< PreviousLove Local 2023 10 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST Eating local produce has a plethora of benefi ts, for both consumer and community. Whether it is reducing environmental impact, benefi ting from better taste and nutrition, or helping your community to prosper, choosing local over imported produce makes a huge difference. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Recent research suggests transporting food from production location, to consumers’ homes, is responsible for about 6% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, with fruits and vegetables being the worst offenders due to refrigeration and the demand for out-of-season foods. Food transport emissions also added up to nearly half of direct emissions from road vehicles. Consumers can counteract this by eating local, seasonal alternatives, and choosing to support companies which share this goal. Luckily for local foodies, many companies on- island are aiming to reduce the food miles they accumulate, either by increasing the amount of locally grown produce they use from outside suppliers, or growing their own. The Brasserie is one such organisation which strives to be environmentally sustainable. Its restaurant garden provides fresh fruits and vegetables; the restaurant’s Coco Bluff Farm and Plantation houses coconut palms and beehives; fi shing boats provide fresh catch; and more than 100 chickens provide eggs. They also regularly buy from local farmers and growers. “Around 85% of the [Brasserie’s] food offerings are locally sourced,” says Nikki Callender, marketing and PR manager for Orchid Development which manages and operates The Brasserie Restaurant and Cricket Square hospitality outlets. “Our main ingredients are local, like veggies, fi sh, fruits, and based on this we build our menus.” TASTE AND NUTRITION When it comes to direct benefi ts to consumers, taste and nutrition are magnifi ed when produce does not have to travel far distances to get to their plates. Tiny Spoons, a company producing nutrient-dense baby, toddler and family food using Cayman-grown produce, recognises the many benefi ts, especially nutritionally, of buying local. “Local produce at the farmers market has likely been picked within the last 24 hours and has come a matter of miles,” says Tiny Spoons founder Stefanie King. “It is also fully ripe, meaning it tastes better and we derive the highest nutritional value from it… Once picked, food begins to degrade, losing nutrients, and moisture, and leading to potential spoilage. Imported produce is often picked before it is ripe, may be treated with chemicals, or sit in a distribution centre before travelling miles to get here.” FOOD SECURITY Increased demand for local produce, and subsequent increase in production, can also improve Cayman’s food security. As well as efforts by private companies and individuals, the Cayman Islands Government has a vision for food and nutrition security, locally, and plans are being made to achieve this. One such step is the National Livestock Development Programme, which is focused on developing local livestock to reduce imports of goats, and to improve local cattle herds and beef quality. “We have prioritised agriculture and food security during the past two years because improving the well-being of Caymanians means ensuring that safe, nutritious food is accessible, available, and affordable,” says Jay Ebanks, Minister for Planning, Agriculture, Housing and Infrastructure. The National Egg Strategy is another important programme, aimed at increasing the safety and Love local food Food miles: the distance between the place where food is grown or made, and the place where it is eaten. Photo: Daria KeenanLove Local 2023 11 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST quality of local eggs. Its goal is also to improve the market share of local egg producers by 40% in four years, and a 100% increase in egg production over the same period. Patrick Panton’s Cayman Farm & Garden, which is one of the suppliers to both Tiny Spoons and The Brasserie, has been selected along with other farms, to be pioneers in the NEST Program. “The goal is to continuously increase the local sales share over time, through both farmer education and instituting best practices and continuing feed, subsidies, consumer education and ministry and vendor marketing,” explains Patrick. “The farmers that successfully complete the educational programme and develop the humane facilities, welfare practices to brood, raise and house the layers will qualify for CIPS-LO certifi cation (CI poultry standards-layer operations) to assure the purchaser that the eggs they are buying are not only from a reputable farmer but a farmer with proper record-keeping to monitor the welfare and humane housing, feeding and overall comfort of the birds.” SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES Arguably the most visible benefi t of buying local is its impact on those around us. “Buying local means you’re eating in season and spending your money in the local area,” says Stefanie. This support for local farmers and other individuals involved in the supply chain means money stays in Cayman’s community. Nikki agrees, saying: “Supporting local farming supports small business, creates more resilient local industries and strengthens community relationships.” Individual consumers have numerous and ever- increasing options of where to access local produce in Cayman, and therefore help their community. “It is becoming easier as consumers become more interested in where their food is coming from, and demand for locally-sourced ingredients grows,” says Nikki. “Cayman’s farming community is growing, and we are seeing more local farmers begin to experiment with vertical farming operations. Local farmers markets are well organised and supported.” Stefanie agrees that there is a lot on offer when it comes to local produce on-island, but adds that it may not be a one-stop-shop. “You do have to shop around and what you want may not be available on the day you visit the market, but chances are it’ll be back next week,” she says. “It is a bit of a labour of love – you could defi nitely do a ‘big shop’ at a supermarket and get everything on your shopping list… but you’ll be missing out on a ton of freshly picked produce at the farmers market. The supermarkets do have local sections and carry fresh and frozen produce. Foster’s even stock Chef Sara’s locally smoked bacon, which is delicious.” Food security: all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to suffi cient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their food preferences and dietary needs for an active and healthy life. LOCAL PRODUCE HOTSPOTS • The Brasserie quarterly Farmers’ Market, Cricket Square • Supermarket locally grown sections • Hamlin Stephenson Farmers Market • Plantation Organic, Bodden Town • Camana Bay Local Harvest Market • Roadside produce standsLove Local 2023 12 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST The Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1965, to support, promote and protect local businesses and that’s what it has been doing ever since. The two main ways that the Chamber supports businesses are through promotion and advocacy. “The Chamber of Commerce has always done its best to support local businesses, especially small businesses,” says Chamber President Nelson Dilbert. “We want them to know that we are here for them, and we are always passionate about helping them to succeed.” By joining the Chamber, each business joins a large, well-established trusted network of other organisations with the chief aim to help create a prosperous community. The Chamber of Commerce helps businesses establish new links between local companies and retail customers. Chamber members also benefi t from active promotion through online and social media channels, as well as the opportunity to showcase their goods and services through special networking events like Business After Hours. ADVICE AND TRAINING Providing in-depth and valuable help to member businesses, including advice and training sessions so that they can move forward more confi dently, is also one of the Chamber’s key aims. The non-profi t organisation also promotes local businesses through its extensive discount-card programme. The cards are distributed free to all member’s employees, allowing participating businesses to attract new customers. Additionally, the Chamber supports local businesses by advocating for them, representing their interests and needs before government, and making sure that they can operate in an environment of fair competition, where the entrepreneurial spirit stays strong. Chamber is champion for local businesses A Chamber Business After Hours event. Businesses can join the Chamber of Commerce by fi lling in an online form at caymanchamber.ky/ membership/#become-a-member. WHY SUPPORT LOCAL? The Chamber lists the reasons to shop locally and use local services: • Local businesses drive Cayman’s economy, providing livelihoods and keeping Cayman’s community prosperous. • Supporting local businesses and helping them thrive is vital, because money spent with a local retailer or service provider is money that stays in the economy. • It doesn’t stop with that person you buy something from, because they, in turn, use it to pay someone else. That keeps the islands’ economy strong and