January's ACF General Meeting had a record turn out for membership attendance. Thanks to Brad Yearwood, CEC, for running the meeting in my absence. Brad also simmered away a delicious chicken consommé demonstration for the membership. He has more guests and demonstrations lined up for the months ahead. Steve Donnelly, Vice President of Sales for US Foodservice has a video and will elaborate on trans-fats at February's meeting. I look forward to seeing all of you on February 26^th.

Nominations for Chef of the Year will now be accepted. Valid nominations may be introduced at either the February or March General Meeting. Members wishing to place a nomination should submit documentation to Chef Don Antinore, CEC, CCE, CCA, AAC before the closing of the March General Meeting. Once nominees are revealed, the cook-off will be in April. The past five Chefs of the Year will vote on the individuals and the prevailing chef will be named at the President's Ball in September. Good luck to all.

In closing, I wish the best of luck to Chef Michael Redmond CEC, AAC who will assume the position of General Manager of Food and Beverage at the Metropolitan Club in Washington, DC.

Good cooking,
Chef Macri