Galena Community Table

OITF seeks to connect us through a celebration of all that is handmade, local and personal – forging bonds between those at the table and the people and the place that helped create the meal. Galena’s Main Street is an ideal environment for such a celebration. Termed a “Helluva Half Mile,” the stretch is an assortment of locally owned businesses housed in buildings bursting with quaint, historic 1800s architectural details. Our table of local makers’ work will frame the culinary creativity of Galena local Kevin Scharpf. He currently runs Brazen Open Kitchen and Otto’s Place, but he has quite the resume under his belt—including a run on Top Chef and multiple appearances at the James Beard House. Chef Kevin will be working with host farmer Laurana Snyder from Sinsinawa Mound Collaborative Farm to create his menu. The collaborative farm works with beginning farmers to provide mentorship, education and infastructure. By breaking down barriers to exploring a career in agriculture, they are creating opportunities for more people to contribute to a thriving local food system.

This is one of a special series of Community Table Dinners, where we highlight not just farmers and the ingredients they provide, but also local makers and artisans whose work becomes our tablescape. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go to JDLF Gives, a community foundation that works to connect residents of Jo Daviess County with local food and nutrition and preparation education. Their mission is to expand access to local food for the benefit of the community, economy and environment.