ANOTHER life

As a second-year student at NDSU, Sommers found herself struggling with the rigors of college. Unsure of what she wanted in her future, she made the decision to take time off from school and enter the work field.

A serendipitous job opening at Leeby’s store in downtown Fargo awakened another passion in this young Williston, North Dakota, native. It was a time when Leeby’s, a locally owned grocery store was transitioning ownership to two California chefs. Sommers discovered the art of baking. Soon after she began her new job, the chefs, recognizing her talents, encouraged her to consider culinary school.

Sommers applied for and was accepted into Disney World’s three-year culinary program, and made the move to Florida where she specialized in pastries. Though her days were crammed, her passion for dance remained and she continued as a Jazzercise instructor inspiring others to join the fun.

A handsome young man, Steve, who would later become her husband, also attended the Disney Culinary Program. After completion, together they sought jobs in Orlando, fine-tuning their culinary skills at a highly regarded restaurant. When a food-writer from Zagat visited one day, Sommers asked the question, “Where is the best place in the U.S. to be in the culinary industry?” The reply was Boulder, Colorado. →