for agriculture news.

Which made me recall an incident last Sunday. I was at a weekend market where we participated. As I was walking around, I saw another booth selling dressed chickens from free range SASSO. Surely I know all my growers...so I approached the man who owned the booth and talked to him about using the name SASSO. Surely his supplier didn't say that what they were selling him were SASSO chicks!!!

Maybe out of lack of anything better to say, he asks me about the proper raising and pricing. "I can't be involved as it will be unethical...I am just here to catch your attention about your claim on using SASSO" :)

Geez...this was may beyond me! He said he thought that his supplier might be the better one because they more expensive. YEOWWWWWW...this is exacty the market I am not targetting. The one that thinks that expensive is better. Hello? Yes, I may be from another world, but thank you, I prefer to be where I am. Give me an original Crispa T-shirt anytime please.

Yes also, I am focused in my marketing. There is a certain genre I want to keep and satisfy.

We work hard to give quality and cut costs. We have the numbers to give you lower prices.

I pride myself about planning and making strategies. I can't comprehend when someone rides on others' popularity and work. I am confident that we move forward and not just follow others' actions nor routes. We ourselves, and so does our growers, don't use the name SASSO in our marketing nor labels :)

Summer Work

I get inquiries for on the job trainings and summer jobs. Mostly we get it through text and I have 90% ignored it because I feel that the request commands some respect and text messages are not the proper venue for it :)

Last week I got an email, from a Benguet State University student. I gave it a thought because:

1) we have had very good experience with our employees from BSU
2) our market has consistently grown in the Benguet, Mt. Province area
3) we need to educate people on the benefits of grass fed chickens
4) if she learns from us, even just a little...that knowledge will benefit all, as she may echo it

What will I give her to do? Store brooding. That is a far more difficult job, than ordinary brooding in farms. Merits a separate topic to discuss :)

Because we are taking her in...we will be open to the idea now of accepting students who want to learn from us.

Market

Where's the market?

A grower is literally going to the market....not wasting time looking nor waiting for the middlemen to find him.

They are getting a space at the local market in Antique and sell their dressed produce there.

He wants the locals to experience our claim of the taste of bisaya manok, in the Sunshine Chicken.

Entrepreneurs

What is a gold strike for me? When we get the entrepreneur raisers.

What do I mean by that? There are entrepreneurs. And they have a magic eye for what will move, decides on vibes and experience and acts fast. That is what differentiates them from the others :)

90% of the time we are asked, "where is the market?"............oh you know that person will take ages before he decides to raise some.

An entrepreneur wants to know why your product is different, why it will be worth carrying/using and makes calls to start his brooders while you are still finding that extra calling card to hand over to him. The more the reality is presented, the more he knows it is worth going into.

They don't ask where the market of the production is. They CREATE the market! Its not even finding the market...CREATING is the key word.

You ask now, but they may have the good eyes, but can they raise my Sunshines? YES....they have the talent also of choosing good people to work for them. And they look after their workers well...in turn, they reap back with an abundant harvest.

One can't be and do everything all the time. You may be able to raise chickens well, but someone else has to focus on the business side.

Yesterday we had the pleasure of sharing coffee with Jonathan. He is setting up several ranging areas. Strategic locations actually. Near the trading areas and have spoken with live chicken dealers even before he started brooding.

Incidentally, he is trained in pest control. He knows how and when to use his baits.

Jonathan, I wish your Sunshine ranges, "mushrooms" in number :)

Alternatives

In these trying times, you always seek ways to gain and save, learn to unlearn, move forward to go back to basics, withdraw to be able to give, meet problems to find solutions, find alternative routes in all aspects....

Presented with a problem of supply, some industrial consumers opt to raising their own consumption. Sunshine Chickens need the space for ranging and you look for land that is cheaper to buy. You find ways to cross rivers to get at the other side :) Don't worry, come rainy season, there is a road that leads to that land, though 20kms farther.

He had tasted Sunshine Chicken from our stocks of dressed chickens used for marketing purposes during trade shows. The go-go entrepreneur decided he can use this for new recipes he had in mind. Conservative start, he loads 5,000 heads as he will easily consume that in 3weeks, so he may cycle brooders.

