Locals gathered at Mosaic Place on Friday with the chance to taste some recipes during the first-ever Cookoff held by the organization, and at least one local lady serving in blue knows how to make a mean pot of chili.

The Mosaic Place Chili Cookoff saw Polk County Sheriff’s Office Major Rachel Haddix, who is the jail administrator, come away with the top prize for the inaugural event.

She won out among 8 competitors in total after having more than 50 people come take part and enjoy some chili on April 1.

The event also saw prizes donated by AdventHealth Redmond’s and Rockmart Council Member Marty Robinson, Rockin Rooster & Happy Hen, White Tulip Market, Tip Top Nail Shop and the Rockmart Police Department.

“This event wasn’t a fundraiser but an awareness raiser. We are seeking to continue daily to raise awareness of how recovery is incorporated with community, and in proactive and positive ways,” Mosaic Place Program Coordinator Lydia Goodson said.

“Mosaic Place is a safe place for those seeking recovery or living in long term recovery. Connection is the opposite of addiction and we here at Mosaic Place constantly work hard to provide opportunities for connections. While also nurturing those in recover to find their own ways to connect,” she added.

Find out more about Mosaic Place and upcoming events – including their upcoming September Dancing with Our Stars fundraiser – at their Facebook page.