In our Harvest Sessions series, we’re inviting you to hone in on one specific crop. Join us to hear and learn from passionate experts about growing, cooking and eating some of our favorite produce.
Strawberries are one of spring’s most delightful harbingers. Versatile, prolific, and delicious, they’re a major cornerstone of agriculture in North Carolina (our state ranks third for strawberry cultivation in the US, behind California and Florida).
On Thursday, May 22nd, join us for a discussion and demo all about strawberries. Leading a conversation about the current state of strawberry cultivation is Dr. Mark Hoffmann, tenured Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at North Carolina State University. And then for the snacking part, Durham-based pastry chef and local food advocate Phoebe Lawless will be sharing her love of strawberries through a cooking demonstration. Of course, there will be strawberries to snack on!
This event has a suggested donation of $25 to the Wake County Boys and Girls Clubs. All ages are welcome; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
About Dr. Hoffmann:
Dr. Mark Hoffmann was born in a small agriculture town in Germany. He holds a PhD in Biology from University in Mainz in Germany, worked as researcher at the University of Florida and UC Davis, and is currently a tenured Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at North Carolina State University. He has shared more than 300 talks and presentations, has published more than 50 peer-reviewed publications (research and extension), mentored many graduate and undergraduate students, and has contributed significantly to the advancement of agricultural knowledge in his field. He specializes in plant physiology, strawberry production and viticulture. He is the recipient of the Henry Covington Extension Award, and is a Goodnight Early Career Fellow with the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at North Carolina State University.
About Phoebe Lawless:
Phoebe Lawless has been sharing her spirit for cooking and baking for over 20 years as the creative force behind Durham’s remembered and adored Scratch Bakery, Baby Scratch, and The Lakewood. Most recently she’s brought delicious, locally-sourced prepared food with Snack Service, a delivery service and caterer. Phoebe’s talents have earned her five James Beard Foundation semifinalist nods, but she’s just as proud of her work championing the region’s farmers and producers, collaborating with state-wide school systems to source locally, and serving on community boards and with non-profits.