Be Local!

Local goes a LONG Way!

2011-11-03T14:14:00.000-07:00

I think it’s working, this Buy Local thing! An article released by Market Watch, “Tis the Season for Shopping Local: Mom and Pop Retailers Hopeful About Holiday Sales”, states that 49% of local independent retailers are feeling optimistic about holiday sales this year due in large part because consumers are choosing to put their hard earned dollars toward businesses that keep money close to home.

We are feeling optimistic too, because we know that our community wants to keep Charleston special. We know that the service we get from the one-of-a-kind boutiques and restaurants create the flavor that makes the Lowcountry taste so good!

The recently launched Shift Your Shopping campaign with partners in Arizona, Massachusetts etc., as well as the BALLE and AMIBA organizations shows that it isn’t just us, in our corner of the world that think this is a good idea, but communities across the country are uniting to have a louder voice and stronger message.

This holiday season and all year long, make a choice to keep your money home for the holidays! Choose the Lowcountry!

The Revival is Here!

2011-10-01T05:55:00.000-07:00

Last year’s economic slump lead LLF members to take it upon themselves to create an event, a spectacle of sorts to generate attention to the closing of so many of our local businesses. Businesses we had just gotten to know and love and businesses that were already an established part of our lives. Our Second Line, mock protestors, choir and pastor created a raucous event and saved the souls of many who were swayed by the bright lights of the big box store.

While we typically try to remain fairly subtle in our messaging, at least so far as keeping the message positive, the Revival is a time to preach the message of LOCAL in a way that reminds me of attending tent revivals as a child. There was nothing subtle about what the visiting minister had to say and a call to action was necessary or there would be dire circumstances.

This Thursday the Medicine Man will be parading into town with his quick fix elixirs and sure fire remedies for our economy. These quick fixes are sure to create jobs, boost economic activity and leave our town like ANYWHERE USA, you’ve been there before, strip malls, businesses and fast food strips that creep up and take over and once they have devastated the local independent businesses eventually crawl out of town at night leaving behind a ghost town. Now I’m not saying that this will happen to Charleston, but imagine the work involved in repairing the damage. We’ve all seen the devastation of a one night stand economy, LLF is working to build the relationship economy!

The Revival is a time to remember that we all have choices, and we encourage you to choose with your dollars, your time, your heart and in doing so choose the Lowcountry!

Join us October 6th at 6:00 for the parade down Upper King and Medicine Man show at the Music Farm.

September: Starting from Seed

2011-09-12T10:28:00.001-07:00

This week's post from Nikki Seibert, Program Director, Sustainable Agriculture:

As we make our way into September, the temperatures are finally beginning to cool off and the time has come again to think about working in the garden! For gardeners, this time of year is often seen as redemption time, when we can clear out our fallen spring gardens (a long with any mistakes) and get a fresh start for the fall. There is something therapeutic about getting to pull-out the wilted tomato plants, preparing the soil, and trying something new. After making a few attempts at direct seeding my plants, I have learned that my best chances for success are if I give my plants a head start by propagating them in trays, pots, and flats first. Propagating is just a fancy term for growing plants; this can mean planting seeds, taking cuttings, or grafting. For those of you that have never tried starting your own seedlings, have no fear! Although it may seem overwhelming, the reward of growing a plant from seed to table is a reward well worth taking the time to learn. If you are interesting in finding out more, join LLF at Sea Island Savory Herbs this weekend for a lesson in getting your fall plants started.

Propagation: Starting from Seed
Date: Saturday September 17th, 2011
Cost: $55 per person
Time: 9am-1pm
Location: Sea Island Savory Herbs 5920 • Chisolm Road • Johns Island, SC 29455
Description: Join Danielle Spies at Sea Island Savory Herbs to learn about the basics of propagation including seeding, soils and cuttings. After the class, the group will be welcome to tour this diversified nursery specializing in herbs, native plants, heirlooms, and unusual plant varieties.

September: Starting from Seed

2011-09-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

Keep Charleston unique: Help grow local businesses

2011-08-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

Many Thanks to Charleston Currents for publishing this article by our own Executive Director: Jamee Haley:

AUG. 22, 2011 - A recent trip to Asheville demonstrated what the future of the local movement in Charleston could be. The signs in the windows of the nearly all local-independent businesses that reside in the booming downtown, say "Local, it's the new black." This partnered with the "Love Asheville, Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is" shows the loyalty and commitment of a community to local independent businesses.

Haley

While the support of local independent businesses has greatly increased with the Buy Local movement initiated by Lowcountry Local First in Charleston, we still have room for improvement. The idea of purchasing food from local farmers has become more than a trend but a way of life for many. When LLF first started almost 5 years ago there were no Community Supported Agriculture programs in the area. We now have over 14 farmers and fishermen participating in CSAs and over 3,000 members of our community now receiving the direct benefits of their labor.

How do we translate the same connections with growers in our area to other local businesses? We support area farmers and fishermen because we want to know who grew our food; the fresh products taste better and we want to play a part in the preservation of our farmland and seafood industry. These same desires can be translated to supporting local independent businesses: We typically receive better service, we can meet the shop or business owner, and we want to keep our area unique.

The benefits of supporting these local businesses are 3 times that of supporting a national chain. Local business owners live here, pay taxes, support our schools, parks and arts, and are engaged in the community. According to a study done by the National Federation of Independent Businesses, nonprofits receive an average 350% more support from local business owners than they do from non-locally owned businesses.

So, I believe we have a great opportunity here to stop chasing the elephant that so many in our communities see as the answer to economic recovery. The idea that the huge corporation is going to come into the area and solve all of our economic woes is dated to say the least. But I often have to remind myself of the Buckminster Fuller quote, "You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete." The existing model is obsolete and we as a community have the opportunity to create the new model by investing in the people who already are invested in our community.

Charleston's rich history, natural beauty and understandable pride can be enhanced by being a little more like our friends in Asheville. The recognition Charleston receives as a Top Destination city in the country is not because we have national retailers on King Street, but because of the wonderful dining and shopping experiences that visitors and locals alike have when seeking out the those truly special experiences.

Lowcountry Local First is now over 400 members strong and our network of local business owners and community members is growing at a rapid rate. We continue to develop programs and ideas that ease the process of supporting our local independent businesses by offering discounts and promotions through the Buy Local card, establishing a new website with a more robust searchable directory, our 5th Buy Local campaign coming this holiday season and more.

The great thing about this movement is that it is one that everyone can get behind. It falls neither on the left or the right of the political line and establishes the new model that will sustain us for the long haul!

Want to learn more about Lowcountry Local First or become a member? Go online.
Jamee Haley is the executive director of Lowcountry Local First. She can be reached by email or by calling 843-276-6731.

BUY LOCAL FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

2011-08-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

This weekend is tax free weekend - perfect time to do your Back to School Shopping!

We have all been there at one point or another, or maybe you're there right now: strategically planning your back to school shopping. There is no better time to BUY LOCAL, visit your favorite local spots for clothing, school supplies, art supplies and all the good stuff to start the year off with a bang. Check out the promotions below and make your Back to School Shopping experience more enjoyable, save some money and support your local economy.

Office Connections
Check out the GREEN SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Use the account code: 21 and password GREEN for special savings and easy ordering.

Wonder Works

Gift of the Month: Locker Lookz- starting at $9.99. Want to be the coolest person in school? Transform your school locker from basic to beautiful with these wonderfuntastical locker decorations that make it easy for you to have an amazing locker in no time! Only LockerLookz gives you the power to express yourself through unique mix-and-match locker design collections of wallpaper, accessories, flowers and rugs.

Charleston Children's Boutique

We have all your back to school needs covered! Nap mats, book bags, lunchboxes, pencils and carrying cases. Clothes, monkey bar buddies (aka…panty covers) and much, much more. All Buy Local Card holders get 10% off every purchase. This weekend is tax free weekend. All cash and check purchases get an additional 2% off! Could amount to a total of 20.5% off every purchase.

Country Bumpkin Arts and Craft Supplies
10% off to students of all ages taking an art class, including CCSD School of the Arts, and high school art students. Discount applies to stretched canvas, paints, brushes, mediums, paper pads, drawing/sketch supplies, etc. Just show us your supply list to receive discount.

What's Ripe in the Lowcountry?

