From the Editor
I don’t love to admit it, but the truth is, I’m a terrible cook. My life’s plan was to eat holiday dinners at my parents’ house forever, nourished by the love of my mother’s cooking. That didn’t stop me from giving it my best shot on one fateful Thanksgiving in 1995. Bob and I were new homeowners, and I had decided to open my kitchen and cook for my family that year. I looked forward to the spread I’d lay out for the children, our parents, and grandparents. The torch had been passed, and I was ready to deliver.
Until I broke my tooth on the extremely overcooked turkey.
The dentist’s office got a laugh out of my Thanksgiving woes the next day, and nobody has trusted me with a holiday feast since.
I am able to laugh about it now, more than 20 years later. The memories of that fateful Thanksgiving can not be forgotten. Regardless of my lack of culinary skills, I have always been very thankful to have food on my table year round.
Food insecurity is a very real problem for many families throughout the year and even more so around the holidays. Since 2020, the rise in food costs has significantly impacted local businesses, farms, and especially local families. The requests for assistance from the Community FoodBank have increased by 500 percent. According to the most recent Consumer Price Index report, food prices have risen 11.4 percent from August 2021 to August 2022. On page 8-9, read about all that the Community FoodBank of New Jersey in Egg Harbor Township is doing to assist families every day and even more so during the holidays.
As we head into the holiday season, please keep this in mind. If it is within your means to do so, consider giving a little bit more this winter. Whether you donate food, money, or time, consider visiting cfbnj.org to do your part in helping local families put meals on the table this season.
We celebrate community members who step up and lend a helping hand to those in need. Chef Andre Murphy, a true hunger hero, has organized and served thousands as part of his Community Feeding Tour. You can read more about Murphy on page 42 and see what he has planned to assist low-income seniors this Thanksgiving.
Holidays can be challenging when it comes to gathering. Every family has that one aunt or uncle who tends to stir the pot during the holidays. Tensions often rise and can lead to difficult family situations. This year, I encourage you to leave the noise of politics and other hot topics at the door. Work on being present with the people you love, and remember, we all need a little bit of grace and love, even on our toughest days. For more on dealing with difficult loved ones, check out the feature on page 36-37.
Friendsgivings are increasingly popular in recent years. It’s a great way to celebrate the holiday with your chosen family while also saving on food costs, as friends are encouraged to bring a dish to share. Look for more about that on page 14.
As always, gratitude is the reason for the season. We are thankful for all of you, each and every day! I look forward to celebrating the holidays this year with family, friends, colleagues, and associates. May this season be filled with love, cheer, and grateful hearts.
From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
Peace & Love,
Cindy
