“Ooh, it’s so good!!” For years, viewers of WJFW in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, eagerly awaited the quick and easy recipes of Mr. Food. Art Ginsburg, the man behind the apron, brought a touch of culinary magic to the Northwoods, making cooking feel less like a chore and more like a fun, accessible activity for everyone. His segments, broadcasted regularly on WJFW’s Channel Twelve Newswatch, were a daily dose of deliciousness and a testament to the power of simple, well-prepared food. This article aims to explore Mr. Food’s presence on WJFW-TV, his profound impact on local viewers, and his enduring legacy as a beloved culinary figure in the region. Mr. Food’s segments on WJFW provided viewers with accessible, delicious recipes, building a loyal following and solidifying his place as a beloved culinary figure in the Northwoods.
The Man Behind the Apron A Culinary Life
Before he became a household name synonymous with easy-to-prepare meals, Art Ginsburg led a different kind of life. Born in Millville, New Jersey, his initial career path led him away from the kitchen. He was involved in the printing business before his entrepreneurial spirit and innate understanding of what people wanted led him to the world of food. It wasn’t a formal culinary education that propelled him, but rather an inherent knack for creating flavorful dishes using readily available ingredients.
Ginsburg understood that the average home cook didn’t have the time or inclination to spend hours slaving over a complicated recipe. He recognized the need for recipes that were quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. This understanding became the cornerstone of his “Mr. Food” persona. He wasn’t a classically trained chef lecturing from a position of superiority; he was the friendly face next door, sharing simple and approachable recipes.
His personality, coupled with the catchy phrase “Ooh, it’s so good!!” became his trademark, instantly recognizable to millions of viewers across the nation. He was approachable, relatable, and genuinely enthusiastic about sharing his culinary creations. He fostered an environment in which cooking felt accessible, even for those who considered themselves culinary novices.
His recipes emphasized simplicity and flavor. He focused on using ingredients that were easily found in any supermarket and required minimal preparation time. His success stemmed from his ability to take familiar flavors and transform them into easy-to-make meals that the whole family would enjoy. He understood that busy people needed convenient options, and he delivered them with a smile and a memorable catchphrase. Mr. Food became a brand that people trusted, a symbol of quality, ease, and deliciousness.
Mr. Food’s Appeal A Recipe for Success
The allure of Mr. Food’s recipes wasn’t just about convenience; it was also about their inherent deliciousness. His creations weren’t about fancy techniques or exotic ingredients; they were about creating familiar comfort foods that resonated with a wide audience. He focused on crowd-pleasing flavors, dishes that evoked a sense of nostalgia and warmth. His recipes, often passed down through generations, became staples in countless households.
His recipes were simple, fast, and used readily available ingredients. He made cooking less intimidating. He championed the idea that anyone could cook, regardless of their skill level. He empowered viewers to experiment in the kitchen, to have fun with food, and to create delicious meals for themselves and their loved ones.
His format, presented in short segments, allowed viewers to quickly grasp the recipe and its preparation. He always presented the recipes in an easy and accessible manner, breaking down each step into simple, digestible instructions. This made even the most inexperienced cook feel confident enough to try out his recipes.
The “Mr. Food” brand resonated with audiences because it represented more than just recipes; it represented a way of life. It was about sharing meals with family and friends, creating memories around the dinner table, and celebrating the simple pleasures of life. He reminded viewers that cooking didn’t have to be a chore; it could be a source of joy, creativity, and connection.
Mr. Food on WJFW Making a Local Connection
For a significant period, Mr. Food graced the screens of WJFW viewers in Rhinelander and the surrounding areas. While pinpointing the precise start and end dates of his segments on the station might require delving into WJFW’s archives, recollections suggest that he was a regular fixture for several years. His segments typically aired during local news broadcasts, providing viewers with a quick culinary break amidst the day’s headlines.