One week after, we visit to check on brooding. We cross again the river....oh yes, this time I made sure I had batteries charged for my documentation :)

The Sunshines look great in 7days. The chicks are moving around comfortably. Well fed, enough space, clean surroundings and beddings...good start.


Since they used former pig pens, they were advised to make holes/windows in the pen's walls, for ventilation. Or, they may install bamboo flooring so they elevate the chicks and they have more air. They opted to make the brooding area large and divided the 5,000 chicks into several pens. Consequently, they will need more gas brooders as more pens were used. To answer that problem, they elected to use charcoal/rice hull for heating. Placed inside drums, with holes all around, to distribute the heat evenly. A very clever and practical way of saving.

Summer is here and the sun's orientation is bad for the brooding area. I overheard Doc Rey suggesting to speed up the ranging area already as outdoor brooding is feasible for this farm. There are 14hectares, a lot of trees....so we can play with a lot of shaded areas.

Movable chicken pens are being constructed, with elevated flooring of bamboo slats. Nets are being ordered. The ranging Sunshines will surely do a lot of fertilizing here.

I was getting restless after walking around and taking pictures. Peeked inside what is obiously the caretakers' lounging area, as it is where the loud music was blaring from. I have to say I always get touched by the way an employer takes care of the employees. Says a lot about them. No junk here for the farm people. He saved on some, but takes care of what is essential and comfort for his men.

Oh btw, the naked necks are showing to be doing very well in the onset of Summer :) See how they love showing off their skin. As they say...flaunt it!

Rockwell's Sunday Souk #2

Yesterday was the first of a series for Rockwell's Sunday Souk.

Sad that I wasn't around to man my booth, as it coincided with our monthly seminars....but I liked the life that the area was showing at 8am, while the other vendors were still setting up.

I have to thank Bunny Fabella, my high school classmate, my Power of the Pen seatmate, and the owner of Gilmore Gourmet. She had been a booster since Philfoodex. Yesterday, she was calling me to make suggestions. A customer calls me today and says there was this lady at my booth that had been talking about how good such and such was. I will guesstimate.....that was Bunny :)

Got a lot of calls today. Of course the Sunshine Chicken is a given. Aside from that, peope were raving about out heavenly coco milk and our salted duck eggs. As described, the coco milk is non fat and is the stage before you get your virgin coconut oil. I would say it is a creamy buko juice, with a slight gata flavor. Our salted duck eggs are a real treat. The saltiness is barely there, cheeselike I would say.

I invite you to try it.

See you at Sunday Souk #2...April 19.

Lori Was Right

Yes. Lori Baltazar, one of the speakers of Power of Pen, said that the participants will be so excited to blog about the 2day food writing w0rkshop.

I hated language, reading, history etc etc that required me to read read and compose literary work etc etc etc. My general average grade was ok, because my Math subjects pulled it up.

But then, my work now in marketing requires that I plan my brochures, multi advertisements, blog and trade shows. Even if you base your principles and pitches on being truthful...you still have to reinvent yourself..beyond MASARAP!

Come the banner at Lori Baltazar's dessertscomefirst.com for Power of Pen, a food writing workshop! Hmmmmm. I should. Not that I expected to learn what I abhored to do since childhood. Walking with nothing....surely I will pick up something.

There was nothing said that you didn't know, nor haven't learned in school. Though now, it takes a different perspective when you zero in on writing about a topic and you have a definite reason for doing so. It went past reading and writing for topics that interested you the least. Now it was about food :) You were given spices and food to wake up your senses for the smell, sound, feel etc.

What was most interesting for me? Food styling. Like playing kitchen! Now we know why the pictures are perfect looking....because the materials were not real food wehehehheh. You get to touch fake ice cream, acrylic ice cubes, jelly shaved ice, and tomatoes with transplants! During lunchtime, before you ate, you are supposed to plate and photograph your food. Food styling career.....well I was too hungry and reasoned out that my food plating styling is for "HOME COOKED FOOD" :)

Highlight for my 2days? Just like comfort food, what you have grown up with, are the ones best to have around.

