Andrea Ashby

Agricultural and historic African American education roots run deep at Greene County Century Farm

by Andrea Ashby | Apr 19, 2023

As one of North Carolina’s 2,007 Century farms and 115 Bicentennial farms recognized by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Sauls Family Farm in Greene County has cemented its spot in the state’s agricultural fabric and history. But the...

10 Dietitian tips for a happier and healthier you in 2023

by Andrea Ashby | Dec 31, 2022

If you are setting health and fitness goals for the new year, remember that fresh North Carolina fruits, vegetables and proteins can be part of helping you achieve those goals. Consider adding "Shop Local" to your list of resolutions to source farm-fresh foods....

New assistant manager has deep roots in agricultural fairs; brings a passion for ag education to the job

by Andrea Ashby | Sep 22, 2022

The N.C. State Fair's new assistant manager Robert Fogle is new to North Carolina, but definitely not to agricultural fairs. The native of Frederick, Maryland grew up showing animals at his local fair through 4-H and FFA programs, gaining a love for...

Small farming operation is a dream come true

by Andrea Ashby | Sep 1, 2022

Tom Savage is living his lifelong dream of being a small farmer. At 70, his enthusiasm and joy for this dream realized is readily apparent as he talks about new agritourism ideas and opportunities and plans for the future. Savage and his wife Linda operate Allied...

Small Snow Hill farmer has built his business through direct local sales of collards, heirloom variety sweet potatoes and greens

by Andrea Ashby | Mar 24, 2022

At 79 years old with a lifetime of farming experience to his name, James Shackleford of Snow Hill well understands the challenges of being a small farmer and making a living from the land. This year, he’s watching his input costs even more closely as he makes plans to put another crop in the ground. […]

Nationally recognized Bandys High School ag teacher found her tribe, now inspires the next generation

by Andrea Ashby | Feb 21, 2022

Laura Pugh Parker’s path could have taken many different directions, but the Bandys High School ag teacher knows she is where she was meant to be, doing what she meant to do. And, she knows one teacher can make a big difference. The wife and mother of two, who counts hundreds of current and past […]

Food traditions help define the holidays and spark joyful memories

by Andrea Ashby | Dec 22, 2021

Sheri Castle has been writing about food and talking about food professionally for 30 years, always with the goal of helping home cooks become more confident and passionate about cooking. She understands the powerful connection between food and holiday memories. “We all know the feeling of getting a whiff of an aroma of a ham […]

Triangle chef draws from his roots for classic Quiche Lorraine recipe

by Andrea Ashby | Dec 17, 2020

It seems fitting that Chef Serge Falcoz-Vigne serves up a classic French Quiche Lorraine recipe as a favorite. While quiches can trace their early origins back to Germany, the French are credited with expanding and defining the dish, establishing it as a versatile favorite meal. The hearty and savory Quiche Lorraine is a perfect example, […]

Charlotte restaurant brings local seasonality to the table

by Andrea Ashby | Dec 8, 2020

Charlotte restaurant Fine & Fettle prides itself on the use of locally-sourced and sustainable foods on its innovative menu. Located in the Canopy by Hilton in Charlotte, Chef Daniel Wheeler creates memorable dishes that give guests and diners an elevated taste of the South, while showcasing the considerable variety of foods grown in the state. […]

Quarantine Kitchen: Henry’s Restaurant

by Andrea Ashby | Dec 5, 2020

This year has been full of unprecedented times and situations. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many families and individuals will be cooking at home this holiday season. That’s why we are bringing the dishes to you all month long in our Quarantine Kitchen series. We talked to 23 chefs who have shared some of their […]

Hickory Farmers Market is proudly serving its community

by Andrea Ashby | Aug 7, 2020

National Farmers’ Market Week takes place Aug. 2-8, 2020. Farmers’ markets across North Carolina offer communities access to fresh, nutritious food, while also stimulating local economies. National Farmers’ Market Week is a time to celebrate those who produce fresh foods in our state. Whether you visit a roadside stand or the State Farmers’ Market, take […]

Food Distribution trucks and staff keep food moving to places of need

by Andrea Ashby | Apr 14, 2020

In a time when very little is predictable or consistent, the department’s 18 Food Distribution truck drivers have kept food moving to places that need it most. Those drivers are moving USDA commodities available through The Emergency Food Assistance Program to schools, food banks, soup kitchens and other distribution sites And, that has been a […]

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