Last week the National Capital Area Chapter of The American Institute of Wine & Food, and the National AIWF lost a very good friend – LaVerne Yost. As a local member, LaVerne had been an active part of our program committee. She served on our local chapter board and had been an honorary board member. LaVerne was an ardent supporter of our local chapter and the national board; a presence at our Rare Wine and Lifestyle Auctions and successful bidder for some wonderful auction lots. But she was so much more than that to all of us in the chapter – she brought spirit and enthusiasm to our membership meetings. Her commanding presence at the microphone could raise the bid on any item, and the wonderful gift baskets containing the fruits of her garden were the best and most coveted of our raffle prizes. LaVerne was always there for us as a group and as individuals, and a fervent supporter of our chefs. She will be missed by all of us in AIWF