Sonya Johnson was impressed when she saw – and tasted – what the chefs cooked up at last year’s Real Men Cook event, hosted by the Douglas County chapter of the NAACP.

“I was very impressed with not only the menu items, but the talent, skill, creativity and the competitiveness between the participants,” says Johnson, first vice president of the local NAACP. “It was amazing to see just how serious men get when it comes to cooking.”

She’s hoping this year’s event, which is at 5 p.m. June 3 at Steve’s Place, 1388 N. 1293 Road., will be even better. Entry deadline is Friday.

Contestants can enter in five categories: dessert, side dish, meat, entree and appetizer. A panel of six local judges has been selected.

For those just wanting to eat, tasting costs $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Proceeds go to the annual Freedom Fund Banquet, which raises money for scholarships.

Last year’s eclectic offerings included salmon, Thai chicken, ribs, carrot cake, brisket and gumbo.

For more information or to find an entry form, visit www.douglasconaacp.org.