Workshop focuses on building stronger communities Saturday

Cooking demonstrations, canning tips and a treasure hunt are part of the second “Building Stonger Communities from Start to Finish” workshop to be held Saturday in Lake Nebagamon.

The first workshop in June was attended by 20 adults and more than 20 children.

“If I had to pick one objective, it would be to teach people how to grow, cook and eat healthier food for less money,” said organizer Michele Hughes with the UW-Superior Center of Continuing Education. “It’s too easy to grab ‘fast food’ when kids are already over weight and like sugar too much.”

Instead of a full day of events, Saturday’s workshop will run from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Anthony Parish Center. Although the agenda is different, it is a continuation of what was offered in the first workshop.

“For the adults, we have moved from container gardening to putting the gardens to bed for the winter and preserving fall fruits and vegetables,” Hughes said. “Also, ideas for best seasonal foods to use in staying with the idea that not only is fresh best, but cheaper.”

Because eight seniors attended the last event, a session on health care options for seniors is offered. Carol Mallegni, Beth Lattery, Hughes and her husband Leo will focus on holiday cooking, for just one or for an entire family. They will offer tips for “do ahead” items so the actual day is not rushed. The food they prepare is served for lunch.

Jillian Peterson will lead children ages 14 and younger on a fall treasure hike while their parents attend sessions. The children will follow clues to find $100 worth of real cash hidden in various places. They will also get a chance to decorate holiday cookies.

The event is free.

“Anyone can attend, not just our target population of the ‘under served,’ and every family will receive a free turkey voucher so that when they are ready for Thanksgiving or Christmas, they can go to Oles and get one,” Hughes said.

Local funding and a host of community volunteers made both workshops possible, according to Hughes.

For information or to register, call Donna Sislo at 715-394-8170 or Hughes at 715-394-8529. Advance registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

Tags: news, food, seniors, money