2011-07-01T12:16:00.000-07:00

So, here in the Lowcountry our climate is a bit different than other parts of our lovely state and we thought it appropriate to make sure those of you who are trying to keep it REALLY local might appreciate knowing what is actually in season here! LLF has created several pieces to make this easier for you, first our Eat Local artist poster created by Karin Olah. Karin has produced 4 seasonal posters for LLF that beautifully display the bounty of the Lowcountry and list fruits, veggies, seafood, meats and poultry by season.

The second piece is the long awaited Ripe Chart for the Lowcountry is out and looking very beautiful! We are grateful to the talented Jay Fletcher for pulling this great and valuable resource together for us! You can pick both up at the LLF farmer's market booth and any LLF event.

This fall we will be producing a "kid friendly" version of the poster for Charleston County Schools!

Remember to celebrate your Independence by supporting your Independents this coming week and all year through!

Sustainable Agriculture Updates

2011-07-01T11:23:00.001-07:00

The Scoop on Sustainable Ag:

Farm Business Class will be held this Fall:
NxLevel for Alternative Agriculture - Charleston
Date: August 25 to November 3, 2011
Time: 6:00p - 9:00p, Thursdays
Location: Clemson Extension
259 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC
Price: $195 ($145 if you register two weeks in advance)
Register HERE

BizBuilderSC is partnering with Clemson University's Institute for Economic and Community Development and Lowcountry Local First to conduct a NxLevel Alternative Agriculture course. The course is aimed at those entrepreneurs who have started or are thinking about starting an agricultural or food based venture.

The LLF Sustainable Agriculture program has created a Lowcountry Farmer's Group to provide a platform for the farming community to stay connected, receive updates, and post information. The Google Group is public but to participate you must complete the free registration process.

As part of LLF's efforts to educate the community on the importance of our local food economy, we have been involved in farm tours and school visits with a number of schools. Most recently, Nikki Seibert, the Director of Sustainable Agriculture at LLF, visited the Charleston School for Math and Sciences to talk to their 7th and 8th grade classes. During the visit the students learned about the status of farming in the U.S., the difference between corporate and family farmers, organic versus conventional, community supported agriculture, the location of farmers markets, and the importance of supporting the local economy.

The Growing New Farmers Incubator Program apprentices continue to work with the mentor farmers as well as visiting a number of local farms. Most recently, the full-time apprentices visited Jeremiah Goat Farm on John's Island. Pictures are here: https://picasaweb.google.com/SeibertN/JeremiahGoatFarmEtc

BALLE - Place Matters

2011-06-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the pleasure and privilege of attending the 9th Annual BALLE (Business Alliance for Local Living Economies) conference in beautiful (albeit cold) Bellingham, WA. For those of you who don't know, LLF is one of over 80 networks around North America working to create a new paradigm, one that embraces an economic system that is good for our community, environment and the people who live in our great place.

With over 600 in attendance we heard from thought leaders like Naomi Klein, Author of the Shock Doctrine, Peter Buffet (NoVo Foundation), and David Berge of Vancity on topics ranging from Community Capital to Farm to School. It's amazing to think of the scope of work and range of opportunities that are in front of us when building a strong local economy. Local manufacturing and local investing are as key to our success in creating sustainable communities as investing in local agriculture and supporting local businesses.

My commitment to LLF and the mission of changing the existing model of economic development is stronger than ever! I hope you will join me, our board, staff and amazing group of members in creating the change we want to see in the world!

Jamee

Eat Your Veggies!

2011-06-20T15:55:00.000-07:00

This time of year we have an abundance of coooool cucumbers! Check out these yummy recipes that our friends at Les Dames d'Escoffier International's local Green Tables group provided for us. We will have recipes posted every month highlighting a different local veggie for kids and grown ups too!

Cucumber Sandwiches

Loaf of your favorite bread......remove crust. Use a cookie cutter to cut bread

1 large cucumber peeled and thinly sliced

1 3oz package of cream cheese softened

1 Tbs fresh parsley(chopped)

1 Tbs fresh dill (chopped)

salt and pepper to taste

Mix the cream cheese, parsley and dill. Add salt and pepper to taste. Spread the mixture over the bread and top with cucumber slice. Have an adult present to help with chopping the herbs; peeling and slicing the cucumbers.

Chilled Cucumber Buttermilk Soup

Serves 6

1 quart buttermilk

2 tsp ground cumin

Heaping Tbs prepared Dijon mustard

1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and cut into ¼-inch dice

1/2 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into ¼-inch dice

2 tsp fresh dill, chopped

1/2 tsp salt

Big pinch cayenne pepper

1 cup cooked small shrimp

Sprigs of fresh dill

Pour buttermilk into a large bowl. Add the cumin and mustard. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined. Add the cucumber, bell pepper, dill, salt, and cayenne pepper. Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with shrimp and dill sprigs.

Chill up to one hour before serving. May be prepared up to three days ahead.

A Panel of Local Marketing Experts!

2011-06-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to all those who attended and participated in our Member Meeting at Blue Ion. A great discussion was lead by a panel of Marketing Professionals.Don't worry, if you missed it, just click here for our notes. Read on for more info. on these LLF Member Marketing Experts:

Stacey Elicker Strategic Planning/Account Management, Discussion Moderator

Stacey is a partner at Little Highrise and oversees strategic planning and account management. She has been in the advertising and interactive industries for more than ten years and has worked on both the creative and business sides of the business. Her primary concentration has been in multimedia, website design, and online advertising campaigns.

Recently, Stacey was nominated for the Marketer of the Year award in 2010 by the American Marketing Association. She serves on many organizations in the Lowcountry including the Junior League of Charleston, Lowcountry Local First, Medal of Honor Convention 2010 web committee, and the Center for Women.

In her past, she has won numerous awards for work such as Addy’s, MarCom Awards, Best in Show, and Spark Awards. Her client roster includes McDonald’s, Cooper Tire, Netscape, NAPA, and 5-Hour Energy Drink.

Robert Prioleau Partner, Strategy Director

Although there's no "official" record, it's reported that I entered this world with one pressing question: Why? This early inquisitiveness has led to a lifetime of list making, brow furrowing and venn diagrams. I spent my formative years in Houston before moving on to Vanderbilt and later to the University of Texas to pick up a MBA and serious Horns habit. I cut my teeth at GSD&M; Fitzgerald & Company and BellSouth Internet Services. After tunneling out of Atlanta, I happily stuck myself in the belly of Charleston where I met my two Blue Ion co-founders. My role here, equal parts sheepherder, strategist and therapist, is to bring out the best in clients, brands and their customers. If I had a collection of "I'd rather be" bumper stickers, I'd "rather be:" outside, on a bike or skateboard, running with my dogs, playing harmonica or sipping tequila. All at once is a life goal. For the record, I have a problem with brunch. No one has ever adequately explained the appeal of sitting inside eating while the best part of the day ticks by.

Elizabeth McGough
An Alabama native, Elizabeth came to Charleston in 2003 to attend the College of Charleston and just won’t leave. She got her first taste of hands-on public relations and event planning as an intern for the inaugural BB&T Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and then gained additional media and community relations experience interning in the PR and Marketing Department at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Elizabeth also honed her skills working for local PR firm, ByrdHouse Public Relations, helping to prepare and distribute media releases, company press kits and other creative collateral.

After college, Elizabeth settled in at a Charleston-based public affairs and consulting firm, representing a global consumer products goods (CPG) company. There she managed a volunteer initiative in National Parks, organizing, promoting and planning more than 25 events a year in cities across the United States, equating to more than $250,000 of in-kind donations to the National Park Foundation.

Elizabeth will be the first to admit, she can’t get enough of the Lowcountry. She loves being warm all year long and smelling pluff mud on the way home from work. In her spare time, you may find her at a local farmer’s market, cooking or blogging about her latest foodie adventures.

Pam Hartley is a 20-year marketing veteran and agency principal of Momentum Marketing, a Charleston, South Carolina based company (www.momentumresults.com). Founded in 2005, the company currently represents a diverse range of clients in South Carolina, Georgia, Illinois and Texas. She leads the company with expertise in database marketing, public relations, multi-media creative production, direct mail, promotions, media negotiations, branding, social media, Hispanic media and more. Ms. Hartley has devoted over two decades of her professional life to growing locally owned, independent businesses. She specializes in business to consumer retail and has more than twenty-five industry creative awards to her credit. Her company provides pro-bono work to many worthwhile charities and civic organizations including The Charleston Basket Brigade, Lowcountry Local First, Wayne Co. Chamber of Commerce, Claxton-Evans County Chamber of Commerce, The Evans Co. Wildlife Club, The Friends of the Library and many more. Her firm assisted with the Lowcountry Local First 2010 Buy Local Month collateral, promotional and marketing push and her non-profit, The Charleston Basket Brigade, has fed more than 12,000 people in need on Thanksgiving throughout the Charleston area over the past three years.

