Gordon Brown

My signature dish would be spare ribs. It's one of my favorite dishes to prepare, and I learned how to make it from my mother and grandmother. Both have since passed away, but their influence and the lessons they taught me continue to inspire me every time I cook. Being able to share this dish is a way to honor their memory, and I know they would be proud to see me here today

To my mother, who showed me everything in the kitchen and how to keep life in order there. To my grandmother, who cooked by heart and seasoned every meal with love and jokes. To my friend, James Boatright Sr., who deepened my love for BBQ and brisket and brought a generous spirit to every fire. And to the chefs who inspired Carla Hall ,Bobby Flay, Andrew Zimmerman, G Garvin —thank you for lighting the path

I would use a portion of it as a down payment to help start a restaurant or food truck business, allowing me to share my passion for food with the community. I would also use part of the funds to support causes that are important to me, including programs that assist veterans and individuals experiencing homelessness, as well as the American Cancer Society. Giving back to my hometown of Toledo and helping those in need would be just as meaningful to me as pursuing my business goals.