Recently a great deal of national and local attention has been given to the immigration issue. Like many news worthy topics, it often get more sensational as people tend to openly talk and discuss the issue without taking the time to get the story straight. To stop unnecessary and often hateful comments directed at the Hispanic community, I find myself needing to educate some one close to me, about the difference between legal and an illegal immigrants. This is a subject that hits close to home for me. One of my grandparents and three of my great-grandparents were immigrants. Many of the people who provided me with on the job training were immigrants. Let’s face it, if you go back far enough…. almost all of us have immigration in our past.

So what is the problem and is it real? The problem is illegal immigration, and yes it is real. There are more and more illegal immigrants entering our boarders every day. However, if you look deep into the problem, the answer isn’t found in the faces of those people that have come here looking for the American dream. How could we blame anyone for wanting what we often take for granted? They come from a place where life is hard. REAL HARD! The problem is they have something to come for “a job”. The problem is the person that employs an illegal immigrant. I have no tolerance for anyone that breaks the law and it hurts someone else, and this is hurting everyone.

As a professional chef and employer, it is my responsibility to ensure that the people working for me are legal citizens or are legal immigrants and have proper documentation. There is no excuse that justifies providing a job to someone that has no right to be here. Don’t tell me “I can’t get anyone else to do the job”. It is not only against the law it is the biggest part of the problem. If we take away the illegal jobs we take the biggest step in fixing the problem. If you know someone that employs illegal immigrants, report them! It hurts you, me, our children, everyone. We have to stop this now! You have to decide what upsets you more, the illegal immigrant or the person making it possible for them to exist here.

The most important thing to remember in all of this is the people. How does this affect the legal immigrants that are part of my community? Why do they have to defend their right to be here? They, them, you, me, when are we going to realize that this means us? We have to start sticking up for each other. Where would I be without Octavio the pot washer that showed me how to crack my first oyster, or Juanita the prep lady that taught me how to make dressings, or Sachio the neighbor that taught me how to tie my shoes, or most important Filippo Furiosi my mother’s father.

Dine on fabulous food from some of your favorite local restaurants and caterers, participate in our silent auction, and dance the night away to great entertainment. The annual fundraiser is a wonderful evening you won't soon forget. Reservations required. Call (615) 833-1534 ext. 129 for tickets and information.

After-School Program Graduation Ceremony Centerstone

On Thursday, May 18, 2006 The Murrell Middle’s After-School Program graduated 12 new junior cooks. With the help of Chef Willie Jemison, and a whole slew of assistants, contributors, and supporters, these kids are today’s graduates and tomorrow’s leaders. Congratulations to all from the Middle Tennessee Chapter of the American Culinary Federation. After speeches by dignitaries, and the presentation of the Certificates, the Graduates prepared lunch for all those attending