JX Foodie: Late August, long summer evenings, and dining al fresco

The Jefferson Exchange

(collage original images by Erika Bishop)

In August the days are still long and evenings are still warm, the perfect conditions for eating outdoors.

On this first episode of JX Foodie, Erika Bishop and Will Smith join the Exchange to talk about some of their favorite spots for dining al fresco in the Rogue Valley region, in a fun free-flowing casual conversation. From casual eateries to fine dining, it's all about food, family, friends and community.

Left: Erika Bishop, Right: Studio shot of Will Smith and Mike Green in the JPR studio( Erika Bishop and JPR)

ABOUT

Erika Bishop is the owner of The Pot Rack since 202. The iconic kitchenware store has been in business for over 30 years in downtown Jacksonville. Before moving to Oregon, Erika worked in broadcasting in New York City as Executive Producer for The Food Network where she helped create multiple famous Chef brands, including Emeril Lagasse and Bobby Flay. Erika also writes a food column for Southern Oregon Magazine.

William Smith recently celebrated 30 years as a food stylist. He attended the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco in the 1980s and then trained in New York City with the prominent stylist Rick Ellis. William has styled over 40 cookbooks and developed a respected editorial flair by creating visuals that are loose and playful.

In 2007, William returned to the West Coast to help out with his aging parents. He worked on Hillshire Farms, 7/11 Stores, La Brea Bakery, Bon Appetit, and film productions in the LA area. When he moved to Chicago in 2012 to further his packaging experience, he styled for a variety of food corporations, such as: Nestle, Kraft, Bojangles, Grub Hub and the National Egg Board. In recent years, he made his way to his family’s home state of Oregon. William also hosts Savor, a monthly podcast, on Jefferson Public Radio.