---

Cookbook contest

If your community group has produced a cookbook as a fund-raising project, the McIlhenny Co., makers of Tabasco, may have as much as $2,500 for you.

The Tabasco Community Cookbook Awards recognize the best in benefit cookbooks. Cookbooks published in 2004 and 2005 are eligible for cash prizes.

Books are judged on design, title, theme, storyline, incorporation of regional traditions and recipe content.

Last year's winner was "Toast to Tidewater," published by The Junior League of Norfolk-Virginia Beach.

Deadline to enter is Sept. 30. For entry forms and details visit the Web site, www.tabasco.com (use the search function to find "cookbooks") or write Tabasco Community Cookbook Awards, care of Hunter Public Relations, 41 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10010.

Mideast cooking

Kapiolani Community College's "Flavors of the Middle East Cuisine Series" offers instruction the cuisines of Morocco, Egypt, Lebanon and Persia in three sessions, Aug. 27 and Sept. 10 and 24.

Leading the class is chef Magdy Elzoheiry, a native of Alexandria, Egypt, who has worked at local restaurants including Hajibaba and Pyramids. Each class will cover the making of complete menu.

Cost is $50 per class. Sessions are 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays. Registration runs three weeks in advance. Call 734-9211.

Stuff it!

Also at KCC, chef Dale Thomas teaches a class in stuffed meat and seafood items, 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 29.

Cost is $48. Call 734-9211.

---