Individuals wishing to sample and learn more about sustainable and locally-grown food are invited to a Farm to Table dinner hosted by the Arkansas Tech University Department of Parks, Recreation and Hospitality Administration on Thursday, Oct. 22.
Doors will open for the five-course meal at 6 p.m. in Williamson Hall Dining Room. Cost will be $25 per person. The event, which is co-sponsored by the Arkansas Tech Anthropology Club, is a celebration of National Food Day.
Guest Chef Craig Alderson will prepare the meal. Alderson is owner of The Bistro in Paris. A former adjunct professor in the Arkansas Tech hospitality program, Alderson has served as executive sous chef at Chamberlyne Country Club and The Lodge at Mount Magazine.
Liz and Mike Preston will serve as guest speakers at the dinner. They are owners of Prestonrose Farm and Brewing Company in Subiaco. Liz is a former molecular biologist and environmental regulations specialist, while Mike is a nuclear chemist and trainer at Arkansas Nuclear One.
Through their sustainable food operation, the Prestons are working to bring rural producers together to educate citizens on how to access, prepare and use locally-grown food. The initiative also focuses on contributing to local food banks to assist neighbors in need.
“We have long-term visions of our area becoming a local food hub for our region, and building business opportunities for people by providing incubator kitchens and formal training programs on a local level to make these resources available to those unable to travel to larger metro areas to get the education and guidance they need,” said Liz Preston.
To make reservations for the meal or for more information, call (479) 968-0378 or send e-mail to khall18@atu.edu.
