Meeting Minutes from March 2020

Hello Chefs, Students and Friends,

I would like to begin by thanking the students and chefs of KCK Community College for hosting our March meeting. They orchestrated a delicious dinner filled with a variety of student-ran action stations which attendees throughly enjoyed. I would also like to thank our sponsors for this event: The Roasterie Coffee Company, US Foods and Grand River Mushrooms. We truly appreciated the food and samples these companies graciously provided for us for this event.

Much has changed in our world since our last meeting. The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc upon our daily lives and has even brought some of our employers to a screeching halt. The past 2 months have had us all riding a roller coaster of information and ever-changing daily protocols. As hospitality industry professionals, we are always busy and on the hunt for the next adrenaline rush. We often overcommit ourselves and set our timelines so tight we forgot how to breathe and relax. As we navigate uncertain terrain, please remember to take a break breath and be in the moment with the ones you love. For most of us, we often miss important family events due to our profession, so it is vital to cherish this down time and make the most of it.

Unforntunately, I have made the executive decision to cancel our June ACF meeting. This decision I did not take lightly, but I want to ensure the safety of our members. We all need to remain safe and healthy. We are all fighters and survivors alike, with a tidal wave of work ethic and years of experience. We may suffer and realize tremendous hardships, but we will survive!

In ending this letter to you, my final request is that each and everyone of you reach out to the the youth, the elderly,the handicapped,your neighbors,your distant friends and family members. Make the call and get a conversation going – genuine kindness and a willingness to listen goes far. This time will pass, and we don’t want to hold any regrets of what we should have doing.

Jesse Vega Sr, KC ACF Chapter President

Meeting Minutes from February 2020

Hello Chefs, Students and membership spring has finallly sprung and not a moment to soon.  Just a quick reminder that we have a KC ACF Meeting this Tuesday night at Kansas City Kansas Community College.
Timeline:
5:30 TO 6:45 Board of Directors Meeting
7:00 to 7:20 PM Educational Demo
Chef Justin and Competiton Team
Techniques of Plating
7:30 – 9PM
Pledge of Allegiance
Dinner – Meeting Agenda – Association updates
Vedor Presentors:
Kurzweils Country Meats
Grand River Mushrooms
US Foods – Sweet Street Desserts
February Meeting Recap:
A big thank you to Chef Amber DiGiovanni and her team.
What a great Italian spread of brushetta, lasagna, meatballs chicken parmesan also an excellent dessert selection and a very energetic bartender!
Educational:
We were also treated to an excellent Sous Vide demonstration with a sampling of sous vide cheesecake.
New KC ACF Member Chef Mikey starting a rousing discussion about the newly instituded laws on the west coast that allow culinarians to open a restaurant out of your home. michael@chefmikey.org or acfchefsvoice.org
The meeting was well attended and the banquet facility at the Historic Uptown Theatre was top notch. Chef Ambers private backstage tour was the highlight of my evening!
Exciting News!
We are in the beginning stages of working with a local Internet Company called Aware 3 they are developing for us a cell phone Application that will provide you with all the information you need to attend, participate, donate and volunteer for any of our monthly or annual events. Our goal is to bridge the gap between Chefs, Students, Culinary Schools, Associate Members and Foodies. With the targeted information and news this Application will provide we are hoping to grow our chapters membership, monthly meeting and event attendance. This is a big first step for our chapter as we all invest in the future of our organization and to better communicate with the many young chefs and students that make up a large portion of our association.
I look forward to seeing you all Tuesday Night!
Sincerely,
Jesse Vega
President Greater Kansas City ACF
Cell 816.359.1223

Meeting Minutes from January 2020

The January meeting was held at American Fusion Cafe and Chef Tito and his staff served us an incredible carved prime rib dinner. We had many sponsors for the event:C&C Produce, Prairie Fire Coffee, Martin Brothers Foodservice and Reinhart Food service. I want to thank everyone that packed the house that night for our 1st ice breaking meeting of 2020. I want to share some of the business highlights from the meeting:

  1. The KC ACF Board approved funds to get the Jess Barbosa Annual Scholarship Fund up and rolling
  2. Spencer Lutes, Ronna Keck and I – have booked all of the meeting locations for this year except for the month of November – please check our Facebook page or the kcchefs.org website for those locations.
  3. Chef Ed Adel and the Jr. US Culinary Team are flying out February 11th to Stuttgart Germany to the compete in the Culinary Olympics

We held our annual ACF Chefs Award Banquet on January 26th at the Grand Street Cafe Plaza we had a large crowd and a superb dinner prepared for us by Chef Aaron Cross Wells Morgan.Award recipients for the night were: • Apprentice of the Year – Eric Tiffany Blue Hills Country Club • Purveyor of the Year – R.L.Schreiber • Chef of the Year – Chef Tito de Dios – American Fusion • Culinarian of the Year – Nellie Ann McCool – Free Hot Soup • Presidents Reward – Chef David Smith CCC It was truly a great night and a special thank you to Grand Street Cafe Proprietors – Rick and Kristi Ghilardi!

I hope to see you all tomorrow night at the Uptown Theater! Thank you, Jesse Vega, KC ACF Chapter President

Meeting Minutes from November/December 2019

Hello KC ACF Members,

First off a belated thank you, to Chef Justin Hoffman, Chef Bob Brassard, Chef Steve Venne, Matt Ziegenhorn, students and vedors that supported the November KC ACF meeting at The Broadmoor Bistro/The Center for Academic Achievment. I can’t brag enough about this awesome program and their top notch facility. The event was executed seemlessly as the Front of the House and Heart of the House teamed up to make it a memorable night! We were treated to and excellent array of imported meats and cheeses, hot crispy pizzas right out of the brick oven and some frosty root beer floats. There were mutiple food stations set up throughout kitchen for sampling all being ran by Broadmoor students. What a great way to showcase their culinary arts and hospitality programs! What a perfect ending to 2019!

What an incredible January 2020 we find ourselves in! Yes the Kansas City Chiefs are just a week away from hosting the ACF Championship Game! The Chiefs season this year is a true testament to what hard work, teamwork and perseverance can achieve! Toques off to the Kansas City Chiefs!

New Business: In the next few days you will recieve a ballot for Chef of the Year and Associate Member/Purveyor of the Year. We are also going to attach a few by-law changes for membership approval. These ballots will be coming to your email address via Survey Monkey. If you prefer to vote over the phone please call or text me at 816.359.1223 and an election committee member will call you. The deadline to vote is Monday January 20th by midnight. The votes will be tallied and the award presentations will be made at the January 26th, KC ACF Awards banquet. This years banquet will be held at the Grand Street Cafe Plaza location. Tickets can be purchased online at kcchefs.org or if you would like to pay by check or cash call me directly to be accommodated.

We are still needing meeting locations for 2020 please contact Chef Ronna Keck at chefrk09@gmail.com or Spencer Lutes at spencer@abcutlery.com for hosting information and open availability.

Our next meeting is 7pm this Tuesday 1/14/2020 at American Fusion Cafe, 1621 Swift Street, North Kansas City MO 64116 – Chef Tito De Dios will be our host for the evening. Lets all show are support for the Kansas City Chiefs and wear RED for our kickoff meeting for 2020! See you all Tueday Night! Thank you, Jesse Vega Sr.

Meeting Minutes from October 8, 2019

Hello KC ACF Chefs and Members, It has been a busy year for the ACF nationally and locally. First off the October Chefs meeting at JCCC was outstanding the food the service the staff and students really did a great job! Go to our KC ACF Facebook page to see pictures of the event!

Youth Team USA is in Shanghai competing in the IYCC against 11 other International youth teams. Toques off and good luck Team Tiny! Follow the team on Instagram at teamtiny_2020.

Locally we had our 1st Annual Jess Barbosa Charity Golf Tournament at the Adam’s Pointe Golf Course! The event was outstanding! We had several gold Sponsors and a club house full of 4 person teams. Adam’s Pointe literally rolled out the astro turf for us and the weather was perfect! The golfers all left with a full belly and several prizes! We look forward to making next year’s tournament even bigger and better!

By Laws – changes we have a few pending and we will be asking the membership to review and vote on them soon.

Chef of the Year nominations are in and this year’s candidates are Chef Jim Tinkham CEC and Chef Tito de Dios good luck chefs! Associate Member of the Year candidates for 2019 are Martin Brothers Distributing, Reinhardt Foodservice and R.L. Schreiber, Inc. Look for the ballots via email and Survey Monkey soon.

JCCC recently hosted the John Joyce Culinary Competition, the winners will be announced at the November KC ACF Meeting.

Our November meeting is this Tuesday November 12th, at Broadmoor Technical Center aka Broadmoor Bistro, the food and fun begin at 7pm! The board and I look forward to seeing you all there!

Thank you,

Chef Jesse Vega

President KC ACF

Meeting Minutes from September 10, 2019

Hello everyone, it seems like the fall weather is quickly coming upon us along with the busiest time of the year for parties and events. I want to thank all of you that came out to Our Lady of Mercy County Home and attended our September meeting. The meeting was sponsored by Smithfield Culinary, Martin Brothers Food Service, R. L. Schreiber Spices, and Golden Boy Pies.

We are truly fortunate to have so many great purveyors in our market that support our monthly meetings, fundraisers and special events!

Lara Pilcher our KC ACF Media Manager, the board and I are always looking for ways to support our Associate Member and Purveyor community. Soon we will be adding links and contacts for all of our supporters on our web page.

Special thanks to Charlotte Peck who gave our members an informative presentation on Smithfield products and she shared some behind the scenes secrets of famous BBQ Pit Masters.

Martin Brothers my in-house food service supplier who also sponsored the Chefs Table and a booth at this years “Taste of Kansas City” multiple booths at the JCCC Chef Apprentice Showcase, the September ACF Meeting and a Gold Sponsor of the upcoming Jess Barbosa Charity Golf Tournament was nominated for Purveyor of the year!

R.L Schreiber who also this year sponsored Spices for “The Taste of Kansas City” and a booth at the JCCC Chef Apprentice Showcase, donated and promoted their products at the September meeting and also a Gold Sponsor of the Jess Barbosa Charity Golf Tournament was also nominated for Purveyor of the year!

We also received Chef of the Year nominations for Tito di Dios, Matt Livers and Jim Tinkham. We will ask for any additional nominations at our upcoming meeting this Tuesday at JCCC.

We will also be discuss the upcoming Jess Barbosa Charity Golf Tournament slated for October 14th, at Adams Point Golf Club in Blue Springs. The Golf Tournament is right around the corner currently we have several Gold Sponsors, but we still need a few more 4 person teams. Go to kcchefs.org for more information.

I look forward to seeing everyone this Tuesday night at JCCC College! Chef Ed Adel and Chef Jerry Marcellus have a great menu and an educational presentation planned for us!

Thank you,

Chef Jesse Vega, President Greater Kansas City Chef Association

Meeting Minutes from August 13, 2019

Hello Greater KC Chefs Association Membership,

Wow what a fast summer it seems to just have flown bye! I hope everyone was able to take some time off this summer and relax with your family and friends.

In June US Foods sponsored our monthly meeting and we had a great turnout for the Karen Putnam Summer-Time Grilling and Smoking Small Plate Competition! We had more competitors than ever and the membership filled the house. The small plates were all excellent, but the night belonged to Chef Clay Zellers and Z Best BBQ! The winning small plate was a deliciously smoked prime rib!

Christina Livers – Restaurant Operations Consultant for US Foods gave a very informative presentation on the growth of the carry out and the meal delivery segment of our industry. Although restaurants will continue to see double digit growth until 2030 we will also experience less diners eating in our establishments and 70% of our food being delivered out or carried out. This carry out Uber Eats, Grub Hub, meal delivery dining trend has been a boom on the west and east coast for several years and now its becoming a nation wide normal practice! If you have a brick and mortar food service operation reach out to your Industry sales consultants like Christina to see how your operation can take advantage of this incredible growth opportunity! Thank you, to the entire US Foods Team – Kathy Perkins, Christina Livers, Chef Michelle Quigley, Chef Russ Muehlberger, Chef Kealan O’Boyle and the many others that made our event a great success!

In July we had Family Day at “Worlds of Fun” we were treated to reduced priced tickets to the entire park. I think it was the hottest day of the year the sun was out in all its blistering glory! Several of us stayed cool at Oceans of Fun or riding the water rides at Worlds of Fun. For Dinner Chef Wesley Boston and his staff treated us to a sampling of their Grand Carnivale menu and concession items! The buffet was an awesome treat and a fitting end to a fun filled day. We had such a large group at meal time I counted at least 100 attendees! Thanks, to all of our friend at Worlds of Fun for making this event truly memorable!

In August – the board and I were back at US Foods putting a pencil too the by-laws that govern our association. We have made some changes and at a future meeting we will bring copies for members to review. Once the by-laws have been finalized we will vote to approve them at an upcoming monthly meeting.

I hope to see you all next week 9/10/19 here at Our Lady of Mercy Country Home, my staff and I are busy finalizing the menu. Smithfield Pork will be in house to present the educational portion of our meeting.

Thank you,

Jesse Vega

President, Greater Kansas City Chefs Association

Meeting Minutes from May 14, 2019

Hello KC ACF Members, What a great evening of food and fun he had at American Fusion. Chef Tito, Michon, and staff did a wonderful job! The nights menu featured green cow tacos, green cow empanadas, and soy ceviche. We also feasted on beans, rice, salsa rojo, pineapple salsa and many other tasty treats! A first for me, but we also tried some crispy, salty crickets – yes, that’s right, crickets – a delicacy in Mexico. It was truly a Latin-influenced menu!

Our friends from Reinhart Food Service sponsored the meal with the help of their brokers and manufacturer representatives. We tasted the new line of Unilever – Knorr “Intense Flavors Liquid Seasonings” If you have not yet tried these products, they are very bold in flavor with a very clean label of ingredients.

Acosta Brokerage let us try some of Carla’s Pasta – gluten free products and they were excellent. I am lucky to have good friends that work at Carla’s Pasta and there is not a pasta they make that isn’t delicious! The sweet finish for the night was Dianne’s Mini Cheesecakes and vanilla pudding garnished with yet another crispy cricket!

We were also delighted to see our friends from Adventures in Tea. They made infused bread pudding for the buffet as well as a sampling of a few of their flavored ice teas (my personal favorite was the rose petal ice tea). They have hip refreshing tea products – check out their web page at AdventureswithTea.com

Chef Terry Kopp brought several tamales from the Texas Tamale Company, which are sold in locally in the club stores, retailers or available to be ordered online at TEXASTAMALE.COM

American Fusion was packed the night of our meeting and what a great time we all had, BRAVO CHEF TITO and STAFF!

Chapter business updates

Barbosa Scholarship Fund: We are trying to raise additional funds for this initiative so we can make this an annual $500 scholarship given out to a local JCCC culinary student.

Karen Putman Memorial Competition: This Tuesday (6/11) is the small plates grilling and smoking competition at US FOODS! You don’t want to miss this meeting/event! Bring a bib and an appetite!

July Meeting: No meeting, a Worlds of Fun outing is scheduled. Details will be posted soon.

August Meeting: No meeting, enjoy your summer and vacation time! The board will convene at US Foods for a board meeting to review by-laws and any pending changes.

September Meeting: location to be determined. We will either be at Grand Street Café on the Plaza or at my venue, Our Lady of Mercy Country Home. Stay tuned!

October Meeting: We will meet at JCCC. November Meeting: We will meet at Broadmoor Bistro.

This has been fast paced year, so enjoy the July and August break. Please routinely check out our KC ACF Facebook page and our kcchefs.org website for KC ACF Chapter updates.

Thank you, Chef Jesse Vega Sr., KC ACF Chapter President

Meeting Minutes from April 9, 2019

The month started with some of us attending Chef Connect – the ACF Central Regional Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In attendance were Chefs Jim Tinkham, Mark Webster, Ronna Keck and myself. Both Chef Jim and Chef Mark were there to give their respective pitches as candidates for the Central Regional Vice-President, a position opening later this year. The fact that we have 2 well-seasoned ACF culinary veterans that have combined numerous accolades and still have the desire to serve our Federation is great!

If either of these deserving chefs should win the ACF Central Regional Vice-President position, their next likely step will be the ACF National President position – either win would be a first for our Kansas City Chapter!

Your chapter co-vice president and Hermann G. Rusch Chef’s Achievement Award nominee, Chef Ronna Keck, has also been gaining momentum for all the work she has been doing: promoting the ACFEF Chef and Child Initiative, the Annual “Flower of the Flames / Karen Putman Memorial Summer-Time Grilling and Smoking Small Plates Competition” coming up on June 11th at the US Foods ACF Meeting. She will also be heading up the Santa Fun Run again this December at JCCC. Chef Ronna Keck is an exemplary member of our association – any cause she champions has always been a winner!

Prior to every monthly meeting, we hold a board meeting with all committee members and current officers. We review old business and go over the agenda and general topics. These meetings often vary in attendance – typically a mix of chef members, student members, and Associate members, yet I strongly encourage all of you to attend. We are looking to strengthen our  Chapter’s infrastructure, and this can only be done through continuous outreach and membership involvement. It may very well be you or a student that leads our chapter into the future of our ever-changing industry! This is why the board meetings are from now on open to any member of our association.