Jenny Ferrara is a Marketing Strategist at Obviouslee Marketing. Recently relocated to Charleston from New York City, Jenny’s background in advertising and strategy has enabled her to quickly immerse herself in Charleston’s creative and business community. Jenny is a part of Charleston’s Creative Parliament, served on the Marketing committee for the 2011 Wine + Food Festival and freelanced on TheDigitel’s editorial staff during Charleston Fashion Week. At Obviouslee Marketing, Jenny works with a range of businesses from those in the hospitality industry to local destinations to products. In working at a local business and with local businesses, the importance and impact of 'buying local' is apparent and is easy to do! Jenny has worked with her clients to get involved with Lowcountry Local First and to share resources in order to achieve the end goal of buying local and in-turn contributing to the betterment of the local community.

Jon Yarian founded SeaChange in 2008 to helo clients make an impact through the media. He has counseled Fortune 500 companies, bestselling authors, national non-profit organizations and numerous start-ups and small businesses in Charleston. Jon's clients have been featured in print and broadcast outlets including The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times; Fox News, CNN and the Daily Show with Jon Stewart. In 2010, Jon ghost-wrote a New York Times best-selling book. Prior to launching Seachange, Jon was a communications director for a six-term member of Congress. His career began in Charleston, SC as a writer and editor. He never eats imported shrimp, only visits locally owned coffee shops and faintly smells like pluff mud.

Jessica Turner As The Modern Connection’s social media specialist, Jessica does get to play around on Facebook and Twitter all day (we knew you were going to ask). But that’s just the tip of the iceberg – listening, monitoring, management, engagement – all play a vital role in an effective social media presence and Jessica has a keen understanding of how these elements tie in to an overall marketing strategy.

Her work experience has included national consumer and B2B PR campaigns for food, fashion, travel and lifestyle clients, including the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, the National Honey Board, Tommy Bahama Home, Montgomery Ward, Paul Frank and more.

Additionally, Jessica served as one of the founding board members of the Madison chapter of the Social Media Club and has reprised that role as a member of the leadership board for the Charleston chapter.

Member Spotlight: Salt & Seaweed

2011-05-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

If we were to ask 10 people in the Lowcountry what they love about this area, I'm willing to bet the majority of the answers would include the beautiful beaches and the energetic city.

Salt & Seaweed at 155 Market St. is a boutique that celebrates this unique combination and can dress a girl for a day at the beach, a night on the town or a day at work in Charleston. I was drawn into the store by the stylish but comfy looking dress on the mannequin outside the door. I held my breath as I looked at the price tag BUT to my delight, it's affordable! As I looked around the store, I began to chat with the owner, Jesse. This is a shopping experience that makes you feel like you are in a generous friend's fabulous closet. I wanted to know more about her experience so we met up to talk about how things are going. Here is what I learned about Jesse and her adventures in opening a local, independent business in Charleston.

Raised on the shores of Long Island, after some time in sales in D.C., Jesse Nersesian recently planted her roots in Charleston and opened Salt & Seaweed on a mission to realize her dream of becoming a business owner. I think its fair to say that in the changing landscape of retail, entrepreneurs like Jesse have to be a bit braver and a bit more determined. More than that, this local store owner is a self described: lover of all things related to the water and the beach, a Pisces, a blood donor, a dog lover and an overall happy chick. And about the store: I wanted to, so I did.

How has it been so far?

"Nothing short of a dream. My worst day so far has been 8,000 times better than my best day at any other job. I love having control of everything and the freedom to be creative. I feel like I've been welcomed with open arms. It has been humbling, enlightening and empowering."

What is the hardest thing about owning a business?
"Everything is on your shoulders, some days there will be 4 hours worth of financial stuff, an ad needing to be submitted, boxes of inventory that need to be unpacked, people coming into the store..it's just a matter of prioritizing" laughter, "Sometimes I think, Who hired me?!"

Who are your mentors?

"My Dad had a small business, I've had great experience with other local business owners in my area, Sugar Snap Pea, Caviar & Bananas. Before I left D.C. I met with a boutique owner there and she was willing to give me advice and tell me about her experience. I've been putting myself out there and asking for help or advice and so far, nobody has turned me down."

Mayor Riley congratulates Jesse at the Grand Opening

What is your vision for Salt & Seaweed?
"I want people to leave the store happy. All products I sell are unique to Salt & Seaweed so if I see girls around town wearing items from my store, I burst with joy. I wanted to create a space that is super laid back and fun, a happy place." The bottom line is "I want to be here"

*The store specializes in American Made, Women Owned Clothing.

To learn more about the store, stop in or visit the website.

Just in Time for Spring- Gardening and Sustainable Agriculture Classes!

2011-03-10T08:23:00.000-08:00

Register Now for an upcoming Green Classe s for anyone interested in home gardening or sustainable farming! Trident Technical College's Continuing Education's Green Courses' Sustainable Agriculture Program have created this class series through a partnership with Lowcountry Local First. We are working together to reach more folks! Graduates from these classes will have the skills to run sustainable rural/urban farms, teach in school gardens, create community gardens, victory gardens, create new local food biz, and work in food justice here in the Lowcountry.

Our classes are designed for anyone interested in; growing gardens, large or small, marketing their produce or just sharing it with friends, growing for their family, their child’s school, or their community. If you are looking for a new career in the growing agricultural industry, or just looking for a productive new hobby, our classes are for you!

The course will be held just 25 miles down the road, at Trident Tech's St Paul's Parish Site in Hollywood, SC on Hwy 162.

Instructor’s Name: Buster Herrington
Course Info (Title): Tractors
Class fee: $79.00
Location: St Paul's Parish Site, classroom 104
Date: Saturday, March 26th, 9am -1pm
Class description: Parts, operation, safety and maintenance

Instructor’s Name: Jenny Bloom
Course Info (Title): Market Gardens
Class fee: $169.00
Location: St Paul's Parish Site, Classroom 104
Date: Monday, April 4,11,18, 25 from 6:30-8:30pm
Class description: Growing and Marketing from a Small Scale Farming Perspective

Instructor’s Name: Kari Whitley
Course Info (Title): Intro to Sustainable Agriculture
Class fee: $259.00
Location: St Paul's Parish Site, Classroom 104
Date: Thursdays, April 7- June 2, 6:00-8:30
Class description: The Basics for Growing Food Locally

Instructor’s Name: Roger Francis
Course Info (Title): Local Soils and Soil Amendments
Class fee: $169.00
Location: St Paul's Parish Site, Classroom 104
Date: Thursdays, June 2, 9, 16, 23 form 6:30-8:30
Class description: Learn about our local soils and how best to amend them to maximize your gardens yield

Instructor’s Name: Jenny Bloom
Course Info (Title): Composting
Class fee: $79.00
Location: St Paul's Parish Site, Classroom 104
Date: Monday, June 6 and June 13th from 6:30-8:30pm
Class description: Composting in piles, worm boxes and the best ways to incorporate compost into your garden.

Instructor’s Name: Danielle Spies

Course Info (Title): Propagation

Location: Savory Herbs Farm, Johns Island

Date: Saturdays, September 10^th and 17^th, 9:00am- 1:00pm
Class description: Seeding, soils, and cuttings; the basics of propagation for any size grower

Sustainable Agriculture Program Coordinator: Catherine McGuinn

Contact information: cmcguinn@bellsouth.net

An expert taken from, Who are the new farmers? By John Ikerd: http://web.missouri.edu/~ikerdj/papers/SFT-New%20Farmers%20-%20USDA%20Census.htm

A link to all of John Ikerd’s papers: http://web.missouri.edu/~ikerdj/papers/

NEW DEADLINE FOR FOOD INNOVATORS AWARD!

2011-01-31T06:23:00.000-08:00

Good News for local Food Innovators! We have extended the deadline for applications to February 11th!
Please find additional information here: Food Innovators Call For Entries

Why Buy Local Cartoon

2011-01-28T16:41:00.000-08:00

Good News for Buy Local!

