Indiana Foodways Alliance Gears Up For An Exciting New Year

Online, November 18, 2010 (Newswire.com) - The Indiana Foodways Alliance (IFA) held its Annual Membership Meeting on November 8th and 9th in Lafayette, Indiana. During the meeting new membership levels, benefits, and activities were presented with the focus on getting more members, foodies, students, and families actively involved in IFA's mission. The IFA strives to celebrate and preserve Indiana's heritage through authentic food experiences and to positively impact the local economy through the promotion of culinary tourism and the use of local ingredients and food products.

The IFA was started in 2004 under the East Region Tourism Marketing Co-op. Over the last several years the state and members experienced great economic and cultural benefits from the organization. Culinary trails, publications, and a website have all helped promote Indiana's culinary tourism. In 2009 IFA was instrumental in passing the resolution naming a state pie resulting in increased culinary tourism, sales, and national food and travel articles. It has also hosted two food expos where Indiana food artisans and restaurants were able to display and sell their products.

The membership-funded organization had to make major changes in 2009 as many strong supporters were facing the tough economic times. Executive Director Susan Haller moved from a paid position to a Board position and continues as a consultant. Lauren Fish was hired as IFA's Coordinator. The restructuring is seen by the organization as a chance for members to become more involved in promotion and networking. One such way is through the bimonthly membership meetings. In addition to networking, members can sample food products that are being considered to carry the IFA logo.

Seven levels of membership are now available that are meant to appeal to a wide range of individuals, restaurants, food producers, schools, visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce, and economic development offices. The Board of Directors is still active in maintaining a high standard for the quality of experiences and products. However, anyone who wants to help tell the story of what is uniquely Indiana can do so through different membership levels or IFA's social media outlets. A membership level has also been added that can be worked into the curriculum of Indiana history classes and college tourism/culinary courses.

For more information on IFA and how to become involved one can call 317-853-4944 or email info@indianafoodways.com, or visit www.indianafoodways.com.