Thanks to Patty Daffurn's hospitality and the many sous chefs to help out, the 6th SLCC meeting was a success.

Although the snow deterred some folks to stay home, we had a wonderful turnout. More than 20 people participated.

This was our first SLCC meeting where attendees actually had their "hands in the pudding." Feedback regarding hands-on participation was, "...we want more." Learning while doing will continue where appropriate.

The first demo was a simple Chocolate torte by Patty. Volunteers had hands-on practice in making chocolate leaves by painting melted chocolate and white chocolate on non-toxic leaves, letting the chocolate cool and unmolding them to use as edible decorations. Yum, Yum.

Our second demo was by Julie. She showed us an easy, simple, and decorative cookie, Caramel Pecan Turtles, to make for the holidays. She provided a demo on how to decorate the delicious cookies.

Lastly, I did a demo on how to decorate with marzipan. We had participants, who were much more creative and artistic than moi, make marzipan pumpkins and carrots. I also demonstrated an easy method to decorate cookies etc. In most cooking catalogues you will find Food coloring pens. These pens are wonderful. They write and act like marker pens, but use food coloring.

In addition to the many libations participants brought, Patty also made a fabulous apple salad and Brenda brought chili cheese triangles. Recipes are attached.

Our next SLCC event will be a Holiday Fondue party hosted by Ed and Kathy Bubnis. Typically, this takes place after Christmas. Originally this was a block party for folks who live in "Alta Serene" (upper Hillside area of Serene Lakes). It was Ed and Kathy's suggestion to fold this wonderful food event into the SLCC. Be on the lookout for the invitation.

Happy Cooking,

-randy-

P.S. Special thanks to Paul Raymore for the fabulous article in the Sierra Sun. A FRONT PAGE article about our Cooking club as well as our fabulous, wonderful tight-knight little community is featured in this week's paper. Julie and Christopher Africa have their pictures featured on the front page. To view it online go to www.sierrasun.com and there you will find, "Cooking club rising in popularity..."