5K Family Fun Day and Picnic cook-off winners

Three teams jumped in when the call went out to engage departments in a cook-off at the 5K Family Fun Day and Picnic on Nov. 4. Each team used their special recipes to add sugar and spice to the event.

Seargent Bridgett Johnson from Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation baked up a crowd-pleasing sour cream pound cake. Officer Yolanda Taylor was also in attendance to help her serve.

"What I enjoyed most about attending this event was the opportunity to represent my department in such a sweet fashion," said Johnson, "The best part for me was watching the facial expressions when everyone took their first bite. Then, when they returned for seconds."

"One lady even asked for the box of crumbs. So you know it was good," Johnson added. "If the opportunity presents itself, I'd do it all over again."

The team from Juvenile Services Department included Division Director Latawun Bess, Division Director Cristina Molina, Grant Coordinator Johan Williams and Administrative Officer 2 Julia Villamizar. Mary Caraballo baked a yummy pumpkin delight bread. Their spot was also beautifully decorated.

 "We really enjoyed handing out these delicious treats and seeing many come back for more, including two small children who returned for seconds and asked for the recipe," shared Molina.   

Last, but certainly not least, the Department of Solid Waste Management organized their team to make Granny B's special baked beans. Division Chief Ronald Howard, Alfred Coleman, Yolanda Rainey, Stephanie Grant, Tymika Bateman and Armand Dely helped to serve.

"As a department, one of the main things we prioritize is unity," Grant said. "We were able to come together as one for a great cause and will continue working in the right direction of wellness and longevity as a County family."

All three teams did such a great job that the judges couldn't pick a winner. All team members received WellnessWorks swag bags and earned bragging rights. They represented their departments with excellence.

"We are fortunate that Corrections, Juvenile Services and Solid Waste stepped up to participate in the cook-off. It added fun and good food to our event. We are grateful for their involvement," added Human Resources Department's Wellness Coordinator Michael Bello.

See event photos.