Al Roker and Daughter Courtney Roker Laga Bring Family Stories and “Recipes to Live By” to Wilmington Public Library
October 29, 2024
Al Roker and Daughter Share Family Culinary Traditions and Stories in Wilmington
By SAQUAN STIMPSON
Wilmington, Delaware – October 25, 2024 – American weather presenter, journalist, and television personality Al Roker, along with his daughter, chef Courtney Roker Laga, made an appearance at the Wilmington Public Library’s Fall Speaker Series this past Friday. The event, titled “Recipes to Live By,” is part of the library’s ongoing series that highlights authors and public figures with inspiring stories to share.
Roker and Courtney, who co-authored the cookbook Recipes to Live By, took the stage for a lively conversation moderated by Justin Womack. The father-daughter duo discussed the challenge of preserving family recipes and the rewarding experience of recreating dishes from loved ones who are no longer with them. Al shared humorous and touching anecdotes, including a story about his grandmother’s dedication to her coal-fired stove, which she continued to use until the late 1970s. Roker described how his father, Albert Lincoln Roker, Sr., surprised his grandmother with a remodeled kitchen while she was away on vacation. Unhappy with the upgrade, she changed both her phone number and locks. “I’m sure some of us can relate,” Roker quipped, eliciting laughs from the audience.
American weather presenter, journalist, television personality, and author AL ROKER response to a question while participating in a compelling conversation, called “recipes to live by.” Friday, October. 25, 2024; at the Wilmington Public Library in Wilmington, Delaware. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Following the conversation, Roker and Courtney answered questions and signed copies of Recipes to Live By for attendees. Wilmington’s Oath 84, a local restaurant near the library, offered a sampling of dishes from the cookbook, giving attendees a literal taste of the Roker family’s culinary heritage.
Recipes to Live By
About Recipes to Live By
Roker’s cookbook, co-authored with Courtney Roker Laga, features over 100 recipes for every occasion and skill level. It includes beloved dishes like roast chicken, French toast, shakshouka, and crab cakes, as well as a selection of desserts and cocktails. The book is rich with family photos and personal stories, offering readers both culinary guidance and a glimpse into the Roker family’s history.
Future Events at Wilmington Public Library
The Wilmington Public Library’s Fall Speaker Series will continue with more noteworthy events in the coming weeks:
• A Conversation with Marla Gibbs – Wednesday, November 13, 2024Marla Gibbs, known for her iconic role as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons and Mary Jenkins on 227, will take the stage for an intimate discussion of her career, which spans seven decades. Gibbs has garnered five Primetime Emmy nominations and seven NAACP Image Awards for her work. Her conversation promises to be a memorable experience for fans of classic television and admirers of her versatile talent.
• Growing Up Urkel with Jaleel White – Sunday, November 17, 2024 Fans of 90s television are in for a treat as actor Jaleel White, beloved for his role as Steve Urkel on Family Matters, will share stories from his life and career. The event begins at noon with a brunch, followed by a conversation with White about his journey in entertainment. Following the discussion, attendees can meet White and take selfies. Each ticket includes brunch, a signed copy of White’s upcoming memoir Growing Up Urkel, which will be available for pick-up on its release date, November 19.
About the Authors
Al Roker, a celebrated co-host on NBC’s Today Show, is known for his warmth and wit, while his daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, is a professional chef with experience in Michelin-starred restaurants. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and family stories to Recipes to Live By, making it both a practical and deeply personal cookbook.
Availability
Recipes to Live By is available for purchase at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Bookshop, Target, and Walmart, following its October 15, 2024, release.
The Wilmington Public Library’s speaker series continues to attract diverse and celebrated personalities, providing enriching experiences for the community that celebrate heritage, career achievements, and shared traditions.