One of the things I value most in this world are my relationships with others, particularly women. Growing up, my grandmother Evelyn— the cornerstone of our family—taught us about nurturing, nourishing, compassion, and community through her hobbies: gardening, cooking, and charity. What now seems so obvious while writing this to you, is the fuel which makes a garden grow, a meal pull together, or a friendship last is our commitment to the connection. Is this not the cornerstone of being a Dame?
(Cover) Dames Cynthia Graubart (Atlanta), Sandra Gutierrez (North Carolina), Toni Tipton-Martin (D.C.) and Nancie McDermott (North Carolina) share ideas and laughs at the M.F.K. Fisher Symposium in Aprl. (Above L) Dame Grace Young (New York) joins the Philadelphia Chapter to rally support and save they city’s beloved Chinatown. (Above R) Making cookies and connections! Birmingham Dames open their arms and doors to Chicago’s Stacey Ballis.
While pulling together this issue I realized our organization formed its international charter 40 years ago. It was in 1985 that New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Dallas signed Les Dames d’Escoffier International into existence. While our feature “The Ties that Bind” (page 8) deviates from our typical style guide, we dive into Ann Arbor’s archives and visit Birmingham today to explore this theme of connections.
Without a doubt each of the stories between these digital covers celebrates connection in their own unique way. Both “The Power of Being in Person” (page 4) and “Viva Las Vegas!” (page 6) represent the evolution of our organizational gatherings. These pieces present what can and will happen when you bring a bunch of Dames together under one roof! Finally, in “From Cherry Bombe to Chinatown” (page 14) Philadelphia rallies all their connections to save their beloved neighborhood.
As always, my heartfelt gratitude to all our contributors and co-editors for your time, words, and images; guidance from LDEI President Stephanie Jaeger and 2nd VP Beth D’Addono; design by Joni Keith and support from executive director Greg Jewell.
Peace, love, light—and always something delicious to eat!
Cheers to the amazing women helping to create a better future within food, beverage and hospitality - and to all the rising leaders their work has inspired.
Proud Sponsor of
the power of being in person
The inaugural M.F.K. Fisher Symposium fostered connection and collaboration.
By Dame Erin Byers Murray (Nashville)
By all accounts, the inaugural M.F.K. Fisher Symposium was a smashing success. From the caliber of the speakers and breakout sessions to the logistics; from the excellent food to the generous sponsors, the event inspired all of the nearly 200 women who attended. There was open dialogue and honesty as well as a diverse range of speakers, attendees, and topics. And, more than anything, strong connections were made. Fitting in with the LDEI mission, the event provided
mentorship and networking, as well as many opportunities to learn, reflect, and advance one’s career.
As one of the event organizers, I was fortunate to have a bird’s eye-view and witnessed many important connections as they took place. Our keynote, Ruth Reichl, made a point to introduce herself, and compliment, speaker Kayla Stewart, an editor for Eater—Kayla, awe-struck, went in for a hug. The following day, speakers Dame Toni Tipton-Martin (Washington, D.C.) and Abena Anim-Somuah, found themselves discussing career paths and future projects. As speaker Dame Andrea Nguyen (San Francisco) commented, these are perfect
examples of how the event fostered mentorship both up and down—the new generation was teaching as much as they were learning.
Most importantly, the event, in many ways, brought Mary Frances Kennedy Fisher back to life for all of our attendees. Many of our members knew M.F.K. Fisher personally and her connection to LDEI started while she was still with us, when Dames like Antonia Allegra, from the San Francisco chapter, approached M.F.K. about putting her name on an award. You could feel M.F.K. in the room as speakers like Ruth and Grande Dame Joan Nathan recalled their relationships with her, and especially during the screening
Photos courtesy Kate Blohm.
how to get involved
As we look to the future, and hopefully more Symposia to come, we want to hear from you! Let us know if you have ideas or would like to get involved: Erin Byers Murray (murray.erinb@gmail.com) and Emily Haws (emily@eminthekitchen.com). In the meantime, we’ll be updating the M.F.K. Fisher Symposium page on the LDEI website with a recap and photos from the event.
of the documentary, The Art of Eating: The Life of M.F.K. Fisher, which was generously provided by filmmakers Gregory Bezat and Gary Meyer. As one of the most influential female food writers of our era, M.F.K. remains both a muse and an inspiration for many women in today’s food-writing space. It was an honor to watch her legacy come alive. After an incredible weekend of connecting in person, attendees have been anxiously wondering what’s next? Many have already supported one another since the event. Speaker Hanna Raskin, founder of food newsletter The Food Section, sent me a note: “Ligaya [Figueros] just forwarded me her newsletter in which she mentioned the conference… and she even threw in a The Food Section promo. How's that for women helping women? Really appreciate you facilitating that kind of forward progress!” We are confident that this is just the beginning.
keep up the connections:
join the confident creator club
Nashville Dame Mayter Scott was not only a speaker at the Symposium, she was also one of our generous sponsors. Through her company, Mayter Scott Creative, she connects hospitality brands with the media and the public and during her workshop, she ran through many technical aspects of content creation, including editing, photography, styling, and how content creation and food writing can work hand in hand. At the Symposium, she also launched The Confident Creator Club, a business coaching and mentorship program that connects members with one another and with resources and tools to help shape their business. LDEI members can join the Club at www. mayterscottcreative.com. m .f .k . fisher Symposium
VIVA LAS VEGAS!
With class and sophistication, LDEI reinvents the Annual Conference
A conversation with Conference Chair Dame
As we grow and evolve, so must LDEI. Our upcoming 2026 Conference in Las Vegas is a perfect example of our organization's evolution and we are excited to share some of the fine details you can expect. The theme of Conference is the Power of Connection, and our dedicated Conference Committee is tirelessly planning a program packed with educational and building opportunities, connecting chapters and members in meaningful ways, plus so much more.
With all of this wonderful news and future to look forward to, it’s important to understand how we got here and why changes were necessary. Why change, why now?
In 2023, the LDEI Board reviewed a cash flow analysis and had to take a hard, honest look at what was and wasn’t working financially for LDEI. That led to strategic planning sessions and a lot of great, productive conversations about the goals of LDEI, from the standpoints of not only our mission but also our longevity as an association. The LDEI Conference is the biggest opportunity we have to reinforce brand loyalty, engage with members and build a sense of community, and, unfortunately, we have only had one year in the last far too many to produce a positive bottom line. With this hard truth, the Board decided a change had to be made. A Task Force
Jennifer Goldman (Cleveland) watch now
When it is held in chapter city, the local Dames are encouraged to contribute and will have representation on the committee. They will assist with tours, provide information on local experts and potential sponsorships. But the heavy lifting wouldn’t be a burden on the chapter.
