A year ago today, executive chef Art Grayson passed away after a long battle with cancer. Chef was my teacher, my mentor, and my friend. The consonant professional, Art shared his love of culinary arts with all who listened. Chef is the reason this site exists, and that’s why I have dedicated The Jazz Pantry to his memory. It is through chef’s decisions and encouragement that I became a food writer and combined my love for the offshore life, the kitchen and writing.
Chef opened my eyes to the various sub- fields a culinary degree could take me. His loss was, and still is, difficult to accept due to the extraordinary characteristics he exemplified. Compassionate, he also demanded hard work and professionalism in his kitchen. At a low point in my life, he instilled a drive for success that continues today.He taught me the saying,“ No matter where you go, there you are”. This reaffirmed my faith in professionalism. No matter the circumstances your life is in, you control your actions and shouldn’t allow your environment to control you. With him in my thoughts, it is my sincerest hope that my hard work on this site has paid off.
The art of cooking is serious business, yet it should be a fun adventure. I hope my work conveys this attitude. I appreciate the fact that you have shared in this passion with me. Thank you for carrying chef’s memory forward.
I wish I had met the Chef, he has made a positive influence on you and sounds like many others.
I am sure he is very proud of what you have done to honor his memory and where you are at in your life.
Keep up the adventure..