ALFRED — Eleven crock pots of chili simmered, emitting aromas of tomato and beans, and spices and herbs.

One pot would be judged the best by a panel of three “celebrity” judges.

Would the first place winner be a traditional beef chili, or one with bison, venison or goat?

Folks at York County Sheriff’s Office and York County Jail along with an entry or two from the main office of York County government down the road were all represented at Friday’s cook off.

The judges, County Commissioner Michael Cote, who was recently elected to another term, Commissioner-elect Richard Clark and county budget committee Chairman John Sylvester took their work seriously, each tasting the 11 choices and judging them on the basis of aroma, consistency, taste and aftertaste.

Administrative assistant Kelly Burnham took first place. “It’s my mom’s recipe,” she said, wearing a new chef’s apron, the first place prize.

Human Resources Director Linda Corliss’ pot of chili took second place, earning her a chef’s hat,  while Sgt. Steve Kurtz came in third place in the judges category and won a pot holder for his efforts.

York County Jail Capt. Dan Bean was among the 11 submitting entries.

What makes a good chili?

“A good balance between heat and sweetness,” he said. 

Corrections Officer Ashanti Williams agreed. He’d tasted a couple and was  leaning toward the No. 7 entry as the best.

“It has more balanced flavors,” he said.

Jail administrator  Michael Vitiello, who won first place in 2015,  used bison in his entry, and administrative assistant Donna Ring cooked one pot with venison and another with goat meat, raised by one of her co-workers;a meat she found very lean to cook with and very tender, she said.

The people’s choice award was to be voted on throughout the day Friday as shifts changed and new “tasters” came on duty.

Bean called the contest fun.

He looked around and saw fellow corrections staff, rural patrol deputies, civil process employees and others.

“It’s nice to have everyone get together,” he said.

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or [email protected].