2011-01-28T07:05:00.000-08:00

Check out this article on the observation that "Buy Local" Campaigns really do work!

CALLING ALL LOCAL FOOD INNOVATORS!

2011-01-11T10:29:00.000-08:00

Announcing the Official Call for Entries for the Food Innovators Award, established by Lowcountry Local First and the BB&T Charleston Wine + Food Festival, serves to recognize the achievements of a local visionary in the food community whose professional efforts are making the Lowcountry a better place to live, work and eat. Through their work, these innovators help cultivate a greater appreciation for our land and local food culture.

The winner of the Food Innovators Award will receive $3000.00 to put towards their professional endeavors. The winner will be selected by a panel of local chefs, including Jeremiah Bacon, Sean Brock, Craig Deihl, Mike Lata, Frank Lee, and Michelle Weaver, all of whom were selected as recipients of the 2010 Ultimate Critics Award. The Top three applicants will be featured at the Lowcountry Local First tent during the BB&T Charleston Wine + Food Festival (March 3-6, 2011) and will be asked to sample their products. All finalists will be notified by February 15, 2011 and the winner will be announced at the Opening Ceremonies of the Festival on Friday, March 4, 2011.

Access a full Application Here (pdf)!

Applicant Requirements:

- Food Innovator must live and work in the Tri-County area.

-Food Innovator must use or produce a majority of locally-sourced ingredients, products or services.

- Applications must be received by February 1, 2011.

-If applicable, samples, photos or portfolios of your product or service are encouraged and may be requested for finalists. Send to LLF address below.

Remit application to:

By mail: Lowcountry Local First, 1345 Avenue G #AA, North Charleston, SC 29405

By e-mail: kate@lowcountrylocalfirst.org

Questions: (843) 740-5444

Check out these videos!

2010-12-20T08:18:00.000-08:00

PBS video, "Fixing the Future" and a video by our very own, Organic Process Productions! While, you're at it, feel free to check out our Sustainable Agriculture Initiative - we're accepting applications for our Growing New Farmers Incubator Project!

Congratulations Pure Gifts!

2010-12-15T05:58:00.001-08:00

Pure Gifts Now Open in Mount Pleasant!

Pure Gifts specializes in offering shoppers the perfect gift for every occasion. Artisan-crafted, eco-friendly products sourced primarily from local and regional designers, Pure Gifts serves the need for one-of-a-kind gifts that are both thoughtful and unique. Conveniently located in The Shoppes at Seaside Farms in Mt. Pleasant, Pure Gifts presents a variety of upscale and original items and caters well to busy, last-minute shoppers by providing customers with an online retail photo gallery, in addition to extended store hours.

Visit us for your last minute holiday shopping!

The Shoppes at Seaside Farm

1956 Long Grove Road

Monday through Saturday: 10a.m. to 7p.m.

Sunday 12p.m. to 6 p.m.

Charleston Crafts Upcoming Event!

2010-11-24T05:26:00.000-08:00

Charleston Crafts invites you to help celebrate the first year in their new location at 161 Church Street in Downtown Charleston. The organization, which exclusively promotes the work of South Carolina artisans, has been cooperatively owned and operated by its membership since 1989. The public is invited to attend the open house reception from 6 to 9 pm on the evening of December 3rd as part of the French Quarter Gallery Association's Art Walk. The work of two exhibiting artists will be featured; pewter pieces by Steve Cordina and surface design by Robin Gillies. Light refreshments and wine will be served, and several of the artists will be on hand to welcome you to the beautiful new gallery.

Buy Local Month Begins!

2010-11-15T05:37:00.000-08:00

LLF is kicking off Buy Local Month today! Check out the article in City Paper. Buy Local Month runs from November 15 through December 15. We are encouraging people to think about where they're spending their dollars this holiday season. Just remember, when you support a local business, you are supporting your community.

Check out our Online Directory and Live Local Deals pages to find local businesses and see what promotions and deals they're offering!

Local at Abide-A-While

2010-11-12T05:57:00.000-08:00

Buy Local Month officially begins November 15th, but the staff at Abide-A-While Garden Center in Mt. Pleasant has jumped the gun! If your garden or home landscape needs sprucing up for the holidays, be sure to go visit this schnazzy group at 1460 Highway 17 North.

Abide-A-While Garden Center is a family owned, local business that has been helping Lowcountry residents add beauty to their homes and gardens since 1957.

Job Opening!

2010-10-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

The "Growing New Farmers Incubator Project", our Sustainable Agriculture Initiative, needs 2 skilled teaching assistants with previous farm experience to help lead our apprenticeship program. This is a great opportunity for a new or beginning farmer to explore an emerging 'farmie' community within a great 'foodie' city with a fast growing local food movement. It's an exciting time for farming in the Lowcountry. This is a part-time position, 10-20 hours per week.

For more information, please email gnfipapplications@lowcountrylocalfirst.org.

New and Improved DIRECTORY!

2010-10-21T16:10:00.000-07:00

Get excited!

We have been fortunate enough to work with a local Charleston graphic designer - J Fletcher Design, and have just sent the final proof of the Directory of Local Independent Businesses off to J.R. Rowell Printing this afternoon!

The release of the 3rd edition of The Directory will coincide with our "Buy Local Month!"

Stay tuned for more details!

Letter to the Editor

2010-09-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Baron for contributing this great piece to the Post and Courier!

Letters to the Editor

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Tasty produce

We are absolutely amazed. Each week our local farm delivery includes organic fruits and vegetables, fresh eggs and garlic, and even handmade cheeses and preserves. Akin to hours-old seafood, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is fresh, wild and delicious.

We have no idea what will arrive from our farm each week. Beans, melons, squash and eggplants are included. Local basil leaves can be the size of your hand, and heirloom tomatoes can bring a tear to your eye.

This seasonally diverse produce is half the fun of subscribing to a local farm or CSA drop spot. Sometimes we go online to figure out exactly what things are, and how best to prepare them. Most farms include information sheets, a few recipes, and a humorous story — which is proactively educating families, and especially children.

Some people ask if we are able to prepare and consume all of our produce before it expires each week. It can be a challenge. We eat smaller portions of meat and less bread than before, and do recommend a juice machine. Instead of processed sweets, we enjoy softball-size peaches or a bizarre species of local pear for dessert. Hosting a CSA lunch or dinner with family and friends is always a good idea.

Every South Carolina household should consider the $20 to $40 required each week to have a moving box full of locally farmed produce and preserves delivered to your front door or CSA drop spot. Weekly farm patronage is not only biologically healthy to everyone, it is economically beneficial to the entire community — and $1 billion cheaper than fast food.

God bless our local farmers and fishermen for their work. The fruits of their labor are ending up on more Lowcountry minds and tables each week, thanks to their innovations in preparation, communication and delivery.

Baron C. Hanson
King Street
Charleston

Revival Coverage!

2010-09-29T08:51:00.001-07:00

If you were unable to attend the Revival or if you haven't seen any footage yet, check out the great published by City Paper!

REVIVE our Local Economy!

2010-09-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT! Come join LLF for the much anticipated REVIVAL!

When: Tonight, Thursday September 23rd
Location: 501 King Street, Downtown Charleston
Time: 7pm (Don't be late, or you'll miss the show!)

City Pick - The Revival

2010-09-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

Check out this week's City Picks! Join us tomorrow night for The Revival located at 501 King Street. Reviving begins at 7:00pm and is completely free (donations accepted)!

Leaders of Tomorrow

2010-09-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

Had a great start to the week this morning! We were fortunate enough to be invited to present our work at East Cooper Montessori Charter School in I'on to a class of bright and lively 7th and 8th graders. Awesome opportunity to work with the generation who will be leading us into a new economy!

Get REVIVED!

2010-09-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

The members of Lowcountry Local First are throwing a Revival! Located at 501 King Street next Thursday, September 23 from 7:00pm-9:30pm.

Join us for a celebration and rejuvenation of our Local Independents! Cary Ann Hearst and the Shifters will be leading the choir and Rodney Lee Rogers of Pure Theater will ignite the congregation! Isn't it time to get inspired!

There is no charge but donations will kindly be accepted! Spirits and refreshments will be on hand. Come let your voice be heard!

Charleston Restaurant Week

2010-09-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

The Charleston area celebrates Restaurant Week Sept. 8-19 with $20 and $30 three course menus at more than 50 participating restaurants! Check out some of our participating local member restaurants here!

