Local News 3 personality Michele Heron scoring her picks
County Commissioner Lee Helton and Paul Shahen of Local News 3 getting serious with their decision
Third place winner Laura Collins
Second place winner Madi Ragsadale, with event coordinator Cookie Thurmond in the background
Office Matriarch Jimmie Lou Malone presenting the First Place Award to Gracie Ruder
Criminal Court Clerk Vince Dean with First Place Winner, Gracie Ruder
The Hamilton County Criminal Court Clerk’s Office held its annual Chili Cook Off. Several deputy clerks, along with Criminal Court Clerk Vince Dean and his Chief of Staff Jason Clark, competed.
Local News3 morning anchors Michele Heron and Paul Shahen joined County Commissioner Lee Helton in the judging.
“This is another one of those times that our office comes together as a family,” Clerk Dean said. “Our 60 employees work hard together and then enjoy the friendly (mostly) competition.”
The judges enjoyed the chili so much they all went back for seconds.
This year 3rd place was taken by Laura Collins, who helps organize the event each year. She routinely takes a leading place with the winners. However, it was an upset win by two newcomers this year that had everyone raving.
Madi Ragsdale took 2nd place and Gracie Ruder walked away with a recipe she took off Tik Tok.
Mr. Clark, who has previously won chili cook offs in the Hamilton County area, was disappointed but said, “It’s all in fun. Watching how wonderful this group of folks gets along is amazing. I especially want to thank Cookie Thurmond, our office events coordinator, for all her hard working in helping put this together.”
The judges were all shown appreciation with a gift bag, which included a pack of roll-aids.