I had the opportunity over the weekend to enjoy good food, good drink and great friends at a benefit event that celebrates the Farm-to-Table dining experiences that we embrace in our region. The event—called “Cowabunga” and organized by Portland Monthly magazine—showcased the local Farm-to-Table bounty, freshness and flavors that make our city and state a go-to place to experience culinary excellence.

The three-day event--benefitting Meals on Wheels People and the Parkrose Community—was held at Rossi Farms in northeast Portland, where their goal is to connect people back to their roots, and where their food comes from. When we enjoy Farm-to-Table dining, we’re not just supporting restaurants. We’re supporting chefs, farmers, ranchers, fishers and food artisans who put those restaurants on the map.

Eating local is paramount to my lifestyle—not only because it supports those who contribute and our local economies—but also because it is environmentally responsible, all concepts that I value. By sourcing local ingredients, vendors reduce the number of miles ingredients travel, so less fuel is consumed and fewer emissions are released.

Portland is special because so many restaurants have adopted the Farm To Table approach, partnering with local farmers to provide the freshest ingredients. Portland's robust reputation as one of the most sustainable cities is bolstered because Portlanders value the environment, our community and our healthy, fresh and local menu options.