I saw Annie Certeza-Palmares, my elementary classmate in Institucion Teresiana. We are 2nd generation friends as our fathers were also classmates in university. She is now PR Manager for Center for Culinary Arts.

Bunny Fabella was there, high school batch mate. I don't really remember interacting with her in Maryknoll, but facebook.com and food brought us meeting at Philfoodex last weekend.

There was this pretty lady with us on the table on day1. I heard her speak about her brother Ambeth. I butted in and asked what her lastname was. There was only one Ambeth in my mind. Yes! She was Aleth, the sister. She was the little girl who stole my yaya away from me. Maybe my mom sent my yaya away when I should start fending for myself...but in my eyes, Aleth was the reason why yaya Basilia left me and went down a few houses away from us. This was Philam Homes.

Day2, one of the speakers was photographer, Mark Floro. Another Philam Homes guy. Our dads played tennis together.

We sat in table day2, with Caren of theeatingroom.wordpress.com She won for her critique on the lunch served. Then when food styling winner was to be announced, I said she might make it. She did top 10! I believe she is the only one who won 2 citations....turns out she is also a Maryknoller...Miriam her time...just like Bunny and myself. Caren and I both loved our Algebra teacher, Miss Dimaculangan!

Back to topic, like after eating merienda:

They should do more of these types of seminars. General subjects that zero in for a focus. The pamphlets that went around revealed that there are specialized courses for people in the food industry. Mark Floro has workshops for photography and digital imaging. Restaurant Marketing is offered by Enderun Extension. Gone are the days when it just all about cooking.

Rockwell's Sunday Souk

Busy, undermanned, tight schedules....I don't know what got to me to go and register for a booth on Sunday, March 22.

That'll be for Rockwell's Sunday Souk. 8am-6pm. Hidalgo St area will have tents set up.

See you there.

Can We Order All Naked Necks?

Yes.

We give preference to the growers for the supply of the Naked Necks. The excess is then made available at the Solraya outlets (Fairview, Solano, Santiago City and Vigan City).

The growers who have been ordering this have observed that it is sturdier, more stable...but it is a slower developing strain, than the full feathered ones.

Don't let the slower developing adjective deceive you. We know that it takes time to acquire taste.

Let me know if you want to book all Naked Necks, so we may prepare them for you.

Photos Communicate

For growers who are far from us and farm visits are wishes...that may happen but not as often as ideal...daily data record keeping and weekly photos are very important to monitor. Obvious problems are called to attention right away.

Why talk about the negative? Actually, positive moves are very appreciated through photos too.

This Mindanao farmer went to Manila to attend a seminar. Prepared. Ordered and have been updating us through pictures.

I would say that he listened well during Doc Rey's seminar. More than that, he cares for his Sunshines. It is obviously captured. Good brooding, makes the robust for ranging.

Probiotics

Sometimes we are asked to try a product. Most times we just set it aside and forget about it.

We had been using another brand of probiotics for sometime, but packaging was a problem and we were looking for a new one that we may retail to people who don't have the time to do their own natural farming inputs.

We had been seeing the Novatech group in radio guestings, but maybe they were promoting more their Durabloom organic fertilizers, that I didn't zero in on their probiotics.

One Sunday, about 2months ago, one of their salesmen broadcasted some Biosec in our Sunshines' cage during that month's Agri Kapihan. The Biosec was supposed to erase odors in farm animals' pens. Well, I noticed that it did. I was there sitting by the cage, it was soiled, being there halfday already. Sniff sniff....no odor. I took a note of that in my mind to order for resale...but it hid behind my brain.

The sent me the brochures thru email, but it just sat on my deskstop to this day.

Recently, I knew and remembered I needed probiotics for the over the counter sales. Timely that the Novatech sales people were there again during Agri Kapihan and I remembered to order Biosec. Now I had the time to listen and they were able to introduce Biolyte (probiotics and vitamins), perfect for brooding.