Welcome to (a softer side of) Las Vegas.
was installed to evaluate the model and propose changes to:
• increase attendance from the current 10 percent of membership
• be less of a burden on our host chapters
• create a budget to show a positive or at least break-even bottom line
Transitioning the focus to LDEI.
The Conference is technically an LDEI and not a chapter initiative, so it made sense to create the LDEI Conference Committee to work alongside the Board and Executive Director to design programming in the best interest of LDEI as a whole.
• Represent LDEI, not location
• Have the continuity to improve each year and not start again from scratch
• Can be held anywhere, including non-chapter (recruiting) and small chapters who wouldn’t normally be able to host
The Board also had to consider a location for the transition year. After much discussion it was decided hosting the Annual Conference in a non-chapter city would highlight for our members that changes were being made. Las Vegas was selected for several reasons, but mostly for its accessibility for our members, with direct flights from so many cities.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will be host to our festivities, and a recent site visit reinforced that it will be a great fit for our membership! (Check out this sneakpeak video of The Cosmopolitan!) The hotel lobby is just that—a lobby—and doesn’t require winding through a casino. In fact, getting to your room is easy and adjacent to the meeting space. Everything takes place in one convenient location. (Don’t worry, there are certainly gaming opportunities to be found, and hey, when in Rome…) The hotel is also refreshing their meeting space by the end of the year so we may still be able to get a whiff of that new carpet smell.
A program designed with you in mind.
The Power of Connection will be woven into the programming throughout. There will be a structured networking component to the opening reception so Dames can immediately start taking advantage of new contacts and relationships to build upon. We will have optional pre-conference workshops on business development. Educational seminars will include opportunities to enhance your career and your business, as well as content beneficial for chapter operations and member engagement. We will have a special celebration of our chapters and the work being done throughout the year by our Dames.
We are also planning a Low Stimulation Space for anyone who needs to take a little time to recharge, check emails or simply have some quiet time. There will be more engagement with our conference app, Guidebook, and a more significant presence of low and no-alcohol beverages this year.
Mark your calendars for April 14-16, 2026! Registration will launch this fall.
THE TIES THAT BIND
Celebrating 40 Years of Chartered Connections
In 1985, presidents of the five chartered Les Dames d’Escoffier chapters—New York (founded 1976), Washington, D.C. (founded 1981), Chicago (founded 1982), Dallas and Philadelphia (both founded 1984)— met in New York under the leadership of Carol Brock to form Les Dames d’Escoffier International. Our two feature pieces celebrate the ties that bind us as colleagues, as community leaders, as Dames—as family.
First up, a love letter (of sorts) from Ann Arbor as they celebrate their 10year anniverary. Founding member, Dame Sandra Lach Arlinghaus, recounts her own LDEI roots and shares the story of another Dames connection to Carol Brock. Then, a friendship between Birmingham’s Leigh Sloss-Corra and Chicago’s Stacey Ballis formed at the Phoenix Conference ignites a lasting relationship and inspires collaboration across chapters.
THE FOUNDING FOUR OF ANN ARBOR
ALMA LACH (1914-2013), member LDEI Chicago
CONNECTIONS TO THE PAST
Ann Arbor’s lineage reveals links to Carol Brock
By Sandra Lach Arlinghaus and Peggy Lampman (Ann Arbor)
June 30, 2015, was an exciting day in my life—it was the day I (Sandy) signed the Ann Arbor Chapter Charter for our new unit of LDEI. Along the way, I had been fortunate to get to know so many wonderful women. Too bad, I reflected, that my mother, Alma Lach, Dame of Distinction and very early member of the Chicago Chapter, had not shared in that good fortune. She was, after all, instrumental along with me, Donna Tope and Ricky Agranoff, in establishing our chapter in Ann Arbor. Donna (Treasurer and Legal Counsel) and I (CoPresident and Outreach Director) continue as
RAQUEL B. AGRANOFF
(1933-2020), founding member of Ann Arbor
DONNA K. TOPE
founding member of Ann Arbor
SANDRA LACH ARLINGHAUS
founding member of Ann Arbor
PEGGY LAMPMAN member of Ann Arbor
MALVINA C. KINARD
board members along with great culinary leadership from Antoinette Benjamin (Co-President), Amy Emberling (VicePresident), and Linda Rae Powell (Secretary).
Alma had passed away (at the age of 99) two years prior to the formal founding of the LDEI Chapter in Ann Arbor. I remember wondering how many other contemporary Dames might have had relatives who had been Dames before them. Of course, I knew Alma’s dear friend, Dame Barbara GlunzDonovan from the Chicago Chapter, and her daughter Dame Elizabeth Donovan, current President of the Chicago Chapter, and I knew that Barbara came from well-established culinary connections in the past. But were there other Dames with LDE legacy; indeed, might there be any in our own small, new chapter?
Enter Peggy Lampman. Donna had recruited Peggy as a wonderful new member after the founding of our chapter. The charter members were excited to welcome this clever author who skillfully wrote novels about food (The Promise Kitchen, The Welcome Home Diner, and The Ruby of the Sea). These, as well as her previous ventures as the energy and creative source of The Back Alley Gourmet (a specialty food shop) and a weekly byline in the food section of the Ann Arbor News, added greatly to our local panache!
Peggy modestly shared material with me demonstrating her LDEI connections to the past. Her Great Aunt Malvina Kinard was a friend and colleague of LDEI founder, Grande Dame Carol Brock. Malvina, I learned from Peggy, had assisted in the formation of LDEI
and was a charter member of our organization.
In what follows, Peggy accounts her memory of and relationship with her Great Aunt Malvina Kinard:
While LDEI has been on my mind, I went to my very unorganized files and found some letters Malvina (my paternal grandmother’s sister) penned regarding her bookkeeping in the early stages of LDEI. Did I ever show you this? Funny! She’d be so pleased that I’m affiliated with this group, although she let it be known she thought I didn’t have the credentials for opening a gourmet shop back in 1981 (she, like your mother, Sandy, went to Le Cordon Bleu).
I’m afraid that when my grandmother and parents died, I lost my “sources.” I have many anecdotal memories of her, but nothing more concrete than the three attached Dames-related letters.
She wrote three of four cookbooks that I treasure and are still available. When I was in the James Beard House, her name and address was in his antiquated Rolodex, which was a hoot. She was buddies with all of the culinary stars—including Julia Child—back in the day. Funnily enough, the renowned Chris Kimball mentioned her in an article in the NYT—she had a cooking school (Cooks’ Corner) in Westport, CT and he was a student.
