Celebrating Local Flavor and Talent at the Paris Henry County Arts Council's Farm to Table Event

Paris, TN – On June 13th, 2024, the Paris Henry County Arts Council hosted its annual Farm to Table fundraiser at the picturesque Sandy Creek Farms. The event, which drew nearly 100 attendees, was a resounding success, celebrating both local cuisine and the accomplishments of the Council’s scholarship recipients.

The evening featured an exceptional menu crafted by Sheena Davis of Mockingbird Catering, showcasing the best ingredients from our local farms. The appetizers set the tone with Asian carp and fresh cabbage tacos, a delicious nod to the region's rich agricultural resources.

Guests were then treated to a vibrant salad of fig, walnut, candied bacon, goat cheese, warm bacon vinaigrette, frisée and microgreens, and arugula. The entrée was a showstopper: a table-side carved crown of pork, beautifully garnished with apples, tomatoes, onions, and new potatoes. Sides included caramelized bacon brussel sprouts and colorful cauliflower, with locally-made rolls accompanied by honey butter and rosemary/sage butter.

The meal concluded with a sublime dessert of crème brûlée topped with fresh local fruits, providing a sweet end to a memorable evening.

The event’s success was due in no small part to the dedication and hard work of our local farmers. Special thanks go to Future Visions Farms, Bell Family Farms, North American Caviar, Blackberry Pond Farm, Hampton Farms, Earth's Bounty, K&J Processing, and Sequoyah Farms for providing the high-quality ingredients that made the meal truly special.

“We’re thrilled to offer a menu of excellence that highlights the best local ingredients and provides a magnificent culinary experience,” said Jessi Smith, Secretary of the Paris Henry County Arts Council. “This event is all about celebrating locally-sourced food and great company while supporting the arts and honoring our scholarship recipients.”

In addition to the exquisite dining experience, the evening was enlivened by live music featuring Randal French, along with special selections from Katie Barnett. The event also showcased a large selection of silent auction items from local artists and various businesses. Highlighting the evening, artist Erik Stonebraker completed a painting of the courthouse lawn during the dinner, which was later featured in the live auction by Junior Staggs with Red Ball Auction Team. Additionally, his unveiling of a remarkable painting of the Ned Ray McWherter Bridge over Paris Landing captivated the audience.

Adding to the evening’s charm, custom-made, hand-thrown pottery vessels used as centerpiece arrangements were also auctioned off, providing guests with unique, tangible memories of the event.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our title sponsor, Shamrock Dirt & Forestry, whose generous support made this event possible. We are also deeply thankful to our Gold, Silver, & Bronze sponsors: B&G Equipment, Commercial Bank & Trust Company, James Smith - HAT Law, Judge Vicki & Mark Snyder, JC Educational, Tosh Farms, Guinn's Shoes, Neese Law Firm, DiAnn Russell, North American Caviar, Dyersburg State Community College, Future Visions Farms, Kinsey Tree Service, Jeffrey Mitchell, Sam & Diane Miles, Josh Simmons Farm Bureau, and Bryon Liles & Robin Walker. Your contributions are invaluable to the success of this event and our mission to promote the arts in our community.

The Paris Henry County Arts Council is renowned for its year-round commitment to the arts. The Council hosts a variety of events, including Artist and Photography Showcases, the annual Arts Around the Square held on the last Saturday in September in downtown Paris, and an enriching art-focused field trip for every fifth grader in Henry County.

“Thank you for your continued support and generosity. It is because of you that we can celebrate these young artists and their achievements,” said Caleb Grissom, Executive Director. 

Tickets for the Farm to Table event included options for individuals, couples, and businesses interested in table sponsorship. The proceeds from the event help fund Arts Scholarships and support the mission of the Paris Henry County Arts Council, ensuring the arts continue to thrive in rural West TN.

For more information about the Paris Henry County Arts Council and its upcoming events, visit https://www.phcarts.com.

This year's Farm to Table event not only delighted the taste buds but also reinforced the importance of community and the arts. It was a night to remember, filled with great food, great company, fantastic music, incredible art, and a shared passion for supporting the arts in our community.

To view all photos from this event, please visit: https://brandiwatfordphotography.pixieset.com/farmtotable-artscouncil/, courtesy of the amazing Brandi Watford Photography.