I asked my staff in Santiago City to use it for the store's brooding. That store is our best gauge because of distance and the time of day that the truck gets there, carrying the Sunshines.

Verdict: very good and ok for resale to customers!



When we do a sampling, we only use one product so we can zero in on our assessment. I walk by the cages by 6pm when we close the store. No smell...and that was not using Biosec yet. It was just Biolyte. Letting the good bacteria eat the bad bacteria inside the Sunshines. Making the waste, odor free.

Suggested retail price is PHP150 for 120ml. Use 1ml per 1liter of water. Ask for it from your favorite poultry supply stores. You may use it for all your animals :)

Back To Davao

Check back for a seminar schedule in Davao City and in Mati City.

Tentative schedule for Mati City may be on Monday, March 30. Will update blog when details are final.

Panay Antique

Depending on what you mean and how you pronounce it. Antique the place? Or Antique as in old, heirloom, art, collectibles....

We have here both. A grower in Antique, engaging in the old way of raising chickens. Almost 1 kilo in 33days. Not bad at all. Surely tastes like the bisaya manok!


Looking forward to go visit that part soon!

Go Against The Tide

Yesterday was not an ordinary one.

You don't normally cross a river (in your own vehicle ha), drive through sharp and rough river stones, drive with the tide and make a turn to drive against the tide. It was like sitting in a banka, seeing tree branches riding with the tide, observing how water breaks into different streams and getting back their speed again....it seeks its own path.

Doc Rey said I should take pictures....sure! One of the rare times that I don't have spare batteries, nor my recharger, nor do I have new pen sized batteries. Well...I said it as a day out of the ordinary.

We got to the other side of the river and delivered Sunshine day old chicks. Great location and the number of mango trees make default shelters for the ranging Sunshines in 3weeks :)

What did I learn from yesterday? I didn't need a 4X4, no need for a Land Cruiser to cross a river and brave the sharp rocks. You just need to believe in what you have and make calculated risks...but yes, I needed strong tires wehehehehe

Have To Go Back

Have you been to Cam Sur Water Park?

We don't do wakeboarding, but it was fun watching them and dining after a seminar in Naga.

The province of Camarines Sur did well developing this piece of property. It is now renowned worldwide for wakeboarding destination. Accomodations are very good, clean and well priced.

My son did this one weekend not too long ago, but he really into surfing and the likes. You have to be really fit when doing those. I excitedly called him to say we were enjoying the place he had been to....and he said he "was in a ferry to Camiguin"! Our host was like "huh?"....what does he do for a living? Well....he is single, young, taking his sweet time and enjoying life. He is like off every weekend :)

I will want to go back to Naga soon....have to taste the guinataang Santol that I missed because I had to stay in bed because of flu :(

The best tourist attraction of Camarines Sur may be yet be their people....very unassuming, pleasant...really nice :)

3C

I liked the champoy flavor. It was fermented plant juice. It is supposed to be a good health tonic. Wakes you up and gives you the energy boost, but makes you sleep like a log too at night. We in jest called it "PAMPA"....pampatulog, pampagising, pampa...

3C...stood for the 3 Cs of Carrots, Cucumbers and Celery.

I used a glass pitcher with a plastic lid, to ease up my work. For every kilo of plant you need 1/2k Muscovado sugar.

I got 600 grams Carrots, 350 grams Cucumber and 50 grams Celery stalks. Passed them through a grater, at random, then placing it in the pitcher and adding some Coco Sugar (yes expensive, but this was what I had in my cupboard) at a time. Layers until done. It was easier, no need to mix, as it was layered already and I just gave it a shake :) I placed it inside a black garbage bag and clipped it using a paper clip and set it on the kitchen counter to ferment.

I shook my pitcher every 2days. Actually everyday, as I peep all the time :)

Harvest in 10days. You may feed the solid to your animals. Actually I kept it and pick on it like pickles. They say take about 2 tablespoons daily or 3x a day after meals. I take a lot to drink, tablespoons wont' suffice. It does taste great for me!

Experiment with the different flavors you want.

This is not just for human consumption. Fermented plant and fruit juices are also used in natural farming for your plants and animals.