April 9th: ACF Monthly Meeting at Sysco Kansas City:

At the April board meeting, my friend and former instructor Chef Patrick Sweeney came and spoke with us about the history of our Kansas City Chapter: how it started, the founding members, the first chef of the year, and the first apprentice of the year – along with so many others stories. We are just a few years from our Chapters 50th Anniversary and we are looking to gather any articles or pictures you may have that you might want to add to our archives. We are working on a committee to complete this project, but of course we would welcome any additional help. Please bring any articles or pictures to our monthly meetings and our social media guru, Laura Pilcher, will begin the cataloging and storage of these items for our 50th Anniversary bash.

When we arrived at the general meeting location, Team Sysco was on deck with a trendy buffet dinner and some delicious desserts. My favorite dishes were the potato and brisket casserole and the brussel sprout salad.  After dinner we were welcomed by the President of Sysco Kansas City, Joe Martinez. For the educational part of our meeting we were given a presentation on how to recruit and retain a workforce in today’s challenging environment. Unemployment is at an all time low, and a quick Google  search returned about 4000 local food service positions just waiting to be filled. As a veteran hiring manager, my eyes were opened to the following points made throughout the presentation:

1) What is your company’s culture? Is your definition different from your bosses or corporate office?

2) What benefits does your company offer and can you market them correctly to an applicant? Yes-we all have to be able to market our operations to potential employees.

3) What quality of life does your position offer? If the employees quality of life is compromised, then they had better be on and accelerated learning curve so the talents and techniques they are learning from you and your operation will pay off in their future!

4) What opportunities for advancement can a good employee expect? Can they move up locally or will they need to be domestically mobile?

5) Have answers – about medical benefits, 401k plans, paid time off, sick time, and holiday pay.

6) What benefits set you apart from the pack? Tuition assistance, free or reduced price meals, on premise child care, ect.

Hats off to the Sysco HR Manager, Chefs are always a tough crowd!

April 14th: KC ACF Chefs & JCCC Culinary Student Annual Benefit

This years event was held at the Marriott Overland Park Hotel.

Guests had the opportunity to taste delicacies from the following establishments:

Rye Leawood

Rye Plaza

Lidia’s

Overland Park Sheraton Hotel

Overland Park Marriott Hotel

Downtown Marriott Hotel

Westin Crown Center Hotel

Hallbrook Country Club

Shadow Glenn Country Club

The Carriage Club

Lake Quivira Country Club

Blue Hills Country Club

Tallgrass Creek Retirement Community

Meadows at John Knox Village

Courtyard Dining at John Knox Village

Our Lady of Mercy Country Home

Associate Members:

Kurzweil’s Country Meats

RL Schreiber

Martin Brothers Food Service

Mid America Gourmet

As I worked the room during the event, I received many gracious compliments from our guest and attendees. I want to thank all of the chefs, operators, students and food companies that sponsored booths and cooked up a storm during the event. I especially want to thank Chef Jerry Marcellus for orchestrating this event and ensuring the night ran smoothly, as well as the OP Marriott Hotel staff – who did a great job every step of the way.

Finally thanks to everyone that promoted, sold and bought tickets!  We are a family of friends and professionals bound together by the common cause to promote the education of culinary students at every level. Bravo, to the efforts of everyone who made this a memorable evening!

I will see you all next week Tuesday night May 14th, at Chef Tito’s AmericanFusion, 1621 Swift Street, North Kansas City, KC MO 64116

Thank you,

Chef Jesse Vega

KC ACF Chapter President 2019-2020

Meeting Minutes from March 12, 2019

Wow, what a great March meeting and turnout we had last month at Ibis Bakery!

We were treated like Kansas City royalty and Chef James fed us some of the best pizza I have ever tasted – it was fresh out of the oven! Chris Matsch, owner at Ibis Bakery, shared with us how they make some of their products and how they procure only the best raw local ingredients for Ibis, and how they help international communities in sourcing their coffee beans for Messenger.

Some on the sponsors for the evening were: Community 7, Connect to Farms, Northeast Mill and Heirloom Grain – all local! I enjoyed my experience at Ibis Bakery so much I now recommend it to all of my family and friends.

We were also treated to an awesome coffee cupping demonstration by Kaley Gann. A few days later, Kaley performed the same demonstration at the US National Brewers Cup and by no surprise she was crowned the US Brewers Cup Champion.

We will see you all tomorrow night at Sysco Kansas City

Meeting Minutes from January 8th & February 12th, 2019

Thank goodness the snow and ice has just about all melted away, this has been a brutal winter – lets hope the winter season is behind us! We are just two meetings into the new year and, wow, it has been incredibly exciting being your new chapter president!

The January 8th, meeting held at the Indian Hills Country Club and hosted by Chef Ryan Bennett was a great kick-off event. The culinary team at Indian Hills prepared and displayed for our members a delicious buffet. My personal favorites were the Campo Lindo Farms chicken noodle soup and the variety of sweet delicacies on the pastry table. Alan and Mary from Adventures with Tea gave us a sampling and some information on their tea products – they will be back at our May meeting with more Tea Adventures for us to try out. The food, the service, and the ambience of the Indian Hills Country Club made it a night to remember!

On February 12th, Chef Justin Spencer and his team at The Great Wolf Lodge hosted our February meeting. Since this was my first official board meeting to conduct, I was running a few minutes behind to the general meeting. When I walked into the banquet room I was thrilled to see over 100 attendees filling every seat in the house! The Great Wolf Lodge culinary team immediately fired up their live cooking action stations and the room was immediately filled with an array of exciting aromas. The chefs served up a delicious variety of small plates and desserts. Due to the large crowd, I had to eat dessert first so I hit up the Bananas Foster table, then I sampled some seared scallops and some excellent cheese and meats from the charcuterie table! Michelle Meyer from Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery gave us a fascinating presentation and some interesting history on Holy-Field. She also invited us out to the vineyard for the possibility of a future chefs meeting. The entire event at The Great Wolf Lodge was a huge success!

If you have not been on our Facebook page or the kcchefs.org website, the following individuals won chapter awards at the January 20th KC ACF Awards Banquet that was held at Blue Hills Country Club:

Apprentice of the year: Rebecca Shields from Pierpont’s Union Station Culinarian of the year: Stacey Tinkham Purveyor of the year: US Foods Presidents Award: Mike Chrostowski Chef of the year: Eddie Adel

Congratulations to all of the nominees and all of the award winners!

I hope to see all of you this Tuesday at Messenger Coffee – Ibis Bakery, located at 1624 Grand Boulevard, KCMO 64108. The general session starts at 7pm, you may want to arrive a bit early to get a good seat for the power packed educational presentation. Be prepared to discuss the April 14th, 2019 Chef’s Benefit at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel!

Meeting Minutes from November 13, 2018

The November meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on November 13, 2018 at Farmhouse hosted by Chef Michael Foust and his staff. Chef Foust was also our guest chef speaker. He shared stories about his restaurant and farm to table concept, and his culinary experiences.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

The date for this year’s Chef’s Benefit has been changed to April 14, 2019 at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim or Chef Jerry Marcellus if interested.

The Santa Fun Run was held on December 2nd and was a huge success. Special thanks go out to Chef Ronna Keck and her husband BK, Chef Mike Chrostowski and his students from the Herndon Career Center, Chef David Roth and Chef Kelly Jenkins and their KCKCC students, Spencer Lutes and his son, the JCCC culinary students, and Bridget McNabb her husband, daughter and grandson. Thank you to all who donated items.

The ACF Greater Kansas City Chefs Association Awards banquet will be held at 6pm on 01-20-19 at Blue Hills Country Club. New board members will be sworn in. They are Chef Jesse Vega, President, Chef Ronna Keck and Chef Tito de Dios,Vice President, Chef Todd Walline, Treasurer, Chef Robert Honeychurch and Chef Roger Fischer, Sargent at Arms, and Chef Tammy Racey, Secretary. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased via the website, kcchefs.org, or at the door.

The January meeting will be held on 01-08-19 at 7:00pm at Indian Hills Country Club, 6847 Tomahawk Rd, Mission Hills KS 66208, hosted by Chef Ryan Bennett. For directions, please visit the website kcchefs.org.

It’s been an honor and a privilege to be your president for the past four years. Thank you for your support and friendship. I challenge our members to continue to attend meetings, volunteer your time, and be involved in events and competitions, to keep our chapter one of the strongest in the central region. Wishing you a prosperous and Happy New Year!!

Meeting Minutes from October 9, 2018

The October meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on October 9, 2018 at L’Ecole Culinaire, hosted by Chef Toby Freeland, his staff and students. Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr was the guest chef speaker. He shared stories about his education and his culinary experience, which took him down the path that lead him to his career as a renowned chef and restaurateur.

We officially took nominations in September for the 2019-2020 Board Officers. Chef Jesse Vega has been nominated for President, Chef Ronna Keck and Chef Tito de Dios have been nominated for Vice President, Chef Todd Walline has been nominated for Treasurer, Chef Robert Honeychurch and Chef Roger Fischer have been nominated for Sargent at Arms and Chef Tammy Racey has been nominated for Secretary. Chef Jerry Marcellus, Chef Tito de Dios and Chef Eddie Adel have been nominated for Chef of the Year. Martin Brothers, US Foods and Sysco Foods have been nominated for Purveyor of the year. You should have received ballots in your email from Survey Monkey. Please contact Chef Paul Santaularia if you need assistance or have questions about survey monkey.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

The date for next year’s Chef’s Benefit has been changed to March 17, 2019 at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim or Chef Jerry Marcellus if interested. There is a planning meeting on 12-11-18 at 7:00pm at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel. Please come if you are interested in helping with the benefit.

The Santa Fun Run will be held on December 2nd. Most items have been donated, however, if you’d still like to donate please contact Chef Ronna Keck.

The November meeting will be held 11-13-18 at 7:00pm at Farmhouse, 300 Delaware St, Kansas City MO. For directions, visit the website, kcchefs.org.

This will be the last meeting I will preside over as your President, and I hope to see everyone there!

Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E.,C.C.A., A.A.C. President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from September 11, 2018

The September meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on September 11, 2018 at US Foods, hosted by Chef Russ, Chef Michelle, Kathy Perkins, Kelly Zech and Erik Hyre. Stan Slaughter of Missouri Organic Recycling, Inc. spoke about composting and entertained us with a song! The Karen Putman Small Plates Competition was held. Participants were Chef Nino Rogers and Chef Terry Kopp, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Charles Humphrey, Chef Roger Fischer, Chef Tito and Michon Searcy, and Chef Chris Hall. The winner was Chef Tito. Baylee Deiter has been awarded the Karen Putman scholarship. Congratulations to Baylee and Chef Tito, and thank you to all of the competition participants!

During the September meeting Chef Jerry Marcellus was nominated for Chef of the Year. Martin Brothers and C & C Produce were nominated for Purveyor of the year. Nominations will continue through October.

Smithfield Foods hosted the DURoC Chef’s Table on 09-10-18 at Stock Hill restaurant. It was a great event and many of the chapter members were present.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

The date for next year’s Chef’s Benefit is March 3, 2019 at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim or Chef Jerry Marcellus if interested.

We officially took nominations in September for the 2019-2020 Board Officers. Chef Jesse Vega has been nominated for President, Chef Kolika Kirk, Chef Ronna Keck and Chef Tito de Dios have been nominated for Vice President, Chef Todd Walline has been nominated for Treasurer, Chef Robert Honeychurch and Chef Roger Fischer have been nominated for Sargent at Arms and Chef Tammy Racey has been nominated for Secretary. Ballot forms will be emailed through survey monkey. Please contact Chef Paul Santaularia if you need assistance or have questions about survey monkey.

Practical exams will be held on November 1st and 2nd at JCCC. The John Joyce Culinary Competition will be held on November 9th and 10th at JCCC

Terry Hatch from The Running Company will be present at the October meeting to answer any questions regarding the Santa Fun Run. It will be held on Decemer 2nd. Most items have been donated, however, if you’d still like to donate please contact Chef Ronna Keck.

The October meeting will be held 10-09-18 at 7:00pm at L’Ecole Culinaire, 310 Ward Parkway, Kansas City MO 64112, hosted by Chef Toby Freeland. For directions, visit the website, kcchefs.org. Chef Jasper Mirabile will be providing the educational portion.

Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E.,C.C.A., A.A.C. President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from August 14, 2018

The August meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on August 14, 2018 at the Our Lady of Mercy Country Home, hosted by Chef Jesse Vega. Chef Vega and staff served a delicious meal of chopped salad with pesto vinaigrette and Carr’s Crackers, dinner rolls with butter and white bean puree, Angus strip loin with au jus and horseradish sauce, boursin cheese and roasted garlic smashed potatoes, and Venetian roasted vegetables. Thank you to Martin Brothers for sponsoring the meal, Golden Boy Pies for desert and Roma Bakery for the bread.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

The date for next year’s Chef’s Benefit is March 3, 2019 at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim or Chef Jerry Marcellus if interested.

We officially took nominations in September for the 2019-2020 Board Officers. Chef Jesse Vega has been nominated for President, Chef Kolika Kirk, Chef Ronna Keck and Chef Tito de Dios have been nominated for Vice President, Chef Todd Walline has been nominated for Treasurer, Chef Robert Honeychurch and Chef Roger Fischer have been nominated for Sargent at Arms and Chef Tammy Racey has been nominated for Secretary. Ballot forms will be emailed through survey monkey. Please contact Chef Paul Santaularia if you need assistance or have questions about survey monkey.

Our chapter was well represented at the ACF National Convention in New Orleans. Several ACF-Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association members received prestigious awards. Chef Todd Walline was inducted into the American Academy of Chefs, Chef Mark Webster received the Lt. General John D. McLaughlin Award, and Chef Jerry Marcellus was awarded a President’s Medallion. Well deserved honors! Congratulations to all!

Practical exams will be held on November 1st and 2nd at JCCC. The John Joyce Culinary Competition will be held on November 9th and 10th at JCCC

Our July meeting was held at The Embassy Suites Country Club Plaza, hosted by Chef Michael Lucus. Chef Lucus served a delicious meal. The educational piece was about certification and was presented by Chef Jerry Marcellus and Chef Todd Walline.

We are in need of items for the Santa Fun Run on Decemger 2nd. The menu will be: Omelets, Bacon, Sausage, Biscuits/Gravy, Fruit, Chocolate milk, Coffee, Muffins or ( another option granola bar, cereal bar), and PC jelly. Also needed are: plates, cutlery packs, napkins, full 4″ disposable pans (3 cases), aluminum foil, sterno (case), disposable serving utensils, rags or disposable towels, and gloves all sizes. Please contact Chef Ronna Keck or Chef Jim if you are interested in donating to or helping with this event.

The September meeting will be held 09-11-18 at 7:00pm at US Foods, 16805 College Blvd, Lenexa KS 66219. For directions, visit the website, kcchefs.org. Please see the attachment regarding the The Flower of the Flames / Karen Putman Memorial Summer-Time Grilling & Smoking Small Plates Competition which will be held at the September meeting.

Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E.,C.C.A., A.A.C. President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from June 12, 2018

The June meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on June 12, 2018 at the Overland Park Marriott,  hosted by Chef Oliver Macalino.  Chef  Macalino, Sous Chef Antonio Zabala  and staff, served delicious apps and a fantastic plated meal.  Spencer Lutes of Ambrosi Bros. Cutlery Co gave a very informative seminar on how to sharpen knives, how to buy knives and and how knives are made. Rob Reiman of Giving Grove spoke about creating sustainable food sources for the community.  Chef Eddie Adel introduced the Junior Culinary Olympic Team. Their fundraiser was held 06-23-18 at The American Restaurant.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

The date for next year’s Chef’s Benefit is March 3, 2019 at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim or Chef Jerry Marcellus if interested.

Chef Jim and Chef Mark Webster will be running for the National Central Region Vice President in 2019.

There are two new locations for No Kid Hungry; Zona Rosa and Brookside. Contact Chef Kolika Kirk for more information.

It’s early, but time to start thinking about new Board Officers for 2019-2020. The terms for all of the current Board Officers will end this year. If you have someone in mind please nominate them. We officially begin taking nominations in September. Chef Jesse Vega has been nominated for President , Chef Kolika Kirk has been nominated for Vice President, Chef Todd Walline has been nominated for Treasurer, Chef Tito de Dios has been nominated for Vice President, and Chef Robert Honeychurch has been nominated for Sargent of Arms.

We lost a national culinary icon, Mr. L Edwin Brown HAAC, HHOF and the ACF’s first executive director, who passed away on 05-25-18. A moment of silence was held.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

We hope all the members enjoyed their Father’s Day and Independence Day!

The July meeting will be on 07-10-18 at 7:00pm at The Embassy Suites Country Club Plaza, 220 W 43rd St, Kansas City MO  64111. Please bring your parking ticket into the hotel so it can be validated.  If you are interested in becoming certified, there will be a certification panel at the July meeting.   For directions, visit the website, kcchefs.org.

