Endorsements

The American Culinary Federation of Greater Buffalo New York is proud and happy to endorse Michael Ty CEC, AAC for a second consecutive term as the National President of the American Culinary Federation. Michael has performed up to our expectations as the national leader and we would love to continue to work with him for another two years.

Scott Steiner CCE
ACF of Greater Buffalo
Chairman of the Board

ACF National President, Michael Ty, joins with he Inland Empire Chapter of ACF and the Downtown Riverside Marriott Hotel to participate in a day of giving. In the truest sense of the Christmas season Inland Empire -ACF hosted a luncheon to benefit under-served children in the Inland Empire community. Concilio Child Development Center was chosen to participate with the children and families they serve to a luncheon and gift giving with Santa. GM Tom Donahue and Executive Chef Luis Martinez welcomed Chef Ricardo Santana, President, IE-ACF and their members along with the children to the hotel Grand Ballroom. The luncheon and gift giving was provided by the chapter from the proceeds of events held throughout the year to benefit children. Executive Chef Michael Ty, National President- ACF commended the local chapter for their goal to give back to the community and help provide and awareness of ACF's efforts to provide the education of the benefits of good nutrition and healthy living."
For information about the programs of ACF, please visit www.iechefs.org (local) and www.acfchefs.org (national).

Terry Yeager
Secretary CA 163
"Serving the Best to the Finest"

Of the many duties with which President of the American Culinary Federation (ACF) is charged perhaps the most important is to serve as the official member representative on the Board of Directors/Governors. Michael also must also maintain all members’ interests as they are related to the Ethics Committee. Michael Ty’s vast experience with the ACF gives him an unparalleled understanding of what is needed to meet these needs. Personally knowing Michael I can attest for his professional commitment to the ACF. Whether it was past during experiences such as serving as ACF President (1993 to 1994), National President for the ACF Chef & Child Foundation (1994-1995), President of an ACF National Chapter(1995-1996) or reporting as National President for the ACF Chef & Child Foundation (1994-1995) Michael has always been ethically committed to the fraternal interests of ACF members. Michael Ty, serving as President to the American Culinary Federation, will continue to represent each member’s interests with experience and integrity. I trust members feel as favorable to his candidacy as I do and endorse him as National President in 2011.

Garry Waldie, CEC, CEPC, CCE, AAC

Serving in the ACF Chef Michael Ty has always demonstrated the sound organizational managerial skills needed for the position of National ACF President. Michael has always support the ACF Arizona Chefs, its Academy members and Jr. Culinarians. He is committed to the success of all members including the Western Region. Chef Ty has strived for membership growth in each region, supports the Chef and Child programs, certification and student education programs and culinary art competition. As ACF Phoenix Chapter looks forward to helping Chef Ty host the 2011Western Regional’s and also support his candidacy as National ACF President.

ACF Phoenix Chapter

It is my pleasure to support our president, Chef Michael Ty, CEC, AAC, to continue his role as our president of the American Culinary Federation. Chef Michael has certainly proven, during his year as our elected president, his talent with his many accomplishments within the ACF.

One issue that was always a concern was our financial situation. As your National Chairman of the ACF Investment & Finance Taskforce Committee I have firsthand knowledge of many of the issues of the financial situation and we are very conscientious about the fiscal responsibility we have and the ACF now operates in a positive mode. This is due not only to the efforts of Chef Michael Ty, CEC, AAC as our president, but also due to the diligence of our national office with Heidi Cramb and staff. I for one am very pleased in what I see, as they always say, the actual results are more than anyone could have imagined.

Therefore, I recommend to you, to continue to support Chef Michael Ty, CEC, AAC as our president of the American Culinary Federation as I know greater things can be accomplished, and he needs your support to get it done. Please join me in supporting him, as many of us believe that he is the chef for the position, and we know he will continue to give to the ACF and its members what they expect from a national president. Furthermore, remember, his business acumen, and his knowledge of all the entities that encompass the ACF are important experience that one must have in order to be a successful leader in our organization. I have known Michael for many years, and he is most giving and dedicated to you, the member, and our success.

So re-elect Chef Michael Ty, CEC, AAC for President, as you can see I am!