Use 1 teaspoon of fermented plant/fruit juice per liter of water. That will let the good bacteria take care of the bad bacteria in their digestive system. Use 32ml of the fermented juice in you 16liter back pack of water. Spray all around the pens, flooring and cages :) Odor free surroundings. Worry free disinfectant and deodorizer.

Organikarts

We might be pushing through with our baby Organikarts real soon.

Sidelined by the December rush and the busier days for the growers the past weeks, anticipating the summer and fiesta times' demand...we are now dusting the idea of the karts.

Am actually excited, as this will be good for consumer awareness. We are eyeing a location that will be good for the market of the health conscious and who likes eating good tasting food :)

....will keep you posted.

Where Are You For Holy Week?

Normally I am around my "through sick and sin" friends.

Recollection and meditations is best when you are true to yourself and what better way than being with the people who may even know you better than you do yourself :)

Thinking about Ilocos Sur...La Union...let's see where the waves takes us for the next few days.

Ilocos Sur Weekly

We have to thank the coverage that Agriculture Magazine gives us, and their trust in our products. They feature our growers, announce our seminars to reach out to people who wants to learn for livelihood, and report on the different aspects of successful money making ideas.

One province that had supported the Sunshine endeavor is Ilocos Sur. By now, there are several independent growers (who no longer rely on government's dispersal) lechon manok vendors, doing the ready-to-range and food processing.

Why did the ready-to-range prosper? Because the people have compared the quality of those privately raised in comparison to those brooded under make-do-to comply scenario. Watch out for more features by Manila Bulletin on these growing industry :)

And yes, we are able to visit the growers often, because we have an outlet of Solraya there, for Sunshine day old chicks. To make it affordable and readily available.

So, when our friends asked if we wanted to meet up...it was an easy YES! Perfect time to document while doing farm visits. Great meals with friends...

See how uniform the harvest of Corn? The farmer used organic fertilizers. Durabloom in particular.


Side note: This is the image of Our Lady that is pasted in my mind now. When I talk to Her, this is how I see Her. Last Monday, while sitting outside Gov. DV Savellano's office, I saw this statue. Now I know why this is the image in my mind. I see her all the time :) She stands guard outside the Gov's office!

Can't Reply

Either something is wrong with Blogger, or I am traveling in areas where my Globe Visibility is hiding.....I can login to my Blogger account, but I can't reply to queries nor edit.

I'm sorry Jonathan, but easiest way...and this goes for everyone....I suggest email info@solraya.com

Yes, I know...it helps everyone if we all ask and read here. But if you got questions that need immediate replies, our contact numbers are all over the blog :)

Heny Sison's HAManok

Wednesday, while waiting at the cargo bay of PAL for my HERBaboy from Jojie Lim, Heny Sison calls and says that she prepared chicken hams and wanted me to taste and get one. Ok then, it was past 3pm, no lunch yet, so the prospect was very inviting :)

Parked at her office at about 5pm, I just peeped my head to call on her girl so I can just drive thru for the ham.

Surpise, surprise! Heny was manning a class for Bars at her ground floor class and comes to me with a two (2) plates of chicken ham. Seems like she had been nibbling on it too weheeheh. One was her previous recipe, plain. The second plate was sugar coated. "I like this, the sweetness is there, but coy". She said, "OK, I will then give you the one that is sugared". She had her girl bring out two (2) hams, differently ribboned. She said one was for Gov DV...and if I can take it please :)


She wanted us to talk again for the marketing of chicken ham. Off to Naga the next day and on to Ilocos Sur and Baguio. When I get back to Manila then... yes we meet...and I get to open my ham too :)

Ingress 8th Philfoodex

Rushing today. Got a new freezer for show, went to Megamall earlier than my ingress crew, prepared invoices and shipping permits.

I was stumbling with my tarps and signboard and my ingress maleta from valet parking to the 2nd floor. By the time I was going up to the 3rd floor, I got the hang of things. Practice and experience makes you know what angle to step etc :)

Since I was alone initially and knew that even if my crew came, they will still fumble with my new signs. Sat, quietly and looked for familar Centrex boys faces. Saw one....and ran after him. He was glad to see me too.