Meeting Minutes from May 8, 2018

The May meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on May 8, 2018 at Saint Lukes Healthcare System, hosted by Chef Brian Blackman. Chef Blackman and staff, served a delicious meal. Chef Renee Kelly, great friend of the chapter, gave and inspiring Chef Talk about her career and culinary life. Chef Dave Zino and Sharla with the Kansas Beef Council passed samples of beef tenderloin with a bourbon sauce and coffee chocolate. Matt Bohlig with NCCO talked about his labeling machine, Date Code Genie. Jodi Oleen with the Kansas Pork and the Midwest Pork Summit spoke about Pork, The Other White Meat. Gary Otterman and Lenny Levy spoke about growing micro greens.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

Please contact Chef Jim if interested. The date for next year’s Chef’s Benefit is March 3, 2019 at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim or Chef Jerry Marcellus if interested.

It’s fundraising time. At 7:00pm on Saturday, 06-23-18 a special event showcasing two high profile Kansas City chefs will be held at The American Restaurant. This will benefit the Junior Culinary Olympic Team. For more information and to purchase tickets go to kcchefs.org. The team will arrive on 06-19-18. Chef Felix would really like to see a sell out! We must sell tickets!

The Taste of Kansas City was 05-24-18 in the Power and Light District, sponsored by The Pitch. Chef Jesse Vega and Chef Mike Chrostowski cooked on the stage for this event.

Chef Jim and Chef Mark Webster will be running for the National Central Region Vice President in 2019.

Checks from the Santa Fun Run were presented to JCCC, Herndon Career Center and KCKCC.

There are two new locations for No Kid Hungry; Zona Rosa and Brookside. Contact Chef Kolika Kirk for more information.

Congratulations to Chef Mike Chrostowski and his Herndond Career Center team on their Pro Start National Championship! The team won $250,000 in scholarships.

On 06-13-18, from 8am-5pm, US Foods is hosting Food Fanatics Live at the Overland Park Convention Center.

Per Chef Jerry Marcellus, twenty students passed the certified Sous Chefs practical exam.

It’s early, but time to start thinking about new Board Officers for 2019-2020. The terms for all of the current Board Officers will end this year. If you have someone in mind please nominate them. We officially begin taking nominations in September. Chef Jesse Vega has been nominated for President and Chef Kolika Kirk has been nominated for Vice President.

We lost a national culinary icon, Mr. L Edwin Brown HAAC, HHOF and the ACF’s first executive director, who passed away on 05-25-18. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

The June meeting will be on 06-12-18 at 7:00pm at The Overland Park Marriott,10800 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park KS 66210. Robert Reiman will talk about the Giving Grove. Chef Michael Foust, Executive Chef and Owner of The Farmhouse, will do his live bio and the June Chef Talk. Spencer Lutes will talk about how to buy knives, how knives are made and how to sharpen knives. For directions, visit the website, kcchefs.org.

#BE THE CHANGE

Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always.

In a world where you can be anything…be kind.

Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E.,C.C.A., A.A.C. President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from April 10, 2018

The April meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on April 10, 2018 at The Carriage Club, hosted by Chef Rafael Cambron. Chef Cambron and staff, and Chef Carlos Falcon served a delicious meal. Thank you to our sponsor Smithfield Foods.

Smithfield Foods is donating $1500 to the chapter to provide the opportunity to earn Continuing Education.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

The Chef’s Benefit on March 4th at JCCC was a big hit! I spoke to a lot of people who really liked the venue, the space and the food. We also made money on the event. As always we are striving to have a bigger event next year, so now is the time to start planning. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim if interested. The tentative date for next year’s event is March 3, 2019 at the Overland Park Marriott Hotel.

A very exciting announcement was made by Chef Eddie Adel and the JCCC; the Junior Culinary team has been selected to be Team USA and will represent all of the Junior Culinarians in 2020 in Stuttgart, Germany.

It’s fundraising time. At 7:00pm on Saturday, 06-23-18 a special event showcasing two high profile Kansas City chefs will be held at The American Restaurant. This will benefit the Junior Culinary Olympic Team. For more information and to purchase tickets go to kcchefs.org. Chef Felix would really like to see a sell out!

The Taste of Kansas City is 05-24-18 in the Power and Light District, sponsored by The Pitch.

Chef Jim and Chef Mark Webster will be running for the National Central Region Vice President in 2019.

Chef Ronna Keck spoke to the Johnson County Circuit Court Judges on 05-02-18 on the topic of Women of BBQ.

It’s early, but time to start thinking about new Board Officers for 2019-2020. The terms for all of the current Board Officers will end this year. If you have someone in mind please nominate them. We officially begin taking nominations in September.

The May meeting will be on 05-08-18 at 7:00pm at Saint Luke’s Health System Corporate Office (not hospital), 901 East 104th St, Kansas City MO. Chef Dave and Sharla with the Kansas Beef Council will do a demo. Our guest speaker will be Chef Renee Kelly. For directions please visit the website, kcchefs.org.

Meeting Minutes from March 13, 2018

The March meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on March 13, 2018 at Our Lady Of Mercy Country Home, hosted by Chef Jesse Vega. Chef Vega served a delicious meal. Thank you to our sponsors Martin Brothers and Eli’s Cheesecakes. The food was great and so was the Bloody Mary bar.

Smithfield Foods is donating $1500 to the chapter to provide the opportunity to earn Continuing Education.

The Taste of Elegance was held on February 21st at Harrah’s Casino. We had a strong showing from the chapter. Chef Mike Lamping took 1st place and Chef Mike Chrostowski took 2nd place.

If you are interested in hosting a meeting or can do an educational piece, please contact Chef Todd Walline or Chef Mike Chrostowski the Vice Presidents. We offer a $300 stipend for meetings. We have a lot of talent in this chapter. Please share your talents!

Thank you to Spencer Lutes for donating the knife for the Chef’s Benefit, valued at $250.

The next practicum for certification is being held April 12 and April 13 at JCCC. We desperately need certification examiners. If you are a Certified Executive Chef, you are eligible to be an examiner. Please see Chef Jerry Marcellus if interested.

It’s early, but time to start thinking about new Board Officers for 2019-2020. If you have someone in mind please nominate them. We officially begin taking nominations in September.

Congratulations to Chef Mike Chrostowski and his team as the Missouri ProStart Champions! Good luck to the team as they compete in nationals in Providence, Rhode Island at the end of April.

The Chef’s Benefit on March 4th at JCCC was a big hit! I spoke to a lot of people who really liked the venue, the space and the food. We also made money on the event. As always we are striving to have a bigger event next year, so now is the time to start planning. We are looking for committee members. Please contact Chef Jim if interested. The tentative date for next year’s event is March 3, 2019.

Norman VanBooven, a local farmer, has reached out to the chapter asking for students to help him on his farm. If interested contact him at edith.vanbooven@gmail.com.

The April meeting will be at The Carriage Club on 04-10-18, hosted by Chef Rafael Cambron. The address and directions can be found on the website. Smithfield Foods is providing a BBQ Demo and a small plates tasting. Chef Kolika Kirk will do the educational piece on Behavioral Management with Cooks; learning new management techniques.

Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!!

Happy,healthy eating!

Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E., A.A.C.

President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from February 13, 2018

The February meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on February 13, 2018 at American Fusion. Hosts were Chef Tito de Dios and Michon Searcy. Chef Tito served a delicious meal of Lomitos, Tamales, Chorizo Colombiano, Empanadas, Arepas and Marquitas Plantain. Thank you to Chef Steve Ellenberg of Bagel Works Bread Company who donated the bread. It was great to see Chef Steve back with the chapter! A special thank you to Louis Kessler, Bakery Rep, for setting things up. Thank you to Mike Crane from Crane Brewing for donating the beer and to Dominic from Honey Ice Cream for donating desert. Special thanks to Chris Miller with the Pork Council for the educational piece and video. Special guests were Chef Fernando from Cacao, Chef Wesley Boston from Worlds of Fun and Eduardo from Restaurant Depot.

Buddy Lahl from the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association talked about chefs going to high schools to mentor culinary students.

The March meeting will be at Our Lady of Mercy Country Home on 03-13-18, hosted by Chef Jesse Vega. The address and directions can be found on the website.

Please see the email below from Chef Jerry Marcellus regarding the 42nd Annual Benefit/Apprentice Showcase. Ticket sales this year are down and I hope to see all of you there. To buy tickets, which are $50 per person, visit the website kcchef.org or buy them at the door. Spread the word and bring your friends!

Dear Colleague, The annual Apprentice Showcase Fundraiser will take place this Sunday, March 4th from 6-9pm and so far, we have 15 exhibitors. We host this event in conjunction with the ACF Greater Kansas City Chefs Association and take a percentage of the proceeds. I hope that you will be willing to assist me with this event. The doors to the WHCA will open at noon Sunday for set up and the event will end at 9pm. I would appreciate any assistance you are willing to provide with set up, directing apprentices during the event, and tear down and reset. I especially need help at the end of the event. If you do not have an 8am class Monday morning, I hope you will consider coming at the end to assist in tear down and reset for Monday classes. Please let me know if you would like more details and which times work best for you to come help. Thank you.

Meeting Minutes from January 21, 2018

On Sunday, 01-21-18, the GKCCA held its 42 Annual Awards Banquet at Blue Hills Country Club. Chef Todd Walline and his staff served a fantastic dinner.

The food was generously donated by Liberty Fruit Co., The Roasterie, Sysco, US Foods, Fortune Fish Company and AUI Fine Foods.

Special thanks to Kathy Perkins, US Foods, for designing and producing the program for the night’s events.

Apprentice of the year was awarded to Angelo Pinon, Apprentice at Blue Hills Country Club, and nominated by Chef Walline.

We had two winners of Culinarian of the Year; Spencer Lutes, Ambrosi Brothers Cutlery, and Isaac Dominguez, Argosy Casino.

Purveyor of the year was awarded to Scavuzzo’s Foodservice.

The President’s Medallion Winners were Chef Jerry Marcellus, JCCC, and Chef Jess Barbosa.

The GKCCA Chef of the Year was Chef Jesse Vega, Our Lady of Mercy Country Home.

Congratulations to all of the worthy winners!

There has been a change in the location of the February meeting. Chef Tito will host the meeting on 02-13-18 at 7:00pm at American Fusion, 1621 Swift St, North Kansas City MO 64116.


October Meeting Minutes from Oct. 10, 2017

The October Meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on October 10, 2017 at Rego Express/Regal Distributing. Hosts were Tom Stevens and staff. Tom gave a tour of his warehouse and offered a discount of 30% for any purchases made that evening. Prime Market Services provided the dinner. Jeanne Mackay with The Tasteful Olive provided a demo covering new products from olive oils to vinegar.

SAVE THE DATES:

  • Certification testing November 9 & 10 at JCCC
  • Santa Fun Run, December 3 at JCCC–Will be discussed at the next board meeting.
  • GKCCA Awards Banquet, January 21, 2018, Blue Hills Country Club
  • 42nd Annual ACF GKCCA Culinary Showcase, March 4, 2018 @ JCCC

At the October meeting nominations will be accepted for Chef of the Year and Purveyor of the Year. Voting will take place from November 15 through November 25 online using Survey Monkey. Your current email address must be listed through the ACF website to receive Survey Monkey. If your email address is not listed, you can vote by contacting Chef Paul Santaularia at santachef@gmail.com or 913-626-6246. Winners will be announced at the Awards Banquet in January. Chef Jesse Vega and Chef Eddie Adel are the current nominee for Chef of the Year. Martin Brothers, Rego Express/Regal Distributing and Scavuzzo’s Foodservice Company are the current nominees for Purveyor of the Year.

We are forming a committee to begin working on the 2018 Culinary Showcase. If interested, please contact Chef Jim, tinkhamj@william.jewell.edu, or Chef Jerry Marcellus, jmarcellus@jccc.edu.

The Missouri Restaurant Association and GKCCA would like to partner. Chef Jim will be attending their monthly meetings to be more involved in their association and to propose that their members do the same.

The John Joyce Culinary Showcase was held 11-03-17 and 11-04-17. Thank you to Chef Jerry Marcellus and ACF Judges for putting it all together and for judging. Chef Jerry will announce the winners at the November meeting.

The November FriendsGiving Meeting will be held 11-14-17 at 7:00pm at Sysco, 1915 E Kansas City Rd, Olathe KS, 66061, hosted by Chef John Landry. Please check the website for directions.

The following information from Gina Reardon better explains FriendsGiving. “By participating in FriendsGiving to benefit No Kid Hungry, your celebration of friends and food becomes a powerful way to help kids. And your donation, for example, of $25 means 250 nutritious meals for kids! Our local team for No Kid Hungry was founded just three years ago in 2014 with the first culinary bake sale. Since then, our team has hosted three more bake sales, and culinary tasting events including the Country Brunch & Bloody and the inaugural Midwest Mardi Gras in February 2017. In 2016, our team raised over $100,000K, or a MILLION meals for kids, and was recognized as the #1 independent bake sale & fundraising team in the country, and hope to maintain that standing in 2017! For more information and to get involved locally, follow us on Facebook, No Kid Hungry Kansas City, or visit our website: www.kcteam4nokidhungry.com.”

Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always.

In a world where you can be anything…be kind.

Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E., A.A.C. President, GKCCA

September Meeting Minutes from Sept. 12, 2017

The September Meeting of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association was held on September 12, 2017 at Broadmoor Bistro. Hosts were Chef Bob Brassard and Chef Justin. Chef Brassard gave tours of his facility and provided us with a delicious meal. Albert Uster Imports and Chef Andrew Parkhurst provided desert.

SAVE THE DATES:

John Joyce Culinary Challenge, November 3 & 4 at JCCC Certification testing November 9 & 10 at JCCC Santa Fun Run, December 3 at JCCC GKCCA Awards Banquet, January 21 2018, Blue Hills Country Club 42nd Annual ACF GKCCA Culinary Showcase, March 4 2018 @ JCCC

At the October meeting nominations will be accepted for Chef of the Year and Purveyor of the Year. Voting will take place in November, online using Survey Monkey. Winners will be announced at the Awards Banquet in January. Chef Jesse Vega and Chef Eddie Adel are the current nominee for COY. Martin Brothers is the current nominee for POY.

We are forming a committee to begin working on the 2018 Culinary Showcase. If interested, please contact Chef Jim, tinkhamj@william.jewell.edu, or Chef Jerry Marcellus, jmarcellus@jccc.edu.

The Missouri Restaurant Association and GKCCA would like to partner. Chef Jim will be attending their monthly meetings to be more involved in their association and to propose that their members do the same.

On September 24, 2017 the chapter hosted a gala honoring Chef Jess Barbosa and his 2017 AAC Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Honorary Hall of Fame at the Downtown Marriott Hotel. We had a wonderful show of support from our members as well as ACF National board members who attended. The meal was delicious, the silent auction was successful and the proceeds will go to an AAC scholarship in Chef Barbosa’s name.

The October meeting will be held 10-10-17 at 7:00pm at Rego Express/Regal Distributing, 15325 W 100th Terr, Lenexa KS 66219 hosted by Tom Stevens. Please check the website for directions.

Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always.

In a world where you can be anything…be kind.

Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

June Meeting Minutes from June 13, 2017

US Foods, 5th Annual Grilling & Smoking Small Plates Competition Hosts were Chef Russ Muehlberger, Chef Jacki Shelby, Kathy Perkins and Chef Ronna Keck.

This was a market basket small plates competition sponsored by US Foods. Competitors in the competition were: Chef Matt Martin, Chef Nick Schmoltz and Chef Charles from Forum. They served grilled steak tacos with smoked bacon shallot salsa. Chef Todd Walline and Apprentice Andy Solano from Blue Hills Country Club served seared halibut, smoked asparagus with crème fraiche puree, citrus pickled shallot, yuzu butter, crispy sweet fingerling potatoes. Chef Jesse Vega with Chef Teryn Tate of Our Lady of Mercy and Café Provence served pan seared salmon with barbeque rub, cured orzo with fig, kohlrabi slaw, Coca-Cola barbeque sauce and tomatillo barbeque sauce.

Chef Tito de Dios and Michon Searcy from American Fusion served smoked lamb roulade stuffed with broccolini and wrapped with pork jowl, middle eastern rice blend, shot of crispy lamb fat with mint and rosemary. Chef Matt Chatfield and Chef Sophia Chatfield with Roth Living and Barstow School served kamikaze ribs with ginger barbeque, crispy potato fingers, yuzu aioli, brussel petal slaw, hazel nut bacon dressing. Chef Roger Fischer and Chef Gary Hild with Cerner Corporation served Korean barbeque duck wonton taco, citrus kohlrabi and apple slaw.

The winners of the competition were Chef Matt and Chef Sophia Chatfield. Kayala Barnett was the winner of the $500 Chef Karen Putman Memorial Scholarship that is given annually to a female JCCC Chef Apprentice. Kayala is the Chef Apprentice of Chef Alan Blair at Shadow Glen Golf Club.

We are forming a committee to begin working on the 2018 Culinary Showcase. If interested, please contact Chef Jim, tinkhamj@william.jewell.edu, or Chef Jerry Marcellus, jmarcellus@jccc.edu.

The Missouri Restaurant Association and GKCCA would like to partner. Chef Jim will be attending their monthly meetings to be more involved in their association and to propose that their members do the same.

SAVE THE DATE:

September 24, 2017 at the Downtown Marriot Hotel when Jess Barbosa will be presented the 2017 AAC Lifetime Achievement Award and inducted into the Honorary Hall of Fame. There will be a six-course dinner and silent auction. Chef Ronie Kotz from the Downtown Marriott is preparing a seven course menu especially for Chef Jess. We still need committee members.