Reservations aren't required but are encouraged! If you go, tell us about your experience and we'll post it on our blog! Email Amy at amy@lowcountrylocalfirst.org to share about your local dining!

Wining and Dining

2010-09-03T06:05:00.000-07:00

The past two evenings have been absolutely amazing. The BB&T Charleston Food and Wine Festival folks have outdone themselves. The Critic's Dinner was held Wednesday evening and was a smashing success! Thanks to all the local chefs who created the phenomenal food! Last night, the "Taste of the Festival" was held out at Patriot's Point. Great crowd, great food, great time. To find out how you can participate in upcoming Food & Wine events, visit the Festival's website! Happy Friday!

Fall is Upon Us

2010-09-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

After having off for the month of August, the apprentices of the Growing New Farmers Incubator Program have begun the fall portion of their apprenticeship! Farmers around the Lowcountry are preparing for the fall harvest. Start getting excited for cabbage, broccoli, beets, beans and many other great fall crops! If you haven't already signed up for your fall CSA, visit our website for participating area farms!

Real Time Deals!

2010-08-16T08:18:00.000-07:00

Our newest benefit to you and our members alike is our Real Time Deals application on our website! LLF Members can upload any real time promotions, discounts and deals that immediately appear on our site!

You can search by business, location, keyword... so if you're thinking about heading out for a bite to eat, need a massage or want to go shopping, check out the Real Time Deals to see who's running a special!

Charleston Wine & Food Festival...

2010-08-10T15:55:00.000-07:00

We here at LLF could not be more thrilled to be chosen as the single Signature Charity of the BB&T Charleston Wine + Food Festival. WOW!! This is the Foodie event of the year in a very foodie town and guess what... the folks at LLF are foodies too, of the most local kind! What a great opportunity to highlight the amazing farmers, seafood producers and growers who provide the product to the incredibly talented chefs in the Charleston area!

So in case you have been living under a rock here is the a bit about the Charleston Wine + Food Festival! The mission of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is to enhance Charleston's culinary reputation and support important charitable endeavors by focusing national attention on the entertainment, education and gastronomical gratification opportunities presented by world class culinary professionals and wine experts.

Stay tuned to our blog, FB page and website for updates and event info!!

Call for Apprentices!!

2010-08-09T09:36:00.001-07:00

The fall growing season is about to kick off and LLF is looking for fall Part Time Apprentices to join our Growing New Farmers Incubator Project. We specifically need help Wednesdays and Thursdays.

To find out more information and to fill out an application, please visit our website. If you have any further questions, contact Elizabeth at elizabeth@lowcountrylocalfirst.org or 843.740.5444.

B.I.G. & Local

2010-08-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for the Best In Green (B.I.G.) & Local Expo tomorrow, Friday August, 6th! Come by the Gaillard Auditorium to see some of Charleston's best green and local businesses!

Beat the End of Summer Blues

2010-08-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

The upcoming "tax free" weekend is a sign that the summer is coming to an end and for many of you, that means school is around the corner! However, I have some good news! Check out LLF Member One Respe. They offer Charleston's FIRST sliding scale payment program for Massage Therapy. They provide locally-owned, affordable, professional therapy for wellness.

From now until August 19th it's $40 for new clients and an additional $5 off for Teachers and Students! I've already purchased one for myself and hope to cash in on it this weekend! Give Abigail a call at 843.724.9807.

Cleanin' Up Our Act

2010-08-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

LLF Member, MaidPure, has agreed to do a deep clean of the LLF headquarters! These women MUST be saints! Locally owned and operated by Dorsey and Heather Fairbairn, MaidPure aspires to "give you non-toxic sparkling clean service so you can cherish not only your home, but the environment you live in."

So if you and your loved ones are in need of some environmentally friendly cleanin', visit MaidPure or give the girls a call at 843.284.8272.

Grand Ideas

2010-08-02T08:28:00.001-07:00

Huge shout-out to Melissa Henry of Grand Ideas. She has been a great help with gathering information for the 2010-2011 Directory of Local Independent Businesses. We love you!

Check out her day job!

Grand Ideas is Charleston’s local source for innovative, creative and unique promotional marketing ideas! A female-owned and operated business, Grand Ideas is dedicated to meeting their client’s specific objectives, goals and budgets in order to source promotional products that will “wow” their end-users. Contact Grand Ideas for your next event, corporate outing, tradeshow, conference, product launch, and fundraiser….every occasion is an opportunity to make a GRAND impression.

Happy Hour TONIGHT!

2010-07-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

Almost another week down... and to get a jump start on the weekend, LLF is hosting its Happy Hour this evening at Fish Restaurant located at 442 King Street, downtown Charleston.

We host a Happy Hour the last Thursday of every month at a different member location. These get togethers always end up being a blast and a great way for everyone to network and socialize. We welcome all - members and non-members alike! So come out and show your support for LLF while sipping a cocktail! Tonight, Fish is offering free appetizers and $4 drink specials. Live music starts at 7:30pm.

Come get some local lovin'!

Gearin' Up for the Directory!

2010-07-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

Super busy morning here at the office. We're gearing up for the printing of the 3rd edition of the Directory of Local Independent Businesses. We will be distributing 20,000+ Directories to the greater Charleston area this upcoming fall to kick off our "Buy Local" Month! The Directory is a great tool if you're trying to shop and source locally here in Charleston; they are available at our member businesses and at the CVB.

If you're interested in finding out more about the Directory or if you're interested in listing your business, contact me at amy@lowcountrylocalfirst.org.

Happy Hump Day!

Lunch at Closed for Business

2010-07-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

After a meeting downtown this morning, Jamee and I decided to head over to Closed for Business for lunch. CFB is REV's (LLF member) newest restaurant - a fantastic craft beer bar that opened this past January. Jamee and I split a bowl of their Roasted Corn Soup and each had a Southern Chopped Salad full of local veggies! Yum!

CFB is located at 453 King Street. If you're in the area this evening, every Tuesday is "Kick the Keg Night," which means $4 Pints of Victory Hop Wallop, Sea Dog Blue Paw and Dogfish Head Chicory Stout.

'Tis the Season

2010-07-26T09:02:00.001-07:00

Sign up for your fall CSA! Charleston is extremely lucky to have quite a few farms who are now running their own Community Supported Agriculture Programs. To find out more info, click here!

Food & Farming Entrepreneurship Course

2010-07-23T07:27:00.000-07:00

Another great component to our Growing New Farmers Incubator Program is our Food & Farming Entrepreneurship Course. We have par terned with FastTracSC and Clemson to offer a business planning course for those interested in food system entrepreneurship in the Lowcountry. This was the first time this course was ever offered. The course was 9 weeks long - the graduation will be held next Thursday!

We've had some phenomenal speakers come to participate in the course. This week, the speakers were: Brady Waggoner from HOOK, Greg Garvan from Money With a Mission, Bernie Mazyck from SC Association of CDCs, and Tiffany from Aio Design. Thank you all so much!

The class will be offered again this upcoming fall. If you think you might be interested in taking the class, get into touch with Elizabeth at elizabeth@lowcountrylocalfirst.org.

Where has the summer gone?

2010-07-22T08:40:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's almost August - where does the time go? Summer was supposed to be "quiet" and devoted to planning here at LLF. However, it's been anything but! The Online Market is in full-swing and the apprenticeship program has taken off. We've been hard at work at the office writing grants, looking into projects and managing our ever-growing membership.

Many thanks to all of you who make this possible! We heart you!

Sustainable Agriculture Program Planning Day

2010-07-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

The LLF team sat for 3 hours this morning planning for the next year's Sustainable Agriculture Program. We have some exciting stuff in the mix and are extremely excited!

Hydroponics

2010-07-20T08:59:00.001-07:00

Our newest Founding Partner, George Nelson of Sweetbay Produce & Nursery, came over to the office this morning to meet with Elizabeth and me. Now here's a man with a vision! George has a 10,000 sq. ft. hydroponics facility located in Huger, SC.

George has grown arugula, basils, pak choi, romaines, multi-lettuces and butterheads with plans to expand into other various crop varieties.

Local herbs in winter? Sure! Local greens in January? You got it! I think he's onto something...

Our Apprentices

2010-07-19T07:56:00.000-07:00

Shout out to the participants in our Growing New Farmers Incubator Project! Matt Frye, Nikki Seibert and Julie Hart are our full-time apprentices. Each work on three area farms (Rosebank Farms, Joseph Fields Farm and Our Local Foods/Thornhill Farm.)

