Seasoned in Service:
Chelsea Hughes
22 years, four years as owner of Kinjo Kitchen and Cocktails, plus the new Black Cat Liquor and Libations
A well-seasoned food service veteran and the serial entrepreneur behind Kinjo and Black Cat, Chelsea Hughes sees mentorship as a core mission, bringing respect, dignity, and consistency to the industry — without sacrificing creativity.
Seasoned in Service:
Nathaniel “Showtime” Johnson
20 years, 15 as a dishwasher at Rookery
With the wisdom of 20 years in the service industry - 15 as a dishwasher at Rookery in Macon, GA, Showtime says -"Anything that you got to do to feed yourself, you got to make sure you make a success
Seasoned in Service:
Carolyn Stubbs
30 years, 28 as pastry chef at Natalia’s
After nearly three decades as a pastry chef in Macon, Georgia, Miss Carolyn Stubbs believes that “if I can make one person happy, I can make the world happy.” Read about her work in and beyond the Natalia’s kitchen.
Seasoned in Service:
Michael Brunner
17 years, 13 as a bartender at The Hummingbird
After 13 years behind the stick at one of Macon, Georgia's busiest dive bars, Michael Brunner delves into what drives his dedication.
Seasoned in Service:
Chris Barroso
15 years, two as a general manager of Jim Shaw’s Seafood Grill
Chris Barroso, a lifelong Maconite who has worked in nearly every restaurant role in the front and back of the house, shares his wisdom from 15 years in the industry and his approach to leadership.
Seasoned in Service:
Mark Robinson
22 years, nine as a culinary arts instructor at Hutchings College and Career Academy
Mark Robinson, a retired United States Air Force Enlisted Aide/Private Chef, continues to serve by teaching culinary arts in the Bibb County School District.
Seasoned in Service:
Natasha Phillips
34 years, 16 as owner of FOJ
Natasha Phillips of FOJ discusses her career path and the grit and determination it takes to be a leader in Macon's food service industry.
Seasoned in Service:
Felicia Howard
10 years as owner of Felicia’s Cake Factory
Meet Felicia Howard of Felicia's Cake Factory, who began baking over a decade ago as a respiratory therapist looking for a creative outlet to support her mental health. She found a culinary career that brings magic and joy to the
From classroom to kitchen
Helms College - a private, independent, postsecondary career school sponsored by Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia - attracts and retains palatable talent
Ramadan: Where fasting, food, and faith intersect
For the world's nearly two billion Muslims, Ramadan serves as a means by which their will is tested and greater discipline is instilled.