In 1996, Assistance League^® of the Bay Area embarked on a culinary journey, culminating in the publication of their inaugural cookbook, Settings on the Dock of the Bay. Over three years, a dedicated team gathered, refined, and perfected various recipes through community luncheons and dinner parties, ultimately curating a selection that captured the region’s essence.

Settings on the Dock of the Bay is a testament to the area’s rich cultural tapestry, featuring an array of recipes that span the bountiful Gulf Coast. The cookbook’s success led to three printings and the honor of being named the 2000 Southwest Regional Winner of the Tabasco Community Cookbook Award, recognizing its contribution to the community’s gourmet heritage.

The cookbook showcased delicious foods and fabulous wine pairings, giving tiny glimpses into the region’s rich history. At one time, Karankawa Indians wandered the shores of Clear and Mud Lakes; the pirate Jean Lafitte buried treasure along the Gulf Coast; and one of the pioneers of rice farming, H. Kobayashi, left Japan to settle in Webster.

Professional photographer and member Pam Culpepper perfectly captured the essence of picturesque Kemah, historically charming Seabrook, and the sophisticated yachting center of League City.

Four chapter presidents were at the helm during this time of planning, preparing, producing, and publicizing: Sharon Dillard, 1996-1997; Linda Byrd, 1997-1998; Melba Heselmeyer, 1998-1999; and Sarah Sawin, 1999-2000. Barbara Rosenthal served as chairman when the cookbook premiered in 1999.

This cookbook was featured on local and national television, available for purchase from the Galleria to Galveston, and provided funds for the chapter’s philanthropic programs.

“After two years of collecting and testing recipes, the #poundsforglory process was over. Settings on the Dock of the Bay became a reality.” Sharon Dillard, 1996-1997 President

“Sharon Dillard, Barbara Rosenthal, and I canvassed Galveston to set up retail accounts before the holidays. The Emporium on the Strand, after some negotiation and seeing the effects of humidity on my makeup and hair, agreed to take 24 books, with the typical order being six. It was a great partnership for our chapter and the cookbook for quite some time!” Charlotte Teeter, 1992-1993 Auxiliary Chairman

Pictured are, left to right, Charlotte Teeter, Sue Holstein, Sharon Dillard, and Barbara Rosenthal.