Bert Cutino, CEC, AAC, HOF
Co-Founder/COO, The Sardine Factory Restauran
Chair, ACF Finance & Investment Task Force
Chair, Honorary Board of Trustees, American Academy of Chefs
Past Chair, American Academy of Chefs, 1995-99
Past Vice President, ACF Western Region, 1985-89


As a past president of the American Culinary Federation (ACF) I feel I can offer a fair appraisal of the job performance of Chef Michael Ty, our current president.  For many years I have observed a variety of personalities, and some who possessed different technical skills become elected to that office.  Some seemed to care for only their agenda and personal comfort, not openly displaying a sense of attentive dedications to needs of ACF members.  Chef Ty is different.  He is genuinely sensitive to the values every ACF member receives. He listens, and then makes decisions after fully realizing what is best for the entire body.  We need more of that kind of leadership!  He has demonstrated what values he brings to the table for our organization by reversing a deficit operations budget to conditions of now operating profitably.  In Anaheim during the recent national convention, when outlining his visions for our future he delivered messages that assured us that our coming days are definitely getting better.  We need his leadership and proven experience to deliver our future.  VOTE FOR CHEF MICHAEL TY!  

Willie Rossel, AAC
Past ACF President ACF Historian

I would like to take a moment to express my support of Chef Michael Ty, CEC, AAC for President of the American Culinary Federation. In his current term of office Chef Ty has shown that he will do what he promises to do. He pledged fiduciary responsibility and he came through with that promise. He also pledged his support of the Armed Forces chefs and he did not forget us as so many before him have done once campaign time was a distant memory. Time and again he has shown his support of our fine chefs in uniform. I believe that his support will only grow stronger with a second term of office. He has embraced the relationship between the Army and the ACF for apprenticeship and has championed many causes on our behalf.
He has also reached out to and embraced so many of the civilian industry chefs that had become forgotten by previous administrations such as health care chefs, catering chefs, and business and industry chefs. These for the most part were lost segments of our fraternity of chefs left behind and in some cases even shunned by former presidents of the ACF. Chef Ty has worked hard and diligently to bring them back into the fold and he has been successful. Chef Ty is a grass roots chef, a cook’s cook. You wont find him flying first class accommodations like so many ACF presidents in the past. He will be sitting right next to you in coach. Living and breathing his platform promises. He does and has done what he says he will do.
I believe strongly that a change in leadership at the highest level in ACF at this time would undo much of the great work that has already been done. We are on the right road and need to stay engaged with the current mission and vision that Chef Ty has outlined in his platform. I have every confidence that he will keep us tracking and continue to lead our federation successfully into the future.
 I would ask that you support Chef Ty in his bid for reelection to American Culinary Federation National President. His reelection is critical to the future success of not only our federation but the profession of chef in the united states for civilian and military chefs alike.
SGM David Turcotte, CEC, AAC
ACF National Culinary Competition Committee Chair


Chef, My vote is with you as I am proud of your accomplishments for ACF. Thank you for making a difference.
Matthew Reed


"Chef Michael Ty has always demonstrated the sound organizational & managerial skills needed for the ACF National Board position. Michael has always given of himself to the ACF, and the members and Jr. Culinarians He has always been committed to the success of ACF without any boundary or region. Chef Ty has strives for excellence with the American Culinary Federation membership growth in not only all ACF regions but also internationally. His commitment to membership, passion for food and past and current experience makes him the best candidate for the future of the ACF, its membership and other ACF entities.
“Proudly endorse Chef Michael Ty for ACF National President for another Term"
Chef Rajeev Patgaonkar, CEC, AAC
Immediate Past President
ACFCPCCA


I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you for doing an outstanding job as a president especially controlling the cost of doing business.
Alex Ottman


MY vote will be for YOU, Chef Ty. ...count on it. YOU have been a longtime friend and peer. My wife Phyllis and I are honored to know you. Continued success in ALL you do.
Earl R. Arrowood, Jr. - CCC,CCE, FMP, AAC, M.Sc.
ACF, Philadelphia Chapter


YOU HAVE MY SUPPORT AND VOTE!! As well as the votes from my chapter!
Alfonso Constrisciani, CMC, GMC, AAC


In the short time I have known Chef Michael Ty he has become such a positive influence on me and my culinary career.  He possesses the intellect, skills and heart to lead the American Culinary Federation. Chef Ty's past leadership has proven that he will continue to serve us well into the future.
Trisha LeBlanc
Student at Ivy Tech College Indianapolis, Indiana


