Submitted by Mike Gray
(July 6, 2026) — Commonwealth Senior Living at Haddam held its first annual “Taste of Haddam” Bake-Off on June 25, 2026. More than two dozen individuals entered the contest, which divided into two categories: Cookies and Brownies, and Cakes and Pies.
The judges for the competition included: Antonio Barbi, Commonwealth Senior Living at Haddam Dining Services Director; Mark Hanley, Head Banquet Chef, Madison Beach Hotel; and Caleb Ellinas, Chef and Owner, Chenzo’s Restaurant, Higganum. The winners from each category are as follows:
Cookies and Brownies
1st – MaKenna Brown (photo above, center), Baker at Higher Grounds, Chocolate Crinkle Cookies and Pistachio Cream Center
2nd – Christina Denison – Sourdough Brownies
3rd – John Babecki – Chocolate Mint Cookies
Cakes and Pies
1st – David Rzonca (photo above, center) – Vanilla Genoise, Raspberry, Coconut Filling and Cream Cheese Coconut Frosting
2nd – Shelley Sprague – Bourbon Honey Glazed Apple Cake
3rd – Beth Brewer – Blueberry Cake
Photos provided by Commonwealth Senior Living
Congrats to all who participated. This was a wonderful event