Some Southern Comfort

Paul Vanderpool flew home this weekend. His family will reunite in a small community not far from New Orleans. Theirs is a somewhat happier tale compare to those that lived in the Big Easy. While they may have suffered property damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, they're taking stock in what they were able to hang onto; each other. Dad called the family home for a group hug.

Paul Vanderpool is the chef and kitchen manager at Don Cherry's Restaurant on Rideau Street. He works for a wonderful friend of mine, Dan Cowley. Much like other businesses, Dan couldn't stand around and do nothing to help the relief effort in Louisiana and Mississippi, especially with Paul being a native of the region. So they put their heads together.

Paul is doing what he does best. He creates in the kitchen. So, for the next couple of weeks, he has prepared a mini cajun menu at Don Cherry's and, with the help of their suppliers, proceeds from the sales of those cajun specials will be delivered to the Red Cross.

Creole mussels, Po Boy burgers, Laffayette Ribs and swamp salad. Putting a southern flavour to a northern effort.

Drop in at 290 Rideau (crnr King Edward) and tell 'em Woody says hi.