OCVTS Graduate Rides the Rails of History
Jean Sullivian, January 23, 2009

  Joe Leone Introna, 1993 graduate of the OCVTS Culinary Arts program and owner of Joe Leone’s Italian Specialties in Point Pleasant became part of history this week as he took part in the Presidential Inaugural festivities. Joe and his staff were hired by Pennsylvania entrepreneur Bennett Levin, who owns one of the most famous trains in the nation. This train has transported numerous US Presidents and celebrities throughout the years. This past Sunday the train was scheduled to depart Philadelphia with Vice President Elect Joseph Biden and travel to Washington D.C. for an evening event. Last minute changes to his schedule prevented the Vice President Elect from traveling on the train but his family as well as congressmen, local politicians, military leaders and news crews filled the train cars.

  Mr. Introna and each of his staff had to obtain security clearance through the Secret Service in order to cater the event.

  During the hour and forty-five minute trip to DC, Joe and his staff served an assortment of hors d’oevres. The menu was designed to include foods relating to the different region along the route such as mini Philly Cheese Steaks and Maryland crab cakes. A variety of desserts were served on the return trip.

  Joe explained, “I used this event as a team building experience for my employees. I chose the managers from each of the departments from the business to work with me. It is challenging to provide the quality service we are known for when you’re traveling at 110 miles per hour. It was an opportunity to come together and achieve something great. They did a phenomenal job.”

  In the twelve years since it has opened, Joe Leone’s Italian Specialties has built a reputation which reaches all the way to the White House. In 2002, Mr. Introna was recognized by the Ocean County Foundation for Vocational Technical Education for his outstanding success and his continuing support of OCVTS.