The 2010 March of Dimes Chicago Chef of the Year Award will be presented to White House executive chef Cristeta Comerford at the Signature Chefs Auction of Chicago on Nov. 3 at the Swissotel.

Now in its second year, the award was created to recognize chefs with Chicago ties for their achievements in culinary arts. Comerford is being honored for her commitment to culinary arts as well as her dedication to the environment, the farming industry, healthy eating and an eco-friendly lifestyle. Accomplishments include bringing nationwide attention to healthy eating and reducing childhood obesity. Chef Rick Bayless, the inaugural Chef of the Year winner, is expected to present the award to chef Comerford during the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction of Chicago.

At the event, guests will sample dishes from more than 25 local chefs. Local restaurants participating in the Signature Chefs Auction of Chicago include: Benny's Chop House, Gabriel Viti's Gabriel's Restaurant and Miramar Bistro, Ristorante Prosecco, Province, Boka, The Signature Room at the 95th, Volare, Roy's, N9ne Steak House, The Palm Restaurant, The Purple Pig and Heaven on Seven.

For more information, visit www.marchofdimes.com/illinois.