ACF Palm Beach County Chefs Association

ACF Palm Beach County Chefs Association We are pleased to present the bronze winner, Chef Gary Spitnale from Miami Lakes Technical Center and Technical College. Your representation of the SE Region is valued, and we are proud of your achievement in the National Southeast Region. Additionally, we recognize the support team, including President Jeff Simms from The Breakers, Academy Chef Dominick Laudia, who was in attendance also thank all of you for picturs, ACF Miami President Chef Thomas Russo, a military veteran, also Congratulations ACF Certification Chair, Chef Bruce Ozga from STU for receiving the PRESIDENTAL MEDALLION ! Gary Spitnale Thomas Russo Dominick Laudia Jeff Simms
American Culinary Federation ゚

The ACF Palm Beach County Chapter was proudly represented at the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS) gathering in Wales, United Kingdom, by Chef Javier Laurie, CEC, WCEC, who participated in this prestigious international culinary event on behalf of our chapter. 🌍🇬🇧

This global experience provided an outstanding opportunity for professional growth, culinary education, and international collaboration, bringing together chefs and culinary leaders from around the world to share knowledge, innovation, and cultural perspectives.

Throughout the event, meaningful conversations centered around some of the most important topics shaping our profession today—including sustainability in the culinary world, the power and impact of young chefs worldwide, and the critical role our industry plays in creating a better future for generations to come.

There was also strong emphasis on the importance of culinary organizations and global partnerships in helping to fight hunger around the world, while also making a difference within our own local communities—proving that the work chefs do extends far beyond the kitchen.

During the event, Chef Javier Laurie had the opportunity to engage with fellow culinary professionals, exchange ideas with peers, reconnect with familiar faces, and strengthen relationships within the worldwide culinary community.

Experiences like these reflect the mission of the American Culinary Federation—to promote education, leadership, sustainability, service, networking, and the advancement of the culinary profession both locally and globally.

The ACF Palm Beach County Chapter is honored to have been represented on the international stage and looks forward to bringing back inspiration, knowledge, and continued leadership to our chapter and culinary community.

A sincere thank you to WACS for hosting such an exceptional event and for creating opportunities that unite chefs from around the world while addressing the issues that matter most to our profession and our communities.