Culinary Job Training Class 88’s Cook Off: Egg Foo Young
Yesterday, Culinary Job Training Class 88 cooked off to produce their best rendition of Egg Foo Young. They were joined by 7 judges: Ken Crerar (Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers), Rhonda Small, Tony Lipari, and Kim Tate from the United Way, Kate Jansen from Willow Restaurant (and her mother Jane), and Reuven Sugarman from Cuba Libre.
New Culinary Instructor Afiya Howell explained how the class prepared all week by making test versions of the dish and learning to work in teams. Marianne Ali, Director of Culinary Job Training, expressed how learning to work with others is an important component of the program.
Zachary Mason, Class 88 Student, said of his experiences thus far: “The past 6 weeks for me have been beautiful. I learn something new every day. I like the hustle bustle, the rush of kicking it out.”
Congrats to Clyde, Millena, Kaprina, Loretta, and Haywood from Team Dim Sum and Dim Sum More, who took first place. Thanks to all of the judges who asked very enlightening questions to our students.
Heritage Day chefs inspire Class 88 with career advice
This Wednesday was Heritage Day for Class 88. Students learned how to make cultural dishes from experienced local chefs, who also shared career and life advice.
This Heritage Day featured three chefs: Reuven Sugarman of Cuba Libre, Kate Jansen of Willow Restaurant, and Anthony Lombardo of 1789. The three chefs stressed the importance of perseverance and working hard as the students begin their careers.
“It’s not like you just graduate from this program, get a job, and you’re set for life. You’ve always got to push forward and work hard to stay ahead,” said Chef Lombardo.
Students helped the chefs prepare three fantastic dishes: Beef Picadillo, Spring Asparagus Bisque, and Lombardo Meatballs.
A special thanks to the chefs who made this a memorable Heritage Day.
CJT Class 87 Graduates with Packed Audience
Culinary Job Training Class 87 graduated last Friday. It was a packed crowd at the U.S. Navy Memorial and Heritage Center as Jim Vance, Anchor for NBC 4, gave a compelling talk to the graduating class. At graduation, 14 out of 19 students were hired (74%) and half of those hired had full benefits. The average hourly wage was $10.89. Check out some of the employers:
- Sodexo
- DC Central Kitchen
- Holiday Inn College Park
- Old Ebbitt Grill
- Crystal Enterprises at NOAA
- Cheers Hospitality Services
- Fresh Start Catering with DCPS
We would like to thank Jim Vance and former CJT graduate Jeffrey Lustre from Class 75 who told his incredible story at the event. Thanks to all of the people who attended. This was one of our most well attended graduations and it really shows the family and community support for the program.
Below a scene from one of the afternoon’s most touching moments, when Robert Egger surprised one of our graduates, Michael Parsons, with a job.
May 20 Sound Bites Concert Fights Hunger
DC Central Kitchen and the 9:30 Club will host the 3rd Annual Sound Bites charity concert featuring food you crave and music you love with proceeds benefiting DCCK, a national leader for combating hunger and creating opportunities for individuals in need. The event will be in and around the 9:30 Club, 815 V Street, NW.
Music at this year’s event is curated by Eric Hilton of the Thievery Corporation, including Bone, Fur Feathers, The Archives, and Nappy Riddem, with a DJ Set by Eric Hilton. There will also be a cocktail competition involving three of DC’s hottest mixologists from Oyamel, The Passenger, Fujimar, and The Gibson. And of course, food from thearea’s favorite food trucks including Pepe and Borinquen, as well other beloved restaurants.
Tickets are $40 and go on sale Thursday, March 22. Be sure to join DCCK and the 9:30 Club May 20th for music and food that will change lives.
Bruce Springsteen Wrecking Ball Tour Supports DC Central Kitchen
We’re totally stoked that The Boss has again chosen to support DC Central Kitchen for his April 1, 2012 concert at the Verizon Center. We’re auctioning off 4 Tickets with ESL passes, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting DC Central Kitchen. Be sure to check out our eBay auction to snag tickets to this sold out show.
