Relocalization is possible even in the Deep South. At least, that's the hope of a group of us who are in the process of forming a local food production initiative in Fairhope, Ala. This small city on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay has progressive roots: it was founded in the late 19th century by a group of believers in the economic philosophy of Henry George. Today it remains a colorful place with a vibrant downtown and many resident authors and artists.
The focus of the group, at least at first, is to encourage and facilitate local food production. The group is considering projects that include creating a community garden, encouraging the protection of Baldwin County farmland from encroaching suburban development and expanding and promoting the Fairhope Farmers Market which is already held on Thursdays downtown.
We've held two meetings so far with about a dozen people attending, mainly to discuss bylaws and seek nominations for members of the Board of Directors. The Press-Register wrote up the effort last week and, judging from the feedback, we may have a larger group at our meeting on June 9 at the Fairhope Public Library.
We also plan a fundraiser, a jazz dance with a live big band, on June 7 at the Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship Hall.
I hope to keep you all posted about our little effort, and your advice, questions or comments are welcome at russellwhitely@gmail.com.