In a Fast-Food Culture the American Culinary Federation Celebrates Excellence

CLEARWATER, Fla. - Sept. 28, 2023 - PRLog -- Taking the rise in fast food consumption head on, the American Culinary Federation's Tampa Bay Chapter recognized culinary excellence at their annual awards ceremony this September. The event was held at the Fort Harrison, the religious retreat for the Church of Scientology.

The awardees included two ACF Board members and Executive Chefs from the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization (FSO) – Chef Zoltan Vajna and Chef Barry Reid – who were awarded the Presidential Medallion.

"This Medallion is presented in recognition of outstanding representation of the ACF fundamental principles," said Chef Vanessa Marquis, the President of the Tampa Bay Chapter.

Both chefs have decades of experience in the kitchen. As Flag's Corporate Chef, overseeing 14 restaurants and cafés with 12,000 meals served daily, Chef Zoltan has been a chef for 38 years. Chef Barry Reid started his career at 14,when his parents enrolled him in culinary school. Now a Certified Executive Chef and member of the World Master Chefs' Society, Chef Barry and his team serve 8,000 to 10,000 meals a week.

"Chef Zoltan Vajna imparts invaluable wisdom and guidance to me, he fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our ACF members," said Chef Vanessa. "Chef Barry's unwavering commitment to both the ACF and culinary excellence continues to be a source of inspiration for us all."

"A September 2023 report published on Barbeque Lab cites the fast-food industry's income as $110 billion, so it is good news that the culinary arts are still respected," said Lisa Mansell, Public Affairs staffer for the Church. "We are honored the Tampa ACF acknowledge members of our culinary team and are honored to support their aims to educate and uphold high standards for their members."

Flag's chefs regularly ply their skills for community events for the general public. If you are interested in being included on the guest list for future community events, please call 727-467-6860.

About the American Culinary Federation (ACF)

The American Culinary Federation, Inc., a professional organization for chefs and cooks, was founded in 1929 in New York City. The ACF is an organization based on promoting the professional image of American chefs worldwide. There are more than 14,000 members belonging to more than 170 chapters across the US. To learn more, visit www.acfchefs.org.

About the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization

The Scientology religion was founded by humanitarian and philosopher, L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in the United States in 1954 and has expanded to more than 11,000 churches, missions and affiliated groups in 167 nations. Flag is a religious retreat in Clearwater, Florida. To learn more, visit www.scientology-fso.org.