The 2nd Annual  Polk County “Food Fight” was held Oct. 4 at the Ocoee Whitewater Center.  The Polk County Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the event sponsors: ETC Communications, Glenn Springs Holdings, and Cherokee Rafting Company. A big thanks goes out to all of our volunteers, and to Americorps for sending us volunteers!   

Betty Warren took home the prize for "Best Overall Chili" with her herbal twist on chili and those tasty little corn muffins. Chad Lattuca of Delectable Delites took 2nd place with his Black Angus chili; Laura Rivers, Turtle Creek Cabins, won "Hottest Chili"; the Polk's Pick winner, who was selected by attendees of the event, is Connie Bawgus for her classic home-style chili for dummies.

The judges said they had a hard time deciding the winners....everyone’s chili was excellent, and each competitor had his/her own distinct style and flavor.  How many different chili's are there?  We're sure to find out in the years to come.  Thanks to our judges; Adam Davenport of United Community Bank and president of the Tri-Cities Business Association; Allen Mincey with United Way; and Cherie Martin, host of Heart of the Home Cherie Martin and North Georgia Now Today on ETC3.

Sponsors said, “Congratulations Winners! We can't wait to see what ya'll ‘cook up’ for next year! “

Entertainment was provided by The Barker Brothers and the Spike Collins Band. Scott Crisp, a traditional Cherokee dancer, engaged the crowd with the "friendship dance", and magician Mitch Gravitt kept the children entranced with his tricks and disappearing acts. Craft displays included log furniture, some of the best smelling candles ever, beautifully crafted jewelry and baskets, along with colorfully painted ceramics.

We want to thank Burgess Pro Hardware, Delectable Delites, Benton IGA, Christmas is Here!,  Whitewater Inn at Ocoee and Mossy Stone Garden Center for the door prize donations!

If you happened to miss this event...we're sorry...There's always next year!  Event t-shirts are still available for $5...you could pick one up and pretend you were there.

The Polk County Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit  organization formed to strengthen the area economy through the marketing and  promotion of Polk County as a destination for business and leisure travel.   Visit us online at www.ocoeecountry.com or call (423) 338-5040 for  more information.