One thing I remember quite well is how proud Aunt Malvina was at the birth of LDEI. When she’d visit, it’s all she could talk about.
Connections such as these are far more than mere curiosities. What are the food roots within your chapter? No doubt a lot is already known, nonetheless, let’s work together to discover even more and build our organization’s family tree connections as an LDEI Family Food System.
CONNECTING FOR THE FUTURE From Conference to Collaboration: A Chicago Dame goes to Birmingham
“One of the driving forces for my joining Les Dames D’Escoffier in Chicago back in 2017 was the way it would allow me to make connections to other women in the culinary and hospitality industries at other chapters,” Dame Stacey Ballis (Chicago) writes. “The stories I had heard about members who travel showing up solo in a new city and immediately getting everything from local restaurant recommendations to gatherings hosted in their honor, often leading to deep friendships, that was a tantalizing prospect. It has been one of the greatest gifts of my life to take advantage of that secret handshake, and cold emails to strangers with that special ‘Chicago Dame reaching out...’ subject line has resulted in now longstanding friendships with other women all over the country and abroad. I have stayed at Dame’s homes in London and New York and Atlanta. I have had countless wonderful dining companions at fabulous restaurants, and intimate dinner parties held for me in London, Paris and all over the US, and I have hosted them in turn here in Chicago.
But nothing could have prepared me for what would happen when I reached out to one of the Birmingham Dames I had connected with at Conference to say that my husband and I were planning to snowbird there for the month of January.”
That Birmingham Dame was Leigh Sloss-Corra, the chapter’s Immediate Past President and the executive director of the Market at Pepper Place. “We can’t help ourselves,” Leigh says with a laugh, “we love showing off Birmingham! We are compulsively hospitable and irrepressibly social.”
The relationship between Stacey and Leigh was initiated during the 2024 Phoenix Conference. While it’s often we make new connections and friends at Conference, it’s another thing to act on the invitation. “It takes two to tango,” Leigh jokes. “When someone says they want to come to Birmingham, I have a few places in mind. Everyone can and should have a ‘Best of Tour’ for your
reconnect with the other local Dames I had met at that same conference but would quickly meet and be adopted by so many other members, literally too many to name. To say that the welcome was warm does not do it justice. From including me in already planned official events ranging from cocktail hours to packing boxes at the local food bank, planning get togethers in my honor, welcoming me into their homes, hosting us at their restaurants. Inviting us to events like a private surprise book signing for the Mayor, who was utterly charming and didn’t seem at all put out that there were two strangers amidst the friends and family in the room. Sharing their secrets to the city, tips and tricks and shopping recs. Not just the endlessly fabulous Dame Gia McCollister saying, “We love this restaurant so much” but following it up with “We’ll take you there!” Not just current chapter President Sonthe Burge bringing me a bag of her famous homemade koulourakia, Greek butter cookies, but then hosting a gathering in her house and teaching us all how to make them! And perhaps even more importantly, so many of them
Stacey Ballis’ visit with Birmingham Dames rooted new friendships and created a pathway for her future. Photos courtesy Stacey Ballis.
introducing my husband to theirs so that he could start to find his own group of Les Dudes.”
In short, Leigh strongly urges Dames: “If you have an opportunity to host a Dame from another chapter, it’s a great idea for your members to hear from them and to learn their story—you learn more about their network and how their community works.
“Stacey is an accomplished writer with 25 years’ experience in a big city like Chicago,” Leigh says, “it was important for us to connect our writers and content creators with her to inspire them to think bigger, to think outside the box and to learn from her. She talked about how she has navigated her career, sharing tips, etc. It ended up being organic and powerful because people were socially vulnerable and just very open.”
As Stacey reveals in her editorial for the Birmingham Chapter’s newsletter: “We arrived as relative strangers, and left with family, there is no other way to describe it… We left feeling truly embraced, and that we had found our home away from home - and next year I might just have to become a dual member!”
To read Stacey’s full love letter to Birmingham, subscribe for their newsletter here
leadership IN ACTION
By Dames Lari Robling & Lynn Buono (Philadelphia)
Dames Take Action in Philadelphia
The historic Friendship Gate into Philadelphia’s Chinatown opens to a 150-year-old community teeming with restaurants, bars, markets, and diverse Mom and Pop shops. The neighborhood’s long history includes the recent effects of COVID on foot traffic and decades of encroaching development. A proposed basketball stadium threatened to further diminish the community leading to a two-year battle between Chinatown businesses and the development. Dame Kathy Gold, Immediate Past President, recognized this new threat to Philly’s Chinatown community and the city’s local food culture. At the New York Cherry Bombe gathering she floated this concern to fellow Philly member and founder of High Street Hospitality Group, Dame Ellen Yin, and New York Dame and Chinatown activist, Grace Young Grace, who has received national honors for bringing attention to America’s Chinatowns, was led during COVID to get the word out about her beloved Manhattan Chinatown which was facing economic and hate crime challenges. What she uncovered, sadly, was a disturbing truth that this was a nationwide trend.
In January 2024 the Hawaii Chapter hosted Grace to spotlight their unique Chinatown which is very different from those on the mainland. Later that same year, the Boston Chapter hosted a program at Pagu restaurant called Protecting America’s Chinatowns also featuring Grace.
“Both of these chapter events showed me what is possible and inspired the work I was able to do in Philly,” said Grace.
A common trait of Dames is cultivating leadership opportunity. From that spontaneous conversation at Cherry Bomb came months of preparation with the Philadelphia Dames and Grace. The event, A Night to
Support Chinatown, was a collaboration with RICE (Restaurant Industry for Chinatown’s Existence), Save the Chinatown Coalition, and Asian Americans United, founded by Debbie Wei in 1985.
“Food is a powerful tool for connection and some of the best in Philadelphia is in Chinatown,” said Ellen. “That’s why we have centered this event around celebrating the food that makes Philly’s Chinatown so inspiring to the industry here.”
Linking the fundraiser event to the Lunar New Year was a timely way to garner interest and take advantage of press already covering it. Ellen’s restaurant, High Street, offered an elegant space that spilled out into the historic lobby of the Franklin Building where Lion Dance performers capped off the evening. RICE Philly helped organize 12 Asian restaurants to provide hot food stations and passed hors d'oeuvres.
To further entice event ticket sales, Dame Erika Jurden from Ribiola Family Wines, donated wine that flowed throughout the evening. The chapter also organized an online auction with items ranging from extravagant dinners held in chef homes to fine art and jewelry. An on-site raffle during the event also added to the amount raised. Di Bao from the National Trust for Historic Preservation pulled together community support and Channel 6ABC’s Nydia Han covered the event.
