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Meet Gaby Gonzalez, a dedicated volunteer at the Riversdale House Museum, who has been a beacon of service and commitment. Gaby has been volunteering with the Department since 2022. After retiring in December 2021, Gaby was looking for ways to engage herself in the local community. After visiting an open house at Riversdale, she was inspired to get involved. Fast forward, Gaby has volunteered in a variety of roles at Riversdale such as a special event aide, garden aide, and kitchen guild assistant.
As a kitchen guild assistant, Gaby volunteers with other guild assistants to prepare meals, organize supplies, and ensure the kitchen runs smoothly. Kitchen guilds in the 19th century were vital in preparing food and open-hearth cooking. Open hearth cooking is a traditional method of preparing food over an open flame or coals in a fireplace, using tools like pots and pans to cook meals directly on the hearth or suspended above it. Twice a month, the kitchen at Riversdale is open to the public for demonstrations. Gaby has assisted with dozens of demonstrations, showing visitors how to cook historic recipes under an open hearth while bringing her passion for culinary arts and community service to the kitchen.
When asked what is the most rewarding part of volunteering, Gaby said, "It is always so much fun learning about the history and educating the community. The experience also is very rewarding for me personally and has allowed me to expand my knowledge on recipes and ways to grow fruits and vegetables."
One of Gaby's standout moments recently occurred during a kitchen guild demonstration. Another guild had made catfish stew and tasked Gaby to make the side dishes. With limited ingredients, Gaby was unsure of what was possible. However, something clicked and lead to a full gazpacho dish. Gaby not only showcased her culinary expertise but also her incredible ability to think like a kitchen guild and make something out of nothing. The event was a resounding success, with numerous attendees praising the quality and variety of the food.
When not in the kitchen cooking, Gaby enjoys participating in Department exercise offerings for seniors. Gaby says that the Department of Parks and Recreation's offerings are "excellent for seniors" and allow them to stay active.
We are incredibly grateful for Gaby's dedicated service and the positive impact. Thank you, Gaby, for all you do!
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