Spotlight: Columbus Events.
It has been our pleasure to provide hospitality for a tremendous variety of organizations and events at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Here are just a few we'd like to spotlight
- The Longaberger Company
- Worthington Industries
- Arnold Fitness Weekend
- e-Tech Ohio
- Reading Recovery Council of North America.
Chef's Corner.
Behind every great event is a great chef.
CHEF LESA HOLFORD
Chef Lesa Holford joined ARAMARK in 2008. She was formerly the executive chef for the University of Akron for more than three years, where she oversaw all the culinary departments and catering venues. When she was only 17, Chef Lesa began her culinary career. She joined the staff of what is now northeast Ohio's largest locally owned natural and organic foods market and restaurant, Akron's Mustard Seed Market & Café. There, she discovered her niche and a mentor, with her interest in cooking growing right along with the business. She was encouraged to attend The Culinary Insitiute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York - and did. In addition, Chef Lesa has also been affiliated with Tucson's award-winning Canyon Ranch Resort.
Upon her graduation from the CIA, Chef Lesa lived in Columbus before returning to Akron and assisting the Mustard Seed with its new restaurant and a second location. Mustard Seed's owners also were highly involved in lobbying the U.S. Congress about the need for legislation regulating organic foods, which in 1990 resulted in the developing of guidelines by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. "I was part of the group which became the first certified organic retailer in the state of Ohio," she said.
Her experiences have led her to adopt the philosophy of providing healthier, great-tasting food in her new position at our facility. "I want to focus on the food and let the food speak for itself," she said. Another initiative Chef Lesa plans to cultivate is an increased rapport with nearby farmers and suppliers. "I'd like to buy locally, green and organic when possible," she mentioned.
To book your event or request information, Contact Us directly.