LAKE CHARLES, La.—In celebration of September as National Rice Month, the Calcasieu-Cameron Rice Growers sponsored the 19th Annual Rice Cook-Off on Tues., Sept. 20 at the Brick House in downtown Lake Charles. The Port of Lake Charles hosted the event and sponsored the awards luncheon. Family and Consumer Science students from thirteen area middle schools and high schools participated in the event.
1st place for the “Best Dish” category went to Kierra Walker of S.J. Welsh Middle School; 2nd place went to Rachel McVey of Iowa High School; 3rd place was awarded to Makayla Hodge of South Beauregard High School; and “Most Heart Healthy” dish went to Evie Talbot of Moss Bluff Middle School. Farmers Rice Milling Co., Inc. sponsored rice cookers for each contestant.
The production, milling and exportation of rice have major economic effects on Southwest Louisiana, and the event helps to educate local students in health and nutrition issues facing Southwest Louisiana families.
For more information, contact Michelle Bolen with the Port of Lake Charles at 337-493-3501.