These amazing individuals are our first cohort to go through the program and have worked extremely hard to help us work out the kinks. Each week they complete crop walks, harvest produce from the fields, sort and deliver produce to our partner chefs, manage the online market, participate in farm/entrepreneurship courses and much more!

We can't even begin to say how lucky we are to have such wonderful people. Keep up the good work!

Urban Garden Bike Tour - This Saturday!

2010-07-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

Our fabulous Sustainable Agriculture Director, Elizabeth Beaks, has organized a Urban Agriculture Bike Tour around downtown Charleston for this upcoming Saturday, July 17th. If you're interested in checking out some of downtown's urban gardens, just show up! Details below...

WHEN: Saturday July 17th

WHERE: Meet at Gadsen Street Garden (see map of tour route)

WHAT TO BRING: Bike, money for lunch, sun attire, etc.

Agenda

9:00am Check in with LLF if you need to chat
9:30-10:00am Tour begins at Gadsen Streen Garden
10:30-11:00am Green Heart School Garden Tour (#2 Perry St. Mitchelle Elementary School front yard, in front of the park)
11:20-12:10pm Elliotborough Community Garden Tour (134 Line Street, in Elliotborough Park, at the back of the park)/Bogarden Tour (southeast corner of Rutledge and Bogard St.)
12:30pm Taco Boy Downtown (217 Huger Street)
12:40-1:00pm Josh Martin from the Coastal Conservation League will discuss Agriculture and Urban zoning
1:00-1:30pm Urban Farming Panel/group discussion/questions/resource sharing
1:30 until whenever Hang out!

If you have questions, please email Elizabeth at elizabeth@lowcountrylocalfirst.org

July Member Meeting

2010-07-14T09:51:00.000-07:00

We're pumped for our July Member Meeting this evening! Judith Moore will be hosting the meeting at her business, The Charleston Cookie Company! She is located on James Island 1750 Signal Point Road.

Meetings are open to the public, so come out! The meetings are casual and include plenty of time for socializing. We typically make any necessary announcements which are then followed by short presentations by member businesses. Join us and get to know the locals!

We HEART our Committees!

2010-07-13T07:59:00.001-07:00

We are extremely fortunate to have groups of wonderful people who donate their time and energies to help LLF! We have a number of different committees that are working tirelessly to help us improve what we do.

Our Membership Committee has launched its Membership Drive and is planning for a special event towards the end of the summer! Keep your eyes and ears open!

Our Directory Committee is gearing up for the 3rd annual edition of our Directory of Local Independent Businesses that will be released this upcoming fall.

Our Buy Local Committee is working on an LLF Loyalty Card to encourage local retail spending.

Big thanks to all you fantastic people!

New Member!

2010-07-12T07:35:00.000-07:00

Slather Brand Foods is LLF's newest member! Check out Robin Rhea's Slatherin' Sauce! Yum!

Welcome!

Wild Flour and King Bean

2010-07-09T06:54:00.000-07:00

Board Meeting this morning - and you know what that means... pastries and coffee!! Thank you to our members WildFlour Pastry and King Bean Coffee for supplying us with the goods!

Don't forget to visit the Downtown Farmer's Market tomorrow morning and thank your local farmer. Have a great weekend!

Produce Delivery Day

2010-07-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

Thursdays are produce delivery day! LLF has partnered with 3 farms (Joseph Fields, Our Local Foods and Rosebank Farm) and seven restaurants (REV, Al Di La, Fish, FIG, The Glass Onion, McCrady's and Med Bistro) to pilot our Farm Fresh Online Market. Each week, seasonal produce from the three farms is uploaded onto the site by our fabulous apprentices. Come Tuesday, chefs will go online and place an order for the week!

The apprentices are harvesting as I type! Chefs will receive their orders tomorrow.
We are now into the 3rd month of the pilot market and (after some initial growing pains) have streamlined the system.

For more info, feel free to give us a call at 843.740.5444.

We're Baaaaaaa - ck!!

2010-07-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

(Sheep from our 3rd Annual Chef's Potluck this past May!)

LLF is officially back on the blog scene, and since our last blog post was in December (sorry!), lots has changed!

I encourage you to check out our new and improved website! Browse around and be sure to check out our Growing New Farmers Incubator Project that we launched this spring!

Will be sure to keep much more up to date (daily, hopefully) postings! Oh.. and happy belated "Independent's" Day!

It's time to celebrate!

2009-12-01T07:23:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BUY LOCAL WEEK!!!!!!!!

There ain't no party like a LOCAL party.... get your tickets!

2009-11-18T05:58:00.000-08:00

Tickets for LLF's 3rd annual Buy Local, Be Local Bash are now on sale! The Bash is the final event of the LLF Buy Local Week.

WHERE: The Landing at Shem Creek (building with the lighthouse)

WHEN: Sunday, December 6th from 7-10pm

This year's Buy Local Be Local Bash is going to be better than ever! We will have live music, local beer, FireFly vodka and rum and great food from Ted's Butcher Block, Duvall Catering and Events, Brian Bertolini Pasta, Raul's Seafood, Street Food, LLC, The Square Onion, Clammer Dave's Sustainable Seafood and others!

You can buy tickets in advance!

Tickets at the door are $35 for LLF members and $40 for non-members. WE CAN ONLY ACCEPT CASH OR CHECKS AT THE DOOR!!!!

Paint the Town Local!

2009-11-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

A friendly reminder to all members with storefronts: help promote your local business this holiday season and paint your windows with a "Buy Local" theme! Colors are red and green, other than that, there are no stipulations! Get down with your creative-selves and encourage everyone to BUY LOCAL!!!

Directory - Take Two!

2009-10-28T06:49:00.000-07:00

The event that you've all been waiting for.... (drum roll, please).... We present to you the 2nd edition of the Directory of Local Independent Businesses! That's right, folks, it has gone to print and will be rolling off the press next week!

Here's the catch - Jamee, Elizabeth and I need help in distributing these things! We have boxes and boxes to get out to the tri-country area! We will be doing a mass distribution on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7th! And here's where you come in... we need as many people as possible to help out with the deliveries! As incentive, we will provide bagels/coffee in the morning before we head out and Taco Boy Downtown will be throwing an after-party in the afternoon for all volunteers!

What better way to spend a Saturday morning?! (Unless you're at the Farmer's Market, of course!)

If you're interested in helping out, email me at amy@lowcountrylocalfirst.org or call the office at 843-740-5444!

Great Saturday at the Downtown Farmer's Market!

2009-10-19T06:27:00.000-07:00

I wanted to say thanks for all of you who stopped by at the Farmer's Market this weekend! Jamee and I braved the morning chill to join all the wonderful farmers/cooks/artisans/etc. for a great Saturday at Marion Square!

As the holidays are approaching, keep in mind the Holiday Market on Saturday, December 5th!

Call for Volunteers!

2009-10-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

Interested in doing good by your community? Have some spare time on your hands? Need some community services hours for school? Well LLF is your solution! We are busy planning for our 3rd Annual "Buy Local Week" during the first week in December and we will definitely be in need of some awesome volunteers! Some volunteering opportunties are as follows:

Helping local business members paint their windows for our "Paint the Town Local" Window Decorating Contest

Ticket collection at our Independent Movie Night

Helping out at our "Buy Local, Be Local Bash" (huge party at the end of Buy Local Week)

Distribute our 2nd printed edition of our Directory of Local Independent Businesses (sometime in November with party to follow at Taco Boy Downtown)

Website Maintenance

If interested (I promise you won't be dissapointed!), please contact me (Amy) at amy@lowcountrylocalfirst.org.

Summary of Events/Mark Your Calendars!

2009-10-12T06:56:00.000-07:00

There have been some great events going down in Chucktown these past few weeks.. and some great events to come! I figured I'd give a quick synopsis of how we've been involved...

October LLF Business Member Meeting at the wonderful Caviar & Bananas:

We had a great turn-out; business members old and new showed up to support the cause! A special thanks to Margaret for being a gracious host. We had presentations by Jonathon of Blue Bicycle Book Shop, Brady of HOOK, Murray of Appalachian Springs Water, and Margaret of Caviar & Bananas.

The 29th Annual Taste of Charleston: Sunday, October 11th

We were lucky enough to be invited to participate in this great event. This was my first time out to Boone Hall Plantation - it is absolutely fabulous! Great food, great people, great music in a breath-taking setting. A special thanks to Rachael, our amazing intern, for coming out to work the event as well!

