Contributed photo – County Commissioner Lee Helton, left, and Channel 3 morning news anchor Paul Shahen were two of the judges in the clerk’s chili cook off competition.

Don’t say that East Ridge’s favorite son, Hamilton County Criminal Court Clerk Vince Dean, doesn’t know how to mix business with pleasure. 

Recently the clerk’s office indulged in one of its long-held traditions, it’s annual Chili Cook Off. The list of entrants was relatively small, according to a release Vince sent East Ridge News Online. 

The competitors included the boss, his Chief of Staff, Jason Clark, and several Deputy Clerks. Local Channel 3 morning anchors Michele Heron and Paul Shahen joined Hamilton County Commissioner Lee Helton in judging the chili dishes.

“This is another one of those times that our office comes together as a family,” Vince said.  “Our 60 employees work hard together and then enjoy the friendly (mostly) competition.” 

According to Vince, the judges enjoyed the chili so much they went back for seconds.

This year third 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 new comers that had everyone raving. 

Madi Ragsdale took the runner-up spot and Gracie Ruder walked away with a recipe she took off “Tick Tock.” 

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 get along is amazing.”

He also added, “I especially want to thank Cookie Thurmond, our office events coordinator, for all her hard work in helping put this together.”

The judges were all shown appreciation with a gift bag, which included a pack of roll-aids, Vince said.

Contributed photo – County Criminal Court Clerk Vince Dean, left, with chili cook off winner Gracie Ruder.