Winners go to a national contest. The event brings together chefs, many of whom know each other well, in a friendly competition. Plaques and prizes are handed out. High fives are exchanged. Teasing is allowed.
Money also is raised for charity.
This year, the Food Bank of Iowa received the proceeds. For this year's winners, Michael D. Myers and Teresa Mackey, the event was a chance to have fun and promote their work. Myers and Mackey run Myers Catering in Williamsburg. We use everything . . . He says the gumbo includes pork necks, ham shank, smoked ham center, smoked ham roast, smoked pork steak and a pork bratwurst.