As we approach another busy Holiday Season I like to take the time to reflect on the past, and ponder the New Year trying of course to keep everything in perspective. I am grateful on a daily basis for  beinge blessed with an incredible culinary career. Despite the recurring economic ups and downs, I’ve always had a job and managed to live a good life. I have often shared my passion for cooking with students by stating ‘You’ll always be warm and dry and you’ll always be well fed.”  We are blessed to have job security, knowing that people will always need to be fed . Now as we face the stark reality of an ebbing economy we are in a position to share our good fortune –we can cook for the hungry!

edmontonCHEFS.ca has integrated with the community. We have had the opportunity to cook, feed and celebrate with inner city elementary students, emerging newcomers and the homeless. We have kept young by mentoring hundreds of High School students, helping them realize their aspirations and career goals. This is our mission of promoting professionalism and championing success. We are very fortunate.

It’s going to be a tough Christmas for many Edmonton families. They need our support. Edmonton’s Food Bank is struggling to meet the demand. I encourage all members to do what they can to help our community have a Happy Holiday. Donations of food and money are always appreciated, but you can also pitch in as a volunteer or donate warm clothing and toys for appreciative children and families.

I would also encourage all members to invite a friend, associate or colleague to join us and enjoy the unique camaraderie of a professional organization. Let’s do what we can do and let’s have fun doing it. I hope to see you at our Festive Dinner on December 12th, or at our upcoming workshops and gatherings. I wish everyone Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year!

Stanley Townsend
President
Board of Directors, edmontonCHEFS.ca