Dinner on the Farm Showcases Farm Abundance

On September 1st, Massaro Community Farm continued its tradition of bringing you a memorable farm-to-table dinner for a third year in a row. Unfortunately, the threat of rain kept us under the tent, but the intimate setting lent itself to lots of great mingling and conversation on the lawn against the backdrop of sunflowers, and helped raise over $40,000!

This event brings together our members, friends and neighbors to enjoy a fabulous feast, featuring the yield of local farms, while 'growing' support of our expanding programming at the farm and building community. This year's meal was once again prepared and coordinated by Chef Denise Appel, Woodbridge resident and chef/owner of Zinc Restaurant.  But it would not have been possible without the produce contributions of Massaro Farm, Darling Farm and Yale Farm, or without the sustainably raised, grass-fed beef and poultry of Four Mile River Farm and Truelove Farms.

While the formal program was kept to a minimum, the evening did feature the farm's first silent auction, as well as recognition for the efforts of outgoing board members Paul De Coster, Diane King and Steve Wooters.

In addition to building community, we cannot overstate that the success of this event plays a major role in the farm being able to continue to grow its offerings. In 2013, programming at the farm included an adult workshop series on organic land care, beekeeping, cooking demonstrations, open farm days, school field trips, summer camp, and the continued practice of giving produce to local hunger relief organizations.

Massaro Community Farm would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to all our generous supporters who made this magical evening possible:

In addition to Ms. Denise Appel and the farms mentioned above, our sincere appreciation goes out to Amity Wines, Antonio’s Restaurant, Caseus Fromagerie & Bistro, Chabaso Bakery, D&D Linen Supply, La Cuisine Catering, New England Brewery, Onyx Moonshine, Starbucks Coffee (Woodbridge) and Veena Reddy for their contributions to the evening's meal.

Our corporate sponsors include:   Citizens Bank, Lock Stock & Barrel, Northeast Medical Group, Southern Connecticut State University, Jones Family Farm, Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center, Law Offices of Buckley & Wynne, Wells Fargo, Mario & Gaby Guevara/BIC Corporation, Cathy Wick for Woodbridge, Deakin Edwards & Clark, A-1 Toyota, Alan & Marsha Schwartz, B. Lance Sauerteig, Ken Colabella, Connecticut Basement Systems, Connecticut Stone, the De Kadt/Keevil Family, Iatrodata Research Consulting, Kardea Nutrition, Laticrete International, Leslie & Gary Martino, Woodbridge Running Co., Peoples Bank, Susan L. Jacobs, Ryan & Tyma LLP, Solun Tapas Bar and Town & Country Liquors.

A special thanks to Massaro's farm staff, Mr. Tent, Woodbridge Garden Club, and all of our committed volunteers.

Here is what some folks had to say about the evening:

'It was a lovely event, and I enjoyed seeing the farm again.'

‘ Fabulous, just fabulous!’

‘ I did not think the food could top prior years, but you've done it again! ’

Thank you again to our guests, volunteers, contributors and sponsors. We look forward to seeing you again at future farm events!