Recipes

Food Truck Friday: Got 2 Be Baked in Jonesboro

In Jonesboro, Arkansas, a vibrant food truck business is making waves with its unique offerings. Starr Alvarado, the owner of Got 2 Be Baked, started her journey in the culinary world through baking. Transitioning from selling cakes to operating a food truck, she now offers an array of creative dishes such as cake sandwiches, hamburgers, waffle tacos, and more. Known for her innovative approach to cuisine, including a signature blue ranch dressing, Starr's food truck has become a local favorite. Her establishment also provides picnic tables where customers can jot down inspiring quotes and Bible verses, enhancing the community atmosphere.

Starr Alvarado began her culinary adventure by crafting elaborate cakes for different occasions. Her passion for baking led her to open Got 2 Be Baked in Jonesboro. Around a year ago, she decided to expand her business into a mobile format, introducing a food truck that would bring her creations directly to the people. This decision allowed her to reach a broader audience while maintaining her distinct identity in the culinary arts scene.

Beyond cakes, Starr's food truck serves an eclectic mix of items. Among them are hamburgers, waffle tacos, loaded BBQ, buffalo fries, and other delectable options. Her creativity shines through not only in her food but also in her presentation. One of her most popular offerings is the cake sandwich, which combines icing between two slices of cake, offering a sweet twist on a classic treat. Customers appreciate her signature blue-colored ranch dressing, setting her apart from competitors in the area.

The location of Got 2 Be Baked on Pleasant Grove Road offers a welcoming space for patrons to enjoy their meals. Adjacent to the food truck are picnic tables where individuals can write inspirational quotes or Bible verses, fostering a sense of community among visitors. This thoughtful addition reflects Starr's commitment to creating more than just a dining experience; it builds connections within the neighborhood.

For those interested in Starr’s offerings, her Facebook page provides updates on the menu and the whereabouts of her food truck on any given day. By following her social media presence, fans can stay informed about new creations and special events hosted by Got 2 Be Baked. The evolution of this food truck showcases how innovation and personal touches can transform a small business into a cherished local institution.

Quacking Good Times: Amberg's Annual Duck Race Returns with a Splash

Amidst the picturesque backdrop of Amberg, Wisconsin, residents and visitors alike are gearing up for an event that promises to be as delightful as it is philanthropic. The second-annual Ducky Day, organized by the Amberg Parks and Recreation Committee, aims to bring the community together while raising funds for much-needed local improvements.

Join Us for a Day of Fun and Philanthropy That You Won't Want to Miss!

A Revived Tradition with Modern Flair

The tradition of hosting a duck race in Amberg dates back several decades, originally initiated to support the fire department. After years of dormancy, the Amberg Parks and Recreation Committee has breathed new life into this cherished event. This year, 2,000 meticulously weighted yellow ducks will embark on their journey down the Pike River, beginning just beyond Veterans Park. Depending on the river’s flow, these buoyant participants will reach Mosquito Park on County Road V within 15 to 30 minutes. First prize boasts a generous $500 reward, followed by $250, $150, and $100 for subsequent places. To add further excitement, an additional 20 entries stand a chance to win $25 each through raffles.Tickets for the ducks are priced at $5 apiece or five for $20, available from various local businesses such as Mathis Hardware, Amberg Pub, Amberg Mart, and Country Roads Bar and Grill. Tickets will also be sold on-site until 1:30 p.m., provided supplies last. Each ticket corresponds to a numbered duck, ensuring transparency and fairness in the competition. Participants need not worry about physically tagging along with their chosen waterfowl; they can enjoy the festivities while their duck races toward victory.

A Culinary Feast for All Ages

No community event would be complete without satisfying the appetite of its attendees. Ducky Day offers a delectable spread featuring bratwursts and hamburgers, catering to those craving hearty meals. For refreshments, both children and adults can indulge in a variety of beverages, ensuring everyone stays refreshed throughout the day. These culinary delights are not merely about sustenance but serve as a celebration of communal spirit, drawing families and friends closer together over shared meals.In addition to the main attractions, live music fills the air courtesy of Harbor Lights, performing from noon to 3 p.m. Later, a meat raffle takes place between 3 and 6 p.m., offering yet another opportunity to engage with fellow attendees. As evening descends, classic rock enthusiasts can revel in the sounds of Broken Arrow from Green Bay, who perform from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Amberg Pub following the day’s activities.

