Just over 800 people were gathered around the cooking stage, all eager to learn about my five-minute flavor cooking. The demonstration had to be done right then and there, in front of everyone.

I wanted to share my life story and honor my roots. I am very proud of my family and mother.

I can now focus on a huge audience through TV, books, cookware and foods.

The 1,000 tasting portions were to be served over a period of six hours, starting at noon, so we would have to prep those another way, to keep them as fresh as possible.

There really is a camaraderie among chefs and a willingness to help out whenever we can.

At times, it was an incredible blessing to have all the attention; at times it was a logistical nightmare.

There are many great wine producers from all over the world making fantastic wines. Italian wines especially are making an enormous comeback after sometimes being labeled as inexpensive jug wines.