Cultivating Unity

10/06/2026

Thanks to all attendees, sponsors, and volunteers! You help make this happen!

Cultivating Unity Farm to Fork presented a check to the Ryan Community Endowment for $15,500, the proceeds from their delicious June 2026 event. Pictured are (L to R), Dan Reiss, Tom McDonald and Justin Wenger with the Ryan Community Endowment and Joe Gaffney and Shawn Kehrli with the Cultivating Unity team. Members of the Cultivating Unity team are Maria Gaffney; Shawn and Robin Kehrli; Angie Corcoran; Alexis Cornelius; Joe Gaffney and Nicole and Alex Funke. There are also many volunteers that help with the actual event with setup, serving, dishes and tear down.
Thank you to all that make this fantastic event happen and who support it.

07/10/2026

Great photos by Tayler Rae Photography!!

06/26/2026

Morning errands fueled by Apple Creek Coffee Co.!

06/25/2026

Our final course of the evening will be prepared by Feedwell Kitchen & Bakery!

Meet a few of our key players at Feedwell Kitchen & Bakery in Cedar Rapids, where fresh, thoughtfully prepared food and baked goods come together to create a memorable experience. Known for its pastries, breads, soups, salads, sandwiches, and breakfast offerings, Feedwell is rooted in the simple but meaningful idea of feeding people well—with care, quality, and a sense of community. Whether guests stop in for a morning coffee and pastry or gather over a satisfying meal, Feedwell offers a warm atmosphere centered on good food and genuine hospitality.

06/24/2026

✨ Cultivating Unity Farm to Fork is almost here! ✨

We’re just TWO days away from gathering around the table for an unforgettable evening of community, connection, and incredible local food! 🍽️☘️

📍 Where: Howard St. — right in front of St. Patrick’s Gym
🌤️ Weather plan: As long as the sun is shining and we stay rain-free, we’ll be dining al fresco under the open sky (fingers crossed)

Get ready for a beautiful night filled with:
🥗 Fresh, locally sourced dishes
🍷 Great conversation
🌾 A celebration of community and all things local

Grab your friends, bring your appetite, and come ready to soak it all in. We can’t wait to see you at the table!

06/23/2026

Our featured chefs for the side dish, Andy Lyness (Ryan native) and Mark Rettenberger, bring years of culinary experience and passion to the table. Andy has been working in restaurants, kitchens, and catering since the age of 12, building a lifelong foundation in the culinary arts. He and his husband, Mark, now live in Dubuque where Mark shares the same passion for cooking and the food industry. Together, they have honed their craft and find joy in making memorable meals.

We are grateful for their return, if you were lucky enough to attend year one they were a part of our evening!

06/17/2026

Jason and Kalynn Kula, the team behind Kula's It's Just Sauce, bring over a decade of award-winning BBQ experience to the table.

Known for their passion, craftsmanship, and dedication to quality, the Kulas have built a reputation for serving unforgettable meals made with heart and precision. From competition circuits to catering events and their own restaurant, their focus has always been the same—delivering exceptional flavor and a memorable dining experience.

For this special meal, they’ll be showcasing their expertise with a perfectly prepared prime rib, promising a dish that’s rich, tender, and expertly seasoned.

06/15/2026

Annie Trenary, originally from Ryan has been in the food industry for over 30 years, and cooking has always been more than a job – it’s her passion. Annie love’s feeding people and seeing the joy on their faces when they enjoy her meals.

Over the years, Annie has been part of many events, including weddings, graduation parties, private chef dinners, and special gatherings. She enjoys being creative in the kitchen and always aim to make each meal memorable. Annie is especially excited to be part of tonight’s dinner because it’s a new experience and a meaningful way to share what she loves with guests.

Annie will be preparing our salad course!

06/09/2026

Our Chef for the bread course is Courtney!

Courtney’s Sourdough & More is a small-batch artisan bakery founded in early 2024 by a stay-at-home mom with a lifelong love for baking. What began as a simple hobby quickly grew into a thriving small business rooted in passion, community, and homemade goodness. Specializing in handcrafted sourdough breads, sourdough cinnamon rolls, and bother homemade baked goods, Courtney’s Sourdough & More offers everything from classic loaves to seasonal specialties – creating something delicious for everyone to enjoy. Every item is thoughtfully made in small batches with a focus on quality, flavor, and the comfort of homemade baking. Proudly based in Center Point, Courtney’s Sourdough & More operates from an in-home bakery dedicated to serving its loyal customers and local community. Through hard work, community support, and a true passion for baking, the bakery continues to grow year after year while bringing fresh, handcrafted goods to tables across the area.

Favorite local business: Apple Creek Coffee Co.

06/04/2026

🧀Say cheese… because this is going to be GOOD!

Our first chef of the evening is Tina Knutson of Cheesin Whey , and she’s bringing the wow factor with beautiful grazing tables for cocktail hour!

Tina brings an exceptional level of expertise, including certification as an American Cheese Society Cheese Professional and advanced recognition in charcuterie - an achievement earned by fewer than 50 individuals worldwide.

Since opening her Manchester, IA storefront in September 2025, Tina has continued to share her passion through artisan offerings and hands-on classes.

Tina's favorite local creamery is Milton Creamery LLC!