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JOHNSTOWN, Ohio – This Wednesday, March 12, a panel of central Ohio experts will explore the opportunities and obstacles facing area residents seeking safe and healthy fruits, vegetables, meat , eggs and other products from both retail and farm outlets.

The Forum on Safe and Sustainable Food will be held from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Johnstown Municipal Building, 599 S. Main St. (Rt. 37) just east of Johnstown. The event is sponsored by the Licking County Democratic Women's Caucus.

"We are all concerned about providing safe and healthy food to our families. Connecting to local markets and farms can help us do that – while preserving our sense of community as well," said Pam Wilson of Granville, spokeswoman for the caucus. "What's safe and healthy to eat, what labeling should be required and how is the current food distribution system impacting local producers and the environment – these are topics of importance to each of us."

Addressing these issues will be:

• John Marsh from Kenyon College, coordinator of the Food for Life program.

• Carol Goland, executive director of the Columbus-based Ohio Ecological Food & Farm Association (OEFFA).

• Mike Laughlin, organic farmer and president of the OEFFA Board of Trustees.

• Trish Mumme of Garden Patch Produce of Alexandria, a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) business.

• Pat Petzel, senior director of consumer communications for the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.

• Lucie Pollard, Worthington Farmers Market.

The meeting is open to the public at no charge, with no advance reservations required. Time will be provided for questions and answers. For more information, contact Pam Wilson at 740-321-1156.