By Janet Slack

One of the first decisions that TEDxTryon co-organizers, Loti and Corrie Woods, made was to have a farm-to-table meal during the event. They turned to local caterer and food champion, Cinda Austin of Twisted Fork, because of her passion for bringing local food to local markets.

 

The farm-to-table philosophy begins with local farmers and food producers and helps them find local destinations for their wares. Austin and Richard Ruben, chef and green market teacher, have been working hard to create a collaboration between local food producers and vendors in the area to provide a seasonal, locally sourced, abundant buffet for the Sept. 12 event.

 

Food vendors that are providing locally-sourced items include: Stone Soup, Huckleberry’s Restaurant, Openroad Coffee, Southside Smokehouse and Grille, The Hare and Hound, Java Up Coffee and More, Mill Spring Farm Store, Wildflour Bakery, Meanwhile Back in Saluda, Southern Delights and More, Roots Hummus, Roots and Branches Artisan Crackers.

 

Austin reports amazing cooperation among the vendors which will result in a fresh, colorful and healthy array of food that is artfully presented for the enjoyment of all. She believes that the event is providing new markets for local food producers as they connect with local vendors.

 

The lucky ticket holders for TEDxTryon will be among the first to benefit from these new connections. Austin says, “I truly believe that food is a language we all speak. Food opens a dialogue between people. Food is about sharing and caring and being one.” Loti Woods reports this is an exact match for the philosophy of TEDxTryon.

 

TED is a platform for ideas worth spreading. Started in 1984 as a conference where technology, entertainment and design converged, TED today shares ideas from a broad spectrum — from science to business to global issues — in more than 100 languages. Meanwhile, independent TEDx events help share ideas in communities around the world. TEDxTryon is a locally organized event and is a special project of the Arts and Education committee of Tryon Fine Arts Center. For information visit TEDxTryon.com or call TFAC at 828-859-8322.