The Judges
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Chef Marlee Belmonte
Marlee Belmonte is a professional chef with 10+ years of experience in the Bay Area’s culinary scene where she has perfected the art of cooking in private, restaurant, and tech kitchens. She is also a sought-after expert in designing safe, equitable work cultures. Marlee made her national television debut on The Food Network's Chopped in 2019. As of 2021, Marlee has co-founded the emerging grocer, Marcellus Foods, as VP of Culinary. Marcellus Foods, opening in Salt Lake City, UT, in late 2022, eliminates most of the time and effort of cooking from scratch by selling prepped ingredients that are one step away from becoming great meals. Visit www.marcellusfoods.com to learn more about Marcellus Foods and its mission to make it easy for everyone to eat well at home.
Anne Gelhaus
Anne Gelhaus is editor of Silicon Valley Community Newspapers, a group of weeklies that covers the communities served by West Valley Community Services, among others. A longtime community journalist, Anne has covered the arts and education extensively, with occasional forays into wine and business coverage. She has served on the board of Poetry Center San Jose and has volunteered for numerous local animal rescue organizations. Anne is a borderline foodie and an adventurous eater, who of late was disappointed to discover that fried crickets are flavorless, if crunchy.
Mike Foulkes
Mike Foulkes is a bay area native whose roots go back to the Gold Rush. He went to Cal Berkeley studying Marine Biology and French. He then earned a law degree from the University of San Francisco. Mike has worked for Apple for the past 22 years, where he serves as the Director of State and Local Government Affairs. Prior to working at Apple, he served as Chief of Staff and in leadership roles for multiple state legislators and statewide office holders.
Mike’s love of our region's cuisine and culture was enhanced by those he enjoyed while living in France, Brazil and Hawaii. He appreciates a variety of culinary influences and the craftsmanship that goes into creating a fantastic meal for friends and family. He lives in Campbell with his two kids, Ellie and David as well as six chickens. He is an avid wine collector and gardener who regularly cooks and entertains in his historic home.
