A delicious round of applause please! The James Beard nominations came out this past week, and in the semifinals for Best Chef in the South, Chefs Greg Bakerof  The Refinery andChad Johnson of  SideBern’s both earned nominations. Well done chefs! The complete list is here, and the awards will be handed out on May 7^th.

   From our friends at the Child Abuse Council in Tampa, an invitation to join in their fund raising search for their Third Annual Top Chef of Tampa Bay event coming up at A La Carte Pavilion March 26^th. They expect up to 25 of the Bay areas best to compete. According to their press release, it’s all up to the chefs! Here’s how they describe the event; “With no prior restraints or requirements, Top Chef of the Year Tampa Bay encourages chefs to channel their inner creativity to design everything from menu to décor. Each chef prepares – tableside – a five course meal with accompanying wines (or other libations) for a table of 12 or 15 people. Chefs also provide their own linens, china, centerpieces and more to create a world within the venue specific to each chef’s unique vision.” To join in the fun of the Top Chef of the Year Tampa Bay, go to their website at www.topcheftampabay.org and even see who’s already to go for participating chefs and restaurants. Prospective chefs may also contact Development Director, Maria Lewis, at (813) 673-4646 x224 for any other questions or event information.

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN

Weekends don't count unless you spend them doing something completely pointless.  ~Bill Watterson