Contact: Megan Johnson
STAR, 182 Wolfpit Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851
(203) 846-9581, ext. 339

STAR NEWS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Michael Joseph’s Catering of Darien
to Provide Gourmet Cooking Class

June 29, 2009: Three professional chefs will share cooking tips and exclusive trade secrets in a hands-on gourmet cooking class for a group of individuals with developmental disabilities on Thursday, July 9th at 3:00 p.m. at Michael Joseph’s Catering located at 1405 Post Road in Darien, Connecticut.

The class at Michael Joseph’s Catering is one in a series offered to help encourage and develop cooking, nutrition, kitchen safety and independent living skills for the residents of STAR’s different homes for individuals with developmental disabilities. The program was initiated in 2008 and has been a great success. The three participating chefs are all on staff at Michael Joseph’s Catering in Darien: Gary Newman, Executive Chef who trained by the Culinary Institute of America; Mary Colacurcio, Pastry Chef and graduate of Kendall College Culinary Institute and longtime employee of the Four Seasons; and Justin Viesta, Catering Manager, who attended Quinnipiac University. The participating students reside in STAR’s group homes for individuals with developmental disabilities located in Darien, Westport, Weston, Norwalk and New Canaan.

Steven DaCruz, Food Services Manager at STAR commented, “We are so pleased to be invited to continue our program in the community with such a well respected institution as Michael Joseph’s Catering. I know the students will gain so much from this unique experience.”

Michael Joseph’s Catering and STAR have a long partnership. Almost ten years ago, Joseph Viesta, Michael Joseph’s owner, joined the board of directors of STAR. Mr. Viesta was instrumental in establishing the organization’s most successful fundraiser, the Galaxy of STARS Dinner Dance and Auction, which is scheduled for November 14th at Woodway Country Club in Darien. Since its inception in 2003, the event has raised well over $1,000,000 for the agency. Michael Joseph’s Catering has also been committed to the hiring of people with developmental disabilities and has served as a worksite in the past. Mr. Viesta now serves on the nominating committee of STAR.

Michael Joseph’s Catering was founded in 1985 and serves the catering and event needs of customers in Fairfield and Westchester Counties, and is committed to elegance, quality and truly personalized service. They pride themselves in attention to detail and customizing each event to make it unique and unforgettable. Their professional culinary chef, event planners and experienced wait staff offers unique and distinctive styles in food preparation. Their unmatched level of personal service will ensure a truly pleasurable and memorable event. .

STAR, Inc., Lighting the Way is a not–for-profit organization serving individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities, as well as providing support services to their families. We create opportunities for individuals to live full lives with independence, freedom of choice and personal growth by providing support, services and advocacy. We inform and encourage the community to recognize and appreciate the value of all individuals. For additional information visit STAR’s website at www.starinc-lightingtheway.org.