The partnership between Mr. Food and WJFW likely stemmed from a mutual understanding of their target audience. WJFW served a predominantly rural population, many of whom appreciated the simplicity and practicality of Mr. Food’s recipes. The station recognized the value of offering its viewers content that was both informative and entertaining, and Mr. Food’s segments perfectly fit that bill. His content was family friendly and generally appealed to the demographic that watched WJFW.
A typical Mr. Food segment on WJFW was a concise presentation of a single recipe. The segments were designed to be short and sweet. He efficiently displayed the ingredients and the cooking process, making it easy for viewers to follow along. Recipes featured emphasized ease of preparation. Dips, appetizers, casseroles and desserts were all staples. His recipes are remembered for using ingredients like canned soup, mayonnaise, and pre-made pie crusts to speed up prep time.
Local residents fondly recall watching Mr. Food on WJFW, often sharing memories of specific recipes they tried and enjoyed. Some remember eagerly awaiting his segments each day, ready to jot down the ingredients and instructions for that evening’s dinner. Others recall his segments sparking their interest in cooking, inspiring them to experiment in the kitchen and try new things. WJFW likely received positive feedback from viewers regarding Mr. Food.
It is unknown if Mr. Food made special appearances in the WJFW viewing area but it is a possibility. If he did it would have generated a lot of excitement. That is a testament to his popularity and his brand.
It’s safe to assume that WJFW benefited from featuring Mr. Food on its broadcasts. The segments likely attracted a significant viewership, particularly among homemakers and those interested in cooking. His presence would have enhanced the station’s reputation for providing valuable and engaging content. The ratings impact and benefit to the station likely solidified the partnership.
A Lasting Legacy Recipe for Enduring Influence
Mr. Food’s influence on home cooking extends far beyond the borders of the Northwoods. He played a significant role in democratizing cooking, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their skill level or experience. He empowered viewers to believe that they could create delicious meals for themselves and their families, and he provided them with the tools and knowledge to do so. He was also great at marketing his brand.
His recipes have become culinary classics, passed down through generations and shared among friends and family. Many of his creations continue to be enjoyed today, adapted and reimagined by home cooks around the world. From simple appetizers to hearty main courses, his recipes remain relevant and delicious. He also encouraged new cooks to try their hand at creating in the kitchen. He inspired a generation of home cooks.
Beyond his recipes, Mr. Food’s legacy lies in his ability to connect with people on a personal level. He was more than just a television personality; he was a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration. He reminded us of the importance of sharing meals with loved ones, of celebrating the simple pleasures of life, and of finding joy in the act of cooking. This personal impact is why he is still remembered fondly.
His impact on WJFW and its viewers is undeniable. He brought a touch of culinary magic to the Northwoods, making cooking feel less like a chore and more like a fun, accessible activity. His segments provided viewers with valuable recipes, cooking tips, and a dose of daily inspiration.
The website MrFood.com is a continuing testament to his recipes and work. His legacy continues to grow and be shared online. His cookbooks also allow his recipes to be handed down for generations. His brand is still recognizable, and that represents a lasting legacy of food that is good and easy to cook.
A Culinary Icon Remembering Mr Food
Mr. Food’s significance as a culinary icon remains unwavering. His enduring impact on WJFW and its dedicated viewers is a testament to his ability to connect with people through simple, delicious food. He wasn’t just a chef; he was a friend who brought warmth and accessibility to the kitchen.
His contribution to WJFW was invaluable, providing viewers with not just recipes but also a sense of community and culinary confidence. He empowered individuals to embrace cooking, creating a ripple effect of shared meals and cherished memories. The friendly face of Mr. Food, coupled with his easy-to-follow recipes, will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those who tuned in to WJFW to watch him.
So, what’s your favorite Mr. Food recipe or memory? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us celebrate the enduring legacy of this culinary icon. After all, “Ooh, it’s so good!!” is a phrase that resonates with us all, reminding us of the joy and satisfaction that comes from sharing a delicious meal with the people we love.
