Oakwood Church was again the scene of cute creatures, fabulous superheroes, sparkly princesses and spooky characters last Friday during its eighth annual Hallelujah Party.

Activities were set up throughout the church, with attendees trying their hand at games and gathering up treats. There were also horse and pony rides available just outside.

Faith Bass was kept busy using her art skills to paint guests’ faces in creative ways, and her mom, Sarah Bass, spent the evening giving colorful, fun hairdos to those that wanted to add a little pizazz to their costumes.

One of the highlights of the evening was the chili and dessert competitions, with local “celebrity” judges putting their taste buds to the test to name a champion in each category.

Becker City Public Services Director Phil Knutson, Becker Schools Supt. Jeremy Schmidt and Citizen-Tribune Staff Writer Penny Leuthard tried 13 samples of chili, from mild to spicy and meaty to sweet, and ultimately determined the cooking skills of Nita Strong to be the winner.

Judges in the dessert category had an even tougher challenge with 15 varieties of desserts put before them, from cookies to bars and truffles to pudding. Primary School Principal Dale Christensen, Becker Fire Dept. Public Education Officer Kevin Drehmel and Becker Police Chief Brent Baloun narrowed the field down to two, and after a second taste test determined Sharon Moore’s sea salt caramel chocolate chip cookies to be the champion.

Each winner was awarded a prize and their category’s traveling trophy to bring home for bragging rights until next year’s competition.

After the official judging, everyone was invited to enjoy the submissions for themselves along with other dishes that were set out for the community supper that followed.

Oakwood Community Church is located next to Becker Furniture World off Hwy 10.