You like it?

Relating Things

Today was a sandy day. Nails, lunch, browsing around, calling new suppliers for new products, looking at the venue for Philfoodex even if actual ingress is tomorrow yet, picking up my new signs...in other words it was a different day and somehow the small things made me see new ideas :)

1) hanging my fascia boards - the printer wanted me to use the old and reliable double sided foam tapes. Ok I will, but I was adamant to want to hang it simply. Less hassle, and it will be more secure that way. The hooks may not be the perfect size and it will require that I be able to postion it on a straight line. Easier said than done! But once I do, even if the size was not perfect, the bottom portion should rest comfortably, even if at an angle. Which might be better actually! The horizontal line of the hooks should be aligned.

Got a call from a friend about making a trip to La Union and Ilocos Sur for farm visits, and if I had growers who were using certain products, who may be interviewed. Certainly, plus the fact that we really suggest using those products. The trip will not fit our schedules really as we will be coming in from Naga, but horizontal marketing flashed in my mind. I made quick calls...and yes, we can all meet in Ilocos Sur. We are not the focus for the farm visits, but hey, Sunshines will be featured.

2) I called a farm owner in Tarlac who was raising chicks for the color in the farm and the great taste it was bringing to his table. First 100, 200, 500 and about 2weeks ago 800. He said that it is almost gone, save for what he personally consumes. Town folks were happy seeing large native chickens, and they buy from him. I suggested the "ready to range" and he said yes perfect as that was the problem of others. We talked about a price and he said too much. I was surprised that he was selling the Sunshines at almost the same price he got it for. Apparently, he was just wanting to help and for the town folks to realized that they can grow their own food. The LGUs were starting to see his advocacy.

Yes, it was a confirmation and reiteration that we shouldn't lose our focus on the backyard farmers.

3) Instant orders - My paraphernalia for Philfoodex was ordered for pickup today. At the last minute, I wanted some stickers for use in the Naga dispersal. I had to wait the whole day for a measly 12 stickers. The printer had a lot of work scheduled. But they got fast printers, several of them, had a lot of personnel. Yes, but the line was still long.

Some volume customers do not understand that unless they have previous bookings, they can't be served pronto. Our regular, even if small quantities, can't and may not be disregarded in favor of a big order. If there was a regular schedule, then we can play with the irregular small orders, but not to sacrifice the regular ones. About 3weeks ago, a messenger told me "but they order volume, you can't set them aside" I replied, "I'd rather have 20 small ones than 1 big one". Chicks aren't like rice that you may stock the season's harvest. Our chicks are hatched 2x a week and we need to schedule the sale even before they are hatched. Pronto customers have to undertand that unless booked, they may not have any if they advise one day before. We have the numbers to supply, it is scheduling that we request you to respect.

4) bonding lunch with my bdayboy son - he had been seeing this nice girl who I have not yet met, but since he talks a lot about her, its like I know her.

Being true to yourself and others...saying things as it is.

5) Joining Philfoodex - It is for other people to see what is new in the market and maybe getting new suppliers.

That is what I also decided to do today, look at new products. That kept me excited and filled my time before Sunshine. I should set time again for opening my eyes to what is new.

6) People who know me, know I am a Crocs person, way before it was used here. I have it in all colors wehehehe. Today, I got myself a men's style, w/o second thoughts. I wanted it, my feet needs it and it was simply that.

Some say I have to bend because I am in marketing and sales. I don't. Even in my choice of products to sell, I maintain what I believe in. If I went for what is the norm and looked good to wear on my feet, I would have sprained my ankles by now, just like my younger son who sprained himself after playing basketball today. Stuck to what is comfortable for me, I know I will swim in land wearing what my feet needs.

7) Our HERBaboy will go on a shipment with our Durian friend, to save on freight costs. Won't our baboy smell Durian?

It won't, as it is packed well. The lighter or rather the serious side to relating things is...I am like Durian...you either like me or detest me!