buoyant. • Sometimes people look outside the Cayman Islands because they don’t know that the goods or services they seek are available locally, so the Chamber can play a big part by helping to share information. • Supporting local businesses means supporting everyone who is here. That is why ‘supporting local’ has always been at the heart of everything the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce does. Love Local 2023 13 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUSTLove Local 2023 13 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST TRUSTED BY PATIENTS, RESPECTED BY PHYSICIANS Bettering the lives of the people in The Cayman Islands through exceptional hearing and balance healthcare for over 16 years! www.caymanhearingcenter.com (345) 949-9174Love Local 2023 14 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST BE CREATIVE Ignite your creative spirit by attending an art class. Art Nest Creative Studio offers a range of classes for all ages and stages, spanning from pottery and candle-making workshops to paint-and-sip classes and texture art. Join 3 Girls & a Kiln for drop-in pottery painting or create a wooden sign at its Make-and-Take sessions. At Kara Julian Art, paint a wine glass, join a painting party or book a mobile paint party – where the studio comes to you. GO ON A FOOD TOUR Prime Food Tours offers guests a chance to experience authentic local dishes and island cuisine. A variety of food and drinks tours are on offer, including an island-wide grand tour, jerk hut tour and sunset happy hour. Custom tours are also available. The Flavour Tour offers guided dining adventures at several restaurants in Camana Bay, with dishes and drinks focusing on local ingredients. It’s held on the last Wednesday of every month. RAISE YOUR SPIRITS Cayman offers some unique local spirits and brews, with tours and tastings offered on-site. Cayman Islands Brewery features 10 beer brands – including its signature Caybrew – along with seasonal brews. Cayman Spirits Co. produces the award-winning Seven Fathoms Rum along with other craft spirits and premium liqueurs. 19-81 Brewing Co. offers three signature craft brews – Cayman Blonde, Island Session and Tropical IPA. Grand Cayman Distillery produces handcrafted spirits that are earning wide-spread accolades, with its Zeus Gin a gold medal winner at the New York City International Spirits Competition held earlier this year. TAKE A SPA-CATION Pamper yourself with a visit to a luxurious spa. From aromatherapy to therapeutic massage to signature facials, take an indulgent break at Hibiscus Spa in the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman or The Spa at Seafi re at the Kimpton Seafi re Resort + Spa. Each offers a spa menu that will restore, replenish and rejuvenate. Try the exclusive Rain Shower Experience at Hibiscus Spa, the Cayman Couple’s Retreat at The Spa at Seafi re or the Ultimate Radiance and Renewal Facial at the Ritz-Carlton Spa. SADDLE UP Enjoy the beauty of the beach by taking a horseback ride along Cayman’s sandy shores. With the sparkling Caribbean Sea as the backdrop, it’s a memorable excursion, and a romantic outing for couples. There are moonlight rides, sunset rides and bareback swim rides, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea. Group and private tours are available at several stables on-island, with most lasting one to two hours. VISIT A LOCAL GALLERY Cayman boasts a thriving arts community and there are several artist-run galleries where you can often meet the artist in person. White Dog Art is the home of artist Ren Seffer, known for her unique style portraying island life in bold and vivid imagery. Kay Smith’s bold and evocative works are on display in her studio/gallery, Kay Smith Art. Sandon Feat Gallery features the works of oil painter CE Whitney, who captures the natural beauty of the islands in vibrant colours. ENJOY SOME PEDAL POWER For a free-wheelin’ day, take a guided bicycle tour through the sleepy district of East End with ECO Rides Cayman. It’s a chance to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this peaceful area and experience its fascinating history and local attractions. The company offers fi ve different tours, and you can also rent a bike to explore on your own. It is also possible to rent a bike from Cycle Cayman via a mobile app. Download the app from the company’s website, and then fi nd a bike station nearest to you. TRY AN ECO-ADVENTURE Nature enthusiasts can enrol in Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment outdoor classroom at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. It introduces children and families to the natural wonders and cultural traditions of Cayman