July 7, 2006                                                                                                              For Immediate Release
                                                              
Contact:
Mia Johansson-Strench
Co-Chair, Marketing/Media Relations Chair
Email: MiaNewAlbany@aol.com

Diane Forrest LaHowchic
Co-Chair
Email: diaforr@aol.com
 
Local nonprofit book project nears completion- manuscript submitted

From Piquant Portuguese Shrimp to South of the Border Corn Chowder, from Malaysian Beef Stew to Scandinavian Almond Wedges, members of “New Albany Cooking with Friends” have been busy testing and retesting recipes that will be included in “A Signature Collection” cookbook. Recipes have been tweaked to perfection and exciting menus have been created, all to provide both beginner and experienced cooks with ideas and inspiration in the kitchen. “One of the challenges has been to choose which recipes to include” said Marilu Faber, “there are so many wonderful varieties to consider”.

New Albany Cooking with Friends, a nonprofit cooking group which was established in 2001 is thrilled to have completed the manuscript for the book, which is now on the way to Callawind Custom Cookbooks in Canada where editing and layout will commence. The project is expected to be completed in the spring of 2007 and the next major phases will include planning and executing a launch party and marketing and promotion the finished project. The hard-cover book will be published in 5,000 copies and sold both locally and in the Columbus area.

“A Signature Collection” will include approximately 180 recipes selected from the group’s first five years of cooking. It will also feature full color photographs of New Albany and surrounding areas courtesy of local photographers, and beautiful original artwork by architect and artist George W. Acock.   Guest writers from the community have contributed with interesting articles designed to give readers a glimpse into the special character of the village of New Albany, both past and present.

“Countless volunteer hours have been put into this culinary labor of love, and it is all for a good cause” said Co-Chair Mia Johansson-Strench,  All proceeds from the sales and sponsorships will benefit the Mid-Ohio Food Bank as well as local organizations including New Albany Safety Town and Adventure Playground and New Albany Special Connections.

“This project would not be possible without the support of our many sponsors” said Co-Chair Diane Forrest LaHowchic, “We are especially grateful for our Premier Partner, The New Albany Company and our Supporting Sponsor, Abercrombie and Fitch”. There is still time for local businesses and individuals to show their support. Sponsorship opportunities will be available until September 1st, which is the deadline for inclusion in the book; all donations are appreciated and will be listed on the Cooking with Friends website. For further information please visit www.nacookingwithfriends.com.