Preview Of “Grow Food” Taking Place In The Hamptons

The Ecological Culture Initiative (ECI) will welcome filmmakers Joe Rignola and Jessica Smith on Thursday, August 30 for a sneak peek at their upcoming documentary, Grow Food. Taking place at the Hampton Bays Public Library from 7 to 9 p.m., the evening will include a short presentation, along with a 10 to 20 minute preview and Q&A with the filmmakers.

Rignola is a filmmaker, best-selling author and co-founder of Rebel Health Tribe. After dealing with several severe health issues, including depression, he made some lifestyle changes especially in his diet to ensure a better quality of living.

Red Health Tribe, founded in 2014, was one of the results of Joe’s lifestyle changes. The company has become an industry leader in collaborative online-based education and information sharing – featuring dozens of the world’s foremost experts and natural health practitioners.

Smith is a certified Ecological Farmer and Nutritional Therapy Practitioner with a B.S. in Sustainable Living and Living Soils. She teaches Nutrient Dense Gardening and Wildlife Habitat Restoration in hopes to improve soil health, ecosystem health, environmental health, and human health to promote healthier living and a better planet.

“It is a documentary about you, me, and the current state of our planet – but most importantly it is about solutions – the solution – Grow Food,” the filmmakers stated. “It may sound strange, but it turns out the solution to most of our environmental and health problems is right beneath our feet – soil.”

The current food supply is chock full of toxic chemicals. The nutritional value in fruits and vegetables have been on a decline, 70 percent in some cases. Many current agricultural processes have used the land for all its worth without restoring it, leaving it barren.

“We have traveled the U.S. to meet farmers, teachers, and leaders in the regenerative farming movement and were blown away by the impact they are making on the communities around them and beyond,” Rignola and Smith relayed. “The core of the film revolves around the story of a native Long Islander, Jim, who quit his job to farm on peoples’ front lawns and inspire change through growing food.”

By revitalizing the soils and better monitoring food production, the health of future generations as well as climate change, food availability and chronic disease can all be improved.

“We tie in big picture ideas with practical actions through the guidance of experts and newcomers alike to show that we can all be part of the solution to our global environmental crisis and local health movement,” the duo added.

The event is free but there is a suggested donations of $15.

The Hampton Bays Public Library is located at 52 Ponquogue Avenue in Hampton Bays. For more information, visit esciny.org.