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• Cristeta "Cris" Comerford has been the White House Executive Chef since she was named to the position by Laura Bush in August of 2005.The White House: Cristeta Comerford Named White House Executive Chef (August 14, 2005) Comerford, who is of Filipino descent was the first woman and the first minority to hold the position of White House Executive Chef.

  On January 8, 2009, President Barack Obama's transition team reported that Comerford would stay as chef for the new administration.Newsday: Obamas decide to keep White House chef, dashing hopes of culinary wannabes (January 9, 2009)

• Fast Facts

  1. Born: October 1962
  2. Birthplace: Manila, Philippines
  3. Maiden name: Pasia
  4. Spouse: John Comerford
  5. Has a daughter named Danielle
  6. Studied Food Technology at the University of the PhilippinesWashington Post: Hail to The Chef (August 22, 2005)
  7. Immigrated to the United States at age 23The New York Times: First Woman Is Selected as Executive Chef... (August 15, 2005)
  8. Worked as an assistant chef at the White House from 1995-2005
  9. Appointed Executive Chef by Laura Bush in August of 2005
  10. Specializes in ethnic and American cuisine
  11. White House chefs earn a salary of $80,000-$100,000The New York Times: First Woman Is Selected as Executive Chef... (August 15, 2005)

• Speculative Rumors

  Amidst the announcements of the members of President Elect Barack Obama's cabinet, there was speculation as to who, if anyone the Obamas would select as their head chef. Members of the Organic Consumers Association organized a campaign to encourage the Obamas to bring an organic chef to the White House, while other media outlets and bloggers mentioned celebrity chefs as possible candidates for the position.The Associated Press: White House chefs look for sensitivity... (November 24, 2008) On January 8, 2009, the transition team reported that the Obamas would keep Comerford on.Newsday: Obamas decide to keep White House chef, dashing hopes of culinary wannabes (January 9, 2009)

• Quote

  "Cristeta Comerford brings such incredible talent to the White House operation and came very highly regarded from the Bush family. Also the mom of a young daughter, I appreciate our shared perspective on the importance of healthy eating and healthy families. I look forward to working with her in the years to come."—Michelle ObamaNew York Times: No Change Brewing in the White House Kitchen (January 8, 2009)

• Related Pages on Mahalo

  Laura Bush | Alice Waters | Gordon Ramsay | The White House | Julia Child | Rachael Ray | Michelle Obama | Laura Bush

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