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Marilou Suszko,
Chapter President
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Green Tables
Les Dames d’Escoffier (LDEI) launched a nationwide initiative called Green Tables in 2006 to help people better understand the link between rural and urban farms and their tables. Many Dames are at the forefront of this global movement to transform how we eat. Chapters around the country including Cleveland are participating in this civic agriculture and garden project, collaborating with established programs in their own communities or starting new ones.
Members of Les Dames d’Escoffier are participating in the farm-to-table revolution in a variety of ways. They are:
- Chef leaders of local farm procurement
- Farmers and gardeners
- Farmers’ market operators
- Farm-to-market leaders fostering links among regional farmers and a network of local restaurateurs, caterers, etc.
- Civic agriculture educators and journalists
- Public heath nutrition experts and educators
- Community food project developers
For more information go to http://www.greentables.org/
The Cleveland chapter has provided continuing financial support to the Tremont Urban Learning Garden, a food-growing project for at-risk city teens, since 2006. The mini-farm offers an opportunity to build agricultural and entrepreneurial skills as well as nutritional awareness. A portion of the organic produce the teens harvest is donated to CityFresh Market, which offers fresh, local sustainably raised fruits and vegetables to low income urban residents. The balance is purchased by Lucky's Cafe, a restaurant adjacent to the garden and owned by Dame Heather Haviland, who plays an instrumental role in the project.
Dame Heather Haviland with Urban Learning Garden teens
Photo by Marilou Suszko
In 2008 the chapter is also contributing to the Countryside Conservancy Farmers' Market Jr. Chef Program. The focus is on forging connections between kids, farmers and food producers; teaching nutritional fundamentals; and simple hands-on food preparation.
Dame Carla Snyder with Jr. Chefs
Photo by Marilou Suszko