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They've recently brought on board four new culinary instructors, each with a unique background and style, to add their own brand of energy and enthusiasm to an interesting mix of classes.
Michelle Dawkins and Esther Oertel will present culinary classes for children and adults, and two local guest chefs will make appearances – Harold Umbretti, a demonstration chef at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, and Jeremy Zabel, head chef at the Saw Shop Bistro in Kelseyville.
An avid world traveler, Dawkins grew up in a family of chefs and began cooking at an early age. She's a trained pastry chef and especially enjoys baking in the classic French tradition.
Dawkins will begin an international cooking series for youth on July 29 for those between the ages of 11 and 17. The series is designed as an around-the-world culinary adventure with a hands-on approach.
Like Dawkins, Oertel is from a family of chefs. She began developing her own recipes in her family's restaurant kitchen as a young teen and hasn't stopped.
Oertel currently is working on a cookbook featuring healthful, fresh ingredients. Her first class is on cool and refreshing summer salads, sides and sippers, which will be presented on July 10. Later in the month, on July 31, Esther will teach a class on the perfect gourmet picnic.
In addition to sharing his knowledge and humor at the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Harold Umbretti has developed his own line of sauces, marinades and rubs. These and his original recipes can be checked out at www.winecountrychef.net .
Chef Jeremy Zabel has been the head chef at the Saw Shop Bistro for three years. Prior to that, he created 12 years' worth of palate-pleasing fare at Park Place in Lakeport. He will share his secrets on cooking fish.
Most adult classes are taught demonstration style, similar to your favorite Food Network cooking show. Normally four or five different dishes are presented, with a generous tasting after each one, and students go home with complete recipes.
Chic Le Chef is located in the Hardester's Plaza in Hidden Valley Lake. In addition to culinary classes, Chic Le Chef does specialty catering and takeout meals.
To register for classes or for more information on this full service culinary stop, visit www.chiclechef.com or call 707-987-9664.
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That meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m.
Meetings are usually held at the Live Oak Senior Center on The Plaza every fourth Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m.
The group regularly hosts county supervisors who give updates for news and area projects, and also a variety of other speakers.
Membership is open to all, not just business owners. Dues are $30 per year.
For dinner reservations please call Ellouise at 707-998-1744.
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The board oversees the department’s Fertilizing Materials Inspection Program, which works to ensure that consumers receive fertilizing materials that are safe and effective and meet the quality guaranteed by the manufacturer.
As part of the Fertilizing Materials Inspection Program, inspectors and investigators located throughout the state conduct routine sampling and inspections; respond to consumer complaints; and enforce the laws and regulations that govern the manufacturing and distribution of fertilizing materials. The program is funded by fertilizer license fees and assessments.
The term of office for board members is three years. Members receive no compensation, but are entitled to payment of necessary traveling expenses in accordance with the rules of the Department of Personnel Administration.
Applicants should hold a current California Fertilizing Materials License or be a representative of a licensed firm.
Individuals interested in being considered for a board appointment should send a brief resume by July 13 to the California Department of Food and Agriculture – Feed, Fertilizer, Livestock Drugs and Egg Regulatory Services Branch, 1220 N St., Sacramento, CA 95814, Attn: Asif Mann.
For additional information in the Fertilizer Inspection Advisory Board, contact Asif Mann at 916-445-0444 or e-mail
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SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is announcing 16 vacancies on the California Organic Products Advisory Committee.
This committee advises the CDFA secretary on current issues related to organic food production and makes recommendations on all matters pertaining to the California Organic Program.
The vacancies include: three producer representatives, two technical representatives, a processor representative, an environmental representative, and a consumer representative. Alternate member vacancies are available for each position.
The environmental, technical and consumer representatives must not have a financial interest in the direct sale and marketing of organic products. The term of office for committee members is three years.
Members receive no compensation, but are entitled to payment of necessary traveling expenses in accordance with the rules of the Department of Personnel Administration.
The California Organic Program is responsible for enforcement of federal and state law governing organic production. These statutes protect consumers, producers, handlers, processors and retailers by establishing standards under which fresh agricultural products may be labeled and sold as organic.
The California Organic Program is funded entirely by industry fees and assessments.
Individuals interested in being considered for an appointment should send a letter of consideration and include a letter of recommendation from the industry. Nominations will be accepted until the positions are filled.
Applications should be sent to California Organic Program, 1220 ‘N’ Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 or emailed to
For further information on the California Organic Program and committee vacancies, contact David Carlson at 916-445-2180.
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