California Fresh Buffet
A Time for Change

After seven years of continuous operation as an innovative restaurant, serving one meal a day, seven days a week with its mostly volunteer staff, California Fresh Buffet (CFB) is closing, serving its last meal to the public on Sunday, April 29, 2007.

“California Fresh Buffet has been extraordinarily successful as a “hands-on” learning laboratory for the Center for Purposeful Living’s training programs in selfless service, personal transformation, servant leadership, practical spirituality and becoming the “totally responsible person,” said Susan Baggett, CPL’s Board President and member of its teaching staff. “CFB also worked beautifully as a vehicle through which volunteers could serve the community in a tangible and meaningful way.”

So why is CFB closing? “The timing is right,” said Baggett. “The Center for Purposeful Living is poised to expand its educational programs, including the one-year, full-time Transformation through Service training. We are also exploring new forms of service such as supportive housing for the elderly.”

The decision to end the “CFB era” marks the beginning of a new phase of service, creativity and growth in the Center for Purposeful Living’s 21-year history.

Thank you for the memories!

During its productive, seven-year life, California Fresh Buffet attracted a loyal and diverse customer base. CFB’s reputation spread throughout the Triad, thanks to its positive atmosphere, friendly service, delicious and nutritious food, cleanliness and low prices. Profits from the restaurant have been shared with local charities since early 2001. Beginning in May, 2006, CFB has contributed $10,000 per month to the Foundation for Purposeful Living, CPL’s philanthropic arm.

“As CFB closes, California Fresh Catering will expand and continue to serve delicious and creative meals for individual and business customers in the Triad,” said Julia Burazer, one of CFB’s co-managers. Aided by new and expanded kitchen and conference facilities on CPL’s campus, California Fresh Catering will also serve as a learning laboratory for CPL’s full-time and part-time students. Profits will continue to support the charitable activities of CPL and the philanthropic giving of the Foundation for Purposeful Living (www.purposefulfoundation.org).

“As the final day of CFB’s service approaches, we are experiencing an ever deepening gratitude for the opportunity to serve and befriend so many wonderful people,” said Susan Park, one of CFB’s dedicated and tireless volunteer managers. “Many of our regular customers have become members of our extended family. We don’t view CFB’s closing as the end of these priceless friendships; rather, this change represents a new beginning.”

Thank you, CFB and all the wonderful CFB customers who have become our friends and fellow pilgrims, for the opportunity to serve!