SchoolPower’s annual Chef Challenge netted $10,025 and has grossed $65,887 over the past six years thanks to the generosity and hospitality of Lumberyard restaurant owners Cary and Suzanne Redfearn.
Lumberyard raises money for local schools by shutting its doors to the public for an evening and hosting a unique dinner, which has proven to be a sell-out among Laguna’s parents.
“This is one of my favorite SchoolPower events,” said Thurston PTA president Angela Shipp. “I never miss it. The food and the company are the best you can ask for.”
The night features the four local school principals teaming up – elementary school leaders Michael Conlon and Chris Duddy versus upper school divisions’ Jenny Salberg and Chris Herzfeld – and competing with dueling menus prepared by Chef Armando Ortega. Returning champions are granted first draft pick of either the main course or appetizer/dessert. Duddy said choosing the latter was pure strategy. “Everyone likes buttercake,” he explained.
“It’s incredible to see this community’s constant support of the schools,” said Conlon, in his first year as Top of the World Elementary principal.
After votes of guests were tallied, Conlon had another reason to cheer. He and Duddy were named Chef Challenge VI champions.
SchoolPower is a non-profit foundation that raises money for Laguna’s public schools. For more information, please visit www.lbschoolpower.org.