The disruptive stadium project was cancelled but the ongoing need to protect and support Philadelphia’s Chinatown from development remains. Funds from the event continue to honor the history, dignity and value that Philadelphia’s Chinatown gives to the city. Grace’s initial leadership ringing the alarm bell continues to inspire the work to keep America’s Chinatowns vibrant and community driven.
Photos courtesy Sony Artisan of Imagery Zabrina Deng.
chapter programs
By Dame Nichole Bendele (San Antonio)
ATLANTA
by Hope Webb
Day With the Dames was a powerful half-day event designed to inspire, educate, and connect young women with leaders in the culinary and hospitality industry.
Created by Dame Simone Byron and expertly organized by Dame Dene Lynn, the event featured a dynamic keynote, leadership panel, and career expo.
Students were introduced to LDEI scholarships and received valuable guidance on confidence, career building, and embracing their unique paths. Simone energized the morning with her sentiments: “Your network is your net worth.”
LDEI Atlanta President Wendy Bohannon encouraged students to pursue their dreams through available scholarships.
Keynote speaker Alicia Guigley, GM of Pappadeaux, shared with heartfelt honesty, “even if you have secrets, you can find people you feel safe with.”
The Leadership Panel—moderated by Dame Sarah Pierre —included inspiring words from Dames Hope Webb, Natalie Mickelson, Kriis Alyse Wilson, and Nzali Scales. Dame Shirley Hughes provided delicious meals, and Dr. Dee graciously hosted at Life University. It was truly a Day With the Dames to remember!
2025 Day With the Dames hosted by the Atlanta Chapter.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
by JoAnne Lauzer
BC Dames were well represented at the Vancouver International Wine Festival (VIWF), one of the biggest and oldest wine events in the world. In tasting rooms, satellite events and seminars, Dames presented wines, supported their clients, volunteered and attended as media. We are proud to have so many women in our chapter that are leaders in the wine industry.
Dame Ruth Grierson hosted an InReach potluck at her home in February. With an impressive array of tasty canapes and a wide variety of local beverages, that were brought by our members, it offered a wonderful opportunity for meaningful conversations and lots of laughs. Everyone was encouraged to bring an item for the raffle with funds going to our fund that helps send worthy Dames to Conference.
(Top) Dame Sandrine Ramoisy led the students at Vancouver Community College for VIWF. (Center L) Dames Leeann Froese and Christa-Lee McWatters with Yvonne Turgeon, publisher of Orchard & Vine Magazine. (Center R) Dames Jennifer English and Cassandra Anderton enjoy wine pairings. (Bottom) Dames enjoy the InReach potluck.
HAWAII
by Hayley Matson Mathes
Our chapter was inspired by guest speaker Chef Charleen Badman, FnB Restaurant, Scottsdale, AZ. Chef Badman highlighted her culinary journey and the Arizona nonprofit she created, The Blue Watermelon Project, with the mission of increasing children’s access to fresh food.
The April 21 evening gathering was hosted by James Beard award-winning Chef/Dame Robynne Maii and husband Chuck Bussler at their new Honolulu venture Mille Fete. They are joined in the business by renowned pastry chef Katherine Yang. Dames sampled a refined selection of wine, sweets and savories at the bakery by day and wine bar by night.
Chef Badman, James Beard winner and former LDEI Phoenix President, was in Hawaii to present a Hawaii Culinary Education Foundation workshop at the University of Hawaii Maui. The class was coordinated by HCEF Executive Director Hayley MatsonMathes with support from the LDEI Hawaii Chapter.
Hawaii Dames welcome Chef Charleen Badman at Mille Fete.
LONDON
by Kate Howell
As a group of women who’ve made food, drink, and hospitality our business, you’d think we’d take a break now and then from obsessing over where to eat next. But nope, we’re always at it. From street food to fine dining, we love eating out just as much as cooking, and we’re constantly swapping tips about where we’ve been and where we should go next. We thought we’d share our favourite spots with you. Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or you’ve lived here forever, here are some of our go-to places. Move over Michelin Guide, watch out Time Out—this is Where Dames Eat, brought to you by LDEI London!
Whether they’re used for a beautifully curated dinner party, handy one-pot family meal or impressive lunchbox, cookbooks are a staple of most people’s homes. They inspire creativity in the everyday and enable us to eat food we may never have encountered before. But how is a cookbook put together? Dame Hermione Ireland chaired an expert online panel to share this knowledge. Thirty people attended the latest LDE London Live Online session with panelists and publishers Dame Anne Dolamore, Dame Stephanie Jackson and Jenny Hammerton, for advice and insight on getting published and what it takes to become a published cookbook author.
The new guide to London's food scene, Where Dames Eat!
Among those savoring this unforgettable experience were Dames Nancy Eisman, Anita Lau, Tina Voso, Na Young Lee, Veronica Reyes, Miki Hackney, and Christina Xenos pictured with Sarah and her mother Nam Soon.
LOS ANGELES/ ORANGE COUNTY
by Anita Lau
The LA/OC Dames were gathered for a special presentation of UMMA: A Korean Mom's Kitchen Wisdom, hosted by Melissa's Produce. This exquisite cookbook, a heartfelt collaboration between Sarah Ahn and her mother, Nam Soon Ahn, weaves together cherished family recipes and intimate stories, offering a glimpse into the warmth and tradition of Korean home cooking.
We were treated to a sumptuous feast of authentic Korean dishes, prepared by the talented chefs at Melissa’s Produce. Rich, soulful, and deeply rooted in tradition dishes transported everyone to the heart of a Korean kitchen, where love is served in every bite.
MINNESOTA
by Lauren Voight
The culinary event at Central Mix on Wednesday, March 26, was an extraordinary celebration of Indigenous heritage. Led by Dana Thompson and Chef Dawn Drouillard, the evening featured a multi-course meal inspired by their Dakota and Anishinaabe roots, highlighting pre-colonial ingredients free from wheat, dairy, and refined sugars.
The meal began with a flavorful squash soup with Lakota popcorn and spruce tip oil, followed by wild rice manoomin cakes topped with duck egg aioli and dried blueberries. A blue corn tostada with braised duck, poblano crema, and crispy sage leaves offered a delightful contrast.
The main course, served familystyle, included grilled turkey with dandelion pesto and vibrant mashed yams, evoking a reimagined Thanksgiving. This was complemented by cedar tea with Anishinaabe maple syrup, reminiscent of a walk through the forest.
For dessert, “decolonized” brownies made with blueberries, hemp, chia seeds, almond butter, and maple syrup, topped with hazelnut cream, provided a sweet ending to the meal.
