Coke or Pepsi? Netiher Please!

In October (ok, so I'm a tad bit behind on my communication!) my husband and I were in Warren, Vermont at a lovely spot called The Pitchers Inn. It was wonderful to be surrounded by so many establishments that relied so heavily on their local offerings and that operated their businesses guided by an environmental and social conscience. I felt good about being there and I felt at home. It is important to feel good about what you are doing (to earn a living) and sometimes it requires going against the grain of the mainstream.
I remember reading an article about a woman in San Francisco who had a restaurant that was devoted to local and organic ingredients. She implemented a mindfulness in her business that extended beyond the bottom line of material profit to her social and environmental investment. I was applauding her efforts as I was reading the article and at one point I may have said out loud, "way to go girl!" Her efforts to operate her business with a great amount of integrity and principle was quickly winning my admiration and respect. However, my excitement for what she was doing quickly turned into disbelief and disappointment when she stated: "but I still have to serve Coke or Pepsi!"
Several years ago I made the decision to discontinue the offering of Coke or Pepsi and switched to all natural offerings. I did not feel good about offering something that was laden with chemicals and high fructose corn syrup which is a major culprit in adolescent obesity and diabetes. I felt very strongly about making this change and felt good about my decision. I have also had some strong reactions from customers. Some have applauded my efforts and some have harshly criticized my stance. I recently had a review on Trip Advisor that stated: "I don't want to go anywhere that I can't get a Coke or Pepsi!" One family had a reservation for 6 and left the restaurant quite angry when they were told neither Coke or Pepsi were available. They said they were offended! They were not interested in trying (free of charge) one of the all natural offerings such as Izze, Steaz Green Tea Soda, Maine Organic Root Beer or Boylans Cane Cola.
Personally, I think the reaction warrants careful examination! Wake up, people we need to take care of ourselves!

Why Plant Indigenious Species?

Since starting the Trees for Talbot Project, I have been asked on several occasions why it is so important to plant indigenous trees and grasses. So, at the risk of becoming too verbose, below is a succinct list of the importance of "going indigenious!"

• Provide habitat, shelter and food for our wildlife

• Help preserve the local plants

• Save water and money

• Enhance wildlife corridors and provide links between fragmented and otherwise isolated areas

• Contribute to the distinctive local character of an area

Many people haphazardly plant certain trees, flowers or grasses without considering the ramifications of introducing the "foreign" species because they are aesthetically appealing. The damage of introducing these species can range from interfering with important pollination cycles to destroying habitats for insects, mammals, etc. There are many resources to consult including the Adkins Arboretum, Pickering Creek Audubon Center, The Isaak Walton League, Horn Point Research lab just to name a few. Happy planting and planning!
Amy Haines, Proprietor

Trees for Talbot

Keeping in line with our commitment to creating a more environmentally and socially responsible business we have launched a project we have chosen to call Trees for Talbot. We will be donating a portion of our proceeds Monday-Thursday to the the project. The project is one of our Random Acts of Kindness to the environment! We will be working with the Talbot County Parks and Recreation Department to identify public areas in need of green assistance. Indigenous trees and grasses will be planted to support the delicate ecosystems that are in dire need of our care and attention.
In addition to supporting the effort by dining at Out of the Fire Monday-Thursday we have also listed Trees for Talbot on the appetizer menu where our patrons can donate additional funds to the effort. The website also has a form you can access to donate funds if you feel called to contribute to the cause after you have departed the restaurant.
We have had an overwhelming response to the project ranging simply from compliments for our effort to large donations. We thank all of you who have participated and supported our efforts to make our county a healthier place for present and future generations.
Amy Haines, Proprietor