Alaska Grown food on the menu for FFA fundraiser

Hydroponically grown tomatoes at Chena Hot Springs Resort. SNRAS scientists are working with growers at the resort to create optimum controlled environments for fresh vegetables for the restaurant.

A feast of locally grown foods is planned for Saturday, Oct. 4 at the 4th annual Chena Fest. This Alaska Grown harvest celebration is a fundraiser for FFA clubs of the Tanana Valley, including Fairbanks, North Pole, Delta Junction and UAF Collegiate. The feast, which will be prepared by the executive chef and professional staff of Chena Hot Springs Resort, will feature fresh meats, vegetables, herbs, dairy products, and fruits of the Tanana Valley. The meal will also feature the Tanana Valley State Fair Grand Champion Market Beef raised by Kelly Schmitz of the North Pole Ptarmigan 4-H Club.

The event is at Chena Hot Springs Resort at 6 p.m. Oct. 4. Entertainment will feature Isaac Courson of Palmer FFA, the 2008 Alaska FFA representative in the National FFA Talent Show, and Rachel Kenley and friends providing music. Tickets are $25 per person. Call 474-6916 to reserve tickets or visit Alaska's FFA Web site.