Scrimshaw at The Desmond Receives Achievement of Excellence Award from the
American Culinary Federation

ALBANY, N.Y., July 14, 2008 - The American Culinary Federation presented the Achievement of Excellence award recently to a select number of extraordinary properties. This award was created to honor those properties that demonstrate excellence and passion for the culinary arts through their unparalleled food and beverage program.

We are pleased to announce that The Desmond Albany Hotel, Scrimshaw Restaurant has been awarded the Achievement of Excellence Award in the category of Fine Dining for 2008. Executive Chef Michael St. John accepted this award on behalf of The Desmond culinary team from ACF National President, John Kinsella, CMC, CCE, AAC during the National Convention July 14, 2008 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

AFC recognizes those foodservice establishments that exemplify commitment to excellence in foodservice in the marketplace. The Desmond Hotel Albany, Scrimshaw Restaurant is honored to have been recognized along with only 4 other Fine Dining establishments in the United States.

The Desmond Hotel Albany, Scrimshaw Restaurant was also recently honored with the 2008 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Scrimshaw Restaurant has been recognized consistently by Wine Spectator for 20 years.

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CONTACTS:

Dianna Rios
The Desmond
drios@desmondhotels.com
(518) 640-6182