I have had the pleasure of knowing our current President Michael Ty for many years and believe him to be a forthright and honorable man.  Through his dedicated leadership Michael has lead us on the road to financial stability and laid a solid path for our future growth.  He has strengthened our ties with many organizations and continues to reach out to various groups to improve our federation.  I truly believe Michael has the best intentions for our federation in his heart because I have observed him talking to fellow chefs, culinary students and people outside of our profession and his message is always the same; he is committed to our federation and always takes time to listen and give of himself.  This is the true sign of a great leader.
Please join me in supporting Chef Michael Ty for President of the ACF.
Always honor the food
Costa Magoulas, CEC, CCE, CCA, AAC
Dean, School of Hospitality and Culinary Management
Daytona State College


I am writing to commend you for your work as the President of the American Culinary Federation. Your steady hand at the head of our organization has helped put the ACF on sound financial footing and is helping us grow. It is apparent to me and to many of my ACF Chapter members that you are the right choice for continuing as our ACF President for another term. 
Over the years you have consistently demonstrated your leadership abilities for the Federation. You know the organization better than anyone I’ve met in my many years of membership. You also made time to visit our school and chapter whenever possible. You and I have also worked together on ACFEF Accreditation. While doing so you showed me, and the staff of the school we were visiting, a high level of professionalism, and gained respect from all of us.
I am heartily endorsing you in your quest to remain the ACF President for another term. I know that with your leadership we can continue to grow as a professional organization. Please feel free to share this endorsement; I am proud to have you as our President! Let me; and the members of the St. Augustine Cooks and Chefs Association help you as you seek re-election.
David S. Bearl, CCC, CCE, AAC, ACE
Director of College Advancement, FCTC
David.bearl@fctc.edu; rotachef@yahoo.com


This letter will confirm my utmost confidence in Michael Ty, Candidate for President of the American Culinary Federation.  There is no doubt in my mind that this individual is the only one to lead such a prestigious organization for the next two years.
Michael has been a friend of mine for many years, a true friend, and a person who stands by his word and makes no promises that he cannot or will not fulfill.  In my opinion, the progress made by the American Culinary Federation in the past two years, has been done with every aspect of the organization and its membership in mind.  Along with the help of an outstanding board of directors much has been accomplished with consideration for the current economical conditions, the organization, and how to benefit the membership.
What other President has pursued and persevered to bring more value to its membership in the area of reducing registration costs to attend regional and national conventions!  No other President has made this work or even attempted to do it.
When there was concern as to whether ACF would have a team to send to the International Culinary Olympics in 2012, it was this candidate for President, Michael Ty,  who along with hard working and conscientious others who saw to it that TEAM USA would happen.  I feel that in appreciation to all that Chef Ty has accomplished in the past two years, it is certainly the right thing to do in supporting his re-election to President.  He deserves another term to further accomplish the goals that he has set for himself and this organization.
I ask you to join me in voting for Michael Ty for President of the American Culinary Federation.  Let him know that you appreciate his time, effort and hard work on behalf of the entire membership.
Francine R. Greff, HAAC
ACF, Columbus Chapter


Chef Ty, you have my support !
Paul Rother C.E.C. C.C.E.
Culinary Arts Instructor, Capital Region BOCES
Albany, NY


His vision has been to improve the value of membership in the ACF by providing more member benefits and by increasing public recognition of the organization.  If you judge a candidate by his record, then there’s nothing left to be said because Chef Ty has diffidently walked the walk and talked the talk these past two years.    A business approach to our organization has help keep our organization going in the right direction.
Charles Duit, CEC, ACE, AAC, CDM, CFPP
President, Texas Chefs Association


