By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Paris, Tenn.–A huge crowd was on hand for Thursday night’s Henry County Has Heart Chili Cookoff, so much so that organizers said they had raised enough money in the first hour to purchase a new AED for the fairgounds. A total $5,000 was raised at the event.
The Cookoff was organized by Leadership Henry County with the aim of purchasing more AEDs (automated external defibrillators) for public places in the county.
Last night’s event was held at the Henry County Fairgrounds and included 11 teams serving their chili samples to the crowd, a Silent Auction and live music by Quest. Paris Parks and Recreation Director Tony Lawrence and Paris Firefighter Jamie Hinson also provided demonstrations of AEDs.
Winners were: Crove Food Co., first place; Paris BPU, second place; Joe Mahan Ford, third place; People’s Choice, Henry County Fair Association and the Heartburn Award to Mockingbird Catering.
Organizers were overwhelmed by the turnout and pleased they will be able provide life-saving AEDs in the county.