Down, but not out.

We're over 5 weeks into the #StayHome initiatives, and the curve has definitely been flattened. In the meantime, the food industry is taking a hit on all levels. 
We've checked in with many in our Network to give you some updates, which include some highs and some lows. Read on for a fun contest to give you the ultimate mood boost. Let's all celebrate the farmers, food makers, and farm to table restaurants we know and love.

How are you?

This used to be a commonplace question, even a rhetorical greeting. But now, it bears new weight. We have many new worries for ourselves and others—from the difficulties of homeschooling children to the very life-changing threat of the virus, and of course, to our food supply.

   Farms, food makers and sellers are classified as essential, but still face significant challenges to their labor force and supply chains. We'd like to "look to the helpers," as Fred Rogers famously quoted his own mother. Below, we're sharing information that we hope helps you see actions you can take to support the essential farmers and food makers in our short supply-chain.

Leap Year!

Did you know? Because there's a February 29th this year, the vernal equinox is 'early,' on March 19— just 4 weeks from today! The days are getting noticeably longer, the sun feels warmer (a bit), and we've got some local foods news to share: profiles on Sailor Mercy elderberry syrup and Main Street Farm, an update from NOSH in Winona (!), the winners from our recent survey, and more.

Happy New FOOD Year!

We wish you new discoveries of food, food makers and farmers this year—keep reading for highlights and photos from FEAST! 2019, and a chance to win a $100 gift certificate!

2019 is a wrap!

Thank you for helping make the 6th Annual FEAST! Local Foods Marketplace festival such a huge success! We wish you a healthy and happy new year—keep reading for highlights and photos from FEAST! 2019!

EVENT edition!

We're eagerly counting down to the 6th Annual FEAST! Local Foods Marketplace festival, just ONE WEEK from today, on Saturday, Dec. 7th!

Keep reading for highlights on what's in store for #localfeast 2019, and make sure you follow us on social media if that's your thing!

COMFORT FOOD edition...

The cold weather is settling in—do you find yourself turning to comfort foods? Indulge in reading about Shokolate Haven and Fifth Season Food Cooperative, plus a preview of the artists bringing life-sized interactives to this year's festival! Also, a recap of this year's FEAST! Restaurant Week: do we need to re-define "comfort" when it comes to food? 

Check out the contest for a chance to win some delectable chocolate from Shokolate Haven!

Welcome to fall—it's the pumpkin spice edition!

Let's make the most of the farmers' markets we have left—have you preserved any of that harvest? If not, never fear: the food businesses of the region are GREAT at using that bounty for their artisan products.

This month we're sharing profiles on West Indies Soul Food and Open Hands Farm, and introducing you to a marketing partner, Hospitality Minnesota. Also, a preview of this year's FEAST! Restaurant Week—coming October 7-13! 

Speak your mind in this month's contest for a chance to win some awesome sauce from West Indies Soul Food!