YouthUp, Inc. held its 2nd Annual Celebrity Chef Cook-Off on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at Lizzie Chapel Baptist Church. The event, attended by more than 100 people, featured seven chefs who brought their home-cooked dishes to be sampled and voted on. Votes were then counted and First, Second and Third Place prizes were awarded.
This fundraiser benefits the Youth Leadership Council division of YouthUp, teens who are committed to a safe and healthy community and who are learning community engagement skills. Seven teens helped plan and work the event, serving up delicious samples for attendees. Proceeds also help fund the annual youth rally held in October during Fall Break from school.
This year featured 6 Macon Pastors as chefs as well as a Mystery Chef, revealed at the event. Competing chefs included Dr. Derek Dumas (Greater Lizzieboro Baptist Church); Pastor Cory Maurer (United Community Church); Pastor Dexter Jordan (Center Hill Baptist Church); Pastor John Herring (Glorious Hope Baptist Church); Pastor Richard Robinson (New Pleasant Grove Baptist Church); Pastor Larry Dunning (Pentecostal Temple); and our Mystery Chef, Andrea Cooke (Macon Mental Health Matters). YLC Teens served up Beef Tips over Rice; Baked Ziti; Roast Beef; Steamed Cabbage with Sausage; Heavenly Mac and Cheese; Shrimp Pasta; and Strawberry Supreme Cake, a divine confection presented by Pastor Jordan. Bread baskets on each table and an additional cake were provided by YouthUp – no one walked away hungry!
“Every dish was delicious.” said YouthUp Executive Director Amanda Smith. “Our chefs this year have some serious culinary skills! I’m left wondering – who will be our Celebrity Chefs next year?”
Soft jazz played in the background as guests took their time sampling each dish. Votes were doubled-counted by Smith and board members and winners were announced. First Place was awarded to Pastor John Herring for his amazing Roast Beef, Second Place was taken by Dr, Derek Dumas for his delicious Beef Tips over Rice, and Third Place was secured by Pastor Cory Maurer for his incredible Baked Ziti. Prizes included a beautiful plaque, cash, and a kitchen gadget of the winner’s choice. The event was exciting and fun, as fans of each winner cheered when the name was announced.
“This is such an thrilling fundraiser,” said Smith. “If you didn’t make it this year, look for our Third Annual Cook-Off next year and be sure to join us as we discover new great chefs in Macon-Bibb County.”
