The Town that Food Saved

Attention all local farm & food businesses and local food system supporters! Would you like to see more collaboration among local food and farm business in order to improve small farm viability, the local economy, and the long term sustainability of our local food system? Please consider attending the presentation and pass the word along! Also – learn about the new local food directory developed in partnership with UBC-O and how to use it to increase consumer awareness of your locally grown or produced food products. The Town that Food Saved Hardwick, Vermont underwent tremendous economic development adjustment after its granite quarries closed and the town was faced with empty stores and high unemployment. Hardwick is a town that was “saved by food” as agricultural entrepreneurs are expanding aggressively, reaching out to investors and working together to create a collective strength to revitalize the town’s economy. Over 100 jobs have been created through innovative local food enterprises and now these entrepreneurs are investing in a Center for an Agricultural Economy, a non-profit industrial center for agricultural businesses. The goal for the Center is to lead the way in generating a comprehensive food system that creates healthy communities and a revitalized economy. Mr. Tom Stearns, President of High Mowing Organic Seeds and President of the Center for Agricultural Economy, will discuss the transformation of the community, the local food initiatives developed, and the value of the partnerships that were formed. MONDAY, OCTOBER 5TH, 2009 7-9pm Presentation by Tom Stearns Includes a Discussion: “Revitalizing our local food system” Location: ALL SAINTS ANGLICAN CHURCH 3205 – 27TH St VERNON Phone 250-542-6920 for more information Free! Sponsored by the Food Action Society of the North Okanagan and the City of Vernon Economic Development