Arizona's Highest Culinary Award Honors
Dedicated Culinary Ambassadors
Enter Hall of Fame, Thursday, April 10

Scottsdale, AZ - (February 13, 2003) - What do the James Beard Award, IACP Awards, Bert Greene Awards for Food Journalism, and the Arizona Culinary "Hall of Fame" awards have in common? They are the highest Culinary honors that local, national and international culinary extraordinaires can achieve.

On Thursday, April 10th, 2003 the Hyatt at Gainey Ranch plays host to the Arizona Culinary "Hall of Fame" induction ceremony and Ted Simons of NewsRadio 620 KTAR, will emcee the evening.

Five categories ranging from Culinary Media Master to Special Recognition have been created to recognize forces in the Arizona's culinary world for their dedication and contributions in the realm of culinary arts.

The Arizona Hall of Fame will recognize:

Culinary Extraordinaire - Chris Bianco owner and creator of Pizzeria Bianco has created mysticism to wood-fired pizza as well as spreading the culinary prowess of the Valley across the nation.

Culinary Media Master - Beth McDonald & Bill Austin, hosts to KEZ's 99.9 morning radio show, the number one rated show for the past 13 years and Channel 3's Cooking with Beth and Bill has ruled the airwaves for eight years of creative genius in food entertainment. This dynamic duo has created a cooking and radio show that will make you laugh for hours and hungry for more.

Culinary Ambassador - David Rothschild of EATiQuette has more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, as a manager, server and service trainer and is currently Director of the Culinary Arts Program at MetroTech High School in Phoenix.

Lifetime Achievement - Cathy Bua, owner and founder of Cathy's Rum Cake Catering has been a long-standing member of the community, a forerunner in the Valley's culinary scene and supporter of the Culinary Festival. She has paved the way for women in the Valley's culinary scene.

Special Recognition - Terry Lucchesi has more than 29 years in the grocery business. Terry's vision of presenting a fine wine store within the confines of a conventional grocery came to fruition at Safeway, where he is the National Director of Alcoholic Beverages.

As an added bonus, taste recipes from the Student Culinary Competition as these young chefs compete for the Student Culinary Master Title, while listening to the sounds of Desert Bells International. The reception and four-course dinner to be prepared by Chef Jim Palmeri and his staff will include items based on recipes submitted by culinary students in a nationwide competition. The winning students will be introduced and will receive their $2,000 prizes.

The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency in Scottsdale. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at www.ScottsdaleCulinaryFestival.org or call (480) 945-7193.

For a full schedule of events and additional information please visit the web site at www.ScottsdaleCulinaryFestival.org or call (480) 945-7193. To make air, hotel or car rental reservations call Sundance Travel at (800) 919-4505.

Scottsdale League of the Arts Memberships are available for $125 annually. This is a fun way to become involved in your community and expand your knowledge in the art and culinary fields.

For media inquiries please call Margo Media (602) 264-2655.