You got my vote, My friend
Terry Long
ACF, Chefs Las Vegas


I am writing to support you as you seek another term as National President of the American Culinary Federation.  During the many years you have served in so many roles at both the National and chapter levels, you have made many positive changes for the future of both ACF as an organization and also at the grassroots level of each and every chapter.  Our members, as well as our culinary students are proud to be associated with the ACF because of the many positive programs you have put into place since you have been President and those you helped create and manage at the chapter level.
It is my hope that you will continue leading the ACF because I know you will foster the spirit of brotherhood among our members as you fulfill your goals and continue to set high standards for our organization members.  You have helped the world recognize that chefs do not simply cook and that they can change the world with their attitude, their career expectations and their pride in their selected culinary careers.  You help our young members see that as ordinary human beings, they can make significant changes while they are involved with the ACF.  Involvement with fellow members allows them to share ideas with highly respected long time chefs, and to learn as our more experienced members teach their skills to the future chefs of America. There is no limit to how far our members can go in their careers with the help of their mentors, which will in turn help to sustain the future of the Federation itself.  You have shown your concern for culinary professionals in the later phases of their career, for those chefs now in hospitals or senior living facilities. You have considered those culinary professionals among us who have made significant contributions to the profession, yet who may now be fighting cancer or other age related diseases. You never forget.  Your leadership reminds us to remember everyone we meet and acknowledge the good work that they do.
Above all, your Presidency has always put an emphasis on the education of our young chefs because they are the future of our trade.  You have helped increase participation and recognition of ACF certification programs and educational workshops and seminars.
I support you and hope that you will continue as National President and raise the ACF to even greater heights in the coming two years.
Chef Joseph Poon
ACF, Philadelphia Chapter


I wanted to take the time to encourage all of you professionals to consider re-electing Chef Michael Ty for ACF National President.  Chef Ty has really shown that he not only talks the talk, but walks the walk in many aspects of his office.
I have been active with ACF for the past 14 years and have never had the National President even contact our chapter in any way on a personal level.  Chef Ty not only contacted us, but he actually came to join us in a couple of our events.  In doing so, Chef Ty really gave us the feeling of his passion and genuineness for ACF.  Chef Ty showed us that even in the prestigious level of office, and very busy schedule, he still had time for local chapters in our area.  I believe that if we had more leaders that were willing to be “Servants” first, ACF chapters would gain more respect for the organization that we belong to.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions and or concerns in this matter.
Chef Ricardo Santana
Vice President I E Chefs and Cooks Association
chefsantana@verizon.net


The members of the ACF Columbus Chapter are proud to support Chef Michael Ty CEC, AAC, for President of the American Culinary Federation. We believe that he has done an outstanding job the last two years and deserves a second term to complete the many positive member driven projects and initiatives that he has started.
It is obvious to our chapter that he truly shares the individual members, concerns, issues and the sincere hope of growth, not only in membership but member benefits, as well.
Chef Ty is a grassroots President, who truly connects with all members of ACF, in a very genuine demeanor.
Please join the ACF Columbus Chapter in supporting Chef Michael Ty, for two more great years.
 Barry R. Young CEC, CCE
President ACF Columbus Chapter


I support and recommend Chef Ty for another term as President of the ACF.  Chef Ty has demonstrated and lives the culinarian code.
The future of the ACF is with the student / junior culinarians. Chef Ty knows this and always strives to take this membership level to a new height.
President Ty is always open for ideas and willing to support each and every chapter of the ACF.
Executive Chef Jim Lund, C.E.C., A.C.E.
President ACF Minneapolis Chef's Chapter


“An organization as dynamic as the American Culinary Federation requires a dynamic and driven leader such as Michael Ty.  Michael has demonstrated his commitment to our organization and its members, but also to continuing to position this organization as the premier culinary association in the world.  He realizes that an organization such as this in not successful because of one person.  He believes in teaming together to utilize the talented staff at the national office, the driven and passionate active and junior members, the focused and determined military and the unwavering support from the many volunteers to make our conferences, practical exams, competitions and events world class.”
Michael McGreal, CEC, CCE, CHA, CHE, FMP, MCFE
Joliet Junior College Department Chair Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management