Raffle Bonanza Featuring Unforgettable Prizes

Beyond the thrill of the duck race lies an array of raffle prizes designed to captivate every participant. Approximately 35 baskets await lucky winners, filled with items ranging from an exclusive Airbnb stay nestled in Athelstane, Wisconsin, to a coveted signed Green Bay Packers football. These offerings underscore the committee's dedication to creating memorable experiences for all involved.Rounding out the entertainment options, numerous vendors set up shop to offer unique goods and services. Children can delight in face painting and frolic in bounce houses, making the event a true family affair. Such elements ensure there is something for everyone, fostering an inclusive atmosphere where laughter and joy abound.

Community Enrichment Through Volunteer Efforts

Established in September 2023, the Parks and Recreation Committee comprises entirely volunteer members committed to enhancing Amberg and its surrounding areas. Their vision extends beyond mere maintenance, aiming instead to elevate the town's amenities. Proceeds from Ducky Day will primarily fund the installation of a permanent restroom facility at the ball field, complemented by potential plans for a playground addition.The ball field itself stands as a testament to community effort, having been developed around four decades ago by dedicated volunteers. It currently features a concession area and expansive pavilion, serving as a cornerstone for local gatherings. By maintaining and improving this vital space, the committee seeks to preserve its legacy while meeting contemporary needs.Volunteer participation remains crucial to the event's success. Whether assisting with setup, managing raffles, or overseeing the duck race, every contribution plays a pivotal role. Last year's edition faced inclement weather yet managed to draw substantial attendance, proving that enthusiasm transcends temporary setbacks. With hopes high for another successful outing, organizers anticipate a "quacktastic" experience that resonates deeply with all who attend.
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Food Insecurity in NYC: The Struggle of Nonprofits Amid Rising Demand

In New York City, food insecurity continues to be a significant issue as the demand for food assistance programs has surged since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizations such as the West Side Campaign Against Hunger (WSCAH) and Cathedral Community Cares (CCC) have reported unprecedented increases in the number of people seeking help. Despite these rising needs, funding for these vital services has not grown proportionally, creating challenges for their sustainability. Greg Silverman, CEO of WSCAH, highlights that 2024 was the organization's busiest year on record, while Vanessa Greco from CCC notes similar trends with increased service requirements compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Since the peak of the pandemic, the Upper West Side’s food pantries and meal distribution programs have seen a dramatic rise in new individuals requiring assistance. According to Greg Silverman, the CEO of WSCAH, the nonprofit is now serving nearly three times more families at its largest distribution site than it did in 2019. This trend is mirrored by CCC, where outreach coordinator Vanessa Greco reports serving approximately three times as many people on a typical Sunday compared to before the pandemic. A key factor driving this increase is the influx of immigrants into New York City over recent years, even though many do not reside on the Upper West Side. Instead, they travel from various boroughs to access these essential services.

The growing demand for food assistance is placing immense pressure on the financial resources of these organizations. Funding for these crucial programs has struggled to keep up with the heightened need. CCC primarily relies on federal and state grants provided by United Way and City Harvest, yet these funds often fall short of covering all operational necessities. To bridge the gap, the program turns to in-kind donations, including surplus food from local businesses and non-perishable items from the Food Bank for New York City. However, donated food only accounts for a portion of what is required annually, emphasizing the critical role of government support in sustaining large-scale food distribution initiatives.

Potential budget cuts to SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, proposed by the Trump administration could further exacerbate the situation. SNAP benefits are utilized by roughly one in eight Americans, making them an essential lifeline for low-income households. Restricting these benefits could lead to reduced spending in local grocery stores, bodegas, and food stands, impacting local economies negatively. Moreover, decisions regarding New York City's budget also significantly affect community food programs. Although Mayor Adams recently announced that funding for the Community Food Connection will remain steady at around $60 million per year until fiscal year 2026, advocates like Silverman argue that an increase to $100 million is necessary to adequately address the current crisis.

Facing mounting pressures, both WSCAH and CCC continue to advocate for greater governmental support to meet the escalating demands placed upon their services. As Silverman poignantly stated, a budget reflects societal priorities, and the current lack of focus on addressing hunger within governmental policies remains a disheartening reality. The ongoing struggle underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to ensure no individual goes hungry in one of the world's most affluent cities.

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