October Newsletter

President Message

Well it’s here. The leaves are changing, the kids are back to school, and the days are getting colder and shorter. With the coming of fall, I would dare to say the best flavors can be found this time a year. From cinnamon to apples and even pumpkin spice what an exciting time.

I am proud to say that our Wachusett BBQ fundraiser was the best year yet. The BBQ Angels were on our side. We had two beautiful days of weather and sold out of ribs both days. We also won people’s choice for best Chili. I want to thank all the volunteers. Especially Ken Watt and Dan Van Etten for getting some of the donations and cooking all the pulled pork and chili. And a quick shout out to Kathy Ryan our associate member for donating one of Newport Specialty Foods refrigerated truck for the weekend.

Our October meeting at Farming Turtles, was a chance for us to get to southern Rhode Island and see this beautiful farm. The owner, Lauri Roberts gave us a tour of the facility and shard some challenges growing delicate products indoors year-round. What a great product to showcase on your menu that is literally grown in our backyard.

On Sunday, October 27, we will be honoring Chef George O’Palenick at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick. Chef O’Palenick is the ninth recipient to receive the American Academy of Chefs Hall of Fame Award. George has been a mentor to myself as well as countless others. He has also been an integral part of our Chapter. Please join us as we celebrate this amazing chef. Tickets are still available.

Our November meeting will be at Federal Hill Pizza on November 4th. Chef Bill Manzo will discuss a variety of sauces, doughs and toppings. I look forward to connecting with you at an upcoming event. Don’t forget to tell us what you think and what you want to hear more about. I’m always a click away at rmccue@jwu.edu.