The Tampa chapter of the American Culinary Federation, in coordination with the World Association of Chef’s Societies (World Chefs), recently celebrated International Chef’s Day with a week-long program of events from October 15 through the 20th. Chef’s from the Tampa chapter set a goal to reach out to at least 2,000 which they surpassed by including over 7,000 elementary students in their program. Tampa ACF Chefs were supported by the 60+ Certified Culinarians within the Hillsborough School District along with Nestle Professional to create greater accessibility for the students.
The goal of the event was to educate school children to healthy eating habits through cooking demonstrations and tasting many fruits and vegetables the students had not previously eaten to create awareness of the variety of healthy food choices. Tampa Chefs Ray Benton and Vince Blancato participated through their weekly “Chef and Child” program with elementary school children in the Pasco and Pinellas County area through their ongoing program.
Chef Vanessa Marquis CEC, of the Tampa chapter and VP of the World Chefs International Chefs Day program, is credited with coordinating the local week-long educational programs for the student attendees and participants. Chef Marquis stated, “We look forward to pushing the goal again next year and encourage participation by other U.S. ACF chapters though our local example.”
About the ACF Tampa Bay Chapter:
Our chapter’s purpose is the advancement of the culinary profession and culinary awareness through education and certification of the membership and close interaction with other local organizations. The chapter membership is composed of chefs, cooks, culinary educators, students, and purveyors from Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas Counties and the surrounding metro area. Our chapter supports education of local area students seeking careers in the hospitality industry through our charitable and scholarship events.
About the American Culinary Federation:
The American Culinary Federation, Inc. is a professional, not-for-profit organization for chefs and cooks. It was founded in 1929 in New York City by three Chefs organizations: the Societe Culinaire Philanthropique, the Vatel Club and the Chefs Association of America. The principle goal of the founding chefs remains true to the ACF today – to promote the professional image of American chefs worldwide through education among culinarians at all levels, from apprentices to the most accomplished Certified Master Chefs. Successful culinarians know the value of belonging to the oldest and largest organization of chefs and cooks in the United States.
Contact for Information:
Tampa Chapter American Culinary Federation
Chapter Contact:
Tim Nicholson, Membership Chairman