Jon Johnson File Photo/Gila Herald: Deanna Best took first place in both the Judges’ and People’s Choice in the amateur division during the 2019 contest.
Prize money to be awarded in three separate amateur categories
Contributed Article/Courtesy Graham County Chamber of Commerce
SAFFORD – Calling all Salsa Makers! The Safford Lions Foundation and the Graham County Chamber of Commerce invite you to participate in the 15th annual SalsaFest Challenge salsa-making competition. The top prize is $1,000. If you’ve been waiting to get in on this competition, 2021 is your year. To learn more and sign up about the competition, go to salsatrail.com/salsafest/challenge or contact Brittany Hernandez at 602-833-0258 or brittany@graham-chamber.com.
The SalsaFest Challenge is a Gila Valley tradition to raise money for scholarships to Eastern Arizona College. Michelle Wilson, the owner of Farmers Insurance, has run the competition every year.
“This is a feel-good competition and event,” Wilson said. “You will create lots of good memories. Winners will go down in history as some of the best salsa makers on the World Famous Salsa Trail. It’s great to be back in person on the lawn for the competition.”
This year will feature additional prize money in three categories, Judges Choice, Peoples Choice, and Best Presentation. There is limited space for entries, so be sure to sign up early at salsatrail.com/salsafest/challenge.
The list of prize money includes $1,000 for first place in the Judges’ Choice, with $500 for second place, and $200 for third place; $500 for the Peoples’ Choice winner, followed by $200 for second place, and $100 for third place; and $200 for first place in the Best Presentation category, with $75 for second place, and $50 for third place.
Here is the list of past winners:
2019 – Dianna Best
2018 – Anna Sainz
2017 – Roy & Margaret Vidales
2016 – Amelia Sainz
2015 – Amelia Sainz
