In celebration of September as National Rice Month, the Calcasieu-Cameron Rice Growers sponsored the 20th Annual Rice Cook-Off on Wed., Sept. 20 at the Port of Lake Charles. The Port hosted the event and sponsored the awards luncheon. Family and Consumer Science students from seventeen area middle schools and high schools participated in the event.

First place for the “Best Dish” category went to Briley Kent (Shrimp and Rice Salad) of Johnson Bayou School; second place went to Lilly Jones (Louisiana Risotto) of Moss Bluff Middle School; third place was awarded to Claire Leonards (Deconstructed Stuffed Cabbage Casserole) of Bell City High School; and “Most Heart Healthy” dish went to Tonika Phillips (Caribbean Shrimp and Saffron Street Tacos) of Dequincy High 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.