As many of you know, my friend’s car was stolen a few weeks ago while we were at a fundraiser for the CNM Culinary Department Scholarship fund. I had just finished competing in an appetizer mystery basket competition (my team came in second) I had just put my knives and tools in the car and went to speak to my chef and the chefs at the Hyatt. We returned to the car 45 minutes later and it was gone.
The car was recovered a few days later, but my gear (more than $3000 of knives, cases and specialty kitchen gear) was never found.
Ken Hargis installed a Paypal button here and helped me immensely. My friends donated more than $1500 to help me replace my gear. Another couple of friends made me a loan of $1000. Through clever shopping and the liberal use of discount coupons, I have managed to replace almost everything I must have to continue school and my catering. In some cases, I was able to get a better version of the knife or tool for less than I had paid for the item it replaced.
My honey, Jenn, has been a rock through this. In the past, I would have been overwhelmed by this hit to my life.
I am humbled and amazed by the generosity of my friends. You guys are awesome. Thanksgiving is even more meaningful to me this year.