Carpenter’s Shelter held its annual Carpenter’s Cook-off April 28, with dozens of local restaurants vying for bragging rights as more than 500 attendees sampled a variety of cuisine in support of ending homelessness in Alexandria.

Held at The Birchmere, the event featured cuisine from 20 local restaurants with a panel of judges awarding Best Savory Award to Tequila & Taco and Best Sweet Award to Tempo Restaurant. The People’s Choice Award went to Catch on the Ave and the Kid’s Choice Award winner was Dishes of India.

The Val Hawkins Award was presented to Ann McMurray and honors an individual who has demonstrated sustained commitment to Carpenter's Shelter through extensive volunteerism, financial support and advocacy. Hawkins joined Carpenter’s Shelter executive director Shannon Steene and board chair Louise Roseman in presenting the award to McMurray.

See www.carpentersshelter.org.