I know that I have told you about the Community dinner in Waitsfield before, but it is time for me to discuss it again. For those of you who don’t know what it is, let me explain.

Vincent and Diane Gauthier, lifelong residents of the Mad River Valley decided that it was time to plan something that would bring the Valley community together again, sort of like it used to be in the “good ole days”. A few years ago, they decided to offer a dinner, which would be free, to any and all people who wished to come. In conjunction with the big white church, the United Church of Christ, in Waitsfield, here is what they decided to do. The last Friday of every month would be the day that this dinner would be held. It would be offered at no cost to anyone, however, if someone wanted to make a donation; that would be acceptable. And where would all the food come from? Even more importantly, who would cook it and serve it? Well, the answer to these questions has been amazing.

First, most of the food has been donated. Several of the Valley farmers who raise cattle and pigs have donated the meat. David Hartshorn, who raises all sorts of greens, donates all the greens for salads. Rick Rayfield, who runs the Tempest Book Store, bakes the most incredible bread for each and every meal. Many of the Valley cooks donate their specialties.

The question of who cooks all these wonderful meals is truly amazing. There has been a long list of those willing to take turns cooking and serving these dinners. The Fire Department, the Masons, the church ladies, the senior class from Harwood Union High School and many, many of the families who live in the Valley. I know that I probably have forgotten someone or some organization and I want to apologize right now. It isn’t that I want to forget it is just that forgetting is now a way of life for me! But please don’t let my forgetfulness keep you from coming back and putting on your apron and keeping this wonderful opportunity going for years to come.