On November 8, Chef Jaime Laurita and I will emcee the Celebrity Chef Ball for Meals on Wheels Chicago. It's extra special this year as the organization will be honoring the legendary Ina Pinkney. Ina is a dear friend and mentor. Her experience as a restaurateur, cookbook author, brand ambassador, a polio survivor and a woman entrepreneur is impactful. Ina's passion to share her knowledge with others is her hallmark.

On a personal note, Ina has been a constant source of encouragement during my recovery process post broken knee - all while she is recovering from a broken leg!

Chef Thai Dang will be one of the celebrity chefs featured at the event. He is the Executive Chef of Haisous, a highly acclaimed Vietnamese restaurant in Chicago. Ina has been a mentor and friend to Chef Dang during his culinary journey. And how fascinating to learn about banana blossoms!