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HALLOWELL — An Augusta-area chef was the judge’s choice when three Maine chefs competed in Spectrum Generations’ 6th annual Celebrity Chef Challenge, an annual fundraiser in which chefs create an entrée following Meals on Wheels guidelines.
Michelle Lizotte, executive chef at Rusty Lantern Markets; Steve Dumas from Otto’s on the River in Augusta, and Aunt Gin’s in Whitefield; and Tim Lewis, executive chef at Parker Ridge in Blue Hill, were this year’s competitors. Lizotte was named the People’s Choice Award winner, and the dish created by Dumas, was named the Judges’ Choice.
For the first time, the event was held at Spectrum Generations’ Cohen Community Center. Gerry Queally, president and CEO, said, “We were able to invite guests into our home, and showcase all that we have to offer. The support we received from local businesses, friends, and neighbors, is a true testament to the communities we serve.”
Each competing chef was challenged to create a winning dish using provided ingredients including boneless chicken thigh, squash medley, onions and peppers. The produce was donated by Merrymeeting Gleaners, Field of Greens farm in Albion and Emery Farm in Wayne. The chefs were then required to follow Meals on Wheels guidelines, but could use their own spices, techniques and flair.
Judges this year were Chris Ellis, editor-in-chief of Edible Maine Magazine; Chris Toole, executive chef at The Highlands and two-time Challenge winner, and John McGough, HHS Region One director.
Spectrum Generations serves approximately 40 percent of the Meals on Wheels delivered in Maine. The need for these home-delivered meals is growing and the Celebrity Chef Challenge helps raise funds that support the program. Donations can be made online at spectrumgenerations.org/donate. Spectrum Generations is the Central maine Area Agency on Aging as well as a federally designated Aging and Disability Resource Center. For more information, call 800-639-1553 or visit www.spectrumgenerations.org.
