I have been going out to Omaha, Nebraska quite often these days to promote my Minnesota Wild Rice Griddle Cakes at several Hy-Vee Supermarkets around the city and also working with the Culinary Advisory Board for ConAgra Foods located in Omaha as well.
After many visits to this Midwestern city, I really got to like it very much and began to make friends in the community. Eventually, I was asked by a friend who worked for Omaha’s Public Schools if I’d like to talk with a group of high school students that are thinking about becoming chefs. My response was absolutely, just tell me exactly where and when. I looked at it as an opportunity to lecture, cooks, and inspire a new generation of chefs. As it turned out Omaha has a nice vocational culinary program. I was glad to find out this school system actually nurtured students looking for vocational training in the culinary arts. What a great way for them to get a head start for a future career in cooking. And, if they don’t, that’s okay too. They’ll always be able to cook something nice for their friends and family.