Students from NEA prepare a victory at the World Food Championships

Jonesboro, Arkansas – At the World Food Championships, a number of chefs from Northeast Arkansas, both young and elderly, experienced triumph.

Several 4-H kids from Craighead County not only won first place in the dessert championships’ first round, but Misti Stowers of Pocahontas also cooked their way to fame.

A news release on Monday stated that Maggie Hutton, Acea Edington, and Canaan Garland’s herb-crusted, balsamic-glazed pork loin with peach chutney and Caprese-inspired rice took fifth place in the WFC’s Junior Division.

The junior chefs were given ninety minutes to prepare, plate, and present their meals for evaluation on a scale of one to ten for taste, presentation, and execution.

With a score of 93.25 out of 100, the three secured fifth place and automatic admission to the competition the following year.

“From walking the red carpet to submit our dish to receiving feedback from the Cheferees on how to improve it, it was a really exciting experience,” said Jonesboro resident Maggie Hutton, 15. “I’m excited to compete again next year because we learned how to work under pressure and how to adjust when things don’t quite go our way.”

It’s not just Hutton who is eager to go back in 2025. Acea Edington, 14, of Harrisburg, said, “It was enjoyable, and I discovered that even if the plan does not work out, I can change directions and it will still be okay.” “Next year, I can’t wait to try again!”

Canaan Garland, age nine, agreed with them.

“It was enjoyable,” he said. “Next year, I’m excited to compete again.”