Octoberfest a success despite cold

Voted winners by the judges were (from left) Glenda Overbey 3rd place, Kendria Gilmer 2nd place and Jimmy Lyons 1st place, representing First State Bank And Trust Company, Inc.

Despite temperatures hovering in the 40s, this year’s Hayti Chamber of Commerce Annual Octoberfest and Chili Cook-Off was an outstanding success. Although the crowds were a little thinner than normal, the chili was good and everyone in attendance seemed to have a great time. The event was held this past Saturday, Oct. 28 on the Square at Hayti.

“It’s a fairly good turnout, considering how cold it is,” said Bobby Watkins of the Hayti Chamber of Commerce. “The weather turned cold on us very quickly, and I think people are kind of in shock. If we would have had several days of cold weather already, I don’t think the temperatures would have bothered people as much.”

As good music from various genres played on the sound system, Octoberfest visitors made their way to the many booths around the Square. One booth that chili lovers certainly did not pass up was the Chamber’s, where mugs could be purchased for chili sampling. “We have mugs for sale, so everyone can come around and participate and sample everyone’s chili,” Watkins said. “Every booth has something a little bit different, and we just appreciate every one coming out and trying to make a difference.”

At the Earl Girl Chili booth, who took second place this year, are (from left) Edna Earl, Kendria Gilmer and Emma Gilmer.

After the sampling was done, it came time for the judges to convene for the big vote at 12:15 p.m. Judges were Austin Watkins, Saliah Sweet and Ben Sweet. After the votes were tallied, First State Bank And Trust Company, Inc. took first place, followed by Kendria Gilmer with a second-place finish. Coming in a strong third was Glenda Overbey. Following up on their 2016 People’s Choice Award victory, the Hayti Fire Department once again took home the coveted honor.

The Hayti Fire Department also raffled off a Diamondback 9mm handgun (donated by Mike Sanders), and Mr. Olan Parks was the winner. On Nov. 10, the fire department will raffle off two shotguns, so be sure to buy a chance. The Chamber also held a 50/50 drawing, and Allison Watkins got the lucky draw. All proceeds went to benefit Hayti resident and cancer patient, Alan Sheckell.

Pleased with the outcome of this year’s event, Watkins had nothing but glowing words of commendation for cook-off participants and the attendees who made Octoberfest possible. “The chili competition is getting tougher. Last year the voting was tight, and it just keeps getting better each year. The chili here is just outstanding,” he said. “Also, without folks coming and actually participating in the event, this all would not be possible. The more people who attend, the more people who will want to set up a booth. We’re just very thankful to everyone.”