Dana and Dawn shared their backgrounds and the importance of preserving and sharing their culture through food. To learn more about their projects, visit The Modern Indigenous.
NEW ORLEANS
by Colleen Rush
It was a breakfast of champions! So many Dames and supporters came out for our third annual Leading from the Heart Awards breakfast, to help us honor two local women who have made a positive, lasting impact in hospitality, sustainability and/or food justice. This year's honorees—Carla Briggs, founder of Viola's Heritage Breads, and Mina Seck, Community Food Director of SproutNOLA—were awarded $2,500 grants to continue their work. The awards breakfast was held at Alma Cafe in Mid-City on March 25.
supporters and community leaders
A large group of Dames attended the March meeting at Central Mix to learn about The Modern Indigenous project. Photos courtesy Liz Nerud
Members,
turned out to support Carla Briggs and Mina Seck, the 2025 Leading from the Heart Award.
SAN ANTONIO
by Elise Russ
We had a lovely board meeting at Mi Familia at the Rim this month. We enjoyed an assortment of pastries from their panaderia, or bakery. Special thanks to Dame Emily Simpson for organizing and Dame Becki Perez-Clark for hosting us. A committee is hard at work editing our Policies & Procedures to make sure they are relevant to our organization. We are excited to hear from Dame Allison Balfour, Vice-President of Membership, as we have received several new member applicants who will be presented to our membership at the mandatory May meeting.
Suzette Gresham,
SAN FRANCISCO
by Jodie Chase
What do some of the best female chefs in the world have to say about their roles in a male-dominated food world? The CIA at Copia invited San Francisco and Sonoma Dames to a panel discussion of the 2016 documentary The Goddesses of Food as part of its Flavor of Film Series on March 15, in honor of Women’s History Month. San Francisco Chapter President Kara Nielsen moderated the panel featuring Dames Suzette Gresham, Kim Alter, and Sonoma Chapter President Liza Hinman as they discussed their reactions to the film, which explored the presence, and lack thereof, of women chefs in restaurant kitchens globally. The chefs shared personal stories of the obstacles they overcame during their careers. They also discussed the importance of strong networks like Les Dames d’Escoffier and their family of restaurant colleagues.
The chefs joined SF Dame Deborah Mullin, Executive Chef of Copia Restaurants, in creating the menu for a memorable fourcourse meal that followed the film program. More than 100 guests enjoyed the meal paired with wines from Markham Vineyards (women-owned, women winemakers) in Copia’s Chuck Williams museum gallery.
Dames
Kim Alter, Kara Nielsen & Liza Hinman participated in a lively panel discussion of The Goddesses of Food, held at the CIA at Copia.
SEATTLE
by Christina Lehman
On March 24, the Seattle chapter hosted a nourishing evening of yoga, Ayurveda, and delicious food at Hotel Ändra’s Hot Stove Society. This was a wellness-focused event in partnership with renowned yoga instructor and author, Ronly Blau. Ronly shared her inspiring journey from chronic illness to vibrant health, introducing members and guests to the powerful connection between yoga, Ayurveda, and mindful nourishment. She emphasized the value of seasonal, balanced eating, meditation, and the healing power of food.
The culinary experience was elevated by Dame Bridget Charters and Drew Martin, who prepared dishes from Ronly’s book The Mind-Body Cleanse. Highlights included a quinoa, chickpea, and tahini salad; arugula with lemon vinaigrette; and spiced roasted squash with a hearty ragu of beef, kale, tomato, sage, fennel, and garlic. And Dame Leslie Mackie ended the evening on a sweet note with a baked apple and raspberry dessert, topped with pecan crumble and paired with a luscious sauce anglaise. With vibrant conversation, inspiring insights, and beautiful food, the evening offered nourishment for both body and soul. Attendees left feeling full, both in spirit and stomach, with renewed perspectives on selfcare and mindful living.
Les Dames d'Escoffier Seattle members and friends gathering to discuss yoga, Ayurveda, and delicious food at Hotel Ändra’s Hot Stove Society.
SOUTH FLORIDA
by Barbara Seelig Beyer
The South Florida Chapter enjoyed a wine tasting with Napa’s Firetree Vineyards at the home of Dame Barbara Seelig Beyer. Ricky Jiminez from the Firetree Family and Sommelier Vernonica Litton (hopefully a future Dame) presented their 2021 and 2022 Bunny Hills & Fidem Chardonnays along with an exciting sneak peak of Firetree’s first bottling of their Cabernet Merlot blend, soon to be available. Dames and friends of Dames were able to purchase wines directly from Firetree which generously donated 20-percent of the evenings sales back to our chapter’s scholarship fund. Appetizers and desserts were shared throughout the evening. Wine, food, and friendship made for a memorable event with much appreciation going to Ricky and Veronica. A special thanks to Kyle Butcher of Firetree for making this happen.
Ricky Jimenez and Vernonica Litton discussing Firetree Vineyards Wines.
ST. LOUIS
by Darla Crask
On February 23, the St. Louis Chapter hosted our first Foodie Trivia Fundraiser. Tables were sponsored by 14 local female chefs and proprietors, allowing us to highlight the amazing creativity of women in the St. Louis restaurant scene. Guests tested their knowledge about food, beverages, food science and history while enjoying a signature dish from their table sponsor. As a special giveaway, a $50 gift card from the table sponsor was hidden under a chair at each table. It was a night of fun, competition & surprises!
The sold-out event was held at Dame Kelly Spencer’s beautiful event space, The Dogwood in the Grove. Tables were decorated to highlight the atmosphere of each sponsoring restaurant. Dame Dana Eliason crafted a complimentary cocktail for each guest, Dame Claire Conroy composed the slide show for the trivia and associated images, Dame Alyse Scaglione made the dessert, and Dame Liz Engelsmann created the trivia program for the evening.
The event netted over $6,400.00 towards our fundraising goals! Table sponsors included James-Beard nominated Loryn Nalic of Balkan Treat Box and Tara Gallina of Vicia. It was a great night for the Dames and our food community!
A sold out Foodie Trivia fundraiser earned more than $6,400 for the St. Louis chapter.
TUSCAN ITALIAN
by Silvia Mariani
We have launched Vivi Firenze 2025, a five-day Florence experience scheduled for September 24- 28. A trip to experience the magic of Florence with a unique immersive journey that allows you to live like a local. From iconic arts and architectures to its worldclass cuisine and vibrant artisan culture, Florence invites you to discover its treasures authentically. Explore the city's most famous landmarks, wander through charming streets, and indulge in the Flavors of Tuscany. Visit local markets, meet passionate artisans, and savour the warmth of the city’s rich traditions. This trip is more than just sightseeing, it’s a chance to feel the pulse of Florence and truly connect with its rich heritage and welcoming atmosphere.