The July meeting will be held 07-11-17 at 7:00pm Harrah’s North Kansas City, hosted by Chef Billy Dworzan and Chef Robert Saia. The educational presentation will be New Culinary Technology by Chef Lord.

Please check the website for directions. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. In a world where you can be anything…be kind. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

May Meeting Minutes from May 9, 2017

Location: Our Lady of Mercy Country Home Host Chef: Jesse Vega and his culinary team provided a delicious meal. At this meeting we celebrated Ona Ashley and Chef Felix Sturmer’s retirement. “It’s been a wild ride!” quoted Ona. “I don’t know how many years it’s been; 1982. The only person I recognize from the original meetings is Chef Jess Barbosa!” Chef Felix introduced his wife and stated, “I wouldn’t be here if not for the support of my wife Kathy for all of these years.” Chef C.J. gave Chef Felix and Ona each a Chef Pig; a pig in a chef coat. Sponsors were Our Lady of Mercy Country Home, Marin Brother’s and Golden Boy Pies. We are forming a committee to begin working on the 2018 Culinary Showcase. If interested, please contact Chef Jim, tinkhamj@william.jewell.edu, or Chef Jerry Marcellus, jmarcellus@jccc.edu. Chef Mike Chrostowski announced that Team Kansas won 4th in the nation in the ProStart National competition. They competed against 47 different territories and states. Chef Mike was awarded the National ProStart Educator of the Year. This is the 13th consecutive year that Chef Mike and his team have won the ProStart Kansas championship. Congratulations! Chef Richard McPeake announced that he will be taking several students who won gold in Skills USA to nationals in Kentucky. Congratulations! Chef Jerry Marcellus announced that 13 students received their Certified Sous Chef. Congratulations! Sharla Huseman with the Kansas Beef Council announced they were hosting a Beef Pasture to Plate Tour June 4-6. The Missouri Restaurant Association and GKCCA would like to partner. Chef Jim will be attending their monthly meetings to be more involved in their association and to propose that their members do the same. SAVE THE DATE: September 24, 2017 at the Downtown Marriot Hotel when Jess Barbosa will be presented the 2017 AAC Lifetime Achievement Award and inducted into the Honorary Hall of Fame. There will be a six-course dinner and silent auction. We still need committee members and chefs to help prepare one course each. The June meeting will be held 06-13-17 at 7:00pm at US Foods, hosted by Chef Russ Muehlberger and Kathy Perkins. They will be hosting the Small Plates Competition benefiting the Karen Putman Scholarship fund. The competition has a bar-b-que mystery basket theme and competitors will have 3 hours to prepare their dish. The educational program will be Bar-b-que for the Modern Masters and the competition will be judged by Certified Master Judge. Please check the website for directions. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

April Meeting Minutes from April 11, 2017

Argosy Casino Host Chef Jess Head and his culinary team provided a delicious meal.  The theme was Beef and Beer. The menu was “Understanding Beef Ribs” and each course showcased delicious beef ribs donated by Scavuzzo’s Foodservice and the Certified Angus Beef brand.  Other sponsors were The Roasterie, Liberty Fruit Co., and Albert Uster Imports. This was our first annual “date night” meeting. Dr. Phil Bass with the Certified Angus Beef brand gave a very educational, enthusiastic and entertaining meat fabrication demonstration on beef ribs. At the conclusion of the meeting, we got to sample craft beers brewed at 99 Hops House. We are forming a committee to begin working on the 2018 Culinary Showcase. If interested, please contact Chef Jim, tinkhamj@william.jewell.edu,  or Chef Jerry Marcellus, jmarcellus@jccc.edu. The May meeting will be held 05-09-17 at 7:00pm at Our Lady of Mercy Country Home, hosted by Chef Jesse Vega. Please check the website for directions. During the meeting we will have a retirement party honoring Chef Felix Sturmer and Ona Ashley. Come help us celebrate their years of service at JCCC and their many contributions to our chapter. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

March Meeting Minutes from March 14, 2017

Isle of Capri Casino Host Chef Gabriel Mejia and his culinary team provided a delicious meal. The chapter ate from the delicious Isle of Capri Buffet. It was exciting to see three of the founding members of the GKCCA at the meeting; Chef Jess Barbosa, Chef Pat Sweeney, and Chef Jerry Vincent. Thank you to the meeting sponsors; R. L. Schreiber, Chris Shea and Tony DeAngelo of C & C Produce, Todd Zimmer of Zimm’z Sauces, and Kristen Wolf of Windhaven Farms. Alex Pope of The Local Pig gave an interesting presentation on his company including how to source local pigs and butchering nose to tail. Alex and his crew butcher on Wednesdays. If you want to learn how to butcher a pig contact Alex at alex@thelocalpig.com. Chef Kolika Facebook live streamed the presentation. We also enjoyed a presentation from Boys Grow Kansas City, an organization that mentors teen inner city boys who learn to work and run a farm, and own a business. We had a great turnout at the Culinary Showcase and a wonderful time was had by all. Thank you very much to the following who donated their time, talent and product to make the even a success: Hallbrook Country Club Mission Hills Country Club Carriage Club Kansas City Country Club Blue Hills Country Club Lake Quivera Country Club Kingswood Manor Sr. Living Community Sysco Garozzo’s Ristorante Isle of Capri NKC Hospital JCCC Culinary Team JCCC Pastry and Baking Program Rosso at Hotel Sorella Rye KC Overland Park Sheraton Our Lady of Mercy Country Home Pistachio Bakery RL Shreiber Shadow Glen Golf Club We are forming a committee to begin working on the 2018 Culinary Showcase. If interested, please contact Chef Jim, tinkhamj@william.jewell.edu, or Chef Jerry Marcellus, jmarcellus@jccc.edu. Chef Richard McPeake needs judges for Skills USA at the KCKCC on 04-11-17. Please contact Chef Richard, rmcpeake@kckcc.edu, if interested. Chef Mike Chrostowski and his Olathe North High School Culinary Team won Kansas ProStart for the 13th consecutive year. They will compete at the National ProStart in South Carolina. Congratulations to Chef Mike and his talented team and good luck at nationals! The JCCC apprentices are doing a brunch at Hope Lodge on 4-23-17. Chef Eddie Adel is trying out for the US National Culinary Team The April meeting will be held 04-11-17 at 7:00pm at Argosy Casino. This will be our first annual “Date Night” meeting, so bring your spouse or significant other. They can attend for half price. The educational presentation will be on beef and beer. Check the website for directions. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from January 2017

Hallbrook Country Club Host, Chef Will Norem and his culinary team The JCCC Culinary Olympic Team gave a presentation about their journey and competition. Each team member spoke briefly about their experience. They also shared an interesting video. Carol Jerwick of Sierra Meats was a meal sponsor and gave a presentation about her company and the products they represent. Chef Jim attended Chef Connect in Chicago, IL 02-05-17 through 02-07-17. The chapter received the central region Chapter Achievement Award and was a finalist for Chapter of the Year. The JCCC Culinary Team took 3rd place and the Silver Medal for the central region. Gabby Edrosa won the gold medal when competing for the central region Student Chef of the Year. She will compete for the national title in Orlando in July. A Chef Ambassador from Northern Ireland will visit JCCC to do demos and lead workshops on 03-29-17. Some of our members competed in the Taste of Elegance that was held on 02-21-17 at Harrahs Casino. Best of Show went to Chef Sophia Chatfield and she took third place overall. Chef Mike Chrostowski took second place overall. The JCCC and the GKCCA sponsored the second annual High School Team Culinary Competition. Seventeen teams and ninety students competed. Broadmoor Technical Center won best in show. Kansas City Kansas Technical School won second and Turner High School won third. Certified Sous Chef practical exam will be held 04-06-17 and 04-07-17 at JCCC. Ona Ashley and Chef Felix Sturmer will retire from JCCC in June. Stay tuned for more information on their retirement party. The March meeting will be held 03-14-17 at 7:00pm at Isle of Capri Casino. Check the website for directions. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

GKCCA 41st Annual Awards Banquet

Sunday night our chapter celebrated its 41st Annual Awards Banquet. It was a wonderful evening filled with good food and good friends. Thank you to Rich Fairman, General Manager, Rodney Albo, Food & Beverage Manager, Karen Martin, Food & Beverage Manager and the Blue Hills Country Club, and to our host Chef Todd Walline and his team; Sous Chefs Jacob Picking, Matthew Phillips, Garrett Heil and Apprentice Chefs Andy Solano, Isaac Dominguez, Baylie Hannah, Kayla Hawkins and Alex Garcia who did an amazing job with dinner. A huge thank you to U.S. Foods, Sysco, AUI Fine Foods, and Certified Piedmontese for their generous donations and sponsoring our meal. The ceremony began with the highlights of 2016 including the Culinary Olympic Team’s competition in Erfurt Germany which resulted in a silver medal for the team and 8 silver medals and 3 bronze medals for individual competitions; six of the culinary schools in the Kansas City Metro Area, Johnson County Community College, The Art Institutes International-Kansas City, L’Ecole Culinaire, Kansa City Kansas Community College, Olathe Advanced Technical Center and Broadmoor Technical Center were ranked in the top 10 culinary schools in Kansas; and the Santa Fun Run which raised $2000 for Operation Breakthrough. Chef Felix Sturmer and Ona Ashley are retiring from the Johnson County College Community College and their years of service and participation to the chapter was recognized. Chef Ronna Keck was recognized for her 20 years of service to the chapter as Sergeant of Arms. Throughout dinner chapter award winners were announced. The Culinarian of the Year Award was presented to Kelly Jenkins and David Roth of Kansas City Kansas Community College. The Apprentice of the Year Award was presented to Margaret Lawlor, Jax Fish House. The President’s Award was presented to Mary Berg of Johnson County Community College. The Purveyor of the Year Award was presented to Rego Express. The Chef of the Year Award was presented to Chef Richard McPeake. Congratulations to all the award winners and to the worthy nominees in each category. A special thank you to Kathy Perkins, US Foods, for once again creating the evening’s program. She has done this for the chapter for many years. The evening concluded with the installation of new officers and the reading of the Culinarians Code. Mark your calendar for the Chef’s Benefit on March 5th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at the Johnson County Community College. I hope to see all of you there! Happy, healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C., A.C.E. President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from December 2016

Please join us at the first chapter meeting of 2017 on January 10, 2017 at 7:00pm at Hallbrook Country Club, hosted by Chef Will Norem. Please check the website for directions and details. The Chapter needs meeting places and educational demonstrations for 2017. Contact Chef Mike Chrostowski or Chef Todd Walline if you would like to host a meeting or present at a meeting. Board members elected are: Chef Todd Walline, Vice President; Chef Kolika Kirk, Secretary, and Chef Roger Fisher, Sergeant at Arms. The new board members will be sworn in at the awards banquet. The 2017/2018 GKCCA Board Members are:

  • Chef Jim Tinkham, C.E.C., A.C.E., President
  • Chef Mark Webster, C.E.C., C.C.E., A.A.C., Chairman of the Board
  • Chef Mike Chrostowski, Vice President
  • Chef Todd Walline, C.E.C., C.C.A., Vice President
  • Chef Kolika Kirk, Secretary
  • Chef Matt Chatfield, Treasurer
  • Chef Mike Hursey, Sergeant at Arms
  • Chef Roger Fisher, Sergeant at Arms
  • Chef Jesse Vega & Chef Ronna Keck volunteered to Chair the Membership Committee.

The 2017 GKCCA Annual Chef’s Benefit will be held 03-05-17 at JCCC. Please stay tuned for more details. Results of the Chef of the Year and Purveyor of the Year will be announced at the awards banquet on January 22, 2017 at Blue Hills Country Club, hosted by Chef Todd Walline. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased on the website or at the door. Thank you to all who participated in the Santa Fun Run and helped make it a success. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy, healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from November 8, 2016

KC Wine Co Host, Julie Berggren Pamela Sanders, Owner, Terrace Catering, provided the food Jack Cossette with Cossette Farms in Salina KS and his team of farmers provided an educational demonstration on Wagyu Beef. Chef Kolika Kirk provided a demonstration on natural fermentation. High School Culinary competitions will be held February 10, 2017. Contact Chef Eddie Adel if interested in judging. The Chapter needs meeting places and educational demonstrations for 2017. Contact Chef Mike Chrostowski if you would like to host a meeting or present at a meeting. The US Culinary Team won three gold medals; gold in Hot Food Competition, gold in Cold Food Competition and gold Overall. They placed 4th in the world. Congratulations to the team! The JCCC Culinary Olympic Team won 8 silver medals and 3 bronze medals in the IKA Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Germany. Congratulations to our home team! Chef Felix Sturmer and the JCCC Culinary Team hosted a wine reception on December 5th as a thank you to the Friends with Taste and other sponsors of their trip. The event included a very interesting recap of their competition and experience in Germany. Board members elected are: Chef Todd Walline, Vice President; Chef Kolika Kirk, Secretary, and Chef Roger Fisher, Sergeant at Arms. The new board members will be sworn in at the awards banquet. The 2017/2018 GKCCA Board Members are:

  • Chef Jim Tinkham, C.E.C., A.C.E., President
  • Chef Mark Webster, C.E.C., C.C.E., A.A.C., Chairman of the Board
  • Chef Mike Chrostowski, Vice President
  • Chef Todd Walline, C.E.C., C.C.A., Vice President
  • Chef Kolika Kirk, Secretary
  • Chef Matt Chatfield, Treasurer
  • Chef Mike Hursey, Sergeant at Arms
  • Chef Roger Fisher, Sergeant at Arms
  • Chef Jesse Vega volunteered to Chair the Membership Committee

I would like to thank Chef Ronna Keck for her many years of dedication and service to the Board as Sergeant at Arms. The 2017 GKCCA Annual Chef’s Benefit will be held 03-05-17 at JCCC. Please stay tuned for more details. There will be no general meeting in December. There will be a board meeting on 12-13-16 hosted by Matt Chatfield at Roth Living, 601 W 47th St, Kansas City MO 64112. Results of the Chef of the Year and Purveyor of the Year will be announced at the awards banquet on January 22, 2017 at Blue Hills Country Club. Stay tuned for ticket information which will be sent shortly. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I look forward to seeing everyone at the next general meeting on January 10, 2017 at Hallbrook Country Club, hosted by Chef Will Norem. Please check the website for directions and details. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from October 11, 2016

Rego Express/Regal Distributing Host, Tom Stevens Sponsors, Rock-N-Brews Chef Johnny Jackson, Executive Chef at the Piper and Corporate Chef at Jisa Farmstead Cheese, provided a cheese buffet which included cheese made from Holstein cows and Boulevard Beer Cheese. Chef Matt Chatfield provided a tempering chocolate demo. Nominations were made for the 2017 Board. They are as follows: Vice President:Chef Ronna Keck, Chef Kolika Kirk. Chef Tito de Dios, Chef Mark Mollentine Sergeant at Arms, & Chef Roger Fisher. The election will be a secret ballot held by electronic mail via Survey Monkey. The election results will be announced at the November meeting. The 7th Annual Great Santa Fun Run will be held on December 11th.  Please contact Chef Jim or Chef Ronna if you wish to volunteer or donate. The John Joyce competition will be held November 11th and 12th at JCCC. Contact Chef Jerry Marcellus if you are interested in competing. Certification testing will be November 4th at JCCC. If interested, contact Chef Felix Sturmer. High School Culinary competitions will be held February 10, 2017. Contact Chef Eddie Adel if interested in judging. The Chapter needs meeting places and educational demonstrations for 2017. Contact Chef Mike Chrostowski if you would like to host a meeting or present at a meeting. Nominations were made for Chef of the Year. They are as follows:

  • Chef Jesse Vega
  • Chef Richard McPeake
  • Chef Felix Sturmer
  • Chef Matt Chatfield

Nominations were made for Purveyor of the Year. They are as follows:

  • The Tasteful Olive
  • Regal Express

Chef of the Year and Purveyor of the Year will be decided by secret ballot via Survey Monkey. Results will be announced at the awards banquet in January. The US Culinary Team won three gold medals; gold in Hot Food Competition, gold in Cold Food Competition and gold Overall. They placed 4thin the world. Congratulations to the team! The JCCC Culinary Olympic Team won 7 silver medals and 3 bronze medals in the IKA Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Germany. Congratulations to our home team! The 2017 GKCCA Annual Chef’s Benefit will be held 03-05-17 at JCCC. Please stay tuned for more details. The November meeting will be held at KC Wine Co, 13875 South Gardner Road, Olathe KS  66061 on November 8th, 2016, hosted by Julie Berggren.  Food will be provided by a private caterer. For directions please check the website. Chef Kolika Kirk will provide a demonstration on natural fermentation. Jack Cossette with Cossette Farms in Salina KS will provide an educational demonstration on Wagyu Beef. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from September 13, 2016

