Cheating couldn't taste better

The sound of music and the smell of food had the wondering person in a hypnotized stance as they proceeded towards the white tent. As they neared the tent, children hurried ahead in hopes of being first in line for their plate.

For 20 years, the Citrus campus supporters have joined together to experience the competition of local culinary cuisine and to sample appetizers, entrées and desserts at the Taste of Citrus. On Oct. 25, 2009 these supporters came together again for this same reason.

The CFCC Foundation sponsored event, known as the Taste of Citrus in Lecanto, is an annual event where 100 percent of the proceeds go to Citrus County students in the form of scholarships for college.

"Nearly 600 scholarships have been awarded over the 20 year history
of the event," said Vernon Lawter, provost and vice president of the Citrus campus. "It ensures that Citrus County residents are able to take advantage of the educational opportunities available at CFCC."

Featuring 28 restaurants and a crowd of approximately 500 people, Taste of Citrus continues to increase in size from year to year.

Chefs eagerly waited to serve the next in line as they saw potential clients standing before them. Participants were left wondering if they should enjoy the free desserts or stop eating.

"I'm not going to tell my husband where I am because I feel like I'm cheating on him," said Jenn Worthington, Citrus County Parks and Recreation director.

While sampling food and chatting with local businesses, locals were entertained by The Citrus Swing Band, The Bill Rea Trio, Doug Nicholson and Sue Jeffes.

With a theme of black and silver, this year's competition was broken into three categories: appetizers, entrees and desserts. Select judges for each different category selected a first, second and third place award to participating restaurants.

However, Citrus campus supporters became involved in the voting process too. This year hungry observers were given the opportunity to vote for their favorite cuisine. An overall First Place Presentation award was given to those who captivated the majority of the taste buds.

An annual competitor, Plantation Golf Resort & Spa, was hoping for the first place award. However, more importantly they were happy to show Citrus County residents what is available.

"It's nice to be among the finest restaurants in Citrus county," said John Angiolillo, general manager at Plantation Golf Resort & Spa. "We want to give Citrus county an opportunity to see their options and get a feel of what is out there."

Many people are interested in the food options that they have in Citrus county. However, they also want to support the local CFCC students and their education.

The exact amount of proceeds from this event is unclear at this point, but it was clear that many mouths were fed since restaurants were running out of food to offer. Many restaurants used a different approach to feeding the supporters this year. On some tables a palm tree, made out of stacked pineapples, supported shrimp or strawberries.

The palm tree décor seemed to be the favorite for many restaurants as they tried to make their "home" stand out.

Around sunset, tension filled the air as vendors crowded in the pavilion in hopes of hearing their name being called for an award. The dream came true for nine with one lucky winner hearing their name twice.

This year's first place winners were Yai Yai International Style & Lounge, Seven Rivers Regional Medical Center and Chocolate Fountains by Anna Maria. Seven Rivers Regional MedicalCenter also won the First Place Presentation award.

A silent auction added to the collection of proceeds for scholarships. Local donors donated over 50 items and services that offered something for everyone. The silent auction consisted of jewelry, golf lessons, gift baskets, art, gift certificates and much more.

With food being served, gifts to bid on and entertainment to enjoy, CFCC supporters came out to ensure there will be a future for students in Lecanto.