BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. (November 7, 2011) A misty morning welcomed chili cookers for the 2nd Annual Appalachian Chili Cook-off at The Lodge at Copperhead, Blairsville on Saturday, November 5, 2011.

Chili Cookers arrived early to set-up their booths on the famed wrap-around porch. A cloud mist giving a mystic feel to the morning’s activities added to the intrigue of the event. The outdoor fireplace was lit reflecting a red and orange glow as contestants warmed themselves with a cup of coffee before beginning the competition. An easy comrade developed between chili cookers as they squared-off for the competition.

Chili lovers and music aficionados strolled the porch sampling and voting for their favorite chili while listening to “Neighborhood Watch” a young and upcoming blues band. The autumn day temperature reached a high of 64 degrees to the delight of attendees. By mid-afternoon, Chili judges arrived to sample and determine the best Appalachian Mountain Chili in the non-professional and professional categories through a double blind taste-testing.

The winners were as follows: The backyard, non-professional team winner was Rapid Robert’s Gourmet Chili, Blairsville. The professional team winner and People’s Choice Award was presented to the Team Chef for Greenside Grill, Chatuge Shores Golf Course, Hayesville, North Carolina. This award included cash and the Copper Spoon Award. The overall winner, “The Best Chili in the Appalachians,” was Rangers Chili Team, Dahlonega, Ga. The Team Chef, Alec Carlson was presented a gift certificate for a weekend stay - The Lodge at Copperhead.

Michelle Evans, Spokesperson for the Lodge, said We appreciate all the chili teams who participated in this year’s event.” “Each team cooked outstanding Chili that everyone enjoyed making it another fun day in the mountains of North Georgia.” The Lodge at Copperhead thanks the judges for their difficult reviews and the general public for attending this year’s event. This annual event was sponsored by Budweiser. For information about upcoming events: www.thelodgeatcopperhead.com

About The Resort: The Lodge at Copperhead offers guests an unexpected boutique experience in the mountains of North Georgia, which is in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. The Lodge infuses its intimate setting with the rustic high country style throughout the forty plus acre resort. The 12,500 square foot Lodge has 11 beautifully appointed guest rooms, Grand Hall, Full Service Restaurant and Bar, and famed wrap-around porch. The resort also offers visitors cozy cabins to relish their privacy. The Lodge at Copperhead is a destination resort with savory restaurant offering inventive cuisine and weekly special events. For more information, call 706-835-7433, visit the website: www.thelodgeatcopperhead.com, “Like” us on Facebook, and follow on Twitter @LodgeCH.

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