Lowcountry Field Feast: Sunday, October 11th

I was unable to attend this event, however, Jamee and Elizabeth were able to represent! The feast was held at the Keegan Filion farm and was hosted by Marc & Annie Filion. Mike Lata, the renowned chef from FIG, prepared the meal. The event was held as a fundraiser for LLF and as an example of living/eating/enjoying local!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

- Saturday, October 17th - Downtown Farmer's Market: We will have a table at the market this weekend. Come on down and get some goodies from your local farmers, artisans and businesses! Stop by and chat!

- Wednesday, October 21st - Trident College's Community Activities Fair: I will venture over to Trident for the first time to attempt to convince their students why we're awesome and give them information about how they can become involved!

- Sunday, November 8th - Music on the Farm: Benefiting the Adaptive Gardens of the Low Country, this event will be held at Thornhill Farm in McClellanville, 10882 Highway 17 N, 2 miles on the right after the blinking yellow light. The event will be held from 12pm-5pm. Music by five local bands; hay rides, face painting and a jump castle for the kids; barbeque, oysters and booze for the adults! Buy tickets at: http://www.localmusiconthefarm.com/.

-Sunday, November 8th - Legare Farm's Fall Harvest Dinner: Proceeds from the dinner will go towards Legare Farm Educational Foundation. Celebrate the fall harvest with a "Meet the Farmer" social followed by dinner! The dinner will consist of dishes prepared from Legare Farm's beef, pork and fall harvest vegetables. Check out the link above for more details!

-Tuesday, December 1st-Sunday, December 6th: LLF's Buy Local Week: That's right, our second annual Buy Local Week! We'll be celebrating and promoting our local businesses for the entire week with a bunch of great events! Stay tuned for more details...

Welcome to the South!

2009-09-04T08:56:00.001-07:00

I have the pleasure of introducing you to our new LLF Sustainable Agriculture Director! Check her out...

Name: Elizabeth Beaks

Background: Formally trained at the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems at UC Santa Cruz. She has spent the last 10 years learning and collaborating with others interested in cultivating a vibrant, local food system in the San Francisco Bay area. She has coordinated garden-based nutrition education programs in the public school system, piloted farmers markets in low income neighborhoods, worked on farms, and managed farmer's markets! (WOW)

Elizabeth has family in South Carolina and grew up going to Kiawah Island!

Sidenote #1: Elizabeth just DROVE here from the San Francisco Bay area with a friend and Kimdog (her Golden Retriever and trusted companion, who will also be joining us at the office on a daily basis!) Apparently it was quite the treat for Elizabeth to have the opportunity to jump into a WARM ocean once she had arrived...

Sidenote #2: Elizabeth is excited to meet the Lowcountry community of growers, producers, cooks and eaters and grow some innovative local projects together. She is also interested in any tips for sowing her garden patch in this SC climate.

So join me in welcoming our newest member! I know she has great things in store for LLF members and the Lowcountry community! YEA ELIZABETH!

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

2009-08-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

It's been almost a month since the 10% Shift Launch Party (time flies when you're having fun)... and LLF has gained a number of new local business members! Log on to our website to check them out!

LLF has also had the privilege to partner up with Michael Furlinger at Terrace Theater for the showing of the documentary "Food, Inc." If you missed the opening showing on Monday, check out the Terrace's website for further showings... It runs through Thursday, August 13th. We promise you won't look at your food the same way again!

Another reminder to keep SHIFTING! It's amazing the things that can be accomplished if we decide to dedicate ourselves and work together... (hence, the title of this blog.. a quote by anthropologist Margaret Mead). So continue to support your local businesses!! Also, keep an eye out for the second edition of our Directory of Local Independent Businesses. We hope to have them printed and ready to distribute mid-fall.

Your partner in localization....

A Cornucopia of Thanks!

2009-07-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Once again, it's been quite a while since my last post - but I have a good excuse! I was busy shifting!! And I wanted say many thanks to a number of people...

1. Thanks to all those who came out to our Press Conference at Marion Square!
2. Thanks to everyone who has been on board with the 10% Shift from the beginning and all those who continue to support us!
3. Thanks to our WONDERFUL volunteers who helped out for the 10% Shift Launch Party (you all know who you are... but a special shout-out to Christine Osborne at Wonder Works).
4. Thanks to Noisette for letting us use the great space!
5. Thanks to all of the local businesses, Part-Time Heroes (the band), the food vendors, Palmetto Brewery, Firefly Vodka and Wood Aesthetics for making the party a success.
6. Thanks to over 500 of you who attended the event!

Now, the important thing to remember is to keep shifting! Remember to use the 10% Coupon at participating businesses, and if you haven't already, SIGN THE PLEDGE!

It's a movement!

2009-07-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

So we've officially launched the 10% Shift movement! LLF held a Press Conference this past Tuesday, June 30th in Marion Square downtown Charleston. We had a great turn-out of about 130 people! Charleston Mayor Joe Riley, North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey and Mt. Pleasant Councilman Joe Bustos represented the three surrounding municipalities. Check out articles online at the Post and Courier and at Charleston City Paper.

Also, check out the news broadcast by Channel 4. And keep an ear out on the local radio stations for our radio ad (done by Jabar Communications).

Get involved! TAKE THE 10% PLEDGE! Visit the 10% Shift website and pledge to shift 10% of your annual budget to local independent businesses. You can also donate to the cause in exchange for "Shift Bling" (consisting of some sweet buttons, t-shirts and stickers). Finally, we have uploaded a great promotional video (thanks to Justin Nathanson at The Cut Company) and you can also find the list of businesses participating in our 10% Shift coupon. You have to visit the site - I was put in charge of managing it, and for a first-timer at the whole writing code-thing, I think it turned out well!

Last, but certainly not least, come to our 10% Shift Launch Party next Friday, July 10th! It runs from 7-10pm at 10 Storehouse Row at the Navy Yard. It will be a great way to continue with the 4th of July festivities and interact with your local business community! Taco Boy, Monza, Street Foods and The Barbeque Joint will be providing the food; Firefly and Palmetto will be providing the booze; Part-time Heroes will be providing the music. It only costs 10 cents to attend - so come join us! See you there!

Visit me at the Downtown Farmer's Market!

2009-06-17T07:28:00.001-07:00

This coming Saturday, June 20th, I will be set up at a table at the Downtown Charleston Farmer's Market representing Lowcountry Local First and the 10% Shift! I will be set up near the Stage and will be arriving bright and early.

So come on down and pay me a visit! You can pick up some sweet LLF bumper stickers, some groovy 10% Shift stickers, our directory of local businesses and I will also be handing out 10% off Shift Coupons that you can use throughout the entire month of July at participating local businesses! So if you're planning to stop down at the market, come find me and pick up some free stuff!

BE SHIFTY

2009-06-09T05:55:00.000-07:00

Just in case you haven't heard, there's a movement underfoot! LLF is promoting the 10% Shift, a grassroots movement of citizens, businesses, government agencies and nonprofits working to shift 10% or more of their annual budget to locally owned and INDEPENDENT businesses. It's such a simple idea - buy from your neighbors, keep the moolah in the community!

To promote this fantastic concept, not only are we partaking in some serious guerrilla marketing, but we are also holding two events in which you MUST attend. The information is as follows...

Press Conference

WHERE: Marion Square, Downtown Charleston

WHEN: Tuesday, June 30th, 10:00am.

WHAT: Mayor Riley, Mayor Summey and acting Mayor Smith will all be signing the "Declaration of Independents" and taking the 10% Pledge. You can sign the pledge, too! So come represent!

10% Shift Launch Party

WHERE: 10 Storehouse Row - The Navy Yard at Noisette

WHEN: Friday, July 10th, 7:00-10:00pm

ADMISSION: 10 cents

We will have live music with Part-Time Heroes, food from The BBQ Joint, Taco Boy (you know), Monza and Local Street Food as well as beer, Firefly Vodka and Shifty videos.

We also need volunteers, so if you're interested, email me at amy@lowcountrylocalfirst.org

Be there, or be square! But above all, BE SHIFTY!

