PORTLAND, Ore. – June 1, 2009 – Whole Foods Market, the leading natural and organic foods supermarket, is pleased to announce the commitment of $30,000 to The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) Organic Summit Benefit Reception & Dinner, an evening of delicious local organic food and drink and great conversations with organic community leaders. The OFRF reception and dinner will be held June 4 from?6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Mt. Hood Organic Farms, 7130 Smullin Dr. in the Hood River Valley of Mt. Hood, Oregon.
Local organic farmers, researchers, industry members and supporters will attend the dinner, along with participants of The Organic Summit, a gathering of national organic leaders being held June 3-5 at Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, Wash.
“Whole Foods Market has helped pioneer the organic movement, supporting local farmers and committing to environmentally friendly agricultural and production methods,” stated John Clougher, Whole Foods regional president. “The OFRF has a mission to foster the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming practices, and we are excited to continue this natural partnership.”
The event menu, which has been sourced from local farms, is a foodie's delight. Appetizers include crimini mushrooms in a rustic galette, spring pea puree on a crostini, and poached rhubarb and chevre in Gougeres. The main course offers Zion lettuces and pickled beets; wild Sockeye salmon from Alaskan waters with salsa verde on lentils; asparagus, spring onions and pasta gratin; farmers market chard in a frittata; roasted new potatoes with garlic and thyme; and homemade foccacia. For dessert, there are chocolate mint cookies and angel food cake with spring strawberries. A selection of organic wines, beer, sparkling juices, tea and coffee accompanies the meal.
Tickets to the OFRF Organic Summit Benefit Reception & Dinner are still available. The organization is requesting a $100 donation, with a special farmer rate of $35. Register online at www.ofrf.org or by phone at 831-426-6606.
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