Meeting, Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, September 13, 2016 Blue Hills Country Club Host, Chef Todd Walline Sponsors, US Foods, Fortune Fish, Liberty Fruit, Alber Uster Imports, Good Lyfe, Farm to Market Bread Nominations were made for the 2017 Board. They are as follows: Vice President: Chef Ronna Keck Chef Todd Walline Secretary: Chef Kolika Kirk Chef Tito de Dios Chef Mark Mollentine Sergeant at Arms: Chef Roger Fisher The election will be a secret ballot held by electronic mail via Survey Monkey. The election will be completed by November 1st and the election results will be announced at the November meeting. The 7th Annual Great Santa Fun Run will be held on December 11th. Please see the attached flyer for information on making donations. The John Joyce competition will be held November 11th and 12th at JCCC. Contact Chef Jerry Marcellus if you are interested in competing. Certification testing will be November 2nd and 3rd at JCCC. If interested, contact Chef Felix Sturmer. Chef Jim Tinkham was honored to be the commencement speaker at the L’Ecole Culinaire graduation ceremony on August 19th. Chef Bob Brassard was featured on pages 48 & 49 of the September issue of The Culinary Review. Chef Daniel Pliska was also featured on page 44 of that same issue. The Board agreed to donate $500 to the JCCC Culinary Olympic Team in association with the GKCCA. The 2017 GKCCA Annual Chef’s Benefit will be held 03-05-17 at JCCC. Please stay tuned for more details. The October meeting will be held at Rego Express/Regal Distributing, 15325 W 100th Terrace, Lenexa KS 66219 on October 11th, 2016, hosted by Tom Stevens and Phil Manuel. Food will be provided by Rock-N-Brews. For directions please check the website. An ice carving demo will be provided by Jeff Addison, owner Cool Carvings, Chef Matt Chatfield and Chef Russ Muehlberger. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from August 9, 2016

Meeting ,Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, August 9, 2016 Our Lady of Mercy Country Home Host, Chef Jesse Vega Sponsors, Martin Bros. Distributing and Ambrosi Bros. Cutlery Co. Sylvia Hall, Motivational Speaker, provided the educational presentation Chef Kolika Kirk has volunteered to set up GKCCA Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat accounts. A Nomination/Election Committee has been selected. Committee members are: Chef Mike Hursey, Chef Kolika Kirk, Chef Russ Muehlberger, Chef Trevor Thomas, and Chef Paul Santaularia. Per the GKCCA By-Laws: before the September meeting, the Nominating Committee shall select 2 candidates for each office, ascertain from each candidate his willingness to accept the office if elected, and shall present its slate of candidates to the membership at the September meeting. The Dairy Academy for Food Service Excellence will be held at JCCC on 09-29-16 from 8am-5pm. Register online at www.cvent.com/c/express/ce4ea27c-141e-4339-8508-5dfcd86ea80b The John Joyce competition will be held November 11th and 12th at JCCC. Contact Chef Jerry Marcellus if you are interested in competing. Certification testing will be November 2nd and 3rd at JCCC. If interested, contact Chef Felix Sturmer. The Great Santa Fun Run will be held December 4, 2016. Donations are needed. Please contact Chef Ronna Keck, Chair, and Chef Jim Tinkham, Co-Chair, if interested in donating. The 2016 GKCCA Annual Chef’s Benefit will be held 03-05-17. Applications for the ACF 2017 Chapter Achievement Award and the following ACF 2017 Regional Awards are due September 30th: Chef of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Chef Educator of the Year, Chef Professionalism, Student Chef of the year, and Hermann G. Rusch Award. For applications go to www.acfchefs.org/ACF/events/awards. Chef Jim is completing the Chapter Achievement Award application. The September meeting will be held at Blue Hills Country Club, 777 W Burning Tree Rd, Kansas City MO 64145 on September 13, 2016, hosted by Chef Todd Walline. For directions please check the website. The Co-Vice President position is still vacant. If you are interested in volunteering for this position until the end of the year when elections take place, please contact Chef Jim. He can explain in more detail what the position entails. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from July 12, 2016

US Foods Hosts Kathy Perkins, Chef Russ Muehlberger, Jaci Shelby Sponsor US Foods Mike Downs of Original Juan provided an interesting presentation on barbecue sauces.  Flower of the Flames/Karen Putman Memorial Summer-Time Grilling & Smoking Small Plates Competition was held. Teams were: Chef Matt Chatfield & Chef Sophia Chatfield, Chef Tito de Dios & Michon de Dios, Chef Jesse Vega & Chef Teryn Tate, Chef Bryce Dewsbury, & Chef Charles Humphrey, and Chef Jason Matthews. Congratulations to the winner Chef Jason Matthews and to the rest of the contestants for an excellent competition! Chef Kolika Kirk has volunteered to set up GKCCA Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat accounts. Happy Birthday to Chef Mark Webster and Chef Ronna Keck! Chef Michael Lamping, Lake Quivira Country Club; Chef Edward Adel, JCCC; Chef Kathryn Ratzlaff, Ibis Bakery; Chef Felix Sturmer, JCCC; and Chef Todd Waline, Blue Hills Country Club will compete at the Culinary Olympics as a regional team and as individual competitors. They will be hosting a fundraiser to help cover their cost to compete. A Nomination/Election Committee has been selected. Committee members are: Chef Mike Hursey, Chef Kolika Kirk, Chef Russ Muehlberger, Chef Trevor Thomas, and Chef Paul Santaularia.  Per the GKCCA By-Laws: before the September meeting, the Nominating Committee shall select 2 candidates for each office, ascertain from each candidate his willingness to accept the office if elected, and shall present its slate of candidates to the membership at the September meeting. The John Joyce competition will be held November 11th and 12th at JCCC. Contact Chef Jerry Marcellus if you are interested in competing. Certification testing will be November 2nd and 3rd at JCCC. If interested, contact Chef Felix Sturmer. Applications for the ACF 2017 Chapter Achievement Award and the following ACF 2017 Regional Awards are due September 30th: Chef of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Chef Educator of the Year, Chef Professionalism, Student Chef of the year, and Hermann G. Rusch Award. For applications go to www.acfchefs.org/ACF/events/awards.  Chef Jim is completing the Chapter Achievement Award application. The August meeting will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Country Home, 2115 Maturana, Liberty MO  64068 on August 9th hosted by Chef Jesse Vega. Martin Bros. is the vendor and presenter. For directions please check the website. The Co-Vice President position is still vacant. If you are interested in volunteering for this position until the end of the year when elections take place, please contact Chef Jim. He can explain in more detail what the position entails. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from May 10, 2016

Isle of Capri Casino Host Chef Gabriel Sponsor C & C Produce Chef Matt Chatfield provided an interesting Sous Vide demonstration with pork and pot roast. Chef Michael Lamping, Lake Quivira Country Club; Chef Edward Adel, JCCC; Chef Kathryn Ratzlaff, Ibis Bakery; Chef Felix Sturmer, JCCC; and Chef Todd Waline, Blue Hills Country Club will compete at the Culinary Olympics as a regional team and as individual competitors. They will be hosting a fundraiser to help cover their cost to compete. There will be no monthly meeting in June due to the Annual Family Outing on June 12th from 2:00pm-5:00pm at Casa Somerset, 16315 W 287th St, Paola KS 66071 hosted by Chef Mike Hursey. I look forward to seeing everyone there! A Nomination/Election Committee is needed consisting of 4 active members. Per the GKCCA By-Laws: before the September meeting, the Nominating Committee shall select 2 candidates for each office, ascertain from each candidate his willingness to accept the office if elected, and shall present its slate of candidates to the membership at the September meeting. If interested in volunteering for this committee, please contact Chef Jim. Committee Members will be appointed by Chef Jim if there aren’t enough volunteers. Chef Felix Sturmer announced that there were 12 certified as Certified Sous Chefs at the Spring Certification. In April the Olathe North High School Culinary Team, coached by Chef Mike Chrostowski, placed 4th in the nation in the ProStart Culinary Championship. The team competed against 48 other states and territories. Congratulations on a job well done! The John Joyce competition will be held November 11th and 12th at JCCC. Contact Chef Jerry Marcellus if you are interested in competing. Certification testing will be November 2nd and 3rd at JCCC. If interested, contact Chef Felix Sturmer. The July meeting will be held at US Foods on July 12th. The Small Plate Competition benefiting the Chef Karen Putman Scholarship fund will be held at this meeting. Contact Chef Ronna Keck or Kathy Perkins if interested in competing. The website will have more information about this meeting closer to the date. Due to scheduling conflicts, Chef Richard McPeake has resigned as Co-Vice President. We appreciate Chef Richard’s hard work during his tenure on the Board. If you are interested in volunteering for this position until the end of the year when a elections take place, please contact Chef Jim. He can explain in more detail what the position entails. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from April 12, 2016

Meeting , Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, April 12, 2016 The Culinary Center of Kansas City Hosts Laura Laiben, Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Kolika Kirk. Thank you also to all of our sponsors. The 40th Annual GKCCA Culinary Showcase was a huge success! We sold $8000 in tickets with very minimal overhead. I’d like to thank Chef Jerry Marcellus, Ona Ashley, Chef Mary Berg, Chef Ronna Keck and the rest of the committee members for all their hard work organizing the event. Thank you also to Vita Craft for generously donating pans that were given away to guests, The Lighting Company for donating the fantastic lighting, Excel Linen for generously donating all of the linens, and Sysco and Debbie Gold and Casa Somerset and Jeffrey Thomas for wonderful presentations. The Showcase couldn’t have happened without the following sponsors, chefs and apprentices who donated their food, time and talents:

  • Royal Cup
  • Ginger Sues
  • Our Lady of Mercy Country Home
  • Isle of Capri
  • Hallbrook CC
  • Lake Quivera CC
  • Kingwood Senior Living
  • Blue Hills CC
  • Shadow Glen CC
  • Mission Hills CC
  • Broadmoor Bistro
  • JCCC Local Foods Class
  • JCCC Pastry Program
  • Farmland/Smithfield
  • Lakewood Oaks CC
  • Delish Catering
  • KC Culinary Center
  • Argosy Casino
  • Kansas City CC
  • KC Marriott Downtown
  • OP Sheraton
  • Sysco KC
  • Casa Somerset
  • Pinstripes

A big thank you to JCCC for hosting the event. We look forward to another successful Culinary Showcase at the HCA building next year! Chef Michael Lamping, Lake Quivira Country Club; Chef Edward Adel, JCCC; Chef Kathryn Ratzlaff, Ibis Bakery; Chef Felix Sturmer, JCCC; and Chef Todd Waline, Blue Hills Country Club will compete at the Culinary Olympics as a regional team and as individual competitors. They will be hosting a fundraiser to help cover their cost to compete. The May meeting will be held on May 10th at The Isle of Capri Casino, 1800 Front Street, Kansas City MO 64120. Please check the website for directions. Recap from the ACF Central and Western Chef Connect Conference in Hawaii Aloha!! Day 1; Sunday April 3rd An Historic Cattle Ranch Tour. Did you know that 90 percent of Hawaii’s food is imported? Hands on workshops Produce Carving & Porchetta Di Testa Business Meeting where the chapter president’s voted on a By-Laws revision & the central Ethics & Internal Audit Committee’s (of which our very own Ronna Keck was up for the Ethics Representative) Jeffrey Bricker, CEC, CCE, AAC was elected as the central region audit representative Kevin Enright CEC, CCE, AAC as the central region Ethics representative AAC Reception & Dinner Day 2; Monday April 4th We all got to witness as they put the pig in the Imu, and underground oven, for that evening’s luau. General Session: speakers Alan Wong HHOF, owner Alan Wong’s Restaurant, Steve Jilleba CMC, CCE, AAC, Corporate Chef Unilever Food Solutions and Lee Anne Wong, owner Koko Head Cafe. GKCCA/JCCC Central Baron H. Galand Culinary Knowledge Bowl Team competed French Pastries Techniques Modern Foie Gras Curing Beef; Making the grade from grass to grain presented by our own Sharla Hussman Single Blossom honey varietals & beekeeping in Hawaii Waikoloa Beach Marriott Sunset Luau where your president took one for the chapter and did a luau dance where you can see me on my Facebook!! Day 3; Tuesday April 5th Hawaiian Poke by local chef Brian Fujikawa/owner chef of the fish bowl. Eating raw fish at 9am (4 am our time) but it was really good!! Excursion demo to a Vanilla Bean Farm Modern Plating Techniques & Tools Exotic Tropical Fruits Speed Scratch cooking Hawaiian Pupus. Developing a winning culture in the hospitality industry Healthy Living; the key to longevity Kona Brewery beer & food tasting Vice Presidents Awards Gala Reception where the GKCCA/JCCC Culinary Team won the central region and will compete for the national title in Phoenix Arizona in July. See you there!! Mahalo!! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from March 6, 2016

The 40th Annual GKCCA Culinary Showcase was a huge success! We sold $8000 in tickets with very minimal overhead. I’d like to thank Chef Jerry Marcellus, Ona Ashley, Chef Mary Berg, Chef Ronna Keck and the rest of the committee members for all their hard work organizing the event. Thank you also to Vita Craft for generously donating pans that were given away to guests, The Lighting Company for donating the fantastic lighting, Excel Linen for generously donating all of the linens, and Sysco and Debbie Gold and Casa Somerset and Jeffrey Thomas for wonderful presentations. The Showcase couldn’t have happened without the following sponsors, chefs and apprentices who donated their food, time and talents:

  • Royal Cup
  • Ginger Sues
  • Our Lady of Mercy Country Home
  • Isle of Capri
  • Hallbrook CC
  • Lake Quivera CC
  • Kingwood Senior Living
  • Blue Hills CC
  • Shadow Glen CC
  • Mission Hills CC
  • Broadmoor Bistro
  • JCCC Local Foods Class
  • JCCC Pastry Program
  • Farmland/Smithfield
  • Lakewood Oaks CC
  • Delish Catering
  • KC Culinary Center
  • Argosy Casino
  • Kansas City CC
  • KC Marriott Downtown
  • OP Sheraton
  • Sysco KC
  • Casa Somerset
  • Pinstripes

A big thank you to JCCC for hosting the event. We look forward to another successful Culinary Showcase at the HCA building next year! The April meeting will be held 04-12-16 at 7:00pm at The Culinary Center of Kansas City, 7920 Sante Fe Dr, Overland Park KS 66204. Check the website for directions. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from February 9, 2016

Meeting ,Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, February 9, 2016 Location Rego Express Hosts Tom Stevens, Phil Manuel and Becky Stevens Sponsor Johnson County Community College Matt Davis with KC Healthy Kids, Jeanne Mackay with The Tasteful Olive, and Carrie Kenney with Vita Craft provided the educational program. CSC certification testing will be held at JCCC on April 15th. The 40th Annual ACF GKCCA Culinary Benefit will be held March 6, 2016, 6:00pm at Johnson County Community College Hospitality and Culinary Academy. This is the only fundraiser that our chapter conducts and our financial stability is dependent on this one event. Tickets are $50 and there will be 20-25 chefs manning booths. Tickets can be purchased on our website; acf.kcchefs.org. Committee members to date are Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Mike Chrostowski, Chef Mark Webster, Chef Mike Hursey, Chef Jerry Marcellus, Chef Matt Chatfield, Chef Todd Walline, Chef Trevor Thomas, Chef David Finn, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Ronna Keck, Kathy Perkins, Mary Berg and Ona Ashley. To reserve a spot for your booth contact Chef Jerry Marcellus and Chef Jim Tinkham. Chef Michael Lamping, Lake Quivira Country Club; Chef Edward Adel, JCCC; Chef Kathryn Ratzlaff, Ibis Bakery; Chef Felix Sturmer, JCCC; and Chef Todd Waline, Blue Hills Country Club will compete at the Culinary Olympics as a regional team and as individual competitors. They will be hosting a fundraiser to help cover their cost to compete. JCCC hosted the HCA High School culinary Team Competition on February 5th. Fourteen schools attended and Olathe North won. There will be no monthly meeting in March due to the Culinary Showcase on March 6th. Please tell your friends about his event and encourage them to buy tickets. I look forward to seeing everyone there! The April meeting will be held at The Culinary Center of Kansas City on April 12th. The website will have more information about this meeting closer to the date. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from January 17, 2016

Sunday night our chapter celebrated its 40th Annual Awards Banquet. It was a wonderful evening filled with good food and good friends. Thank you to Pex Kotz and the Downtown Marriott Hotel, and to our host Executive Chef Ronnie Kotz who did an amazing job with dinner. A huge thank you to, U.S. Foods, Sysco, Farm To Market Bread Co, Osage Marketing, Inc., AUI Fine Foods, The Tasteful Olive, Loffredo Fresh Produce Co. Inc., and Liberty Fruit Co. for their generous donations and sponsoring our meal. The ceremony began with the highlights of 2015 including the chapter’s ACF award for 100% retention, the Central Region’s 4th consecutive Region of the Year award at the ACF National Convention, the worthy charity events we partnered with such as the Santa Fun Run and Childhood Nutrition Day at Fort Riley, and numerous events and competitions in which our members successfully participated. Throughout dinner chapter award winners were announced. The Culinarian of the Year Award was presented to Tom Stevens. The Apprentice of the Year Award was presented to Isaac Dominguez, Blue Hills Country Club. The President’s Award was presented to Bridget McNabb. The Purveyor of the Year Award was presented to Vita Craft. The Chef of the Year Award was presented to Chef Mike Chrostowski. Congratulations to all the award winners and also to the worthy nominees in each category. Mark your calendar for the Chef’s Benefit on March 6th from 5:30pm-7:30pm at the Johnson County Community College. I hope to see all of you there! Happy, healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C., A.C.E. President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from January 12, 2016

