Ojai, CA - On Saturday, March 3, 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., the Food Council of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition is hosting Master Food Preserver, Laurie Dill at Casa de Luna (710 N. La Luna, Meiners Oaks) who will present the many uses for a variety of citrus fruit. From facial scrubs to chutneys, flavored salts and sugars, to jams and marmalades, lemons, blood oranges, tangerines and grapefruits will be the celebrities of the day. Whether you just want to surprise your family or think about starting a small business in citrus condiments, this presentation is bound to please. Tastings, recipes, demos and discussion from an animated presenter, Laurie promises to delight and tantalize your senses.

Most of us have heard about the Master Gardener program through the University of California, but who knew that there is a complementary program, the Master Food Preservers? These programs began as a result of World War II food insecurity when all the farmers went off to war and the kitchen "Victory" garden movement began to feed American families.

While the gardening program continued to modern day, the food preserving program faded into history as easy cash, fast food and microwaves ruled the day. Well, the Master Food Preserver program has been found, dusted off, and is ramping back up through the University of California, as communities like the Ojai Valley strive to grow more of our own food and stretch the harvest. Think peaches in December. Actually, think WAY beyond canning. Canning fruits and vegetables is just one method of preserving food; add freezing, drying, fermenting and non-food products to the list.

$30 OVGC members, $35 non-members payable at the door. RSVPs requested since there's food being prepared ahead to ojaiculinaryclub@gmail.com. For more information visit www.ojaivalleygreencoalition.org or call (805) 669-8445.