The Tampa chapter of the American Culinary Federation (ACF) held their first annual Scholarship Fund-Raising Dinner on Sunday, October 1, 2017, at the Westin Hotel on Rocky Point. Patrons, of the $100 per plate event, dined on over ten courses of menu items such as Tequila poached shrimp with Lime Crema and pineapple grits, charcuterie plate of Cutello, Coppa, Salami Felino, Danish Blue Cheese, cranberries, apricots and petit toast all proceeded by a finish of Spiced Almond Cake with a White Chocolate and Pumpkin Mousse with a Cranberry Gelee, Meringue Kisses, Vanilla Bean Cremeux with a Cinnamon Apple Macaroon and Nutella Cream filled Beignet.
Chapter President Rene Marquis, CEC, CCE, CCA, AAC honored host Chef, Josh
Van Hine with a full membership to the Tampa Chapter of the ACF. Jim Bodkin of Zonin Wines USA was honored with the Presidential Coin for Excellence for his continued support of the chapters’ charitable community activities. On the achievement of this fund-raising event Chef Marquis said, “The success of this inaugural scholarship dinner to raise funds for young culinarians will insure a place for aspiring students to follow their passion for the hospitality industry”!
Applause from guests was in reply to the announcement that the events success will result in bi-annual scholarship dinners moving forward to raise funds for Tampa area culinary students’ scholarships. Culinary students from both Armwood and Bloomingdale High Schools participated in preparation and guest service demonstrating the desire and passion for their chosen career path.
About the ACF Tampa Bay Chapter:
Information about the Tampa Chapter of the American Culinary Federation may be found at their website, http://acftampabay.com/.
About the American Culinary Federation:
Information about the American Culinary Federation may be found at their website, http://www.acfchefs.org/.
Scholarship Dinner Contact:
Tim Nicholson, Membership Chairman