Don't sell FN short - they goofed with Rory and I doubt they will let Jeffrey go to another Network. Let's be optimistic - maybe we will get 2 new great shows yet!

I am thrilled Melissa won, but don't count out Jeffery yet. FN has been putting on some great shows now for years.

Susie - contrary to some nasty comments - I especially enjoy your demeanor and your comments. Bob is great too, but he has defended Jeffrey a bit too much this Season. It is obvious you care deeply for Food Network and have chosen many terrific Stars.
I have learned many things over the years while trying to save time, money or ingredients. I am looking forward to Melissa's tips and recipes. Jeffrey has been up and down. He just stays too much in his sweet and heat zone and when he leaves it, there have been disappointing reviews from numerous judges in most cases. He is likable, as is Melissa, and neither appeared to have integrity issues as many of the others did. I wish them both much success, but I am really looking forward to Melissa being our Next Food Network Star.
I was also pulling for Jamika for about half of the Episodes. She was fun, at times, to watch, but her food fell short too often. If she stops fearing flavor and keeps her attitude in check, she will be a star one day soon. She, like Melissa has a great smile to warm you up on a cold or gloomy day. Debbie was intriguing until she showed some problems with her ethics.

I enjoy Melissa - I don't think she is being condescending to anyone. I enjoy her enthusiasm and her Tips. If you don't toot your own horn in this type of arena, you look boring or too bland. There is a fine line to make sure you stop before stepping over it, though.

I cannot imagine the pressure they all have been under. Put yourself in their shoes - trying, in a very public forum, to get the job they have been working to achieve for a long time. Melissa and Jeffery are the best of the group. I am hoping to see Melissa win tonight. She is more well rounded and has worked for years to achieve the level she works at - not just sweet and heat. She makes me want to cook more and more. I have enjoyed Rachel Ray, Bobby Flay, Paula Dean and so many of the Stars on Food Network - she will be a wonderful addition.

Well, if you want to be Julia - she would not have won any beauty contests either. I happen to think Melissa is adorable and I am hoping she will be able to present her recipes and instructions. She invigorates me to want to cook in the same way as Rachel Ray - their enthusiasm and obvious love of what they are doing. Jeff was good in the beginning, but does not seem to get away from sweet and heat. Melissa has even risked her pallet by tasting chiles to make sure she is going to present a great dish. I appllaud all the time she has spent to become a wonderful chef and personality