10/06/2026
A special thank you to Erin Susman and Jessica Jones for both bringing me on and coordinating the Resource Rural & Rural Climate Partnership Convening Welcome Dinner at Capitol Market - Charleston, WV. It was a pleasure working alongside the other three talented chefs/businesses for the evening.
When I was asked to come up with a menu I knew right away this was the perfect opportunity to reach out to all the local gardeners, local businesses and value added producers to showcase for this event. It wasn’t until my table was completely set up did I realize I didn’t grill, sauté or bake a single piece of meat, I thought LAME what chef does that (lol)?
Then I realized the same garden I had spent Saturday morning volunteering at helped me showcase what the West Virginia culinary scene means to me. Meaningful relationships, local and in season foods. My table housed edible flowers, tomatoes harvested from Rock Lake, chives from Jean Simpson and Johnna Bailey garden. Fresh laid eggs from Meadow Top Farm, how special is that?
To me that is the reward, showcasing West Virginia agricultural and the culinary scene all at once.
I met a lot of wonderful people from all over the States and I’m glad you all are interested in Appalachia.
You’re truly,
The gardening chef
• Meadow top farm deviled eggs with Jean and Johnna’s garden chives
• Black eyed pea hummus with crispy wontons and Highland Greenery edible begonias
• Honey cornbread and chive butter
• Roasted Rock Lake Community Garden and The Purple Onion & WV Marketplace vegetables with house ranch and balsamic glaze
