Name of Person: Joanne Neft and Laura Kenny

Author and proud resident of Placer County, Joanne Neft, opened the first Foothill Farmers' Market in 1989. Since then, the market has expanded to six markets and every year more and more farmers bring their high-quality fruits, vegetables and meats to be sold. Laura Kenny, also a Placer County resident, is a talented chef who specializes in cooking fresh, local and seasonal food. Together, these two created the perfect cookbook, Placer County Real Food, to celebrate and explore the wonderful culinary adventures at Placer’s Farmers' Markets.

Placer County Real Food Recipe Origins:

Every Saturday morning, Laura and Joanne met at the local farmers' market to learn what kinds of fresh, local and in-season foods were available for that week. They purchased all the meat, fruit, vegetables and nuts to prepare a meal for eight on the following Monday. As each from-scratch recipe was prepared, careful notes were taken.  The result, 52 delicious home-style dinners were held at Joanne's home that year.

Joanne hopes to get people excited about cooking and eating healthy, great tasting food that's gentle on the environment and supports local farming businesses.

“We are fortunate to live in a region where delicious fresh fruits, meats and vegetables render themselves abundantly all year round. Joanne and Laura have provided a valuable service in creating these fantastic recipes that enable us to enjoy fresh, healthy, local foods at all times of year.” ~ Assemblyman Ted Gaines

To purchase the book or find more information, please visit:  http://www.placercountyrealfood.com/

Foothill Farmers' Markets locations:

Auburn:  Old Town Courthouse Parking Lot, Auburn-Folsom Rd. at Lincoln Way

Rocklin:  Rocklin Blue Oaks CFM, Blue Oaks RC Willey Parking Lot, Lonetree Blvd. 

Roseville:  Whole Foods Market at the Fountains, Galleria Blvd. & E. Roseville Parkway

TahoeCity:  Commons Beach, Commons Beach Rd. & N. Lake Blvd

To find a schedule for the Foothill Farmers' Markets located in Placer County, please visit http://www.foothillfarmersmarket.com/