WARREN, Ark. — The Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival saw a delightful addition to its festivities this year with the first annual Pie Contest held on Saturday morning, June 15th.
The panel of judges featured notable food connoisseurs: Blake Woodson, a professional steak and pie judge; Eric Harrison, a well-known food writer; and Kat Robinson from Arkansas PBS.
Winner of the contest, Mary Joyce Mullins(left), with Carly Shiver, Miss Pink Tomato 2024.
The competition was divided into two categories: the non-tomato pie division and the tomato pie division. In the non-tomato pie division, the runner-up was Hannah Hill with her exquisite double berry pie, while the winner was Maddison Mashburn, who impressed the judges with her old-fashioned coconut pie.
The tomato pie division showcased unique and creative uses of the festival’s signature ingredient. Doug Thornton’s smoked tomato pie earned him the runner-up spot, while Mary Joyce Mullins took home the top prize with her innovative and flavorful hot tomato pie.
As a special recognition, the overall winner of the contest, Mary Joyce Mullins, received a golden ticket entry to the Arkansas Pie Festival, a prestigious event that celebrates the best pie makers in the state.
The success of the first annual Pie Contest added to the vibrant atmosphere of the Bradley County Pink Tomato Festival, highlighting the community’s rich culinary heritage and setting a high standard for future competitions.