A Shabby Chic Culinary Adventure

Looking for a new beginning after losing her job due to an undiagnosed debilitating illness, Alice “Duchess” Shapiro came to South Florida from New York. This leap of faith took her on a four year odyssey that resulted in experiences she never would have imagined. The journey would see Duchess living in homeless shelters, researching the history of South Florida’s cuisine and becoming a published author. 

Referred to as a “most daring cookbook” on Amazon.com, A South Florida Culinary Adventure was inspired by Duchess’ love of food and her unique experience with institutional menus at homeless shelters. As Duchess struggled to become established in South Florida she said she had a “strong need to maintain a sense of place in my new environment while elevating the mundane act of eating to a special and higher level.”

Upon arriving in South Florida, Duchess was quickly confronted with the difficulties of finding employment. At 56, after a few false starts, Duchess found she was unable to pay her rent and became homeless. She spent time in several of Broward County’s homeless shelters before being referred to the Broward County Central Homeless Assistance Center (Center) operated by Broward Partnership for the Homeless, Inc. (BPHI).  Known for their innovative program to help the homeless rebuild their lives, here Duchess found the assistance she needed to get back on her feet.

Shortly after Duchess entered the Center, BPHI opened Inverrary Station, a 62-bed transitional housing facility for the elderly who are disabled. Duchess became one of Inverrary Station’s first residents. As appreciative as she was for the safe and secure housing and the caring staff, Duchess soon found herself wishing to choose her own menu. To accomplish this, Duchess secured permission from the staff to begin conducting food classes for the other residents. With a borrowed microwave, and assistance from Inverrary Station Activities Director Marie Arenciaba, Duchess began teaching cooking classes at Inverrary . . . while she enjoyed some of her favorite recipes, including  fudge and pizza.

Duchess has fond memories of her time at Inverrary Station. The home like environment was an enjoyable difference from the institutional settings in which she had previously lived, and more conducive for the elderly population. The compassionate staff created a loving family atmosphere that was comforting.  The staff also gave Duchess the assistance she needed to secure her disability check. Once her disability was received, Duchess was able to move to Georgia to be reunited with her family.

An interesting book review, by Carl J. Santoro on Amazon.com, states the book is “reminiscent of the likes of a Ken Kesey magical bus trip, only without the psychotropic drugs. Ms.Shapiro's mind was instead absorbed in seeking out the next celebration of South Florida food and its historic cultural story. I found this slim, little journal to be a fun exploration of the limitless possibilities one can experience if only you really just look around you. ‘The saladettes in the wrapper bowl was born because I had to eat out at the local Publix supermarket.’, says Shapiro, see page 27.

This collection of historic fun facts and recipes (uncovered by Ms. Shapiro's relentless research and hands-on experiences) is destined to be a classic as it is a delightful breath of fresh air and combines tales of her research travels and the recipes she "un-earthed". It will inspire you to not just look at South Florida, but to also seek out its delicious smells in some of the most interesting and unique places.” “A South Florida Culinary Adventure” is available at Barnes & Noble  on Amazon.com,  or directly from the publisher at www.eloquentbooks.com/ASouthFlorida CulinaryAdventure.html.

Today, Duchess lives in her own apartment and is enjoying her time in the spotlight as a published author and looking forward to publishing a book of her poems.