A Healthy Approach To Food

Three stories this week…which for us end up being related.

First, Madison once again makes a list of top cities in which to live – this one Huffington’s Post’s 25 healthiest cities – for reasons that include “easy-to-find, budget friendly healthy foods.” Second, Madison Mayor Paul Soglin is named chairman of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Food Policy Task Force. And third, a Wisconsin legislative committee held a hearing on a bill that would allow home cooks to sell small amounts of baked goods at markets without needing a commercial license.

The first reinforces the importance of access to local foods, good urban agriculture policies and a commitment to sustainable practices. Two suggests Mayor Soglin is being recognized for his dedication to those goals. And three will help one and two if the state legislature is smart enough to pass it.

Together they say food is important, especially if it is good, clean and fair. And if it is, it can make a city a pretty appealing place to live, play and do business.