CHEF JACKIE BALDWIN DAY

The Troy City Council on Thursday night unanimously approved a resolution honoring the late Jackie Baldwin, a native Trojan and longtime executive chef at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute:

WHEREAS, on February 29, 1964, leap year, Jackie Bald-

win was born a native of Troy, New York and leaving us too young on March 18, 2016; a graduate of Troy Schools and Russell Sage College, Jackie acquired a culinary degree from SCCC in 1983becoming one of the few premier women chefs in the Capital District; and WHEREAS, Jackie Baldwin dedicated her life to service, contribution, and improvement, she was an inspiration to everyone she met; Jackie was a fun, free- spirited, sophisticated and intelligent woman who radiated warmth, humor and compassion. She was always the elegant element found within many circles of friends; intelligent, witty, energetic and a fabulous friend; Jackie moved through life with profound interest, loving to experience the five (5) senses by Tasting, Smelling, Touching, Seeing and Hearing. Her home was in the kitchen with memories of she and her mother cooking; and WHEREAS, Jackie generously volunteered for many events, including organizing the Troy Pig Out for the American Culinary Federation, donating her time to Community Gardens, Empty Bowls, Josephs House, the Sanctuary of Independent Media, Ellen Sanopoli Annual Fundraising Gala, creating Omelets in the Park as a day of appreciation for people in Troy’s Washington Park Association and the James Beard Foundation. Jackie epitomized the heart and soul of Troy residents. She was the embodiment, the guardian of generosity; and WHEREAS, Jackie loved making people happy. She was caring and compassionate; Her drive, determination, passion, and integrity enriched all who surrounded her. A pioneer in the restaurant industry, Jackie was a young and eager female in a male dominated profession. With only a few female role models like Julia Child, Alice Waters, and Nancy Silverton, Jackie did what she knew and forged her own path. She was raised and succeeded in what, at that time was considered a man’s business; and WHEREAS, most notably Jackie worked as Executive Chef L’Ecole Encore 1990, Executive Chef Hiland Park Golf Course 1994, House Manager Steuben Club 1996, Price Chopper Food Service Manager 1997, Executive Chef Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute from 2001 - 2015; and WHEREAS, Jackie amassed great accolades and awards while earning her C. E.C certification; 1998ACF Capital district Culinarian of the year; 1999ACF Capital district Chef of the year 1999 Golub Corp Food Service Manager of the year; 2000President Capital District Chapter ACF 2001 ACF Liz Krauss award; 2008“best new conceptMy Zone” Food Management Magazine; a team member of Capital District Chefs who hosted dinner at James Beard Foundation in NYC in 2006and 2007; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Troy City Council does hereby pause in its deliberations to honor and commend the late Chef Jackie Baldwin, native of the City of Troy, New York; a vibrant personality enthusiastic about life. People loving and passionate about everything and anything she strove to understand or know. A professional dedicated to her craft. A dear friend who helped friends without having to be asked. A defender of those in need. She taught her students her passion for cooking. She gifted those who worked with her, guidance and direction. Her influence flowed into the lives of so many others who followed in her footsteps. Her memory remains; her huge smile and her endless hilarious narratives. Troy was truly blessed to have had her in our midst.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Troy City Council transmit a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed, in honor of this great Troy personality, declaring June 19, 2017Chef Jackie Baldwin Day.