On January 20th a large crowd of people joined students from Prince Edward Collegiate Institute for an evening entitled the Black Tie Event. A practical examination, the event was the culmination of the inaugural edition of the County Roots program.

The first program of its kind in Prince Edward County, County Roots is designed to introduce students to all aspects of the local food industry. Taught by Beth Vader and Suzanne White, County Roots exposes students to local agricultural, tourism and hospitality sectors. Along with course work, students who participated in the program went on two, three week co-op placements at local businesses including farms, wineries and restaurants.

For the Black Tie Event the program’s 14 students showcased their newfound knowledge against a backdrop of a formal reception. They planned the event from start to finish, creating everything from its advertising to preparing and serving the food.

Food choices ranged from caesar salad to braised lamb served on a bed of barley. I served maple harvest soup which with goat cheese baguette, which was inspired by my experience working on the Taste the County-organized Maple in the County festival. My favorite dish was the truffles, which were made by Andrea Heuving who did her work placement with Wayne Carruthers of Picton’s Industrial Perk Café, but all the food was outstanding and made for a great event.

Hosted by the Prince Edward/Lennox & Addington Community Futures Development Corporation (PELA CFDC), who provided funding for the program along with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), the Black Tie Event was staged at the organization’s office in the brand new Edward building. The near-finished building comprises a mix of living and office spaces and incorporates old-style craftsmanship with new age energy efficiency.

At the end of the evening, students presented to their placement hosts with County Roots shirts meant as thank you gifts for providing them with invaluable hands on experiences.

Thank you to everyone who came and enjoyed the night with us and we look forward to another great semester of County Roots.