At the annual Roots for Reece picnic, food and community come together in memory, healing and harm reduction
By Kyle Marie McMahon. All photos by Stacey Sprenz.
It’s easy to write about a food event the week it happens, while the flavors are fresh and the photos are hot off the camera. But the truth is, some stories stay with you longer than a social post or slideshow. Some stories deserve to linger. That’s why I’m writing now, weeks after attending the Roots for Reece picnic at Landon Estate in Clayton. As incredible as the food was, it’s the heart behind the event that continues to resonate with me.
Roots for Reece was created by Chef Blake Gotliffe, owner of Under the Oak Catering, in honor of his childhood best friend who died of a heroin overdose in 2017. What began as a way to honor Reece’s memory has grown into a yearly celebration of life, food and support for those battling substance use across North Carolina.
“I wanted to honor Reece and spread awareness of the harm reduction resources available,” Gotliffe said. “I am an opiate addiction survivor and lucky to be alive today. I feel it is my duty to help others in our community with their battles anyway that I can.”
Hosted on the spacious, sun-soaked grounds of Landon Estate, recently purchased by Chef Gotliffe and his wife, this year’s event brought together top chefs and bartenders from across the state, each preparing a unique dish or drink. Guests sampled, savored and voted for their favorites while enjoying live music, lawn games and heartfelt community. Tie Whittaker of Buttermilk Boutique in Clayton took home the top prize for her outrageously delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake.
Among the culinary stars were Alex Constantinou of Brodeto, Eric Montagne of Locals Seafood, Katrina Sydnor of The Umstead, Bill Hartley of Postal Fish Co. and Sean Fowler of Mandolin—each showcasing the creativity and care that defines North Carolina’s food scene. Justin Wright of Julep Contemporary Kitchen in Greenville shared his own story of losing a loved one to addiction. It wasn’t just about competition—it was about collaboration, and the sense that these chefs weren’t just serving food, they were standing up for a cause.
That cause is the North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition (NCHRC)—an organization working on the front lines of the overdose crisis. NCHRC offers syringe exchange services, overdose prevention, advocacy and community outreach, all rooted in the idea that every life matters and every person deserves compassion. Proceeds from the picnic directly support their efforts. One way these funds are used is with the distribution of the life-saving naloxone, a nasal medication that can reverse an overdose when used in time. I asked the spokeswoman at the event about carrying this medication, even if I don’t personally know anyone who uses drugs. She told me that everyone should carry it with them. She said it has no negative effects if used on someone who may just be passed out, but if that person is having an overdose, it could save their life.
As someone who’s covered many local events, I can say this one stands apart. The Gotliffes aren’t hosting Roots for Reece because it’s trendy or profitable. They do it because it matters. Because it’s personal. Because they believe in creating a space where grief and joy can co-exist—and where one friend’s legacy can help save another’s life.
Though this year’s event has come and gone, the need for support hasn’t. The NC Harm Reduction Coalition accepts donations year-round, and their work is ongoing. If you missed the picnic (like I nearly missed writing about it), you can still help. Visit https://www.nchrc.org to learn more, donate or get involved. Consider stopping by their Raleigh office or your local pharmacy to pick up a dose of naloxone.
Because while we may not all be chefs or estate owners, we can all choose to care. And like the roots of a strong tree, that care goes deeper than you think.
