American Culinary Federation Chefs Forum 2001 Starts July 22 in Las Vegas.

Business Editors & Lifestyle Writers

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 10, 2001

When the nation's top chefs gather around the table at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas July 22-26, they'll be dealing out tips for culinary excellence. They will be among the participants at the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Chefs Forum 2001, annual convention draws the nation's most influential and accomplished chefs, culinary educators and food industry representatives to learn and teach new skills, share trends in cuisine and celebrate excellence in the profession. Last year's forum drew more than 2,000 participants, and a major increase in attendance is expected this year.

For the culinary professional and student, and for the food enthusiast, activities at the ACF Chefs Forum 2001 will include culinary competitions, chef demonstrations, new products marketplace, educational seminars and workshops and networking opportunities. A Culinary Writers' Salon will showcase published authors of culinary, food service and hospitality related topics. The convention also features awards ceremonies and hands-on workshops, plus clinics on apprenticeship and professional certification.

"Viva Las Vegas" is the theme of the convention and begins with a celebration benefit for the ACF Chef & Child Foundation (CCF). The CCF is ACF's philanthropic arm through which more than 300 local chapters raise funds to increase awareness of the dietary and nutritional needs of children.

Keynote speaker Loretta LaRoche will present on Tuesday, July 24. LaRoche, an international stress management and humor consultant, is the founder of Humor Potential, Inc. Other celebrated presenters will include Paul Prudhomme, one of the nation's best-known Chefs, pastry chef Jacquy Pfeiffer, co-owner of French Pastry School, Inc., Sherry Yard of Spago, Chicago, and Donald Russell, Four Seasons, Los Angeles.

The organization's highest honor, the 2001 ACF National Chef of the Year Award will be presented at a formal dinner on Tuesday, July 24. Nominees are selected for the award by their peers.

The American Culinary Federation, founded in 1929, is the nation's largest and most prestigious organization of culinary professionals. The 25,000-member organization, based in St. Augustine, Florida, promotes culinary education and professional excellence. Visit ACF's Web site address at http://www.acfchefs.org.

Editor's Note: For additional information on the ACF Chefs Forum 2001 media registration, for photos or interviews with ACF Chefs and executives, please contact Sandra Oak, 904/645-6200 or [e-mail].