Sleeping Chicks

I got a text early this morning, that the 10 Sunshines she (am just presuming that the texter is female) purchased yesterday were all sleeping. She asked if they were sick :)

Were they full from eating? Do they look contented? Are the feathers ruffled?

What do you mean the feathers are ruffled?

Gusot, ruffled, not tidy, magulo... :)

Nope they weren't.

You will know. Observing your Sunshine Chicks, contented and sleeping looks so differently from sick chicks. Just like taking care of babies, you know when you see discomfort :( You hear cries of distress :(

She deduced they were doing fine then.

Resellers Of Day Old Chicks

Another simple business idea....

Resell Sunshine Day Old Chicks.

There are remote areas wherein the farmer won't have the time to go to the bayan, to purchase his stocks. Most backyard growers also, specially the ones who grow for their own consumption, will not want to buy a box of 100 day old chicks.

You may purchase from us and cater to the neighboring areas. Doesn't seem part of the business, but it is the step one, acquiring chicks.

Contact us if you plan to resell. We are able to ship to most areas nationwide.

YM About Growing In The City

Someone messaged me yesterday, inquiring about raising Sunshines in the city.

Presuming you live in a residential area....I will say "Yes", if you were to grow your own food. Meaning, if your family consumes about 15 chickens a month, then ok, raise them in the city.

Not that they have foul odor, but do you have a large ranging area in your urban home? Presuming again no area. Supplementing with grains, you may give them your fruit and vegetable trimmings. Your neighbors might be happy that you will rid them of garbage too, if you got their kitchen trimmings.

Before long, your neighborhood might be envious and will want to grow their own food. Then, it may be a cooperative effort on a nearby empty plot.

Good luck..this may even turn to a business venture in the block.

Where Can I Get Ready To Range?

Am not sure if its because that Zac Sarian had featured several times, Kagawad Henry Anunciacion of Sinait, Ilocos Sur finding a business in raising "ready to range" Sunshine Chicks...or that I made a post in this blog as one of the business ideas, to raise Sunshine Chicks till about 21days then sell them. Brooding is no joke :)

We had been getting calls about purchasing ready to range chicks. Sorry but we always book our day old chicks and we have none to grow til 21days.

Another grower in Gen Santos, Rene, wants to discuss this possibility of doing it in his part of Mindanao.

Pol Rubia of Agri Aqua Network International (AANI) may go into this too, as he will start to brood for our demo farm and my needs for dressed chickens for marketing purposes. We discussed about selling ranging chicks since visitors to the demo farm will find him convenient as he is in Metro Manila.

Looks like the business ideas we had been posting are starting to rub in on others and opening eyes.

As the assessment goes...it is only the Agriculture sector that will make the Philippines float.

Smoked Chicken

We've had this smoking chamber that we never had the time to try out. Read a lot about smoked chicken, the process and how it promised the best tasting way to have your poultry.

Am not sure why today was different. Maybe because we have somehow mastered the art of juggling time and work between radio programs, weekend markets, fixing invoices and scheduling orders on a Sunday? By after lunch, I knew I wanted to smoke chicken.

Had the smoking chamber brought out, cleaned, dry rubbed my three (3) chickens with very simple seasoning and started the smoking process.

Uhhhhhh.....dinner was heaven. Licked to the bones, chewed on it and really sucked on the bones. We were just describing the bones....can you imagine what it was like biting into the wings and the drumsticks. My favorite is the chicken ass...the three (3) were erased before anyone may think about getting it. My least favorite is the breast. I had to try this just for comparison. I ended up with very tasty white meat :)

This recipe is a winner! Nothing beats low fire, slow cooking, smoke :) And of course, the real taste of chicken.

I vacuum packed some, to test how it may be marketed.

On The Walls

Corner booths, two wall panels.

This will be the design for the 8th Philfoodex booth. March 5-8, SM Megamall Exhibit Centers.

Trade Shows' Facia Boards

This early we are lining up the trade shows we are joining, what the shows' focus is, how we are going to use it for marketing etc.

Peep of things to come...see our new facia board: