A national television network will air the story of talented Hornell dessert baker Chris Lomax, who is legally blind.
CBS Mornings plans two days of filming and interviews in Hornell for a profile of the popular and inspiring chef at Racalto’s, the 7465 Seneca Road North restaurant said.
The CBS News crew will film around Hornell on June 10 and spend all day June 11 at the restaurant with Lomax, Racalto’s announced in a Facebook post.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Chris, and we encourage the community to come out, support Chris, and enjoy his incredible desserts,” Racalto’s co-owner Joe Huang-Racalto said.
“While I wish the story could focus solely on his incredible desserts, the truth is, Chris’s journey as a blind baker is central to this piece — and we are deeply honored that CBS has chosen to tell his story.”
While it won’t necessarily be business as usual, Racalto’s will be open during the length of CBS News’ stay in the Maple City. Making a reservation June 10-11 is a good idea, Racalto’s said.
Racalto’s will post signs letting guests know they may wind up on camera and be seen by millions of television viewers when the segment airs.
Racalto’s two front rooms are reserved for Lomax’s family and friends on the days the CBS team is in Hornell.
CBS Mornings producers “want authentic, real moments. Chris will greet diners and chat with them naturally — no staged scenes, just real connection,” Joe Huang-Racalto said on Facebook.
Racalto’s said the new parking lot and new landscaping are in place and Canisteo Valley Electric and contractors are putting the final touches on the new kitchen just in time for its national debut.
“We want to make Hornell proud when millions of Americans tune in,” Racalto’s said. “On behalf of the entire Racalto’s team — thank you, Hornell. Your love, support, and belief in Chris have made this moment possible. We can’t wait to share it with you.”
Email Neal Simon at nsimon@gannett.com. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: National spotlight: CBS Mornings visits Hornell to profile Racalto’s blind dessert chef
Reporting by Neal Simon, Hornell Evening Tribune / The Evening Tribune
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