WSCA President
Tony Parker CEC, AAC, ACE

March 2017

 

Greetings Culinarians and Associates,

The Bite of Apprenticeship

The Bite of the Apprenticeship event held at RTC in April was our annual fundraiser for Prostart. The turnout was the most I have ever seen and the atmosphere was nothing but exciting as the six schools and six professional houses competed for best in their category and for the best overall appetizer. The food was incredible. There was lots to go around with plenty for seconds and thirds. For the first time a Prostart High School was in the house competing with the colleges. Bonney Lake High School under Chef Kahale came ready to show what they can do. We also had a new Associate member, Cascade Deli Provisions. The president of CDP, David Lindholm came in with a beautiful display of Boars Head Meats and Cheeses for everyone to try. I know that some of you really enjoyed their table because I did not see you move away from it. David also stepped up and sponsored the bar for the event. Thank you so much for taking your time and helping the association and Prostart at this fundraising event. It was much appreciated. 

The school category was won by Bates Technical College. The apprentice category was won for the second year in a row by Bell Harbor. The overall people's choice for best in show was won by Bonney lake High School with their Raw Bar Theme. Their menu consisted of: Ahi Poke on a fried wonton chip; Hamachi tuna salad served on a cracker; Steak Tartar served on a crostini. Chef Kahale said "Our theme was Raw Raw Ohh La La!" All high end dishes that reflect our program converted into bites arranged to perfection. Visit the website for pictures and more info!

Competition

I have been asked lately about our annual competition that is usually held around the end of May. We have decided to not do one this year with everything else that has been going on. We are working on a location for next year and do have plans to hold at least a one day event. When we have more information I will cascade it out to all of you.

Practical Exams

We just held practical exams at RTC this last Saturday the 29th. We had four chefs aiming for their CEC certification. Two of the examinees scored high enough to pass the practicals and two fell just short. I know from experience that however proficient you are at your job, performing in front of four evaluators is a little unnerving. All the examinees should be applauded for coming out and taking these practicals. For those chefs that did not make it this time, the experience from that will make it that much easier the next time they come in to take the exam. I would like to thank the chefs who donate their time on a Saturday to come in and proctor these exams.  We do these exams four times a year. The dates are listed on the national ACF website for our state. Spots fill up quickly so if you are planning on taking your practical exam for any level, you need to send an email to ACF National and reserve your spot. 

Memorial Service for Walter Bronowitz

The Chef Walter Bronowitz memorial service was held on April 8th, I would like to thank all of you who came out to remember Walter and comfort Diane during this time.  Thank you to the chefs that helped Diane with the great buffet that was put together.

It was standing room only as friends, co-workers, fellow chefs and businesses came to swap stories about Walter over the years and to hear great tributes from close friends.  Those of us who have had the honor and privilege to have known Walter are all the better for it.  Walter brought out the good in all of us that sometimes we need to be reminded of.  For that I am truly thankful and will always remember one of my mentors and friend.

Diane has set up a scholarship fund in Walters name at Seattle Central Community College. Please help to carry on Walter's legacy by supporting this fund. 

Upcoming Events

Our next meeting is May 8th at Puget Sound Skills Center.  It is a board meeting and should run from 4-6pm.  You are welcome to come to our board meetings and sit in but please let us know in advance since some of our locations can get a little cramped.

We are still working on the June meeting and will get that information out as soon as we can.