Culinary Arts in Mount Carroll -- October 11, 2011

OLLI spent the day in Mount Carroll with stained glass and wood carving artisans, sustainable farmers, and innovative culinary chefs.

Upon our arrival in small northwest Illinois town, we met our step-on guide and enjoyed private tours and presentations. At the Kraft Building, 320 N. Main, we split up for some small workshops: a wood sculpting demonstration with sculptor Jack Kromer of Kromer Art, and three doors down, a glass workshop with stained glass artisan Mary Kiernan from New Morning Glass.

Our culinary presentation was led by Pat Lehnhardt of Learn Great Foods, a company that specializes in educating consumers about sustainable food. Our three-course lunch featured Greek salad with Israeli couscous, fresh green salad with herb vinaigrette, locally raised beef and mushrooms over polenta, and apple crepes from Fairhaven fruits.

Our last stop of the day was a visit with Tom Nedbal at his apple orchard, Fairhaven Fruit Farm, corner of Fairhaven and Creamery Roads, Thomson, Illinois.