In the spirit of all we hold dear- hope, courage, wisdom, openness, kindness, and endless curiosity.  The board and I wish you and yours a happy New Year. 

Our January meeting was held at RI Community Food Bank.  I would personally like to thank Chef Heather Langlois and Mev Miller for hosting us.  It was a great opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes.   And the impact the food bank has on the entire state of Rhode Island.  Did you know? 1 in 9 Rhode Islander households lack adequate food.  If anyone is interested in doing a demonstration I will be happy to put in contact with them and it would be greatly appreciated. 

Our February meeting will be hosted by Chef Peter Kelly and his wife Katie at Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket.  Peter is the owner of Anchor Toffee and has been a friend of mine for many years.   He will do a demo on his toffee making process and discuss how he grew his business from his home kitchen to being one of New England’s favorite candy makers.  This is a great way to tie in some Valentine’s Day ideas. 

I want to apologize in the last newsletter I stated we will be celebrating our 35^th anniversary.  It is actually our 45^th anniversary as a Chapter.   It has always been a challenge to attract new members.  By and large, our members have been with us for a long time, some from the very beginning, with consistent involvement and an unwavering commitment to volunteering and spreading good cheer. Being the current president is something I am truly proud of in my career.   

We have two fundraisers coming up in the next few months.  We have partnered with the D-Strong foundation and will be hosting a pasta dinner at Dan’s Tavern on the green in North Kingstown on April 24^th. And of course our 29^th Annual Golf Tournament at Jamestown Golf Course on May 18^th.  Volunteers will be needed for both events.  Don’t forget. Tell us what you think and what you want to hear more about.  I’m always a click away at rmccue@jwu.edu. Please check out our website WWW.ACFRI.ORG