Calling all chefs, culinary professionals, and food advocates of the domestic shrimp industry, time is running out to nominate your candidate to win the American Shrimp Processors Association’s Wild American Shrimp “Chef of the Year” award.

Nominations are due by Friday, September 29, 2017. Culinary professionals can be self-nominated, or submitted by their peers, publicist, favorite customers and fans. Online nominations can be made at http://www.americanshrimp.com/chef-of-the-year/, or submissions can be emailed to bjoachim@focusgroupms.com, or they can be mailed to The Focus Group, Post Office Box 3628, Gulfport, Mississippi, 39505, ATTN: Wild American Shrimp.

To be named Wild American Shrimp’s ‘Chef of the Year,’ the nominees should meet the following criteria: 1) demonstrate ways they’ve advocated and/or used Gulf or wild-caught shrimp through social media, TV appearances, public relations and other media opportunities, 2) submit two or more recipes from their restaurant or food establishment showcasing Wild American Shrimp, 3) describe their philanthropic efforts within their community and food industry, and 4) showcase any awards won for culinary excellence, especially in the area of seafood.

Nominations will be reviewed by seafood industry representatives and the Wild American Shrimp marketing team. Nominations will be accepted until Friday, September 29, 2017 at 4 p.m. The winner will be announced live on the Wild American Shrimp Facebook page on Friday, October 20, 2017. The winner will reign for one year, and will receive prizes to include a custom designed plaque, official proclamation, and $500 for the food charity of the winner’s choosing.