Happening at Claire's and around Hardwick

Our Kitchen Bookshelf: Join Claire’s and the Galaxy Bookshop on June 16 to welcome James Beard Foundation inductee and author Clark Wolf to Hardwick, discussing his new work, American Cheeses. A reception with cheese tasting and insights will be held at Claire’s beginning at 6 pm. Steven is preparing a selection of unique artisan cheeses featured in Clark’s book. Cost is $10 per person, and reservations are encouraged, though ou can pay in cash or check at the door.

After the tasting, we will adjourn to the Galaxy Bookshop, where Clark will discuss and sign copes of his book starting at 7:00 pm. This portion of the event is free. Even if you choose not to attend the reception, you are welcome to join us for the book signing!

Call us at 472-7053 to make your reservation for the cheese tasting, or stop by the Galaxy Bookshop to check out Clark’s book.

Reminder: We’re open on Tuesdays again. Don’t forget as well to come by and pick up your new card if you’re a CSR holder.

Local Food: Cherry tomatoes are on the way. Expect the first sweet gifts of summer to arrive by the weekend. Steven is also looking forward to some hard-to-come-by strawberries, and is still celebrating the wonders of rhubarb.

This weekend, plant sales continue at Riverside and Hazendale farms. Stop by for starters as well as annuals and baskets at Hazendale. While you’re in the area, pay a visit to Perennial Pleasures in East Hardwick for flowering plants and herbs, and afternoon tea!

Also next week, Sterling College’s Rural Heritage Institute hosts Food, Farms, and Community: Rural America’s Local Food Renaissance June 16-18. The program includes discussions, field trips, and workshops, with participants and practitioners focusing on new developments in sustainable food systems, organic agriculture, and working communities. Steven joins a panel of local chefs on Wednesday. For more information, visit Sterling's website.

Music Thursday: Dave Keller is excited to return this week, and we’re pleased to have him. For more information about his “gritty,” “soulful,” “sweet,” and “intense” music, go to http://davekeller.com

Across the Fence: Keep up with local food news, events, recipes, and menu items by following our posts at twitter.com/clairesvt.