My name is Tsu-Hung Liu and I am currently a student at the Culinary Institute of America and part of the ACF Philadelphia Chapter. To me, Chef Ty is a strong mentor, educator, and an excellent leader. These are the reasons why I believe Chef Ty should be elected once again as the ACF President.
Chef Ty believes that education is a key ingredient in the recipe for success. His ideas of educating high school students are the keys to creating more student interest in higher education in the culinary arts.  He has plans to organize better programs and educational competitions at the high school level. I personally went to a public high school where such programs were not offered, but I think it would have been extremely beneficial if a culinary club with high standards was offered as a extracurricular activity.
President Ty is also a great mentor to many current student culinarians. Every year during the ACF National Conference, one student is chosen to shadow President Ty and learn all about networking and leadership, which are two necessary components in becoming a successful chef. President Ty often sends out messages in the form of letters and emails regarding current issues and situations within the culinary community. His leadership has not failed in the slightest since I have been a member of the ACF.
I believe President Ty should be reelected for these reasons. He is a great leader, mentor, and educator; I believe his ideas are necessary for the growth of the culinary world.
Tsu-Hung Liu, Student at Culinary Institute of America
Member of ACF, Philadelphia Chapter


With my utmost respect, I fully endorse Michael Ty CEC, AAC, for National President of the American Culinary Federation. Michael’s commitment towards change and making the members heard showcases his integrity and professionalism.
On a personal note, I am completely appreciative of his continued support for Team USA, something for which many of us have sacrificed and invested our whole culinary careers for.
I am thrilled for this association and what the future holds once Michael is re-elected!
Patricia Nash, Executive Pastry Chef
Motor City Hotel and Casino, Detroit, MI


The ACF Tampa Bay Culinary Association is proud to endorse Michael Ty, CEC, AAC, for ACF National President.
Ever straightforward and direct, Chef Ty is recognized as a leader who can identify problems, format solutions, and make positive changes in a timely manner.  He is not afraid to tackle issues head-on.  His first and foremost concern is each and every member and what best serves their needs.  He is open to everybody.
Chef Ty is a longtime ACF member who knows the inner workings of the federation.  His experience at local, state, regional, and national levels will stand him in good stead.  He is intelligent and thoughtful – full of ideas which only need another term to put into effect.
We urge you to give him every consideration
Frederik J. Lucardie, CEC, AAC, Chairman of the Board
ACF Tampa Bay Culinary Association


 It is our honor to support Michael Ty on his re-election as the ACF National President. Chef Ty has proven that his “Recipe for Success” is working and with another two year term it will bring it to its full realization.
Chef Ty has stayed true to what he campaigned for two years ago to operate the ACF as a business. In a short period of time since he took office, he has directed the ACF in a positive direction and has reached out to different resources to better brand the ACF as the leader in everything culinary. He has also kept the members in mind when making decisions for our regional conferences and national convention, by keeping it affordable without sparing any of the experiences we all deserve.
Chef Ty has the verified track record of running the ACF, not only in the past, but the present and most importantly the future. Please join us in supporting Chef Michael Ty for ACF National President.
William J. Ramsey, Chairman of the Board
ACF, Chefs and Culinarians of San Diego


Thank you for your outstanding accomplishment with the ACF.  I will vote for you to return as the National President.
Donald Robinson, CC
AFC Chapter CA013


As the new President of ACF of Greater Buffalo, I will do everything possible to promote your new candidacy and agendas for the upcoming election. Scott Steiner, CCE, and I have noticed and appreciate your commitment to our American Culinary Federation, nationally and locally. We consider you a friend and mentor. Please don't hesitate to call on us for anything you need for the election or input. We are looking forward to seeing you in Columbus, Ohio this March for the Northeast Regional Conference. Our chapter will be having a great contingency of members at this conference to promote the 2012 Northeast Conference in Niagara Falls, NY, now that will be a blast.
John Matwijkow, President
ACF of Greater Buffalo


With the grace and tact that you handled my questions after my visit to the SkillsUSA competition in Kansas City last summer, I want you to know that you earned my vote.
Thank you for your personal attention to detail and your dynamic personality. I look forward to having you as the president (again) of an organization I’ve been proud to be a member of since 1989.
Susan Ettesvold, CEPC, Baking & Pastry Instructor
College of Southern Idaho


Michael Ty, CEC, AAC – I have known Chef Ty since 1994. I believe he is a good man and has the interests in the individual member as his primary concern.  He has done an outstanding job as our national President and I endorse him for re-election.  I do not really know Chef Franklin. I am assuming he has done a great job in the Western Region.  Anyone that can obtain the level as Certified Master Chef (CMC) has reached levels that only very few have accomplished.
Jeffrey Rotz, AAC, Chairman of the Board
ACF Gulf to Lakes Chefs & Cooks Association