We are teaming up with the American Association of University Women (AAUW) to host a lecture called “Food Culture of Clatsop County” in February. This is part of the Co-op’s monthly food and wellness lecture series called “Beers to Your Health” at Fort George Brewery, and it is one in a series of monthly programs sponsored by the Astoria branch of AAUW. Founded in 1881, AAUW is a national organization whose mission it is to empower women through advocacy and education.
From farming to fishing, those attending will get to hear from some of the most prominent women shaping our local food scene. A panel of speakers includes Alana Kujala of Skipanon Brand Seafood, Kristin Frost Albrecht of OSU Extension and North Coast Food Web, Teresa Retzlaff of 46 North Farm and North Coast Food Web, plus Kelly Huckestein, a farmer and produce manager at the Astoria Co-op.
AAUW will lead the discussion in a question and answer format that the group traditionally uses at its candidate forums. AAUW President, Meredith Payton, came up with the concept of featuring local food culture in an educational way and asked if the Co-op, a community-owned grocer, would like to be involved.
“The Co-op jumped at partnering with AAUW on this lecture, because the topic of local food is in line with the work we do, for example, sourcing from several farms within a 40-mile radius,” Astoria Co-op Marketing Director Zetty Nemlowill said.
The Astoria branch of AAUW was founded in 1927. As the organization evolves it is innovating with new types of events and collaborations such as this food culture lecture with the Co-op.
“This is us getting out into a different realm of the community to get new membership, to branch out to younger generations,” Payton said. AAUW membership information will be available at the event.
The lecture is free and open to all ages. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to show up early as seating is limited to 60.
When: Thursday February 13, Doors open at 6 p.m. (food and drinks available for purchase) Presentation 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Fort George Lovell Showroom, 1483 Duane St. Astoria