through a variety of eco-adventures, such as mangrove kayaking, stargazing and snorkelling. Love some island time Get up close and local with these Cayman experiences and activities. Love Local 2023 15 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUSTLove Local 2023 15 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL NON-PROFITS SALES@COMPASSMEDIA.KY CONTACT US TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SPECIAL NON-PROFIT PRICING 28, North Church Street +1 345-946-7851 +1-860-400-0018 sales@rockysdiamonds.com #1 RANKED STORE IN CAYMAN 2016 - 2023 Island Inspired Jewelry Love Local 2023 16 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST Local beauty Skilled local artisans create soaps, haircare products, moisturiser, essential oils and more, right here in Cayman. Skip the imported run-of-the- mill options this month, and try out local beauty products. Your body, and community, will thank you. Golden Cashmere Whipped Body Butter - 6oz | $18 Body Treats Etc. Island Coconut Whipped Soap - 6oz | $18 Body Treats Etc. Amethyst Bath Salts $15 wholesale (5 jars) Delaneys Handcrafted Ltd. Coconut Bamboo Soap $7 wholesale (15 bars) Delaneys Handcrafted Ltd. Tropical Creature Shower Gel $15 Soak Souk Oatmeal & Cayman Honey Artisan Soap $10 or 4 bars for $37 Cayman Scents Mango & papaya body products: Natural Sugar Body Scrub $22; Relaxing Spa Salts with Epsom Salts $12; Organic Hand & Body Lotion $10; Shower Gel $8; Body Spray $20; Goat’s Milk Starfi sh Soap $9 Cayman Scents Essential oil products: Linen and Room Spray $15; Roller Blend $10; Body Oil $15; Diffuser Blend $30; Massage Oil $15; Hand Sanitizer Spray $5. BAYA Body Essentials Love Local 2023 17 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUSTLove Local 2023 17 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST SERVICES High-quality indoor and outdoor tiles for walls and floors: Natural stones, porcelain, ceramic Countertops: Porcelain, quartz, granite Roof tiles Installation and waterproofing materials Professional installation for all products Custom design capabilities using cutting-edge technology Waterproofing Expert advice and assistance for tile selection and design 345-945-3798 WWW.CAYMANTILE.COM KOZAILY CENTER, ASHGO ST., GT PRODUCTS Your one-stop-shop for 949.5595 OPEN: Mon-Sat: 9am – 5pm We've got you covered with a fantastic selection of black athletic shoes and black leather shoes. From Nike Air Force One to K swiss, Reebok,and Adidas. We also carry Hush Puppies and Florsheim. And we carry all sizes from kindergarten to high school seniors. Don't forget to grab a stylish backpack or gym bag, and comfortable socks. Hospital Road Plaza, 62 Hospital Road 345-945-7772 C AY M AN I S L AN D S 72 North Church Street, Grand Cayman MILKSHAKES BELGIAN WAFFLES SANDWICHES COFFEE AND MORE!Love Local 2023 18 FRIDAY, 25 AUGUST Cayman’s gifted artisans play an important role in local life, often passing traditions from generation to generation. Many are taking their talents to another level by turning skills into micro-businesses, which need financial support in order to survive and thrive. Cultural ambassador Deal Ebanks is well known for creating heritage arts and crafts, and has been making spinning tops – known as gigs – since childhood in West Bay. He is passionate about supporting the arts and artisans in the Cayman Islands. “I love working with our culturally significant arts and crafts, such as gig carving from our native hardwoods,” he says. “I also make Cayman singing kites, slingshots, calavans, wauri boards, and conch shell horns, to mention a few.” Deal learned these skills from his grandfather “Banker”, in whose wattle-and-daub house he was born, and which still stands on Hell Road. At age 7, after receiving a pocketknife as a Christmas and birthday gift, he began carving gigs and making kites, calavans and slingshots, practising until he had perfection. “Artisans work is very important, especially our traditional artisans, as the work is a visual representation of our culture and social heritage,” says Deal. “Our culture will only survive if our artisans are compensated fairly when they teach, lecture, and demonstrate our culture. “If our culture is to survive, it must have some financial rewards, or the next generation will have no interest in it. If the next generation can’t make any money at it, then it will only fade away like the tranquillity we once enjoyed here on our Cayman Islands.” Love your artisans Supporting arts and crafts workers is vital for their survival, says Deal Ebanks. Deal Ebanks crafts a gig using skills taught by his grandfather. Photos: Stephen Clarke Photography. 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