Bennett chosen as finalist

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Submitted Photo FINALIST: Lauri Jo Bennett was chosen as a finalist in the Flavor of Georgia Food Contest. She poses with Governor Sonny Perdue

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March 14, 2010

Anonymous The Moultrie Observer Sun Mar 14, 2010, 04:54 PM EDT

Staff Reports

MOULTRIE — Local entrepreneur Lauri Jo Bennett’s salsa was recently named a finalist in the Flavor of Georgia Food Contest, which highlights locally produced foodstuffs. The contest enables Georgia producers to make their names and products known to consumers, much like “American Idol,” only the talent consists of snack foods and sauces. Products in the contest must be made or grown in Georgia.

On March 16, the University of Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development will announce the winners of this year’s contest. As part of Georgia Agriculture Awareness Day, Governor Sonny Perdue will present awards for top products and a grand prize for the overall winner. Winners earn the right to have their products stamped with the 2010 Flavor of Georgia logo. Food experts, Jamie and Bobby Deen (sons of legendary celebrity cook, Paula Deen), will accompany Perdue in his quest to name the best Georgia food products.

Lauri Jo’s Salsa is made locally using the best farm-fresh produce around. Her products range from red and green pepper jellies and salsa to her ever popular green tomato pickles, which recently won Best of Show at the Americasmart Gourmet Food Show in Atlanta. She seems to be a shining example of home-grown entrepreneurs in Georgia, who utilize Georgia agricultural products and create value-added growth for Georgia agribusiness. While continuously expanding her products, which are now carried in sixteen states, she remains faithful to her roots with her slogan, “Down-home cookin’ makes you doggone good lookin’.”

Final judging of the Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest will take place March 15 at the Freight Depot in Atlanta, Ga.