The Hotel at Kirkwood Center recently hired Christopher Oetker as pastry chef.

Originally from Grundy Center, Iowa, Oetker attended Kirkwood Community College from 2001 to 2003. He went on to graduate from The French Pastry School in Chicago in 2004.

Prior to joining The Hotel, Oetker made cakes out of his home and was the owner and operator of Christopher Ryan Confections at NewBo City Market. He created specialty wedding cakes including gluten-free, vegan and other pastry options.

"Chef Oetker's passion for baking sets him apart. We are incredibly lucky to have him joining our team," said Lee Belfield, general manager of The Hotel at Kirkwood Center.

Oetker lives in Cedar Rapids with his 6-year-old daughter, Lorelei, and dog, Bella. The "amazing environment to teach, learn and grow in" is what Oetker credits as drawing him to The Hotel at Kirkwood Center. He looks forward to sharing his knowledge with students in the world-class Hospitality Arts program.

Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, The Hotel At Kirkwood Center is dedicated to the guest experience as well as serving as a teaching facility for those preparing to work in the global hospitality industry.

More information on The Hotel at Kirkwood Center is available at (319) 848-8700; or via the Web:
www.thehotelatkirkwood.com http://www.thehotelatkirkwood.com

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