The Bells are Ringing: A Call to Table Named National 1st Place Winner of 18th Annual Tabasco Community Cookbook Awards

Paul McIlhenny, president and CEO of McIlhenny Company, manufacturers of TABASCO brand products, has announced that The Bells are Ringing: A Call to Table, a cookbook published by the Mission San Juan Capistrano Women's Guild, has been named the national first place winner of the 18th annual Tabasco Community Cookbook Awards.

"This unique book invites readers to take a journey with the Mission through vignettes of its history and one-of-a-kind recipes that are truly reminiscent of California culinary trends. One can feast on the vivid stories of the past while preparing meals and being transported to a time when the pace was slower, food was savored and meals were a part of tradition," said McIlhenny.

"This prestigious award from Tabasco reflects the spirit and energy that has kept the Mission a place of living history for 232 years. To receive an award for our beautiful cookbook brought together by our determined Women's Guild volunteers is validation that there is a place for history and cooking to come together. On behalf of the Mission, our appreciation extends to McIlhenny Company for giving this recognition to our one-of-a-kind cookbook," said Mechelle Lawrence, Executive Director, Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Women's Guild members Joy Horsch and Mary Smith said "this recognition is for all of the Guild ladies who came through so gallantly to produce the book. It would not have been possible, however, without the sponsors who supported the project making it possible to immediately contribute proceeds to the Preservation Foundation for their projects."

To date, $134,000 has been raised for ongoing Mission preservation. Cookbooks may be purchased at the Mission main entrance at 26801 Ortega Highway, by calling Pat March at (949) 234-1322, or in the online store