[Wilsonville, OR] – The Oregon Restaurant Education Foundation, the largest industry education foundation in Oregon, announced its slate of Officers and Board of Trustees for 2005-2006. The Trustees, who represent a cross section of the $13 billion restaurant and lodging industry—Oregon’s largest private-sector employer—were installed during the Oregon Restaurant Association's annual meeting.

Three Foundation officers were elected during the event. Serving as Chair is Mark Swenson of Bon Appetit, Vice-Chair is Peggy Preisz of Mo’s Restaurants, Secretary/Treasurer is Emile Amarotico of Standing Stone Brewing Company.

The Foundation's Trustees are:

• Bill McKibbin, Persimmon Country Club
• Bobbie McDonald, SYSCO Food Services of Portland
• Bonnie Starkey, Portland Community College
• Jim Reynolds, Foodservices of America
• Karen Novak, Novak’s Hungarian Restaurant
• Mark Bernetich, Hayden’s Lakefront Grill
• Mike McCallum, Oregon Restaurant Association
• Phil Neuman, Red Lobster
• Ryan Snyder, Steve Martin Management Company
• Tracy Marks, Hilton Portland and Executive Tower

“We’re excited about the outstanding commitment, qualifications and vision of this exceptional Board of Trustees,” said Sharon Lingenfelter, Executive Director of the Foundation. “With their guidance, OREF is anticipating an extraordinary year of continued growth in becoming a more valuable and extensive resource to the greater hospitality industry.”

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