FOOD | Fresh food, close to home

In celebration of the United States Department of Agriculture dedication of August 2-8 as National Farmers Market Week, the Illinois Stewardship Alliance has partnered with local like-minded businesses for a week-long celebration of local libations and delicacies. Curious gardeners can try farming for a day during the Crop Mob event at Sherman’s Choice Roots Farm on Sunday. If you’re interested in sharpening your kitchen skills, sign up for a fresh produce cooking class at HyVee or the Sangamon County Department of Public Health on Monday, or the Chatham Public Library on Wednesday. Work in a public garden alongside skilled garden volunteers during community garden events hosted by genHkids on Monday and Wednesday. Showcase your artistic flair for a good cause at a special Paint Nite event Friday Night at Arlington’s in benefit of the Illinois Farmers Markets Association. Other NFMW events include a gift basket giveaway, book fair, opportunities to sample locally prepared cuisine, and, of course, the farmers markets’ themselves on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. For more information about NFMA and a full schedule of events and activities, visit http://ilstewards.org or call 528-1563.