It’s rare, but these days I’ve been finding myself at a loss for words. No matter your politics, it’s undeniable that our communities, including our farming and culinary communities, are feeling the economic and social impacts of turbulent times. Peek at our local food system and you’ll see farmers and local food advocates losing grants and federal funding. You’ll see restaurants and food/beverage makers bracing for the impacts of economic uncertainty.
While I may be at a loss for words, I am not at a loss for action, and as I think about Edible Madison’s summer travel-themed issue I’m reminded of the power we have to vote with our dollars. More than ever, I am voting local with my dollars. We can vote local when choosing what’s for dinner tonight. We can vote local when we pick a spot for an evening out. We can vote local with our summer travel plans—plans that should include some foodie favorites across Wisconsin.
I continue to be blown away by the beauty of this area and the depth of culinary treasures that lie within our own Midwestern backyard. Walk and get a tasty tour of Madison’s Main Street that boasts enticing finds from Old Sugar Distillery to Origin Breads. Drive and enjoy a Wisconsin road trip that will take you through delicious destinations across the stunning Driftless region. Or hop on a bike and join the Powered by Plants cycling team as they both work hard and eat well.
Even if your summer is not for traveling, a simple but truly impactful way to vote local with your dollar is with dinner tonight. Consider visiting your local farmers’ market and supporting your neighboring farms and makers. See what is in season and build a meal around it, or find some meal inspiration with our “Summer Cooldown” recipes.
This summer, whether you’re planning a staycation or a cross-state road trip, I encourage you to vote local with your dollars. Every quick snack on the road or celebratory meal out is an opportunity to support our local food system while also enjoying all summer in Wisconsin has to offer.
Cheers,
Marissa DeGroot, Managing Editor
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