Elizabeth Rosa

Roasted Chicken Mushroom Marsala Rigatoni! It's definitely a dish that reminds you of home, a warm hug after a hard day. It's comforting on the palate. It's the very first pasta dish I learned how to make from scratch. I've made it my mission to perfect it over the years trying to pay homage to Chef Marco, that has taught me everything I know. I owe it to him!

A few people. I have fond memories of watching Emeril Lagasse on TV wishing I could be him; it was something about his energy that was contagious. That essence as he would probably describe it has stayed with me. I love Anthony Bourdain; he was humble yet unworldly. Most of all he remained a student; as do I. Ina Garten has taught me about love, patience and my WHY. Lastly, my mother. Her hands will make 1 cup of rice enough for 20 people. You could taste love and generosity through her food.

The $25,000 would help provide me with resources to be able to put together a training program that I can offer to mothers that get welfare and/or food stamps or have limited finances, and educate them on wholesome food choices. Educate them on processed foods vs whole foods, food deserts and alternative ways to acquire fresh produce. How to make the most of the funds they do get with budgeting and meal planning. Offering cooking classes for kids as a means of educating them.