THD turns up the heat at Community Salsa Contest

 Emma Hughes
Gila River Indian News

The Tribal Health Department hosted its first “Cinco de Mayo Salsa Contest” on May 5, held at the District 3 Service Center from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Many families and Community members attended the festive event, featuring a photo booth, DJ entertainment, fruit-infused water, churros, and salsa tasting.

Informational booths from Tribal Health Department, Genesis Program, and Gila River Health Care’s Life Center were also on-site with incentives and health tips.

Eight salsa entries entered the contest, where five judges determined a first, second, and third-place winner.

The judges were prepared with scoring sheets and tortilla chips in hand to taste test the flavorful varieties of salsa.  Then, they rated each salsa based on appearance, aroma, flavor, and freshness.

“It was fun, it’s my first time judging anything but I like salsa,” said Raymond Antone, District 3, “I’m always trying to find the next hottest thing to eat.”

Valencelio “Rose” Chavez was announced the first-place winner and had her salsa shared with attendees.  In addition, Chavez was awarded a stand mixer as her prize.

“I think everyone’s recipe is a secret but I thought I would try it,” said Chavez.  It was her first time entering her salsa in a contest, and she shared that her recipe comes from Colorado, where she is also from.

The other winners that day were Sequoia Lucero, taking second place, and Robert Blaine finished third.  Lucero and Blaine were both awarded a blender as their prize.

Tribal Health Department hopes to continue the event next year.