Dear Chefs and Culinarians,

A new year and a new decade have arrived. May all of your goals be met and expectations come to realization.

As we look back at 2009 I see how far we have come in San Diego and bringing the ACF CCSD to the spotlight of the community. With all of our achievements we should be very proud and keep the momentum going. See below of our year in review.

It’s hard to focus my attention on our successes as there were some low points as well which need to be not forgotten. The passing of Chef Mial Parker left a void for many chefs and culinarians here in San Diego. Chef Parker was an inspiration to all those he taught, mentored and judged. Over the past 6 years I worked with Mial on several occasions and it was his passion for our craft that I so admired. He will be sorely missed and we must not forget his contributions to our chapter and San Diego. Toques off to Chef Mial!

As you read on, you will see that Chef Dean Thomas has resigned his post as Vice President. I find it hard to put in words what Chef Dean means to me and the chapter. He is a visionary and a true professional on all levels. He has left an indelible mark on this chapter that should never be forgotten. I would like to take this moment and thank him for all he has done for me, both personally and professionally. He has made me a better person, a better chef and there isn’t a price I could put on that.

Changing gears to other chapter news, Chef Brandon Parry is in the preparation for his challenge for the ACF National Chef of the Year. Chef Parry will first have to compete at the regional convention in Albuquerque, NM early next month. With a win he will advance to the National Convention in Anaheim, CA in early August. We wish you all the best!

Certification Lead Evaluators were recently announced by the ACF Certification committee and I am proud to announce their selections: Chef Urs Emmenegger, Chef Mark Blaauboer, Chef Brandon Parry, Chef Robert Reid, Chef Dean Thomas and myself. With these appointments we can now train other certified chefs that are in the process of becoming an ACE. Congratulations to all!

If you are a CEC, CEPC or CCA and are interested in becoming an ACE, please contact me or Chef Ed Glebus to set up a time to shadow.

Our next meeting will be at Viejas Casino, with host Chef Gary Thompson. This will be a first for us to visit Viejas and I’m sure Chef Gary and his staff will be showing off their great facility.

With Culinary Wishes,
William Ramsey, CEC, CCA
Executive Chef, Casino Pauma