In a world where everything goes faster and multi-tasking is now the norm, wouldn't you like to take a breath and slow right down? Do you feel guilty if you do that too often? If your friends give you a hard time about enjoying that extra nibble or sipping your wine slowly, just tell them you are supporting Slow Food! A local chapter of Slow Food is starting up in the Thompson Okanagan, to gather together like-minded folks who believe in linking the pleasure of good food with a commitment to their community and the environment. They are part of an international organization with 160,000 members in 150 countries around the world who support food that is "good, clean and fair". They believe that informed consumers are co-producers" as they can affect change in food production through their choices and support of local farmers and producers. Education is a big part of Slow Food, and so community outreach will be an important part of the local agenda. Connecting with the community about keeping food traditions alive and encouraging people to taste different foods is key to the Slow Food philosophy. The support of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association shows the passion that exists for this commitment; they have formed a comprehensive 10-year strategy in support of developing market-ready local enterprises that advance local flavours, history, story telling and First Nations culture and wisdom. This is a group that is serious about the enjoyment of good food. If you're interested to join, sign up at www.slowfood.com or check out theirFacebook page: www.facebook.com/SlowFoodThompsonOkanagan
~ Kristin Peturson-Laprise