A couple of years ago "The Mountaineer" interviewed a new cook at the Senior Citizens Center. Her name was Crystal Geyer. When we did that interview we concluded that Crystal had been a wise choice as a cook. Her love of people, her getting along with staff and her love for cooking and food made her a natural in any kitchen.
Unfortunately for the Senior Citizens Center Crystal took a job as an aide at the elementary school and her expertise was lost to Big Sandy seniors for a year. That was a year in which Karma Hale ran the Center, taking over from Linda Rutledge.
Karma got another job and the last day of July was her last day. A wise Senior Citizens Board talked Crystal into coming back to the Center and being a cook and heading up the kitchen and doing menu planning with her staff. Crystal took over in a seamless transition the first of August.
Crystal says that what she does that is good, it because of her staff. The three cooks work hard to put out a quality product five times each week.
They are besides Crystal, Kandi Marino and Donna Jenkins. Crystal says that while they usually have another cook, they have enough fill in cooks that they will do just fine.
Meanwhile Karma Hale, who has a new job, will still be doing book work and the payroll for the Senior Citizen's Center.
"I am glad to be back and cooking," said Crystal. "It is good to be here and to work with Kandi and Donna. They help me a lot. They even help out with the paper work. I couldn't get along without them."
When asked how they
come up with a monthly menu, Crystal said they all sit down for an afternoon and barnstorm for ideas. They are looking for a rotation of sorts and are always looking for something that they have not had for a time.
"I want to encourage anyone who has a recipe they want us to try, to bring it in," said Crystal. "That is how we get some of our very best lunches."
So, what would one thing was the most popular menu at the Senior Citizen's Center?
Crystal didn't bat an eye, "It is Kandi's meatloaf. It without a doubt the favorite of the lunch crowd.
Second, related Crystal is chicken fried steak. It is a happy day whenever that old standby is served.
The lunch bunch at the Senior Citizens Center was very glad to see Crystal come back too. Several have asked her, "How was your vacation and it is good you are back."
It is good Crystal is back. In addition to a husband, kids and lots of other things to do, Crystal makes cooking at the Senior Citizens Center look good and taste even better!
