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As a mother of two and an active community member, I strongly feel we can do more to create a sustainable community. Investing in local products and businesses is a simple way to promote this important issue. I remember growing up in southeastern Minnesota where the vegetables sitting on our dinner table were grown in the back yard. I remember when we'd drive up to the farm on the ridge to pick up our milk. Although at the time we may not have appreciated the efforts our parents made to feed us healthily, their commitment to delicious, naturally grown foods left a lasting impact that now presents itself as we care for our own children. As a family, we are making important choices. "Local" choices have widespread community impact. I imagine my parents would assert that their effort to consume local meat, vegetables, fruits and dairy products was partly one of economy. Feeding a family of seven was an expensive reality. Many may assert today that affordable choices are rarely organic or sustainably farmed foods. I offer that when we explore local foods - be it foods we grow ourselves or buy in bulk from local growers - we are best able to reconnect with healthy, affordable choices and ways to feed our families. My husband [Duluth mayor Don Ness] and I feel our challenge as a family is to teach our children about the value of choice, choices that impact the present and the future. I encourage friends and neighbors to do the same. We are one community and our efforts, big or small, will help sustain our future welfare. Our capacity to leave Duluth a cleaner and healthier city is immense. I'm encouraged that so much information is available through our public libraries. Those who want to learn about sustainable agriculture, start their own seedlings, or get involved in community supported agriculture have an abundance of resources at hand. And at times, we need inspiration! Our work as consumers choosing wisely is challenging and Barbara Kingsolver's lovely, lively book offers us colorful, fun and delicious reading on the nature and nurturing ways of food. Her vibrant storytelling leaves your mouth watering for those fresh off the vine tomatoes… Paul Fleischman's Seedfolks is a tribute to the transformative power of people working together in community. I applaud the Duluth Public Library and the One Book, One Community project committee for selecting Animal, Vegetable, Miracle and Seedfolks, and for organizing the programs and events included in this Resource Guide. |
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