0325-GCG-FoothillsConservancy_ESG25_12-18 (2) - Flipbook - Page 40
Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina
Flavors of the
Foothills
The result of this remarkable set of partnerships? A
menu that showcased the richness of local produce
and regional proteins while carrying forward the
Hmong community’s vision of introducing vibrant
The FCNC annual signature fundraiser Flavors of the
Asian 昀氀avors to Western North Carolina.
Foothills returned “home” to Oak Hill Community Park
This year’s event was more than a meal—it was a story
& Forest in 2025, offering an unforgettable evening
of connection. Together, farm, forest, and kitchen wove
that celebrated land, food, and community.
a narrative of sustainability and cultural tradition that
Three hundred guests gathered on May 17th to enjoy
a stunning Hmong dinner under beautiful spring
skies. Eric Morris, Executive Chef of Foothills Local
Meats Restaurant Group, prepared the menu in
collaboration with Tou and Chue Lee, owners of Lee’s
One Fortune Farm. The menu featured the highest
quality, sustainable, ethically-raised meat from the
embodied the true spirit of Flavors of the Foothills. As
supporters dined at long tables, enjoyed music by the
Joseph Hasty and Centerpiece Jazz, and celebrated
in the heart of a park protected by FCNC, Flavors of
the Foothills reaf昀椀rmed its purpose: to bring people
together around food and fellowship while honoring
more than 72,000 acres of conserved land.
female-led Foothills Butcher Shop, who collaborate
With gratitude for our partners, sponsors, and the
closely with small family farms in the region. All of the
many friends of nature who make this possible, we
produce for the meal, including the rice used for fresh
look ahead with joy—and an appetite for all the 昀氀avors
rice noodles, was grown by Lee’s One Fortune Farm at
yet to come.
Oak Hill Community Park and Forest using traditional,
natural growing practices that honor both the land
and their cultural heritage.
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