Anybody that has questions about the potential of our young people needs only to witness the demonstration of sheer tenacity, unparalleled focus and determination that was displayed at today’s competitions. I saw four-member teams construct fully operational rooms with working plumbing and electricity, complete with drywall, brick walls and wood siding. I was fixated by ‘kids’ racing from police cars with guns drawn in pursuit of ‘suspects.’ I watched a young lady produce scones, biscuits, muffins,...

After seven years of living this cook’s life as a teacher, I have come to recognize opportune moments that are indelible, both for my students as well as me. Three of the competitors needed kitchen space to prepare food for tomorrow’s demonstration. We were generously provided unfettered access to a kitchen in a location that will remain nameless for now. What we found was a glorious moment in time that would serve the students well to use as an opportunity to never repeat.

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