I heart granola

2009-06-04T05:51:00.000-07:00

I can definitely get down with some granola - it's such a brilliant concept. You can eat it in yogurt, milk, out of a bag, in a bar, in nuggets.... I had some great granola yesterday. Bobby Hendricks was kind enough to hand out a couple samples of his version of granola (gRAWnola) to Jamee and me. Their granola bars are gluten free, soy free, preservative free, peanut free and contain no processed sugar or flower. Many of the ingredients are organic and it tastes absolutely amazing. Apparently they're all over town. (I met Jamee for a meeting at Kudu Coffee on Vanderhorst and there they were, tempting me from the counter). So keep an eye out for these healthy and tasty treats. Almost forgot! Bonus point for the gRAWnola gang for becoming a member of LLF!!

Lovin' the Lowcountry

2009-06-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

As I'm sure you all are aware (because you are avidly following my blogging brilliance), it's been a little while since my last post. The main reason for that is because I've been living at Taco Boy. The Downtown location just opened up last Tuesday and business has been good (check out the photo Jamee took). Although I've been enjoying every waking minute, I haven't had a lot of time to sit down to write!

However... this morning I was able to take a little adventure to some great local businesses. I say adventure because I still am not extremely familiar with the area - thank goodness for GPSs!

My first stop was at Hokus Pokus, a costume shop who have generously decided to donate a 17th century costume to us. We will be celebrating "Independent's Day" and need to look the part! If you need a great costume or want to chat it up with some great people (Giles Taylor is the owner), give them a call at 843-556-6607. They're located at 1015 St. Andrew's Blvd.

Next stop: Charleston Bicycle Co. I stopped in to see Mike who has decided to become a member of LLF! We're extremely excited to have them (especially because I have inherited an old Schwin bike and I'm not bike-savvy yet).

Stop numero three: Spirit Moves. Interested in Yoga or Nia? Well here's your spot. Oh yeah - they also believe in and sell chocolate... what could be better?

Stop four: Although I do work for Taco Boy, there's another great little Mexican place called Zia Taqueria. They are an "authentic Mexican taqueria" that uses natural ingredients. They're at 1956 Maybank Highway.

Finally, I made it over to Hall's Chophouse to drop off a decal. I spoke with Billy who has quite the personality! They're located on King Street.

I'll try to keep everyone posted. But just as a friendly reminder, if you need to find any local businesses/services, visit Lowcountry Local First's website to check out our online directory that lists all of our members.

Making the rounds

2009-05-21T08:39:00.001-07:00

I swung down to King Street this morning to stop in to see some of our members - I wanted to introduce myself and make sure that they were stocked up on our directories (check it out online), decals and such.

I was able to make it in to the Blue Bicycle Book Shop, Mescon's Floor Coverings, Charleston Paint Co. and Bits of Lace. Everyone I spoke with was great! So, if you need a book for your kid, coverings for your floors, paint for your walls, or sexy undergarments... you know where to go!

Shout outs...

2009-05-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

I wanted to give 2 shout outs this morning. One goes to Justin Nathanson (The Cut Company) who has helped me navigate my way around blogger - thanks to him, hopefully this blog will be even more stellar than before...

Next, some very important information! Taco Boy is getting ready to open at a second location downtown at 217 Huger Street. Awesome restuarant from their food, to their rehabilitated building, to their staff, to their recycling habits... they're opening this upcoming week! (And I am lucky enough to have been hired at the new location as a server! So come on down!)

The rain has finally let up, hope you're enjoying the sunshine!

Lowcountry Local First

Collard Lentil Soup = Success

2009-05-19T09:04:00.001-07:00

My first time cooking with collard greens went extremly well! Next stop turnip fries..

Lowcountry Local First

Sunday Funday!

2009-05-17T04:23:00.000-07:00

Since my last post, a lot has happened! So I'll give you the quickest synopsis I can...

Fun Fact #1: I received my first box of vegetables on Thursday! My roommate, Brittany, and I were absolutely geeked about it! The blessed box contained eggs (soooo much better than eggs you get at a supermarket - you HAVE to try them), collards (I think), green onions, turnips, radishes, broccoli, chard, carrots, strawberries and a spring lettuce mix that had some great arugula. After the initial excitement subsided a bit, Britt and I faced the reality of "what are we going to do with all of this?" Well, the biggest problem is the turnips, radishes, chard and collards. However, I'm going to try to make turnip fries, potato salad with radishes and lentil collard soup. Wish me luck!

Fun Fact #2: I went to the Downtown Charleston Farmer's Market yesterday! I was on a reconnaissance mission to take pictures of as many vegetables as possible for our new online directory and was able to chat with David Howe, owner of Owl's Nest Plantation, Rita Bachmann, of Rita's Roots and Karen Kennerty of Kennerty Farms. All three had incredible produce and it was a pleasure chatting with them. (I also managed to procure a bouquet of flowers from Thackery Farms which is now sitting in a water pitcher on my kitchen table. Brittany and I are determined to put a more feminine touch on our house).

Fun Fact #3: Leigh Webber, of Leigh Webber Photography and one of our newest members, does some great photography. She has just put out a newsletter. Check it out!

Fun Fact #4: I had my first Coast beer on Friday! (Actually, I had three...) And they were absolutely delicious! Their brewing facilities are located over at the Navy Yard in North Charleston (about 2 minutes away from our offices).

Well.. that about does it for the morning. My first weekend in Charleston exceeded all expectations (did I mention I also had my first trip out to the beach at Isle of Palms?)

Locally Yours...

Amy

Lowcountry Local First

Another first... my CSA!

2009-05-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

Today is my first CSA pick-up day! For those of you who aren't aware of this amazing phenomenon, CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. Essentially, regular Joe's or Jane's, like myself, can purchase a share in a local farm. You pay for the share upfront and receive the products from the farm throughout the growing season. My roommates and I decided to get on board and purchased our share from Our Local Foods, LLC, a certified organic farm, producer and purveyor of local food products.

Maria Baldwin, who owns Our Local Foods is also on Lowcountry Local First's Board of Directors and is a great individual! Although I know she is extremely busy, she's making it a point to get my CSA share delivered to me today since the Daniel Island Farmer's Market (where I pick up my share) was cancelled because of rain. And I'm very grateful!

Our Local Foods provides organic produce ranging from berries, to flowers, to eggplants, to kale, to peppers, etc. The produce that my roommates and I will receive will be reflective of what is growing on the farm and what is in season. We'll receive 12 weeks of produce and can pick it up on Thursdays at our designated pick-up site.

So, as I'm blogging (term still sounds a little foreign to me) I'm also anxiously awaiting the drop-off of my veggies! Next challenge: figure out how to cook with all of them! And I welcome suggestions!

Check out Our Local Foods, LLC!

Lowcountry Local First

Breakfast at The Barbeque Joint

2009-05-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

Day 2: This morning, I accompanied my boss, Jamee Haley (a wonderful individual) to The Barbeque Joint, a local restaurant located near Park Circle in North Charleston. The Barbeque Joint has started to serve breakfast ,so Jamee and I decided to head over and check it out. Scott Cloud (who I believe is the owner) whipped us up an egg, cheese and bacon biscuit and egg sandwich and sat down to chat.

The place is a great little spot and I will definitely have to try some of their barbeque (which I heard is delicious) some time in the near future! Not a bad way to start my second day!

p.s. If you feel the need for some barbeque or a quick egg biscuit and coffee to start your day, The Barbeque Joint is located at:

1083-A East Montague
North Charleston, SC
(843) 747-4567

First day... first blog!

2009-05-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

Hi! My name is Amy Graul and I am the new Administrative Coordinator at Lowcountry Local First. Today is my first day on the job as well as the first day I can call myself a 'blogger' (so bear with me if I seem like a blogging beginner). As a contribution to this great organization, I wanted to document my experiences in and around the local community. Naturally, blogging seemed the best way to accomplish this. So here I go....

Quick introduction; I just received my Master's Degree from the School of Natural Resources and Environment at the University of Michigan. My concentration was in Behavior, Education and Communication. I was lucky enough to secure a position with Lowcountry Local First, and now, here I am. What attracted me most to this particular organization was the emphasis placed on supporting local economies, businesses and agriculture (exactly what I had been studying in Michigan). Additionally, South Carolina is significantly warmer than Michigan and I am definitely not cut out for the cold.

I look forward to meeting, working with and supporting the many local businesses and people in and around Charleston! As I'm brand new to the area, I'm sure that I'll have plenty of stories to share!

Well, that about does it for my first posting... they'll get better, I promise! So stay tuned!