$250 cash prize for best baker; $250 cash prize for best decorator!

On April 22^nd, 2012, the National Committee of Grandparents for Children’s Rights will host its first annual Grannie’s Bake-Off fundraiser from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy, NY. This event will invite amateur and professional bakers to compete in baking and decorating contests, with a panel of judges deciding for amateur categories and members of the public judging professional categories.

The judges for the amateur categories include a number of individuals known for their knowledge of food andpastry:  William Dowd is the editor and publisher of Dowd’s Guides, a portfolio of websites and blogs dealing with food, drink and destinations; Christian Noe is the owner and chef of Nighthawk's Kitchen in Troy and first place winner of the Mac & Cheese Bowl; Ric Orlando is owner and chef of New World Home Cooking Cafe and New World Catering in Woodstock, chef at New World Bistro Bar in Albany, and 2010 Food Network CHOPPED Champion; and a special guest judge from the Times Union!

This competition is expected to include approximately 40 local businesses, and over 300 members from the public. We are inviting you to participate as a competitor in either our baking or decorating competitions. Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to register as early as possible, as we can accommodate 30 baking competitors and 10 decorating competitors. Registration information and competition regulations are provided in the enclosed documents.

All of the proceeds from this event are dedicated to the National Committee of Grandparents for Children’s Rights, a local, registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to grandparents raising grandchildren.  Proceeds will support an information and referral warmline, support group facilitation and mentorship training, intergenerational public awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy on behalf of grandfamilies and children everywhere – from right here in the Capital District to states across the nation.

For more information, download the Amateur Baker Application and Information.