Students receive unique training for annual Dining in the Dark

NEWS RELEASE

SAULT COLLEGE

****************************
Students receive unique training for annual Dining in the Dark

SAULT STE. MARIE - In a world saturated with information overload, visual simulation is more prevalent. 

Imagine, just for a few hours that you cannot see; that your vision is abandoned for a unique, more stimulating dining experience.  This is “Dining in the Dark.”

Sault College and the Canadian National Institution for the Blind (CNIB) have partnered for the second year in a row for a unique dining event that will take place on Thursday, March 22 in the Gallery at Sault College.

Guests will enjoy a gourmet meal in a literally pitch-black dining room where they are guided and served by specially-trained Sault College Culinary and Hospitality students. 

Diners experience a world of sensitivity never experienced before, taking a journey of taste, sound and touch all in the dark.

“When someone loses their vision, life changes forever,” states Terry Caporossi, regional manager services and operations, CNIB.

“An experience such as dining in the dark allows sighted guests to imagine what it would be like for someone who is blind or partially sighted. Every twelve minutes, another Canadian comes face-to-face with this difficult reality. We are looking forward to working with Sault College students once again to deliver what promises to be a memorable dining experience,” states Caporossi.

In preparation for the event, Sault College Hospitality students will be receiving unique training from the CNIB on March 20 at 10 a.m.

Training activities include the students wearing blindfolds and simulators to create the sensation of someone who is living with blindness or partial sight.

Students will also learn how to serve meals in the dark, casually and comfortably offering guidance and reassurance for sighted guests.

“Our students are very privileged to have CNIB provide valuable input and support on this project,” states Deron Tett, professor, Hospitality Program, Sault College. “We are thrilled to expand on our partnership this year and look forward to another successful event.”

To enjoy this unique and unforgettable dining experience prepared and served by Sault College Culinary and Hospitality students in the Sault College Gallery Restaurant, contact Karen Boston at CNIB 705.949.2610 ext. 5450 or email [email protected]. 

Tickets are $75 per person with a $25 income tax receipt issued to each ticket holder by the CNIB.

The funds raised will benefit CNIB programs and services for blind and partially sighted clients in Sault Ste. Marie.

Appetizers and cocktails begin at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow at 7 p.m.

Free parking is available in the Gallery parking lot or across the street in the A-Lot parking lot.
 
****************************