Career Development Grant

The goal of my project is to complete a manuscript for presentation to Lake Superior Port Cities, Inc. by 12/1/18. I will then begin a year-long process of layout/graphic design, and editing for print preparation. As a member of a diverse seaside community, and part of a successful family-owned restaurant, I have spent the last ten years writing cookbooks. These cookbooks are unique, in that they speak not only to the culinary culture of the Pie Place Cafe', but chronicle the history of Grand Marais, and the life of it's colorful folk. This third cookbook will continue the story of Grand Marais, it's rich and diverse history, and the people who make this community what it is. The stories that are included in these pages are ones that have been gathered during twenty years as a restaurant family. They speak to all aspects of the human condition; joy, sorrow, triumph, courage, and the spirit that built a thriving community of people who know the value of friendship and love. I will be working with my editor, Konnie LeMay, in a mentorship capacity as she assists me in taking my writing to greater levels of creative expression in this project. Unlike my previous cookbooks, this volume will be 90 percent narrative/story with a small sampling of basic home cooking techniques/recipes pulled from the early culinary/indigenous heritage of the area. This book will continue the story of the individuals whose lives have inspired and changed me. Narrative will continue the history of Grand Marais as well. Outcome will be measured by a completed manuscript, to will include narrative/stories (65-70 short-essay format), photographs for each narrative/story, "lead-ins" and recipes, as well as potential layout design. In addition, I will be actively engaged in contacting each person about whom I am writing to obtain photographs for inclusion into the body of the narrative. This includes contact with the Minnesota Historical Society to obtain archival photos, which they have been most generous to contribute in the past. I will be researching early culinary traditions and recipes as they pertain to my theme "Back to the Table." Test kitchen work is required to ensure that recipes can be easily and successfully executed by the home cook. In addition, I will prepare, stage, and photograph all food included in the centerpiece of the manuscript. The manuscript will provide visual direction for the project, and fulfill subsequent publishing time-lines.