Local High School Students Win Culinary Accolades

Local high school students Zac Jacobsen, Brooke Apfelbaum and Jessica Herman, each received recognition for their culinary skils. Zac, a 9th grader at Wellington High School, was chosen as the regional Student Chef Ambassador for South Florida. Zac won first place at the annual Fresh for Florida Kids Student Chef Cook-Off in October. The Cook-Off, sponsored by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, challenges Florida students from grades four through 12 to create healthy recipes using “Fresh From Florida” products. Zac created and prepared an original stuffed mushrooms with creamy Sriracha remoulade.
The regional cook-off winners in the high school category will compete on February 6th at the Florida State Fair for the Student Chef Cook-Off Finale. The winner will be crowned the State Student Chef. Zac, wholives with his Dad part time in Lexington Estates, said ” he knows the competition from around the state will be tough but with hard work and a good palate he knows he will win the state title. ” We wish him the best of luck in the competition!
The American Culinary Federation recently named Brooke Apfelbaum, a senior in West Boca’s Culinary Academy, as their Student of the Year. Brooke received this award based on her involvement and accomplishments as a member of of the Junior ACF Culinary Club.  As vice-president of this club, Brooke has been heavily involved as a volunteer for many charity organizations.  This is a high honor for a high school student since she was competing with post secondary students from Lincoln Culinary Institute for this award.
Jessica Herman, a senior in the Culinary Arts Academy, was recognized as West Boca High School’s “Career & Technical Student of the Year” last night at the January Palm Beach County School Board meeting.
In addition, Nancy Hall was named Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation, which is the highest honors bestowed on a chef in this chapter. Ms. Hall is the Department Chair of the Culinary Arts Academy at West Boca High School. Chef Hall has promoted the ACF, the chapter, and the profession, and she has mentored and advanced the learning of future culinarians. She now has possession of the trophy until another chef is named for this honor a year from now. Chef Hall also received a plaque and a medallion.
Congrats to all the winners!