Klowsowski said Association was also “thrilled” with the chili cook-off turnout. Winner of the $100 first prize and bragging rights to

Best People’s Choice Chili was Dan Walker of the Sutter Creek Palace. Second place were Mike and Delores Politi and 3rd place was Marie Mennell, all of Sutter Creek. This contest was judged by the 630 people who purchased a tasting ticket and cast a vote for the chili they liked best. Teams were also judged on Theme, Costume, Booth set-up, Audience appeal and more. Also held was an International Chili Society competition. The international organization holds sanctioned cook-offs world wide and winners of ICS sanctioned cookoffs qualify to compete for cash prizes and awards at the World's Championship Chili Cookoff.  Jon Merker of Sacramento was the first place winner for Showmanship of the ICS competition at the Sutter Creek event.