Meeting ,Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, January 12, 2016 Hallbrook Country Club Hosts Chef Will Norem and staff Dinner included bacon wrapped scallops, braised beef short rib and roasted pork tenderloin, and dark chocolate hazelnut bar.The dinner was delicious and service was excellent. Sponsors Sysco, Morey’s Fine Fish and Seafood, Liberty Fruit Co, AUI Fine Foods Colby Garett provided the educational program. He talked about his lifetime experiences as a chef and chef owner.. ACF will be filming “How to become a Certified Master Chef” at the Johnson County Community College on February 10th and 11th. JCCC HCA High School Culinary Team Competition will be held February 5th. If interested in judging, please contact Chef Felix Sturmer or Chef Jerry Marcellus. CSC certification testing will be held at JCCC on April 15th. Taste of Elegance will be held in February. Chef’s Benefit is scheduled for March 6, 2016, 5:30pm-7:30pm at Johnson County Community College. This is the only fundraiser that our chapter conducts and our financial stability is dependent on this one event. Tickets are $50 and there will be 25 chefs manning booths. Save the date cards have been sent. Committee members to date are Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Mike Chrostowski, Chef Mark Webster, Chef Mike Hursey, Chef Jerry Marcellus, Chef Matt Chatfield, Chef Todd Walline, Chef Trevor Thomas, Chef David Finn, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Ronna Keck, Kathy Perkins, Mary Berg and Ona Ashley. To reserve a spot for your booth contact Chef Jerry Marcellus and Chef Jim Tinkham. A special 5:30pm meeting will be held prior to the February board meeting for anyone interested in being on the Chef’s Benefit committee. Chef Michael Lamping, Lake Quivira Country Club; Chef Edward Adel, JCCC; Kathryn Ratzlaff, Ibis Bakery; Chef Felix Sturmer, JCCC; and Chef Todd Waline, Blue Hills Country Club will compete at the Culinary Olympics as a regional team and as individual competitors. They will be hosting a fundraiser to help cover their cost to compete. The next monthly meeting will be held 02-09-16 at 7:00pm at Regal, 15325 W 100th Terr, Lenexa KS 66219. Look for directions to the meeting on our website. I hope that one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to attend more meetings and to bring a guest. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA acf.kcchefs.org

Meeting Minutes from November 10, 2015

Meeting: Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, November 10, 2015 Hosts: Chef Jaci Shelby and Kathy Perkins Sponsor: US Foods Emily and Brandi from KC Food Circle and Gary Verhaeghe owner of Coffee Creek Ranch provided the educational program on garlic. The small plates mystery basket competition was held at the November GKCCA meeting. Proceeds from this competition benefited the Karen Putman Scholarship. Participants were Chef Mike Chrostowski, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Sophia Chatfield, Chef Russ Muehlberger and Chef Charles Humphrey. Chef Jesse Vega was the winner. The John Joyce Competition was held November 13 and 14. Chef Edward Adel won the gold medal and Chef Todd Walline and Chef Michael Lamping each won a silver medal. The Santa Fun Run held December 6th was a great success. Thanks to Chef Jim Tinkham and Chef Ronna Keck for organizing. A special thanks to all the volunteers and for all of the donations. The 40th Annual ACF Kansas City Chefs’ Association Awards Banquet will be held January 17, 2016 from 6-9pm at the Kansas City Muehlebach Hotel. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased on the GKCCA website acf.kcchefs.org. The Chef of the Year, Purveyor of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Culinarian of the Year and the President’s Medallion will be awarded. If you would like to donate to this event please contact Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Jaci Shelby or Chef Ronnie Kotz. Chef’s Benefit is scheduled for March 6, 2016, 5:30pm-7:30pm at Johnson County Community College. Tickets are $50 and there will be 25 chefs manning booths. Save the date cards will be sent. Committee members to date are Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Mike Chrostowski, Chef Mark Webster, Chef Mike Hursey, Chef Jerry Marcellus, Chef Matt Chatfield, Chef Todd Walline, Chef Trevor Thomas, Chef David Finn, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Ronna Keck, Kathy Perkins, Mary Berg and Ona Ashley. A special 5:00pm meeting will be held prior to the January board meeting for anyone interested in being on the Chef’s Benefit committee. JCCC will be hosting a high school culinary competition on February 5, 2016. They are asking for volunteers and judges. Chef Michael Lamping, Lake Quivira Country Club; Chef Edward Adel, JCCC; Kathryn Ratzlaff, Ibis Bakery; Chef Felix Sturmer, JCCC; and Chef Todd Waline, Blue Hills Country Club will compete at the Culinary Olympics as a regional team and as individual competitors. They will be hosting a fundraiser to help cover their cost to compete. The next monthly meeting will be held 01-12-16 at 7:00pm at Hallbrook Country Club, 11200 Overbrook Rd, Leawood KS 66211. Look for directions to the meeting on our website. I hope that one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to attend more meetings and to bring a guest. Thank you for all you do!! We value your membership and appreciate your support!! Happy, healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA acf.kcchefs.org

Meeting Minutes from October 13, 2015

Meeting, Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association October 13, 2015 Johnson County Community College Hosts: Chef Felix Sturmer, Chef Edward Adel and Ona Ashley Sponsors: Golden Boy Pies, Loffredo Fresh Produce and Ibis Bakery Chris and Kate Matsch from Ibis Bakery did a demonstration while hors d’oeuvres were served. After dinner Chef Jasper Mirabile, owner and Executive Chef of Jasper’s Ristorante and radio host with Live! From Jasper’s Kitchen Radio, presented Mozzarella 2.0. He prepared fresh mozzarella, Burrata and Ricotta and Cannoli for a dessert tasting. The John Joyce Competition will be on November 13 and 14. Our chapter hosts this competition. The Santa Fun Run will be on December 6th. A sign in sheet was passed for volunteers and donations. Contact Chef Ronna Keck or Chef Jim Tinkham if you are interested in volunteering or donating items for this event. The Chef’s Benefit is scheduled for March 6, 2016, 5:30pm-7:30pm at Johnson County Community College. Tickets are $50 and there will be 25 chefs manning booths. There may be also be a live ice carving demonstration. Laura Pilcher will send save the date cards. Direct reservations can be made by calling 913-469-8500 ext. 4160. Committee members to date are Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Mike Chrostowski, Chef Mark Webster, Chef Mike Hursey, Chef Jerry Marcellus, Chef Matt Chatfield, Chef Todd Walline, Chef Trevor Thomas, Chef David Finn, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Ronna Keck, Kathy Perkins, and Ona Ashley. A special 5:00pm meeting will be held prior to the November board meeting for anyone interested in being on the Chef’s Benefit committee. Chef Jaci Shelby with US Foods discussed the Small Plates Mystery Basket competition to be held at the November GKCCA meeting. Proceeds from this competition will benefit the Karen Putman Scholarship. Please contact Chef Jaci at Jaci.Shelby@USFOODS.com if you are interested in competing. The GKCRA is collecting old chef’s jackets for pro-start students. Jackets will be collected at future meetings or can be dropped off at JCCC. JCCC will be hosting a high school culinary competition on February 5, 2016. They are asking for volunteers and judges. Chef Michael Lamping, Lake Quivira Country Club; Chef Edward Adel, JCCC; Chef Kathryn Ratzlaff, Ibis Bakery; Chef Felix Sturmer, JCCC; and Chef Todd Walline, Blue Hills Country Club will compete at the Culinary Olympics as a regional team and as individual competitors. They will be hosting a fundraiser to help cover their cost to compete. Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Ronna Keck, Chef Robert Honeychurch and SGT Michael Allen participated in Childhood Nutrition Day at the Fort Riley Childcare Center on October 16th. The chefs’ participation was also in cooperation with the ACF Chef and Child Foundation whose mission statement is “To educate children and families in understanding proper nutrition through community-based initiatives led by the American Culinary Federation chef members, and to be the voice of the culinary industry in its fight against childhood hunger, malnutrition and obesity.” The chefs were assisted by the Nutrition Care Division team and Sodexo employees from the Irwin Army Community Hospital. They served fruit and yogurt parfaits to over 100 children. COY and POY candidates were announced. COY candidates are: Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Mike Chrostowski, and Chef Jesse Vega. POY candidates are: Golden Boy Pies, US Foods and Vitacraft. The next monthly meeting will be held 11-10-15 at 7:00pm at US Foods, 16805 College Boulevard, Lenexa KS 66219. Emily and Brandi from KC Food Circle and Gary Verhaeghe owner of Coffee Creek Ranch will provide the educational program. Look for directions to the meeting on our website.

Meeting Minutes from September 8, 2015

Meeting, Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, September 8, 2015 Sysco Kansas City, Host John Landry The Educational Program was hosted by Herb Eckhouse of La Quercia prosciutto and cured meats who talked about the family history of his company; Stu Shafer and Claire Zimmerman of JCCC Sustainability Farm; Dallas Picolet of Oatie Beef; Alicia Ellingsworth of Juniper Gardens Training Farm and Cultivate Kansas City; Dan Roberts, Merchandising Manager of Produce Sysco Kansas City; and Mike Lee and Lesley Graham of Mach Mayo. The John Joyce Competition will be on November 13 and 14. Our chapter hosts this competition. The Santa Fun Run will be on December 6th. Contact Chef Ronna Keck or Chef Jim Tinkham if you are interested in volunteering or donating items for this event. Chef’s Benefit is scheduled for March 6, 2016. Cocktails will be at 6:30pm and dinner will be from 7:00pm-9:00pm. Committee members to date are Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Mike Chrostowski, Chef Mark Webster, Chef Mike Hursey, Chef Jerry Marcellus, Chef Matt Chatfield, Chef Todd Walline, Chef Trevor Thomas, Chef David Finn, Chef Jesse Vega, Chef Ronna Keck, Kathy Perkins, and Ona Ashley. A special 5:00pm meeting will be held prior to the October board meeting for anyone interested in being on the Chef’s Benefit committee. The chapter is still looking for chefs to compete in the Small Plate Competition to be held at US Foods at the November meeting. This competition helps benefit the Karen Putman Foundation. Several members of our chapter competed in the American Royal Barbecue competition. The next monthly meeting will be held 10-13-15 at 7:00pm at Johnson County Community College, Hospitality and Culinary Building (center of campus off Quivira), 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210. Ibis Bakery, Chris and Kate Matsch will do a demo and bring their bread. Mine Creek Farm will also be attending. Joe Pryor of Loffredo Produce and Jeff Hill of Kabobs will be sampling hors d’oeuvres. Look for directions to the meeting on our website.

Meeting Minutes from August 11, 2015

L’Ecole Culinaire Culinary School on the Plaza, Host Chef Crystal and Chef Pat The Educational Program was hosted by Meg Pearson who gave a very interesting presentation on Raw Food and “uncooking.” The John Joyce Competition will be on November 13 and 14. Our chapter hosts this competition and $5000 was set aside to pay for the costs; i.e. judges, medals, etc. The Santa Fun Run will be on December 6th. Contact Chef Ronna Keck or Chef Jim Tinkham if you are interested in volunteering or donating items for this event. Chef’s Benefit tentatively scheduled for March 6, 2016. A special 5:00pm meeting will be held prior to the September board meeting for anyone interested in being on the Chef’s Benefit committee. The National ACF Chef’s Convention was held July 30th through August 3rd in Orlando, Florida. New national board members were inducted and Chef Tom Macrina is still the President. Chef Jerry Marcellus was inducted into the AAC. Chef Eddie Adel won 2 silver medals in the Amercian Culinary Classic competition. The application deadline for the Chapter Achievement Awards is September 30th. These awards are Chef of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Educator of the Year, Student Chef of the Year, Chef Professionalism Award, and the Hermann G. Rusch Achievement Award. The ACF Central Region won Region of the Year for the 4th straight year. The Topeka Country Club is hiring a Senior Sous Chef. Apply via their website www.topekacc.org. Harrah’s North Kansas City Casino is hiring a Restaurant Chef. The next monthly meeting will be held 09-08-15 at Sysco Kansas City, 1915 Kansas City Road, Olathe KS 66061. Stu Shafer and Claire Zimmerman of JCCC Sustainability Farm, and Dallas Picolet of Oatie Beef will be our educational speakers. Look for directions on our website. Everyone have a safe and happy Labor Day holiday!

Meeting Minutes from June 9, 2015

Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, June 9, 2015 Rego Express, Host Tom Stevens Dinner was prepared by Chef Tito and his American Fusion Food Truck.  Chef Tito’s truck is in the West Bottoms each month for First Fridays so watch for him there. Sponsors for the meeting were Liberty Fruit, Martin Brothers, US Foods, The Tasteful Olive and Rego Express. Board Members in attendance: Chef Jim Tinkham, Chef Mark Webster, Chef  Ronna Keck, Pat Lockwood, Chef Richard McPeake, Chef Michael Hursey, Kathy Perkins Tom Stevens from Regal Distributing thanked everyone for attending.  Phil, General Manager from Rego Express gave us an overview of Rego Express.  Mary Bonde gave a very interesting presentation on table top to include china, glassware & flatware.  Rego raffled off several wonderful items to attendees to include steak knives,a blender, a grill, Chiefs cans and other prizes of unspeakable value. Leslie Graham from Local Source Marketing introduced Dr. Janet Smith from Borgman’s Dairy.  Borgman’s Dairy is a 3rd generation goat farm.  She sampled Quejeta and Goat Cheese Cheesecake to the group. Chef Richard McPeake gave a very interesting presentation on the Basics of Making a BBQ Rub.  Shannon from Flavor Trade joined Richard and raffled off BBQ sauce and rubs. Chef Trevor Thomas mentioned that he had attended the Kansas Beef Council trip in Wichita and that it was a fabulous experience and encourage folks to take advantage of it if it is offered again next year. President Chef Jim Tinkham welcomed all guests and asked for introductions. The meeting was adjourned. A big thanks to Chef Michael Hursey for hosting our annual chapter picnic on July 12th at his beautiful bed and breakfast, Casa Somerset.  Many local producers were there, delicious food was served and a good time was had by all! The next monthly meeting will be held 08-11-15 at L’Ecole Culinaire Culinary School on the Plaza, 310 Ward Parkway, Kansas City MO  64112. Our August meeting will have an Educational Program hosted by Meg Pearson who will focus on Raw Food talking about “uncooking.”  Look for directions on our website. Happy, healthy eating! Chef Jim, C.E.C, A.C.E. President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from May 12, 2015

John Knox Village, Host Todd Hollander Sponsors: John Knox Village Educational Speaker: Todd Hollander, The Changing Dining Focus for Retirement and Health Care Facilities Board Members in Attendance: Jim Tinkham, Mark Webster, Ronna Keck, Matt Chatfield, Pat Lockwood, Mike Chrostowski, Richard McPeake, Michael Hursey Call to Order Old Business: Working on finalizing meeting locations and program education New Business:

  • Matt Chatfield discussed how to do a quick food demo
  • Info on golf tournament from Chef Mike (Hy-Vee)
  • Mike Chrostowski recapped ProStart awards; 9th in Management and 1st in Culinary in the nation
  • Ronna Keck and Jim Tinkham will co-chair the Santa Fun Run
  • Richard McPeake discussed participation and/or attendance at meetings
  • Chefs needed June 27 & 28 at Broamoor Tech. Contact Mike Hursey or Bob Brassard
  • Richard McPeake will talk to Colby Garrelts and Jasper Mirabile about upcoming educational speakers

Committee Reports Apprenticeship: Felix Sturmer JCCC is hosting an international competition 05-30-15 through 06-07-15. Matthew Phillips JCCC graduate and Sous Chef at Blue Hills Country Club was the winner of the Midwest Region Chaines Des Rotisseur Jeunes Chefs Competition. He will compete at the National Competition 06-13-15 in Las Vegas. Associate: Pat Lockwood By-Laws: Kathy Perkins By-Laws have been updated and posted on the website Certification: Justin Spencer Membership: Pat Lockwood, Connie Campbell and Kolika Elle Kirk Treasurer Report: Matt Chatfield JCCC JR. Chefs President: Garrett Heil Sick Call, Anniversaries and Birthdays: Happy Birthday to –

  • Colby Garrelts 05/11
  • Mike Chrostowski 05/30
  • Dan Turner 05/30
  • Bob Brassard 05/31

Trustees: Trevor Thomas and Bill Spano The June meeting will be held 06-09-15 at Rego Express Restaurant and Facility Supply. Dinner with Chef Tito and his new 40 foot Latin Inspired food truck called “American Fusion.” Educational program will be presented by Mary Bonde with the Pinnacle Group from St. Louis along with Executive Chef Richard McPeake discussing the Four Flavor Stage of rubs and sauces. Shannon Kimball, Owner Flavor Trade, LLC, and creator of Best Sauce on the Planet (Firebug Grilling Sauce) will be joining us to add to the BBQ Educational Piece. A locally owned dairy, Borgman’s in Holden, MO will also be featured. Look for directions on our website. Upcoming Meeting Locations, Sponsors, Proposed Education

  • January –Kingswood Manor
  • February 10th –William Jewell College
  • March 10th –Hallmark
  • April 14th -Westin
  • May 12th-John Knox
  • June 9th –Rego, Tom Stevens
  • July 14th –Casa Somerset
  • August 11th-L’Ecole
  • September 8th-Sysco
  • October 13th-JCCC
  • November 10th-US Foods, Small Plates Competition
  • December

Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

Meeting Minutes from April 14, 2015

Meeting,Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association, April 14, 2015 Westin Crown Center, Host Todd Clayton Sponsors: Arrowhead Game, MG Honor Farm Educational Speaker: Kolika Kirk, Demoed Fizzy Ice Cream and Sorbet using a Kitchen Aid and Dry Ice Board Members in Attendance: Jim Tinkham, Mark Webster, Kathy Perkins, Todd Walline, Ronna Keck, Felix Sturmer, Michael Hursey Call to Order Old Business: Broadmoor/Cultivate KC New Business:

  • Chapter received Achievement Award from the ACF
  • Matt Chatfield attending ChefConnect Indy
  • Mark Webster received the Presidents Medallion Award
  • Bob Brassard and Michael Hursey to discuss details of the Cultivate KC Event in June
  • Ronna Keck proposed the chapter plan a Childhood Nutrition Day in October
  • MRA day at Kauffman Stadium 05-19-15
  • Mike Chrostowski and his team are at Pro Start National Championship
  • Mark Webster proposed a Chef’s Benefit in September or October
  • Happy Birthday to Jim Tinkham

Committee Reports

  • Apprenticeship: Felix Sturmer
  • JCCC is hosting an international competition 05-30-15 through 06-07-15 and is asking for sponsors to host a meal for the teams and coaches.
  • Matthew Phillips JCCC graduate and Sous Chef at Blue Hills Country Club was the winner of the Midwest Region Chaines Des Rotisseur Jeunes Chefs Competition. He will compete at the National Competition 06-13-15 in Las Vegas.

