Food for Thought

July 19, 2006

In his recent best-selling book, “The World is Flat,” foreign-affairs columnist Thomas Friedman of the “New York Times” wrote about how the globalization of the economy has “flattened” meaning it has “connected” billions through technology and changing political barriers.  Pointing to the entry of China and India into the world of capitalism, the global economic system we once knew has changed forever. Yet, while globalization of the economy and accessibility of products and services from around the world are signs of the times, others subscribe to the concept that there is “no economy more important than the local economy.”
That is the message that Benzie County-based Food For Thought hopes to convey as it hosts the first ever multi-chamber “Business After Hours” Thursday July 20. Area chambers of commerce host monthly “business after hours” events as an opportunity for members to get together to socialize and network and often showcase area businesses and products. Food For Thought decided it would be fun to put a new “taste” into the idea.

THINKING BIG
“Like a lot of businesses in Northern Michigan, we belong to several chambers,” said Patrick Daly, sales manager. “We thought instead of hosting a Business After Hours for each chamber it would be fun to do one big one with several chambers. So we have created the first ever Regional Business After Hours.”
Food For Thought was established in 1996 with an emphasis of establishing a company that looked beyond the bottom line to measure its success. Founder Timothy F. Young believed that in order for a company to say they are a success they must “be socially and environmentally conscious.” He established the company with those principals in mind and with the company’s core incentive to “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” They plan to showcase their business model as well as that of other local food providers and manufacturers on Thursday.
“This event will highlight the quality and rich diversity of our local cuisine. Through being a zero-waste event we hope to do this event in an environmentally conscious manner,” said Daly. “All serving materials, plates, napkins, and waste will either be composted or recycled.”
Daly said that FFT also wants to showcase numerous local food artisans and emphasize the importance of the local spending paradigm. “Economists have proven time and time again the value of spending money locally.”

LOCAL CONNECTION
Daly is quick to point out that globalization is also beneficial for small food manufacturers like Food For Thought.
“Sure, we do a lot of sales all over through the Internet and that is important,” said Daly. “But it is also important to be connected locally. There is a growing trend with foodies to want to know who is growing and producing the food they are consuming. It is why Oryana in Traverse City is one of the most successful food co-ops in the country; they have built a solid reputation for integrity. Their customers know that every product in their store has been well researched and if it says organic it is organic.”
Daly believes that it is important for local businesses and residents to support each other and work together.
“It was a no-brainer for us to include other businesses in this who are like-minded,” said Daly. “We have the local wineries participating, Cherry Republic, Grocers Daughter Chocolates and others who share our philosophy.”
The two-hour event has been marketed to chamber members around Northern Michigan but Daly said the evening is open to everyone who has an interest in learning more about the “local food scene.”
“Patty Cantrell from the Michigan Land Use Institute will be on hand to speak briefly about their Taste The Local Difference’ campaign,” said Daly. “This really will be a great way to learn more and educate yourself on the importance of the local products and the local food industry.”
 
The inaugural Regional Chamber After-Hours will be held Thursday July 20 at Food For Thought from 5-7 pm. It will feature and eclectic sampling of foods and wines from the region. There is no charge. Food For Thought is located at 10904 Oviatt Rd. in Honor (better check your MapQuest). For info contact Patrick Daly (231) 326-5444.