Jay Lavelle is returning as a chef for the 2012 Winter Gala on
December 1. Linda Carney has kindly volunteered to be one and Gini
Johnson has graciously accepted my request! Now we have six chefs.
I would like to have at least six more.
I've been asked about the responsibilities of a chef and planning
a meal for about 8 to 10 people. Well, David Spanagel and I are available
to coach new chefs and anyone who wants more information. Here's some
basic responsibilities and organizational tidbits.
The chef designs a prospective menu preferably at least three
months in advance and submits it to the chairperson. The chef buys the
food and prepares it as a donation to the church. Receipts are kept for
tax deduction purposes.
The chef develops a timeline to prepare the food that best suits
his/her needs. Some food, like bread, may be made ahead and
frozen.
Since we only have one stove, chefs prepare their food at home and
bring it to the church the day of the event. Other arrangements can be
made, e.g., perhaps someone closer to church permits use of his/her
kitchen. (I believe in "Ask and you shall receive",
"Seek and ye shall find" , "Where there's a will
there's a way", and "We can work it out...we can work it out...."You
get the idea...
The chefs may use self-supplied or our crockpots and
warming devices to keep the food warm. Chefs have room to assemble and
serve their food from a nearby "food station".
Bob and Sue Shaw are assisting in the kitchen again. They
and the youth help with bringing the food in from your car, cooking, serving,
etc.
The chef sits with his/her guests and should enjoy the meal with
them. The youth clears the tables.
The chefs may meet as a group once, if necessary. Most of
the communication is via email.
The 2011 Winter Gala was in the Bancroft Room. However, if
we have more attendees than last year, we may hold it in Unity Hall. With
a positive outlook, we will manage what comes our way.
So--hope this information inspires you to share your culinary
talents. Feel free to call me at 508-798-5508 or email me at speechlc@yahoo.com if you have questions
or want to be a chef.
