A huge thanks to everyone I met during the filming of the show. It has been a life-altering experience for me. Thanks to the producers and production teams and the PR people and the web girls...WOW you guys are all so amazing!

Thanks to my fellow contestants. I was so nervous before meeting all of you, thinking it would be a cut-throat battle. How delightful to learn that you were all as passionate about cooking for friends and family as I was. I learned so much from you and my life has been enriched and blessed because I can call you all friends.

Thanks to Rachael Ray, a woman who gives 200% of herself every hour of every day, to touch the lives of everyone around her. Folks, she is exactly the same person when the camera turns off...but you knew that already.

Thanks to everyone who watched the show, who sent me messages while it was airing and afterwards, who encouraged me and believed in me.

Things aren't over for Benny! I'd love to have your help in my next step. Come hang out on my website. It's full of stories and recipes and photos from my travels around the world. It talks about my new cookbook series. If you like it, email it to your friends! Word of mouth goes a long way. http://benstarr.com

Warmest holiday wishes to all of you, and the important people in your lives! Remember that life is first and foremost about the people around you, not about your career or your car or your house.

Happy cooking!

Ben

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Check out my new cookbook series FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Every Recipes Has A Story, on my website at: http://benstarr.com
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Hi Ben!
I just wanted to say I really enjoyed watching you on the show. You came across as very warm and very genuine, after reading your post just now that confirmed the wonderful impression you made on me watching the show.
You were so gracious....so encouraging to your fellow competitors.
I am sure you are going to be a huge success.....if it weren't for that darned fish in the school competition I really think you w would have won.
All the best to you!!!! Happy Holidays! Caren

Oh, Caren, you're SUCH a sweetheart! Reading your message made me smile so big my jaw hurt. Thanks so much for your kind words, and have a WONDERFUL holiday season!

Yours,

Ben

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Check out my new cookbook series FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Every Recipe Has A Story, on my website at http://benstarr.com
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