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Well-Known Author and Chef Michael J. Longo, CEC, Named Executive Chef for Legend of Colorado Springs

January 4, 2021

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO –Legend Senior Living reaffirmed its reputation for and emphasis on culinary excellence in senior living by naming Michael J. Longo, CEC to the top chef position at its new Legend of Colorado Springs Assisted Living and Memory Care residence, which opensJanuary 5, 2021. Legend of Colorado Springs will be the 40th senior living community for the Wichita-based company, with residences in six states.

“We’re exceedingly fortunate –and needless to say excited –to have a renowned chef and culinary master such as Michael Longo leading our team of chefs and staff,” said Karen Stewart, Residence Director for Legend of Colorado Springs.“Our new community in the Springs is groundbreaking in so many ways. Michael’s vision and rich, unique background will take the Legend culinary experience to heights worthy of our Rocky Mountain view.”

Longo is an award-winning Certified Executive Chef and the author of two cookbooks: Let’s Take a Leek: a book about a Chef, fabulous Soups, and a slightly different sense of humor and The St. Joseph’s Table –a Sicilian Tradition. Chef Michael has worked at such esteemed culinary venues as The Broadmoor Hotel, Glen Eyrie Conference Center, where he was instrumental in starting the wonderful Madrigal tradition. He also owned and operatedNana Longo’s Restaurant and First Impressions Catering.

“Rarely does a chef have the chance to realize a vision from the ground up and then personally see that vision materialize,” said Longo of his new position. “When you do, you call on every single skill and experience in your book. Legend has charged me with creating a unique experience for residents, in a new cutting-edge community –pardon the pun, but here it’s appropriate.”

Speaking of books, Longo has turned his experience into two popular cookbooks with unique and often humorous accounts of the chef’s life. His interests are a diverse menu: He has judged both professional and amateur culinary competitions throughout the Front Range.When he is not enjoying free time with his wife, Pam, two sons and grandchildren, Longois an avid fisherman, rod builder and fly tier, a hobby he actually turned into a mission. While Executive Chef for The Springs Rescue Mission, Longo began the ministry of “Fisher of Men” to introduce the joy of angling to people in the program.

Longo earned his status as a Certified Executive Chef, Art and Science of Culinary Preparation, from the American Culinary Federation, a distinction he has maintained for more than 25 years as a chef. “My experience in senior living goes back a decade. Legend’s mission to serve is so well-aligned with my own that it feels like it was meant to be,” said Longo. “And I’ll tell you one thing about preparing food for older adults. They have the most discerning tastes and open minds of any diners. It’s a fun and joyful experience to design a menu that covers everything from traditional American favorites to haute cuisine.”

“Besides looking forward to the leadership of this unique talent –we’re all just very anxious to taste his food,” added Stewart.

About Legend Senior Living:Legend Senior Living® is a privately held senior housing and services company based in Wichita, Kansas. Legend owns and operates 40residences –independent living, assisted living, memory care, and personal care–in Florida, Colorado, Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania. Legend of Colorado Springs is set to open January 5, 2021 and Windsor Pointe of Jacksonville will become Legend’s 41st community when it opens later inthe year. Legend has just been certified as a Great Place to Work® for the third consecutive year.

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