Camas Iron Chef gets a new look

Camas Iron Chef is getting a new look and a new location.

This year, the popular Camas Educational Foundation fundraiser will cost less, include all ages, and have hands-on activities.

The festivities will run from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 21 at the Camas High School commons.

“In addition to the cook-off with secret ingredients, we’re changing the format so that it is a family-friendly, food filled-festival,” said Debbie Mrazek, event chair and CEF board member. “Iron Chef is still a major component to our festival, but there will also be lots of food based, hands on activities.”

The entry fee has been reduced from $25 to $5 for adults, $3 for children, and free for those under 5. Attendees will be able to watch cooking teams in action and enjoy menu items from Camas vendors.

Those who want the VIP treatment can pay $60, which includes a gift bag, cookbook, guaranteed People’s Choice judge, preferential seating and unlimited food and non-alcoholic beverages.

General admission tickets do not need to be pre-purchased, but those who want the VIP experience are encouraged to make reservations.

“All the money goes back to our kids to better the learning experience for everyone,” Mrazek said.

Activity tickets, $1 each, can be used toward food, beverages, games and activities.

Those who want to be a People’s Choice judge of the Iron Chef cuisine will be able to do so for $10, though it will be limited to the first 50 people.

During the Iron Chef portion of the event, returning champion, Chef Peter Echeverio of New Seasons Market, will take on Chef Tim McCusker of Harvest restaurant.

McCusker, who has two children at Helen Baller Elementary School, wants to help support the educational foundation, and defeat Echeverio.

“I really enjoy Camas and the people here,” he said. “I want to have fun and create a good show. I have got a few tricks up my sleeve and want to make it a fun event.”

CEF has set a goal of raising $10,000, all of which will go toward grants, which enhance the classroom experience for students.

Past grants have funded the purchase of materials and equipment, and enabled programs in all different subjects.

“Our goal is to raise money and help the community,” Mrazek said.

For more information or VIP reservations, visit www.cefcamas.org.