Cooking With Ruth Celebrates 100 Episodes on MCTV

MCTV Community Producer Celebrates Milestone 

Ruth & Gary Elderbrook have always had a passion for helping others, and this passion is on display twice monthly on the Marshfield Community Television (MCTV) program “Cooking with Ruth (& Gary)”.

After Ruth’s home catering business was featured on an MCTV episode of “Business Profile” in April 2013, the couple’s friend and program host Mike Warren encouraged Ruth to consider producing a regular cooking show.

MCTV provides a unique opportunity for members of the community to produce their own programs, and this seemed to Warren like a fun way to share recipes and encourage people to give cooking a try.

“I thought at the time that people would appreciate the cooking help,” said Warren. “I remember thinking what a great resource it would be for people to watch something real quick and get new ideas from somebody who has all these recipes. Couple that with her great personality and it was perfect.”

Never having had television experience, Ruth was nervous but willing to give it a try. Soon after, Gary began joining her on-air. Nearly four years and dozens of recipes later, the Elderbrooks’ show is one of MCTV’s most popular programs ever, and has an avid online following through YouTube.

“We both love what we’re doing with our Slice of Heaven business and with the cooking show, it gives us the opportunity to try and then share new recipes,” said Ruth. “I also enjoy being able to share stories of our family and friends and incorporating them into the show that relates to the recipe we are making.”

Ruth and Gary have enjoyed sharing their love of cooking with the community and 

With Soup Or Socks coordinator, Cheryl Hartl on episode 76.
With Soup Or Socks coordinator, Cheryl Hartl on episode 76.

especially being able to help nonprofits while doing the program. Various episodes throughout the years have included making soup for Soup Or Socks’ “Empty Bowls” fundraiser, dog treats for Marshfield Area Pet Shelter rescues, and cupcakes for Personal Development Center’s annual “Sheltering Hearts” benefit, among others.

“I have always believed in giving to worthy causes and especially to those who are so in need of life’s simple necessities,” Ruth said. “As a couple, we have experienced loss of jobs many times, but we were always blessed with being able to pick ourselves up and move on to the next opportunity in a new city.”

While continually involved in their own community, the couple also enjoy incorporating personal stories into the program- sharing family anniversaries, trip recaps, and milestones. Both have also enjoyed hosting a plethora of special guests, helping to showcase even more facets of the community.

“Being a community producer of this cooking show has given us many opportunities to host special guests on our show. They can put a plug in for their particular upcoming fundraiser and talk about the needs of the community and the group they are serving, whether it be for the homeless and hungry or for pets that need a good home.  This is a different outlet for us in which we can continue to participate and give to those in need,” said Ruth. “I would definitely encourage other members of the Marshfield community to be involved in MCTV if it works for their situation.”

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Filming episode 100 with special guest Mike Warren.

Earlier this month, the couple filmed their milestone 100th episode. Featuring two healthy appetizers perfect for a football party (Skinny Peanut Butter Dip and Detox Chocolate Bites), the program also featured a surprise appearance from Warren and an interview segment reflecting on their years on the small screen.

“It has been really special for me to see someone at the grocery store, church, or a restaurant who comes up to me and calls me by name. On occasion I’ve asked the person, ‘How do you know me?’ and he/she responds, ‘I watch you on TV and I love your cooking show!’” said Ruth.

“I can’t believe I started this program almost 4 years ago! I look forward to the next 100 episodes!  We continue to explore new recipes and ideas for our viewers.”

Ruth and Gary’s goal is to incorporate more heart-healthy recipes this year, as well as to continue promoting the community, teaching people to cook, and making memories (and hilarious outtakes).

“I hope people continue to watch the show and encourage others to watch, as there might be just the right recipe they are looking for,” said Ruth. “I want to say thank you for supporting MCTV and for watching ‘Cooking with Ruth (and Gary)’!  Until next time…Happy Cooking!”

Watch Episode 100 here:

Contact MCTV to learn how you can become a Community Producer!