Vivi Firenze is open to Dames and their friends. Reservations are open to a maximum of 20 people.
Tuscan Italian Chapter meeting at Vinitaly 2025, Verona. The President Silvia Mariani, together with the other Dames Camilla Fondelli, Patrizia Vigolo, and Livia Alyson Careaga met at Vinitaly in Verona on April 7 to explore the endless possibilities of the wine world and strategize new methods to build up stronger connections.
WASHINGTON, D.C.
by Carole Sugarman
Our symposium, Bringing it to the Table, held on March 8 at the Kellogg Conference Hotel, was a sensational day of energy and enthusiasm. The 120 attendees explored a host of current issues including no and low-alcohol beverages, gut health, bread baking and the demands of the modern workplace. We also honored one of our founders and benefactors—the late Goody Solomon—with a plenary session, Women Lead in the DMV.
Our Green Tables Committee, in partnership with Teaism, DC Ecowomen and Slow Food DC, hosted a Green Kitchen Swap in February. At the soldout gathering, attendees brought unwanted kitchen supplies to give away and swap with others to reduce waste and overconsumption, build community, and support neighbors in need.
in memoriam
SEATTLE CHAPTER HONORS PAST MEMBER WITH SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Alison Leber (1963-2022) wore many hats. She was a cheese enthusiast, a supporter of family farms, an educator, a Certified Cheese Sensory Evaluator through the American Cheese Society, a creator of a culinary community, an active member of Les Dames d’Escoffier, supporter and instructor at the Quillisascut Farm School of the Domestic Arts, and an inspiring resident of her hometown, Seattle. Alison died in a car crash in 2022
at the age of 59. Her death shocked the area where she had taken on managing a small rural farmers market, purchased working at a local creamery and then purchased the restaurant, Brie & Bordeaux. She was passionate about sharing her knowledge of cheese mongering, farming, connecting with the land, and building community around the farmer’s tables. Quillisascut Farm, north of Spoken, is known for life-changing experiences making cheese and living close to the land. It was there that Leber bought cheese from owners and helped with their workshops and held fundraises to support the farm’s school. Education about delicious cheeses and its producers was one
of her life’s missions and she wanted everyone to have the opportunity to attend workshops at the farm.
To honor Alison’s legacy, her circle of friends along with the Quillisascut Education Fund created the Alison Leber Memorial Scholarship Fund in her memory. The Seattle Chapter began fundraising for the Fund at Alison’s memorial and has continued with annual events including the Terra Platta in fall 2023 and Bella Luna Farm in 2024. The Fund provides two full tuition scholarships (at $1,425 each) per workshop season. The Seattle Chapter invites and encourages all members to apply for this amazing opportunity here.
Scenes from the Bringing it to the Table symposium.
member milestones
By Dame Dottie Koteski (Philadelphia)
ATLANTA
Cynthia Graubart, Natalie Keng and Virginia Willis were featured in the USA Today's “Top 10 Easter dishes from around the world.” It included quotes on Cynthia’s deviled eggs, a photo from Virginia and a recipe from Natalie.
Virginia Willis joined a culinary delegation to Vietnam in February, organized by the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Currently, 30-percent of Vietnam’s giant tiger prawns are rated as unsustainable. Seafood Watch aims to make 20,000 giant tiger prawn farms in the Mekong Delta sustainable by 2025.
AUSTIN
Katrina Ferraro celebrated the first anniversary of The Long Goodbye, a cocktail lounge and patio bar, and all-day destination for coffee and food, including tacos. The Long Goodbye has become a notable addition to East Austin’s nightlife.
Stacy Franklin celebrated the second anniversary of the Uptown Franklin Sports Club in Austin, Texas with a neighborhood Po'boy Showdown at which patrons sampled various po’boys and voted for their favorites.
Karen Killough celebrated the seventh anniversary of Vista Brewing in Driftwood. Karen is the co-founder of the company, which is situated in the Hill Country, just outside of Austin. The 21-acre property includes a brewery, tasting room, farm table restaurant, live music, apiary, farm and multiple event spaces.
Rachel Landers celebrated nine years as owner and creative director of Rachel Landers Creative Studio. By blending design, storytelling, and strategy, Rachel has elevated food and beverage brands with award-winning creative work rooted in passion, collaboration, and purpose.
Lindsey LeRoy, an accomplished public relations consultant and coowner of LeRoy and Lewis, a barbecue restaurant, bar and retail space, is a finalist for the Austin Under 40 Awards in the Advertising, Marketing, and Public Relations Category. Winners will be announced in May.
Susana Querejazu and husband celebrated the fourth anniversary of their beloved, Lutie's Garden Restaurant, that has a highend Texas menu located in the Hancock neighborhood of Austin, Texas.
Sara Watson celebrated her fourth anniversary of Vacancy Brewing in the warehouse district of Austin. The owners have combined their expertise in the beer and hospitality worlds to create unique experiences rooted in traditional brewing techniques.
member milestones
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Leeann Froese, co-owner and founder of Town Hall Brands, received two prestigious awards in March: The Master Marketer Award for her innovative promotion of BC Wines and her role in elevating wineries and tourism organizations. She was also named one of Wine’s Most Inspiring People in 2025.
Lee Murphy announced the launch of her new Substack newsletter, The Preservatory & The Art of Permissible Indulgence. The newsletter showcases her award-winning preserves, creative recipes, flavor pairings and dedication to local, farm-fresh ingredients.
Jenice Yu, owner of Fresh Ideas Start Here (F.I.S.H.), in Burnaby, British Columbia, recently announced that after 17 years they will be closing their retail location as they shift their focus to shipping premium seafood to customers directly around the province through eatfish.ca.
DALLAS
Leslie Brenner's international cooking newsletter, Cooks Without Borders, is an honoree in the internationally acclaimed, 2025 Webby Awards. Her newsletter, which is published on Substack, won a People's Voice Webby Award in 2024, just a year after it was launched and recently became a Substack bestseller.
Tiffany Derry will be a judge on FOX’s popular cooking competition, MasterChef. She's the first Black chef to get a permanent judge role. Tiffany will be joining chef Gordon Ramsay and restaurateur Joe Bastianich.
member milestones
LONDON
Sally Abé, as a fine-dining chef, has already had a big year! She was a finalist on the Great British Menu and included in @codehospitality Women of the Year for 2025, in recognition of her campaigning. Sally will shortly be taking up the reins as Head Chef at the Bull in Charlbury in the Cotswolds.