Associate: Pat Lockwood

  • Art of the Gourmet Garden
  • Les Dames D’Escoffier & Pryde’s Kitchen fundraiser for Kansas City Community Gardens
  • Wednesday, April 1st 5:00pm-7:00pm
  • 115 Westport Road, Kansas City MO
  • $10 door donation for a gourmet raffle and goodie bag
  • 20% of your purchased sales will go to Kansas City Community Gardens
  • Special tastings and demonstrations

By-Laws: Kathy Perkins By-Laws have been updated and posted on the website Certification: Justin Spencer Certification exam April 23-24 at JCCC. Sixteen passing. Membership: Pat Lockwood, Connie Campbell and Kolika Elle Kirk Treasurer Report: Matt Chatfield JCCC JR. Chefs President: Garrett Heil Sick Call: Trustees: Trevor Thomas and Bill Spano The May meeting will be held 05-12-15 at John Knox. Upcoming Meeting Locations, Sponsors, Proposed Education

  • January –Kingswood Manor
  • February 10th –William Jewell College
  • March 10th –Hallmark
  • April 14th -Westin
  • May 12th-John Knox
  • June 9th –Regal, Tom Stevens
  • July 14th –Casa Somerset
  • August 11th-L’Ecole
  • September 8th-Sysco
  • October 13th-JCCC
  • November 10th-US Foods, Small Plates Competition
  • December
  • Happy,healthy eating!

Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA

 

Meeting Minutes from March 10, 2015

Meeting,Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association Hallmark Cards, Hosts Christine Rankin, Laura Battle, Sally Luck Sponsors: Irinox Educational Speakers: Tim Murray, Chef, Irinox Company Board Members in Attendance: Jim Tinkham, Mark Webster, Laura Pilcher, Mat Chatfield, Kathy Perkins, Pat Lockwood, Todd Walline Call to Order Old Business: Ideas on filling vacant chair positions Update new officers, pictures and award winners on website New Business: Ice Carving Contest will be held at Barney Allis Plaza in conjunction with the Missouri Restaurant Association. More details to follow. Chefs needed to judge Skills USA, 03-31-15, 8:00am-2:30pm at The Arts Institute International-Kansas City. Floor and tasting judges for culinary, baking and pastry are needed. Contact Steve Venne 913-217-4620, svenne@aii.edu $1001 donated to Olathe Schools culinary program for the national competition Jeanne Mackay of The Tasteful Olive needs a chef or culinary school student to do presentations at 3rd Friday Nights on April 17th. If interested contact Jeanne at 913-991-3350. Call for volunteers for Trustees Replace link on the website with a button for job openings Winner of the Taste of Elegance Pork Competition was Mike Chrostowski. Peoples Choice Award went to Sophia Chatfield Chefs needed to judge the Missouri State Skills championship,03-27-15 in Columbia Missouri. Contact Paul Santaularia 913-626-6246 ACF Chef and Child Foundation thanked the chapter for their $500 donation. Chef Kevin Williams at Worlds of Fun is looking for help for Wine Dinners on 05-09-15, 05-10-15 and 05-16-15. Contact Kevin.Williams@worldsoffun.com Excelsior Springs Job Corp is looking for a Culinary Arts Instruction. Contact Catrice McNeely at McNeely.Catrice@jobcorps.org Committee Reports Apprenticeship: Felix Sturmer JCCC is hosting an international competition the first week of June and is asking for sponsors to host a meal for the teams and coaches. Associate: Pat Lockwood Art of the Gourmet Garden Les Dames D’Escoffier & Pryde’s Kitchen fundraiser for Kansas City Community Gardens Wednesday, April 1st 5:00pm-7:00pm 115 Westport Road, Kansas City MO $10 door donation for a gourmet raffle and goodie bag 20% of your purchased sales will go to Kansas City Community Gardens Special tastings and demonstrations By-Laws: Kathy Perkins By-Laws have been updated and posted on the website Certification: Justin Spencer Certification exam April 23-24 at JCCC. Cost is $100 for non-students. Membership: Pat Lockwood, Connie Campbell and Kolika Elle Kirk Treasurer Report: Matt Chatfield JCCC JR. Chefs President: Garrett Heil Sick Call: Trustees: Trevor Thomas Program: The April meeting will be held on 04-14-15 at The Westin Crown Center. Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA acf.kcchefs.org “Life is uncertain. Eat desert first.” Ernestine Ulmer

Meeting Minutes from February 10, 2015

Meeting,Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association William Jewell College, Host Matt Chatfield Sponsors: Monin, Trammell Mushrooms, Loffredo Produce, US Foods Educational Speakers: Richard McPeake cancelled due to illness. Sub Matt Trammell, Trammell Treasures Board Members in Attendance: Mark Webster, Jim Tinkham, Ona Ashley, Matt Chatfield, Kathy Perkins, Pat Lockwood, Michael Hursey, Hannah Hidaka, Todd Walline Call to Order Old Business: Creating a Best Meting Award. (tabled) Update new officers and award winners on website. Meeting Locations for 2015. (Mike and Richard to address) Ask for volunteers for chair positions. New Business: Hannah Hidaka, Michael Hursey and Bob Brassard asked for chefs to volunteer to help with the Urban Farm Tour 2015, June 27th & 28th from 10:45-1:45. Chefs would be participating in “what is it and how do I cook it.” They would partner with a student team and feature an underutilized vegetable. Monthly raffle suggested to increase attendance to meetings. Need ideas to increase membership. Combine Chef’s Award Banquet with the MRA’s 100 Year Gala on January 30, 2016 at Bartle Hall. Ice Carving Contest. Chefs requested for Cooking with Class series at JCCC. Request to raise the amount of money given to companies that host meetings. Mark Webster was voted into the Honorable Order of the Golden Toque and will become a member at their annual meeting in June. Jeanne Mackay of The Tasteful Olive needs a chef or culinary school student to do presentations at 3rd Friday Nights onMarch 20th and April 17th. If interested contact Jeanne at 913-991-3350. Committee Reports Apprenticeship: Felix Sturmer JCCC is hosting an international competition the first week of June and is asking for sponsors to host a meal for the teams and coaches. Associate: Pat Lockwood Will work with other groups i.e. Les Dames d’Escoffier By-Laws: Kathy Perkins US Foods is still waiting to see if Sysco purchase will be finalized. Certification: Justin Spencer Certification exam April 23-24 at JCCC. Cost is $100 for non-students. Membership: Treasurer Report: Matt Chatfield Fox 4 news is looking for more personalities for food demos JCCC JR. Chefs President: Sick Call: Ronna Keck, Richard McPeake Trustees: Program: The March meeting will be held on 03-10-15 at 7:00pm at Hallmark Cards, 2522 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO  64108. Tracey Russell of Edible KC Magazine and Executive Chef Ira Kaplan, owner of Irinox, will be the educational speakers.  Members planning on attending must RSVP with your name and email to patlockwood@gmail.com. Upcoming Meeting Locations, Sponsors, Proposed Education January –Kingswood Manor February 10th –William Jewell College March 10th –Hallmark April 14th -Westin May 12th-John Knox June 9th –US Foods July 14th –Casa Somerset August 11th– September 8th- October 13th- November 10th-BHCC December Happy,healthy eating! Chef Jim. C.E.C, A.C.E President, GKCCA acf.kcchefs.org “Most of us have fond memories of food from our childhood. Whether it was our mom’s homemade lasagna or a memorable chocolate birthday cake, food has a way of transporting us back to the past.”  Homaro Cantu

Meeting Minutes from January 13, 2015

ACF Meeting Minutes for January 13, 2015. Minutes for Board and General Meeting,Greater Kansas City Chef’s Association Kingswood Manor, Host Buddy Lahl Food donated by Jack Stack BBQ and the Olathe North Culinary Students Educational Speakers: Lon Lane and Stewart Lane Board Members in Attendance: Mark Webster, Jim Tinkham, Ona Ashley, Kurt Miller, Matt Chatfield, Kathy Perkins, Pat Lockwood, Laura Pilcher , Richard Mc Peake, Ronna Keck, Mike Crostowski, Todd Walline Call to Order Old Business:

  • Center of the Plate Item (US Foods & Sysco)
  • Program for Banquet
  • Need meeting Locations for 2015 (Mike and Richard to address)

New Business:

  • Motion to move board meeting time to 5:30 (approved)
  • Recognized Pat Lockwood and Kurt Miller’s Birthday Need to gather birthdays of member and acknowledge in monthly meetings
  • 100% challenge for member retention met. Award to follow from ACF
  • CNBC casting call for Restaurant Start-Up Reality Program
  • Creating a Best Meeting Award, pending vote by Board
  • Filling Empty Chair Positions
  • Generating Publicity for Charitable School Contributions
  • Restrict Job Posting to 60 days (subsequent motion to charge for non-member job postings/ tabled for now)
  • KC Restaurant Association would like to renew Ice Carving Contest
  • Tasteful Olive looking for Chefs/students for demonstrations
  • Ronna called for a renewal of sick call
  • Guests were recognized
  • It was great seeing many members of the Army Fort Riley Culinary Team
  • Taste of Elegance will be February 24, 2015. Contact Ed Bass to participate
  • Fox 4 news is looking for more personalities for food demos
  • Missouri Restaurant Association award winners: Buddy Lahl, Edwin G Grey Service Award, and Ona Ashley, Workhorse Award

Committee Reports

  • Apprenticeship: Felix Sturmer
  • Requested $165 for Apprentice of the Year Trophy
  • Associate: Pat Lockwood
  • By-Laws: Kathy Perkins
  • Certification: Justin Spencer
  • Membership:
  • Treasurer Report: Matt Chatfield
  • JCCC JR. Chefs President:
  • Sick Call: Our thoughts and prayers go out to Chef Jess Barbosa and family in the loss of his daughter
  • Trustees:
  • Program:

Meeting Minutes from September 9, 2014

ACF Meeting Minutes for September 9, 2014 Minutes from Board Meeting and General Meeting Thank you to Chefs Richard, Cheryl, David, and of course KCKCC-TEC and the great students in the program. Sponsors for the evening: Liberty Produce US Foods Broadmoor Tech and Chef Bob Brassard’s great organic produce from their Urban Garden L&C Meats Seattle Fish Indian Harvest The Roasterie Golden Boy Pies Cowtown Cheese Cake We also had three great demos. Chef Mark Mollentine on Grains Chefs Matt and Sophie Chatfield on Sushi Making Rob from L&C Meats on the Tri-Tip Muscle Chef Mike Hursey is researching the possibility of teaming up with local Farmers for next Years Chefs Benefit. Once we have an idea of what we want to do for the benefit we will be looking to for a Benefit Committee If you are a Chef interested in participating in a KCMPI Culinary Showcase at JCCC in March please contact Chef Gary Hild for more information Nominations closed last night for the 2015-2016 Board for the Chapter Nominees are: For President – Chefs Jim Tinkham and Jesse Vega For Vice Presidents – Chefs Richard McPeake, Mike Chrostowski, Mark Prece Treasurer – Chef Matt Chatfield For Secretary – Chefs Tito and Todd Walline For Sergeant of Arms – Chefs Ronna Keck and Mike Hursey After review by the election Committee Ballots will be sent electronically 2015 National Awards (Chef of the Year, Student of the Year, Chef Professionalism of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Hermann G. Rusch Award) an Application for each award can be found on the ACF Chefs.org web site. Submission to National Office is not later than September 30, 2014. You cannot win if you don’t submit a application On Sunday September 28th at 2:00PM Chef Mike Hursey will be providing a Bee Keeping Workshop at Casa Somerset. Teri Weis who handles the Bees for Casa Somerset will have an empty hive and will be explaining how the whole thing works. This is free and is a great family event. They will also have a limited amount of honey for sale at this event. If you want to BYOB to enjoy on the Veranda please feel free. There will also be honey wine for sale by glass or bottle from Middle Creek Winery.  PLEASE…RSVP for the event to: mikehursey@hughes.net This will be at Casa Somerset B&B, 16315 West 287th, Paola, KS 66071. (913) 557-9288 Nominations for Chef of the Year and Purveyor of the Year were taken last night. Each Nominee needs to review the By-Laws of the Chapter to see what qualifications need to be met. By-Laws are located on the ACF KCChefs.org site. Submission of information is to be sent to Chef Todd Walline at Blue Hills Country Club for review. His email address is: twalline@bluehillscc.com Chef of the Year Nominees are: Chefs Jim Tinkham, Paul Santaularia, Ronna Keck, Mike Chrostowski, Richard McPeake and Jesse Vega Purveyor of the Year Nominees are: Kansas Beef Council Vitacraft US Foods John Joyce Culinary Competition will be held on November 14&15 at JCCC. Contact the School if you are going to participate Santas Fun Run: Looking for Volunteers and Donations for this years Santa Fun Run out at JCCC Sunday morning December 7, 2014. Last year because of the Chapters efforts providing a hot breakfast  runners as they finished the race we collected over $2,500 in cash and four vans full of toys for Children that we donated to Operation Breakthrough. It is truly a fun event for everyone involved. Co-Chairs are Chefs Ronna Keck and Chris Hall from US Foods. Last year Ronna was able to get it to snow  a little during the run which was the first snow of the season. Looking for Committee Members to start working on our January Awards Banquet. Currently we have the following volunteers: Kathy Perkins US Foods Chefs Ronna Keck, Bob Brassard, Trevor Thomas and Chris Schley Our October meeting is at Blue Hills Country Club. Our Host is Chef Todd Walline. We are also collecting canned food items that we can send to Harvesters for re-distribution at this meeting. October is Childhood Hunger Awareness Month. Chef Todd has also contacted Carl Edward Blake of Rustik Rooster Farms of Iowa to conduct a very educational evening. For more information visit their site at:  rustikroosterfarms.com

Meeting Minutes from August 12, 2014

ACF Meeting Minutes for August 12, 2014 Centerpoint Medical Center Host Chef Jim Tinkham CEC, ACE and his staff Members present, Mark Webster, Ronna K, Mike Hursey, Mike Crostowski, Gary Hild, Gerrold Jansen, Jerry Marcellus, Paul Santalaria, Ona Ashley, Guests Corey Ringh and Shari Hockenbery from MPI. New Business:  A great connection was made with Hallmark and they will be hosting a meeting March 10 of 2015. Lots of praise and thank you were given to Kathy Perkins and Buddy Dahl, It was voted to give each a 200.00 dollar gift of thanks. Kathy Perkins also praised all volunteers for their effort and the service given at our convention was very memorable. Mark spoke of new changes coming for certification up to 12 credits per year for board members. Jennifer Randolph from Wayne Farms and Brent Margolan from supreme Great Lakes donated Chefs Craft Dinner Sausage. The Shuttle to and from Harrahs was well attended and a great success. The ACF is looking for an Industry chef to help serve on a board for ACFEF Accrediting Commission. If you have any photos from the convention please post them on the chapter Facebook Page. Congratulations go out to the JCCC Culinary Team for their win at the convention. Congratulations go out to Paul Santalaria and Felix Strummer for being inducted into the AAC. Cutting Edge awards went to Mike Crowstowski and Bob Brassard. We donated 1000.00 to Team USA Ronna spoke of the Santa Fun Run it will be Dec 7th. She wrote thank you notes to BBQ judges and to Williams Foods for donations. Mike Hursey Spoke of having more local food used by the ACF. Mike Crowstowski told of a land donation of 40 acres given by the Nigro brothers at 151st and Phlumm. This will be a community Garden used by Olathe Schools. Gerold would like to give a free membership to the Chef at the Webster House. Motion passed. Jerry Marcellus spoke about the John Joyce competition adding a 2 man mystery basket. Occurs on Nov. 14-15. There are 6 judges for this and we spend a fair amount of money. Paul Suggested to raise the fee for the 2 man competition to 125.00 Also raise the one hour hot food to 75.00 Matt Chatfield Wants to invite the Investment Advisor to a meeting. He said the taxes are filed. 6000.00 in the checking account. Pay for Jeff Addison Membership Fee. Motion passed. Ona Spoke of the Culinary Team and their win plus JCCC was recognized by WACS. Only 3 other culinary schools in the US with this. Shari Hockenberry and Corey Ringh from MPI spoke at length about the Catering and Restraunt Show Case and how they want the ACF to give a an educational component to the program. A Delicious Buffet was served by Jim Tinkham and his staff. The Beef Council gave a nice educational video about current beef business and trends in our customer base. Jesse Vega nominted himself for president Jim Tinkham was nominated for president by Gerold Jansen Chef Tito was nominated for Secretary Both Vice Presidents will stay in there current positions for another term. Mike Crowstowski and Richard McPeake Matt Chattfield will stay in the positions of treasure Jim Tinkham announced that we did an excellent job at the convention and the ACF would be sending us 15,000.00.

