Taste of Muskingum 2023: An Evening of Fun, Friendship, and Food!
We recently had the pleasure of hosting the annual Taste of Muskingum fundraiser on November 8th at the stunning Weatherington Woods. It was an enchanting evening filled with delectable dishes, friendly competition, and unwavering support for FoodWorks Alliance.
A Culinary Showdown: Local Chefs Compete for Top Honors
Six talented local chefs showcased their culinary prowess, each vying for the coveted title of Top Chef of Muskingum County. The lineup featured the 2022 returning champion, Smoke Therapy Craft BBQ, alongside J. Mckee Catering Co., Grillin’ Dave- Style, R & R Catering + Consulting, The Warehouse- Dresden, and The Barn- Zanesville. Every dish presented was a testament to the rich flavors and culinary diversity of Muskingum.
Top Honors and Friendly Faces
The competition was fierce, but in the end, Grillin’ Dave’s Style took the 2nd place spot, and Jason Mckee of J. Mckee Catering Co. secured 3rd place. It was a night of celebration, laughter, and, of course, delicious food.
Community Support in Action
The Taste of Muskingum wasn’t just about tantalizing taste buds; it was a community affair. The Silent Auction, sponsored by Bayer Heritage Federal Credit Union, and the Wine Pull, sponsored by ClearPath Utility Solutions, added an extra layer of excitement. Centerpieces by Zemba Companies, and beer and wine sponsored by J & S Maintenance, enhanced the ambiance, creating a truly immersive experience.
A heartfelt thank you to our Supporting Sponsors—Orkin, Peoples Bank, Sands Decker, Full Moon Contracting, Patriot Companies—and Small Business Sponsors—Barney’s Frathouse Chiles, Snouffer Funeral Home, APG Architects, MA Dutro CPA LLC., and Y-City Realty. We’re also grateful for our Individual Sponsors, Mark Mechling, and Stephanie Bridwell, whose contributions made this event possible.
The Maestros Behind the Scenes
The lively atmosphere and smooth flow of the evening were curated by DJ Kurtus Nichols of KSound Entertainment. Patty’s Mobile Bar Co. kept spirits high with expertly tended beverages throughout the night.
A Whopping Success: $17,128.91 Raised!
The community rallied together, helping FoodWorks Alliance raise an impressive $17,128.91 during the Taste of Muskingum Annual Fundraiser. Every dollar generated will directly support our mission—providing a nurturing space for food-related small businesses and entrepreneurs, and offering work and training opportunities for women in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.
The overwhelming support from the community reaffirms our commitment to giving back. As we continue to grow, our goal is to reciprocate the generosity of those who believe in our mission. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for FoodWorks Alliance and the Muskingum community!