Clare Donovan, founder of Cooking Champions, a London food support, education and training charity, celebrated five years of leading a team of volunteers at the Community Kitchen— offering free foodbased activities. An exhibition evening showcased their impact of food education, workshops, open kitchen sessions, community lunches and more.
Jo Jacobius’s Axiom Communications was named a winner in The Food & Drink Awards. Her small independent firm is experienced in handling a range of services: spirits, water, water coolers, cider, wines, etc. She recently was appointed to run the UK Press Office for one of Scotland’s most admired companies, Ian Macleod Distillers. Jo will be promoting Glengoyne, Rosebank, Smokehead, and Tamdhu whiskies.
MONTEREY BAY NEW ENGLAND
NEW ORLEANS
Analuisa Bejar's article "Tamarind - new and familiar dishes and drinks bring a once exotic fruit to our table" was featured as the cover story in the Spring 2025 issue of Edible Magazine: Monterey Bay. In addition to being a food critic, recipe developer, cookbook editor and author, Analuisa is the pastry chef/owner of Sunny Bakery Cafe in Carmel Valley, California.
Michelin “Micki” Maynard, who has dual membership in New England and New Orleans, was named one of WJR-AM’s Women Who Lead 2025. The award honors female leaders from the Great Lakes region who are influencing our communities in positive ways.
Amy Sins gave a TedX Tulane Talk, “The Superpower of Starting Over: What Crisis Reveals” on March 15. Amy shared her experiences in disaster relief—from losing her home in Hurricane Katrina to launching her disaster relief nonprofit, Fill the Needs.
member milestones
NEW YORK
Erica Cantley, won a 2025 People's Choice TASTE AWARD for Best Single Topic Series, and was a finalist for Best New Series for Maître d' Diaries, a front of the house industry podcast produced and co-hosted by her at a ceremony in Los Angeles in March.
Lana Lagomarsini was featured on Bravo’s Season 22 Top Chef: Destination Canada as one of the contestants. Lana describes her cooking as “soul food through a fine dining lens.”
Michael-Ann Rowe is making waves with a seafood cooking series, The Fishionista® Show which is launching this October.
Michael-Ann is happy to announce that one of her partnerships is the Fulton Fish Market Cooperative, where she will be creating a cooking set at one of the stalls and pulling seafood directly from the fishmongers!
PHILADELPHIA
SACRAMENTO
Georgeann Leaming and Rhiannon Fabel are working to open Scusi Pizza and Terra Grill this summer under Michelinstarred chef Laurent Tourondel in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia.
Amy Myrdal Miller was named Outstanding Dietitian of the Year for 2025 by the California Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics (CAND). She also received CAND’s highest honor, the Dolores Nyhus Memorial Award, for her longstanding service at the local, state and national level to support and promote registered dietitians.
Elizabeth Smith was a finalist in the Brightest Journey category of the Wine Travel Awards 2024–2025. She was recognized for moving forward to the panel of wine industry judges, and for her focus on Central and Southeast European wine regions like Croatia, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia, and Slovenia.
member milestones
SAN ANTONIO
Blanca Aldaco was named 2025 Fiesta Cornyation King Anchovy LVIII. Blanca is distinguished as a benefactor, enabler, ultimate Corny Superfan and has a notable reign as King Anchovy. Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine in Stone Oak is a beloved restaurant that has been a staple in San Antoni for over three decades.
Nicola Blaque was featured on the cover of San Antonio Magazine in the March/April Women’s History Month issue and shared her story at the Dream Big: Women Shaping San Antonio event on March 19 at San Antonio Botanical Garden.
Katrina FloresGuzman, Culinary Institute of America Instructor and former sous chef at Marriott River Center, was mentioned in The San Antonio Express News article, “The 10 best (and worst) things Mike Sutter ate in San Antonio in February.”
Denise Mazal was honored with a gold medal and certificate from the Czech Culinary Association on October 24, 2024, in Singapore, during the celebration of the World Association of Chef's Societies (WACS). The award was presented by the association’s president, Miroslav Kubec, in recognition of her lifetime dedication to the Czech nation through gastronomy.
SEATTLE
Courtney Johnson earned a return spot at the World Cheese Monger Championships in France in March. After a top finish at the U.S. Masters, she became the second American to qualify twice. This September, she’ll compete as part of the first allwoman Team USA at the prestigious global event.
SOUTH FLORIDA
Jacqui Pressinger, Cruise Industry Relationship Manager at Seatrade Cruise/F&B@ Sea, is excited to share that she has been nominated to serve on the Alumni Council for The Culinary Institute of America, her beloved alma mater. With deep gratitude, she looks forward to giving back to the CIA Alumni community and supporting the next generation of culinary professionals in this new role.
ST. LOUIS
Alisha BlackwellCalvert, CSW, Beverage Director of Madrina in St. Louis, an Advanced Sommelier and Certified Specialist of Wine was nominated as a 2025 James Beard Foundation Semifinalist in the category of Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service.
member milestones
WASHINGTON, D.C. REGIONAL
Charissa Benjamin and Tambra Raye Stevenson were two of the speakers at the third annual Black Women in Food Summit in Washington D.C. in April.
Carolyn Crow and Anina Belle Gianinni joined forces to host a fundraising event at L'Avant Garde restaurant for the Jacques Pepin Foundation 90/90 Celebration.
Ellen Kanner announced the release of her cookbook, Miami Vegan: Plant-Based Recipes from the Tropics to Your Table. It delivers succulent, sizzling, and sundrenched flavors all with a plant-based spin. Miami Vegan has bright tropical and accessible recipes so you can enjoy the taste of Miami.
in memoriam
DAME FRANCINE COHEN (NEW YORK)
Journalist, Brand Strategist, Innovator, and Friend
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dame Francine Cohen on December 4, 2024, a beloved member of Les Dames d’Escoffier New York and a visionary leader in the food and beverage community. In remembrance of Francine’s legacy of creativity, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication to excellence, LDNY has created a scholarship in her memory so that her mentorship and advocacy lives on. Find the donation link here.
Francine was not only an award-winning journalist and brand strategist but also a passionate activist and tireless ambassador for the industry she loved. Known for her ability to blend storytelling with strategy, crafting memorable messages and fostering meaningful engagement. Her insightful work appeared in esteemed publications such as totalfood.com, Beverage Industry News, VinePair, Better Homes & Gardens, and Playboy. Additionally, as a consultant to the Peruvian government, she was instrumental in elevating Peru's culinary identity and bringing Pisco to the global stage.
