By Kenneth S. Allen
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
Don’t let the advertising wizards of Madison Avenue hear this, but Thanksgiving seems to have escaped the commercialism that invests the rest of the major holidays.
No gifts.
No decorations.
No fancy clothes.
In fact, the only expectation for Thanksgiving is a scrumptious meal.
This focus on food lends itself to the occasional splurge, some element of the meal that sets it apart—a particular dish, spectacular presentation, or exotic ingredient.
With that in mind, The Erickson Tribune has this suggestion for Thanksgiving 2008: Go local.
The local food movement has made great strides in the Charlotte area in recent years, with farmers and distributors bringing a host of locally grown animals and vegetables unheard of just a few years ago. Getting your holiday fixings in the area will do the local economy good, and it will give you a story to tell around the table on Thanksgiving afternoon.
Here are some suggestions and sources:
The turkey
Every supermarket in the world has turkeys this time of year, but nothing beats the taste of a locally raised bird. One popular source is Laughing Owl Farm (28016 Ryan Rd., Richfield).
“We are local producers of naturally raised vegetables and specialty greens along with pasture-raised eggs and poultry,” farmer Dean Mullis explains. “Our farm uses no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers; we raise our livestock on pasture, with respect for the animals, using no hormones or antibiotics.”
Although Mullis sells at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market (1801 York Yorkmont Road, Charlotte), it is best to call him to reserve a bird at 704-463-1555.