The annual 4th of July Baking Contest in Maplewood Memorial Park attracted a record number of judges this year.
The brave volunteers worked their way through dozens of cakes, pies, tarts, cookies, crumbles, mousses, breads and even chicken and waffles. Dazzled by the fondants, jellies and butter creams in red, white and blue (plus two watermelon-themed cakes), the judges — led by the indomitable Janet Crane and including Chef Jesse Jones and two Able Bakers — fought their way through raging sugar highs to focus and deliver thoughtful and balanced judgments.
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