As an active and deeply committed member of LDNY, Francine embodied mentorship and leadership, building bridges and championing initiatives that empowered women in the culinary and hospitality industries. She described her role as part manager, part ambassador, always striving to open doors and create opportunities for others.
Francine’s contributions extended far beyond her professional achievements. She was a passionate advocate for community causes, lending her time and talents to organizations like Citymeals on Wheels and One City Café. Her writing, including her role as a contributing author to Savoring Gotham by Oxford University Press, reflects the depth of her knowledge and her enduring impact on food culture.
Francine’s boundless passion for life, advocacy, and mentorship left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
DAME DAISY MAE PASS KING (NASHVILLE)
Caterer, Restaurateur, Cookbook
Author, Educator, and Mentor
It is with deep sadness that the Nashville Dames report the passing of Dame Daisy King, who died unexpectedly on March 20, after a brief illness, just weeks following her 80th birthday.
Born in Buford, Georgia, Daisy was orphaned by age six and raised by her maternal grandparents on a farm. There she learned her way in the kitchen and baked her first pound cake. Over the years, she tweaked that recipe, increasing from three to five extracts—making it her signature dessert.
She came to Nashville to attend Belmont College, where she majored in Home Economics and Journalism. She also met her future husband, Wayne King.
From her debut on Nashville’s culinary scene in the early 1970’s, Daisy quickly became a force with Miss Daisy’s Team Room. She was a caterer, restaurateur, culinary consultant, author of 14 cookbooks, speaker, educator and television personality. She captured the hearts of her guests with her ebullient personality and hospitable spirit, but it was her dedication to Southern fare that made them her followers over her 50 year career. She chaired many events and galas including her Homecoming Tennessee tour with Alex Haley, and her Tennessee’s First Ladies Luncheon at Cabin by the Springs at the Hermitage. She earned the well-deserved title, Tennessee’s First Lady of Southern Cooking.
Throughout it all, she was a devoted wife, mother, entrepreneur and mentor. In 2014, she became a founding member of Les Dames Nashville, ever steadfast in her support of women in food, beverage, hospitality and farming.
Photo courtesy Daniel Meigs.
Flavors of Mexico
Flavors for Fundraising: Seven Years in Mexico and Going Strong
By Dame Teresa Farney (Colorado)
Flavors of Mexico created trips have been on our to-do list since the year these journeys were first proposed to members by the Mexican Chapter at the Les Dames d’Escoffier Annual Conference. It was a no-brainer for my husband and I as the inaugural trip was planned for Tequilla, Mexico, a destination across the boarder we had neither one been to before. Having attended other LDEI member chapter led events, we knew this would not be any ordinary travel experience.
Dames know how to throw a party and how to create a travel itinerary, and neither is taken no less seriously. Not only was the trip educational it gave us insight into a whole new cultural side of Mexico that we had never experienced before. Plus, the annual project provides financial assistance for
many Mexico Dames to attend the LDEI Annual Conference and supports community projects led by women in lowerincome Mexican communities. That was a win-win for us and even more of a reason to support the adventure. By halfway through that first trip, we vowed to put high priority on attending future trips. Now, seven years into these magnificent tours, we have never been disappointed with the high quality of each new adventure. Every year our Mexico Dames curate the most top-notch accommodations, dining experiences and exceptional educational opportunities. The deep dive into the cultural diversity of Mexico the chapter members have shown us is equivalent to a college-level learning experience. And for us personally, the exquisite culinary experiences created by the Mexican Dames has been the holy grail of every trip. They have never ever disappointed.
LesDames d’Escofer
submission guidelines
DEADLINES
July Issue: June 17 ; September Issue: August 15
MEMBER MILESTONES
(Editor, Dottie Koteski)
To submit your milestone, go to this link: http://link.ldei.org/ldei-membermilestones For any questions or issues, email the editor at MemberMilestones@ldei.org. Include:
• CHAPTER
• DAME’S NAME
• Maximum 50 words for each Dame about personal honors or accomplishments, but not about new product introductions or other promotions. Press releases and cookbook covers are NOT accepted.
PHOTO: You may submit a high resolution quality headshot to accompany your news (see below), and agree to the photo permissions questions for the photo. Note: Due to space constraints, only two Member Milestones will be published per Dame per year.
CHAPTER PROGRAMS
(Editor, Nichole Bendele)
To submit your chapter program, go to this link: http://link.ldei.org/ldei-chapterprograms Up to 200 words about chapter events that have already occurred. For any questions or issues, email the editor at ChapterPrograms@ldei.org. Include:
• CHAPTER
• SUBMITTER’S NAME
• Maximum 200 words for each chapter.
• Captions for all photos submitted. Photos without captions will not be used. Submissions that exceed 200 words will be edited to comply. Press releases are not accepted. We regret we don’t have space to print full menus but menu items can be included in the copy. Note: “Chapter Programs” and “Member Milestones” may be dispersed through LDEI social-media channels, as well as in print and online.
IN MEMORIAM
Maximum 400 word count for each Memoriam.
PHOTOGRAPHY/IMAGES
• Electronic images must be properly focused and in color with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi (JPEG).
• Cell phone photos are acceptable if they meet requirements.
• Do not send photos taken off the Internet or embedded with text in Word files or PDF files.
• Include photo credits, if required.
• A maximum of three photos can be submitted per chapter.
• ALL PHOTOGRAPHS MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY CAPTIONS OR THEY WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED.
LDEI regrets that we cannot include lengthy profiles of individual Dames due to space limitations. Submit Dames’ accomplishments to “Member Milestones” or to LDEI’s Closed Group on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/218435184886471/
Appearing in person or online at an LDEIsponsored event grants LDEI full rights to use any resulting photography images or video, and any reproductions or adaptations for the feast, social media, PR, or other purposes to help achieve the organization’s aims.
FIVE MINUTES
with: DAME AMY HOOPES
Amy Hoopes (Piergrossi) (San Francisco and Sacramento) Wine industry leader, innovator and motivator Chief Commercial Officer, The Wine Group www.thewinegroup.com
What is in your refrigerator right now?
Greek yogurt, fresh berries, wine, cheese, and everything else you need for charcuterie for any impromptu guests.
Secret guilty pleasure?
Catching up on People magazine while flying to my next work meeting.
What are you currently reading?
Currently reading three books: Fourth Wing (fiction), The New Menopause and The Menopause Brain (both non-fiction; prepping for the next chapter of life). In general: truth or dare? Truth.
Culinary inspiration?
My Dad. He could seriously make a delicious and nutritious meal out of an empty fridge. He was the primary cook in our family, making meals with love to feed me and my four sisters.
If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be? Pizza. It might just be the perfect food.
