In 2004 , we added six food category awards to our culinary showcase. It brought out the best of so many operations and created some friendly (but focused) competition.

2005 Food Category Judges:

Fred Thompson, cookbook author, "Today Show" food stylist, and News & Observer "Weekend Gourmet" columnist. Belinda Ellis, White Lily Foods Company Product Development and Consumer Services Director, Nancie McDermott cookbook author, freelance journalist and Southeast Asian foods entrepreneur. Dorette Snover, chef/ owner for C'est si Bon! cooking school in Chapel Hill. Sheri Castle, cooking school instructor and owner of Creative Cooking with Sheri Castle.

The six food categories are:

• Best Entree
• Best Appetizer/1st Course
• Best Dessert
• Best Food Presentation and Flavor
• Best Ethnic Cuisine
• Best Visual Theme