Something extraordinary happened at Poughkeepsie Middle School, and it started with a sizzle.
Charlia Frank Inc., in collaboration with the City of Poughkeepsie School District and the Community Schools Initiative, welcomed none other than Celebrity Chef Maureen Brice to Culinary Cultures & Class with Mama La - and the energy in the room was absolutely electric. Joining Chef Brice were Chef Mo from Mo Flames and Chef Los from Genevia's Blues House, turning the kitchen into a full-blown culinary celebration.
Meet Chef Maureen Brice
Chef Maureen Brice isn't your average chef - she's one of the most in-demand celebrity chefs in the country, and for good reason. Growing up in a family that treated the kitchen as sacred ground, Maureen learned early that quality food is the foundation of good living. Her parents, avid travelers, opened her eyes to cuisines from around the globe, igniting a lifelong passion for bold, diverse flavors.
She took that passion to the French Culinary Institute, where she sharpened her natural talent with world-class technique. After graduating in 2010, Maureen rose through the ranks as an Executive Chef for a prominent Manhattan restaurant group before being recruited by celebrity clients to bring her magic directly into their homes across the world.
Today, Chef Brice is known for preparing fresh, nutritious meals that never compromise on flavor - integrating the latest findings from nutritional and environmental science to create healthy, sustainable, and absolutely delicious cuisine. And on this special day, she brought all of that expertise directly to our students.
Hands in the Kitchen, Hearts in the Experience
The young chefs didn't just watch - they got to work. Under the guidance of Chef Brice, Chef Mo, and Chef Los, students rolled up their sleeves and made their very own homemade teriyaki sauce from scratch. From measuring ingredients to whisking the perfect consistency, these kids owned every step of the process.
The full menu featured chicken teriyaki served with broccoli, zucchini rice noodles, and quinoa - a meal that proves healthy eating can be exciting, flavorful, and fun. And for dessert? A warm, homemade apple crisp that had every student going back for seconds.
The engagement and enthusiasm from the students were truly inspiring. Eyes lit up with every new technique they learned. Laughter filled the room. And most importantly, these young people walked away knowing that healthy, delicious food is something they can create - not just something that shows up on a plate.
Why This Matters
"The power of cooking brings people together, and together we can create something extraordinary."
It Takes a Village
This incredible day wouldn't have been possible without an amazing team of collaborators. A heartfelt thank you to the City of Poughkeepsie School District, the Community Schools Initiative, Mama La's Food for the Soul, Freeflight Productions, Derek, PMG International, and of course our three incredible chefs - Chef Maureen Brice, Chef Mo, and Chef Los - for pouring their time, talent, and passion into our community's youth.
Together, we are making a difference - one meal, one lesson, one inspired young chef at a time. Stay tuned for more events, more flavors, and more opportunities to change lives through the power of food.
Interested in Our Culinary Programs?
Check out our Culinary Cultures & Class program for more cooking adventures.
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