 

Meeting Minutes from June 10, 2014

ACF Minutes for June 10, 2014 GKCCA Chefs Meeting held at US Foods 3rd Annual Karen Putman Memorial Summer Event **Tonight’s meeting was sponsored by US Foods, Kathy Perkins, Chef Chris Hall and staff ** We had a fun evening with Food Teams featuring Chefs: Russ Muehlberger, Bob Brassard, Jesse Vega, Richard McPeake, Mark Prece and Paul Santaularia. Assisted by very several awesome Apprentices. People Choice Award went to Chef Richard McPeake. Awards we given by US Foods for every participant **Chef Ronna Keck gave a quick bio on Karen and awarded the $500.00 scholarship to a very deserving Apprentice **The ACF National Culinary Team will be using Broadmoor Tech to practice their cold food platters. On July 24 and 25th. Chef Bob is asking for food donations and volunteers to help at the school. To volunteer contact Chef Bob at: robertbrassard@smsd.org ** The ACF National office will be in town next week on June 16 and 17th. On June 16 several board members will be meeting with them. **Chef Mike Chrostowski from Olathe North informed us that his Culinary Team placed Second at the 2014 National Pro-Start Culinary Competition. Congratulations to all of his students and their impressive Chef Instructors. **Chef Michael Hursey Chef/Owner Casa Somerset in Paola, KS announced that next month’s meeting will be held on Sunday July 13 at his property Casa Somerset. This is a beautiful Bed and Breakfast and Chef Michael always has some amazing exhibitors. This is a family event that your kids will not want to miss. It is very important to contact Michael by email to RSVP. mikehursey@hughes.net **For discounted Chef Coats visit New Chef Fashions online. You can then call and talk with Stella Koltzan at New Chef to see about jackets where the Chapter will receive a rebate for each jacket. That will also give you a chance to see the 2014 National Convention logo that they are using for our convention. Phone 1-800-639-2433 ext. 254 or stella@newchef.com **Chef Paul Santualaria is the collection point for any donated items that we can use to fill attendee gift bags. Reinhart Foods has donated some with our logo and US Foods will be donating some as well. We need donations to fill the bags. Please contact businesses, vendors etc. Anything collected will help. For more information contact Chef Paul at: santachef@gmail.com **Buddly Lahl also talked about the upcoming BBQ Event to kick off the convention. This event will be on Thursday July 24th and Barney Allis Plaza. We are looking for more teams for the event as well as people wanting to take the Judging Class. We have many things donated, but we could also use some monetary donations to cover expenses. Please contact Buddy at: buddylahl85@gmail.com ** To be a Volunteer at the Convention please contact Kathy Perkins at US Foods kathy.perkins@usfoods.com or Chef Gary Hild at: chefgary@kcculinary.com Hope to see each of you on Sunday, July 13th, at Casa Somerset. The event starts at 2:00PM

Meeting Minutes from May 13, 2014

ACF Minutes for May 13, 2014 Members in attendance: Mark W, Buddy Lahl, Richard Mcpeak, Paul Santalaria, Jim Tinkham, Gerold Jansen, Pat Lockwood, Matt Chatfield, Mike Hursey, Kathy Perkins, Aaron. Mark Webster called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm. Conversation about judging the BBQ Contest at the ACF Convention. Question was can the people taking the judges class also be involved in judging the competition. Buddy said that there are two separate events. They are open to ACF members. 40 dollars for members and 80 dollars for nonmembers. Buddy is working on Barney Allis Plaza for the contest. Utilities and Rent. Also discussed the usage of wood at the contest, also the need for security gaurd. It was established that each team go to Richard or Eddy. This is in reference for using a smoker. Each Team gets an ambassador. 6 smokers available. Buddy will get judges for the competition. The judges class has no participants. Carolyn Wells was contacted on this issue. Needs sponsorship. WE may have a 7K electric bill. Reached out to Tyson. Kansas Beef Councel gave Brisket. Mark discussed the need for Roberts Rules of Order and to cut down on interruptions. Buddy has changed jobs and gave out a new card. Please have Laura put this on the Website for the BBQ Competition. Volunteers were discussed and so were minutes available. Kathy responded. Put on Facebook to help with volunteers. Also need people for dine around. The Dine Around is on the same night as the AAC Dinner. There will be lots of families attending. First time for this. Email from Wounded Warriors they want a Fish Fry and to ask for our support. Financial or food is being asked for. Mark Asked For an Election Committee. To aid with upcoming election of officers. Mark also asked for a financial report. Matt said that we need to draw from our savings account. Voted on 10K. Paul S, Retired from Northland Career Center. Joins the ranks of Hy-Vee in Olathe Kansas. Spoke about AAC induction. We have a ¼ sheet add in Culinary Review for Paul and Felix. Richard- Meeting change for Nov. At the CCKC. Richard will present at the Convention. July 26 at 2:00 pm. Smoking Demo. Jim T Donations for AAC Dinner Us Foods donated Beef. No new news from ACF. Aaron –College donated tables. Ice Carvings – class by ACF Team. Jeff Addison would like to carve something. Mark Says contact Tom with ACF. Discussed volunteers again. Kathy Has list from Richard and LeCole School. Kathys letter was very good. Tour of Vita Craft set up. They also give away a pan to all who attend. Tour is on Friday the 25th. Jaspers Radio show brought up. Wants 1000.00. Acf wont pay. They really want Marching Cobras. Buddy says they are hard to get info from. Linde secured a band for Friday Night for Ice breaker. Another conference call will be May 22nd. They will also have a tasting for AAC Dinner at Intercontinental Hotel Jim wants items for Convention Bags. Anything that can be given contact Jim. Acf give a conference gift. Need anything that represents Kansas City. Ronna will collect for BBQ Contest. Balloons were brought up. Kathy has a quot. Who will stuff the bags? Maybe JCCC, or Northland Career Center. Pat Lockwood talked at great length about entertainment for those not attending the Sunday Evening Dinner. We talked about KC Originals, Going to Harrahs, the Baseball Game. Whatever we decide is our expense as the ACF will not subsidize. We may hire the Trolley to transport. Paul said the Kingswood residents would be helpful with meet and great. Aaron will draft a letter head. Will send out letter asking for donations. Chapter will review and send out. Felix brought up using the truck from Downtown Marriott for whatever at the convention. Mike Hursey Talked about Jaume Brichs who is this evenings guest chef from Spain and that he will be making Paella outside. Mike also spoke that he would host the July meeting. Kathy spoke again about volunteers. The nominating committee will consist of Kathy, Ronna, Richard. A wonderful dinner Buffet was served by Jesse Vega and his staff. Suppliers who donated were. Sysco, The Premium Group- Food Service brokers, Companion Baking, Schrieber, Liberty Produce, The Tasteful Olive After Dinner was served: Kathy spoke about volunteers and that she and Gary Hild are the co-chairs for this function. The next meeting will be held a US Foods and that there will be a small plate competition to honor Karen Putnam. Paul spoke about the goodie bags and how honored he feels to be inducted into the AAC. Bob Brassard spoke about the Urban Garden that is planted at the school. Jesse thanked his staff and all the suppliers. Jerry Marcellus spoke about the Pasture to Plate Tour and that there are 7 spots left. Contact  Sharla Huseman if you want to attend. Sharla@Kansasbeef.org  he also spoke about the convention and the BBQ Contest. Jean Mckay from the tasteful Olive spoke about her products and she gave away vinegar and oil to each person who attended tonight. Mark Concluded the meeting and spoke again of the importance of volunteers to the ACF Convention. Jesse Vega is collecting old Chef Coats For Catholic Charities.

 

Meeting Minutes from April 8, 2014

ACF Minutes for April 8, 2014 First thank you to Chef Mike Chrostowski, his staff and students for an amazing dinner and exhibition by his Pro-Start Team. Food for the Evening were provided by US Foods and Sysco. Rita Siegel and Reinhart Foods brought a great sample of a convention bag that they had made with our logo and their logo printed on them. We need logo products to put in them for our convention Attendees…sort of the Best of KC items. First Order of Business: Highlights were covered regarding the 2014 ACF Regional held in St. Louis, MO – The Knowledge Bowl from JCCC won a Silver medal – The Culinary team won the Gold Medal and will be representing the Central Region here in KC this summer at the National Convention – Chef Jess Barbosa was awarded a Presidential Medallion – Our Chapter won a Chapter Achievement Award Buddy Lahl of Treat America is the Coordinator for the BBQ Competition at our event. The Kansas City Barbecue Society (KSBS) has been very helpful in the planning. and we are waiting to see if we can use the ACF Insurance Rider to cover the BBQ Event The ACF has given us a room at the Marriott to conduct the Judging Class. We are looking for Sponsors to help with the event. Anyone interested in helping please contact Buddy at: buddyl@treatamerica.com A Conference call will be taking place this Thursday April 17th with the ACF and anyone interested in being a part of it to discuss where we stand and what we need to be doing. Contact Conference Chair Chef Jim Tinkham if you want to be included on this call Chef Aaron Prater from JCCC and Co-Chair of the Convention is looking at the possibility of having the Veterans at JCCC participate as a Honor Guard during our convention. Chef Mark Webster is also contacting his VFW Post to see what their status is. We now have a date and time when they will be needed. Ona Ashley from JCCC has told us they can supply the Stainless steel demo tables with casters that will be needed for the many demos. The ACF has given each chapter one free membership to use to offer it to a Chef who has not yet been a member to help boost the Professional category. Lindy from JCCC spoke of the need for 40 Student Volunteers per day as well as 20 Professional members each day of the convention. Volunteers can attend the seminars the day they volunteer, but will not receive CEH’s. Chef Bob Brassard and others are looking in the possibility of providing food for the shifts the volunteers will be working. We need to contact Vita-Craft to see if they can work with the ACF in a Sponsorship activity. Possibly in exchange for space at the trade show. Two Chefs from the Chapter will be entering the American Academy of Chefs (AAC) during the Convention. Chef Paul Santaularia and Chef Felix Sturmer from JCCC will be made an Honorary Member. Chef Matt Chatfield reviewed our current Finances looking at costs the convention might have on the chapter, but also what we as a Chapter might bring in Financially. In 2015 their will only be two Regional Conferences (the Central and Western Region merging together) and then the second (the Northeastern and the Southeastern merging). Then of Course our National Convention. This is will help lower costs Financially for the ACF. Chef Charles Carol from Texas is the new Vice President of the World Association of Chefs Society (WACS). Lindy thinks it would be appropriate for the Chapter to issue a check to either Team USA Culinary Team or the USA Student Team at the General Session of the Convention. Chef Bob Brassard talked about how the USA National Culinary Team might be Practicing in his Broadmoor Tech Kitchens during the Convention. He also talked about Earth Day coming up on April 22, 2014 when Broadmoor Tech will be holding a Ceremony to break ground on a new Urban Garden at the School at 9:00AM. Pat Lockwood was trying to get information on Celebrity Chefs for the convention. However at this time we don’t have definite names. Pat is also very busy working with the KC Originals with the hopes of having a Pub Crawl event. We still need additional input from the ACF. Chef Gary Hild brought up a great job opportunity at the Wine Country Inn in Palisade Colorado. Lots of great things happening. We would love to have 100% participation at the National Convention. Even if you can’t attend every day. Whatever you can do will make a difference.

Meeting Minutes from February 11, 2014

ACF Minutes for Feb 11, 2014 First I would like to thank JCCC and all the staff and students ,who helped bring last nights Chefs Meeting/Dinner together. I would also like to thank the following sponsors who donated product: Tippins Pies for their awesome selection of pies Chris Kurzweil from Kurzweil country Meats supplying the sausage Our friends at C&C Produce We were privileged to have the National president of the American Culinary Federation, Chef Tom Macrina CEC, CCA, AAC as our guest speaker at both the Board meeting and at the General Meeting. He spoke of the state of the ACF, some about the Alliances that have been formed between several Culinary Associations and of course about the 2014 National Convention that we are hosting. They are even going to build a separate site to publicize the event. Chef Macrina is hoping for 1750 Attendees. He mentioned several Chefs that will be attending such as Grant Achatz from Chicago and Rick Moonen from RM Seafood at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas and “Many More”. Chef Jim Tinkham and Chef Aaron Prater Chairs for the 2014 National Convention held a Convention meeting prior to the Board Meeting. Thank Everyone who helped organize the recent Chefs Award Banquet. The John Joyce Culinary Competition was held on January 24, 25th at JCCC. There were 16 individual competitors and 3 Teams in the Team category. JCCC took a Gold Medal, Team Nebraska took a Silver Medal and Team Pulaski took home a Bronze medal. Congratulations to everyone who participated. The Board voted on and authorized stipends for Chef Doug Flick who is competing in the Pastry chef of the Year competition, Chef Jess Barbosa competing in the Hermann G. Rusch Award and the JCCC Knowledge Bowl Tea which will be competing. Chef Mike Hursey Chef/Owner of Casa Somerset thank everyone for the nomination and winning of the Culinarian Award. Chef Mike Hursey is also going to try an obtain a application for a program called “Whole Food Cultivate Kansas City” a fundraising possibility for our Association. We are also having Chef Matt Chatfield our Association Treasurer look into possibly  withdrawing some of our funds in savings to help with future needs. Chef Felix Sturmer, along with assistance from Chef Todd Walline and a students (Matt) along with information from the American Lamb Board provided an excellent Lamb Fabrication event. Along with showing Center of the Plate dishes using the fabricated cuts. If you are wanting to volunteer to help with the National Convention please contact Chef Jim Tinkham at: jim.tinkham@HCAmidwest.com” Chef Brian Lewis for St.Lukes Hospital is also looking for a candidate for a Sous Chef position at the St. Lukes Plaza location. If you are looking to grow with a strong company and are looking for a job that offers fantastic quality of life. Contact Chef Lewis at: brlewis@saint-lukes.org The next meeting will be held on the Country Club Plaza, March 11 at: L’ECOLE CULINAIRE 310 Ward Parkway Kansas City, MO 64112 We have a lot going on this year and we would really like your support.

Meeting Minutes from January 14, 2014

ACF Minutes for Jan 14,2014 Sysco Food Service Present, Mark Webster, Mike Hursey, Ronna Keck, Richard McPeake, Todd Wallin, Linde Robinson, Matt Chatfield, Ona Ashley, Jim Tinkham, Gary Hild, Paul Santalaria, Felix Strumer, Mike Crostowski. Jerry Marcellas Mark, Discussed the Awards dinner at the Marriott this Sunday. Next meeting to be held at JCCC in Feb. The Taste of Elegance will be held at the DT Marriott on Feb 25th. There will be no apprentice of the year this year. Linde, Do Student of the year a High School student to receive a Scholarship. There is a new room at the college for Chef Awards. Ronna, Karen Chef awards to go to JCCC. Hang in the new room Mark, New ACF Logo on Disk, He will make a Banner of the same. Paul Culinarian of the Year. Richard Nominated Laura Laiben along with KC Running Company. Paul is looking for judges for skills USA Talked about the John Joyce Competition held Feb 24@25. Jerry Marcellas gave details of signing up, Master Chefs to judge. Matt gave a financial report of The Chefs Benefit. We just broke even. It was brought up to have the Chefs Benefit at JCCC. We voted to do this in 2015 and to have the focus on education. All money to go back to our chapter. Jim Tinkham, Spoke of the National Convention, and volunteers needed, BBQ Contest. Also an important planning meeting before ACF National Reps come to KC. Linde, Spoke of a great opportunity at St. Lukes for an apprentice. Job pays very well and includes lots of educational benefits. Includes Cardio Education. Richard, Spoke of the Educational component that he and Mike have organized for each meeting. Ronna, Wants expenses for new flag. Motion passed. $500 dollars for Knowledge No numbers for Santa Claus run. A small plate buffet was served by Sysco Culinary Team with John Landry. A Pork Education Video was presented in a power point by Sharon Oetting from Concordia Mo. Sharon is a Pork Producer. Skills USA, John Joyce competition, National Convention and the new job at St. Lukes were all discussed. Chef Tom Macrina to attend our next meeting. He is president of the ACF national office.