Hello and happy summer to the members of the ACF-NCCA and to the non-members who we would like to bring into the chapter.
Thank you for taking the time to read this brief overview of the American Culinary Federation’s National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan. First, let me congratulate Deniz Orhun, our chapter secretary, on winning a National Cutting-Edge Award and Will Rogers, our longtime chapter treasurer, for winning the Northeast Region’s L.J. Minor Chef Professionalism Award. Both are well-deserved and worthy of recognition. I also want to thank Christopher Britton, former president of the NCCA, for attending with the rest of the Nestlé Professional Solutions team.
Transcribing from my notes at the Board of Governors meeting, I am going to give you my opinion on the state of the ACF. President Rene Marquis CEC, CCE, CCA, AAC stated during his remarks that the military partnership including competitions was strong. In addition to the other competitions being held, there was a first time Senior Living competition, and there are thoughts of adding a catering Chef’s competition in the future. As of August 1st, certified schools will receive certification, and Rene introduced Greg Blose as the new head of chapter engagement and membership.
As for the financials, the words “mismanagement” and “embezzlement” were both used without specific attribution. No one asked any specific questions on these past allegations, and the theme seemed to be to move forward. The 2023 audit showed a net deficit, while the 2024 audit showed a surplus. The 2025 audit is due out on November 30th at 1900 hours. Net asset growth (I believe over the 2023–2024-time frame) shows a 40% increase, and Chef Kyle says things are getting better.
Nominations for national offices need to be fully completed and free of errors by December 1st of this year. The president of the Greater Baltimore Chapter, Lisa Tomecek, is running for Northeast Region Vice President. This will now be a 4-year term, and we wish her luck on her candidacy.
Will reach out to Chef Mark Wright, who in his statement said that having solid bylaws is a critical foundation in chapter stability, in help with updating our bylaws and anyone interested in helping out with this task is invited to contact Deniz.
Finally, and not surprisingly, both the National team and the Youth National team need money.
There is more for a later message, please get out and golf at Crofton on July the 20th, and reach out if you can help the chapter, have any ideas for events or event locations, or need assistance,
Best, and thank you again,
Steve Ryder
