Buying Local

With the bounty of another CSA/farmers market season behind us, and the winter solstice just 5 weeks away, it becomes more of a challenge to buy locally in Northern Michigan. Fortunately, the wines, spirits, jams, cheeses, breads and other delicious local products are available year round (and make a great combo for gift baskets). But even local produce can be found. As Joan D'Argo points out in Oryana's recent "Natural Food News," during November and December Oryana will carry local certified organic apples and onions and local sustainable potatoes and garlic; and depending on weather, kale, collards and chard. Christopher Jacobs has created new signage to identify local produce. Look for green signs for local organic, and red for local produce grown using sustainable methods. Why does this matter? As Joan writes, "If each resident in Grand Traverse County spent just $10 a week on locally grown food, local products and local businesses, $3,000,000 every month would be invested in local people, local farms and independent local businesses." Something to take to heart when planning meals and selecting gifts for the upcoming holiday season!

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