Grassroots, and other Spring things!

 
In the Springtime, these are a few of my favorite things: lilacs, farmers markets, fresh arugula and political primaries!  It seems that in Portland, it is almost redundant to say that one is politically active, but I’m sure some of you have at least taken a few seconds to check out some local races. And although many of us are undoubtedly outraged at the shenanigan that is our nation’s capital, I think there’s at least ONE reason to be excited about politics this year. That reason is Mark White, who is running for Portland City Commissioner. 
 
Why should we care, Kitchen Commoners? For starters, here’s an excerpt from his campaign website:
 

“At the micro level, I see tremendous benefit in encouraging the integration of commercial kitchens in community development projects.  These kitchens could be an incubator for Portlanders looking to supplement their income.  For example, many of our cultural newcomers could use the opportunity to produce samples of culturally-inspired products that could be sold at a local farmer’s market.  The most popular items could eventually make their way to the production line of one of Portland’s food manufacturing facilities”.

 
Let us compare this with a little tid-bit in our Kitchen Commons “About” Section:
 

“The role of Kitchen Commons is to support, develop, and promote these kitchen spaces. By fostering the development of lots of different kinds of kitchens, we can help meet evolving needs in different communities. We do this by connecting neighborhood kitchen organizers with resources, creating opportunities to network and share ideas, and advocating for policies that facilitate the development and use of community kitchens”

 
Can you spot the similarities?? (Do I really have to spell it out for you?)
 
Mark White is also a former member of the Multnomah County Advisory Committee on Sustainability and Innovation and the Portland/Multnomah Food Policy Council.  Check out his website and read more about him here: http://www.markforportland.org/
 
And no, we are not officially endorsing him as our candidate of choice, but! I encourage you all to take a look and decide for yourself!