The Apple Pie on the Fourth of July event at the Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church last week was well attended, with some 75 people present. Interim Pastor Bob Simmons gave a welcome and an opening prayer at 7:30 p.m.

Six homemade apple pies were entered in the contest. The bakers were Amy Campbell, Larry Cole, Jeff Rand, Brendan Wagner, Beverly Waters and Nancy Wulfmeier. The three judges were Matt Jefferson, Helen Quigley and Arlene Stewart. The judges used score cards to indicate three things: 1. Appearance (first impression on juiciness, firmness, aroma, and visual appeal); 2. Taste and texture (of the filling, of the crust, and how well the crust and filling complement one another); and 3. Overall impression (is the pie classic or creative, and after the first taste, does it leave you wanting more).

First place was awarded to Jeff Rand, who baked his pie outside in a Dutch oven using hot coals. Second place went to Nancy Wulfmeier, and third place to Larry Cole.

While attendees enjoyed eating snacks and the pies, dinner music was provided by pianist and singer Mike Pizzuto, and then Pizzuto accompanied a patriotic sing-a-long by the crowd.
The grand finale for the evening was a wonderful window view of the fireworks at Fountain Park.