A Grand Junction caterer won three of the top awards presented to food and beverage providers that served fare at the Home Loan Taste of the Grand Valley benefit event.

Cowboy & the Rose won awards for the best overall taste, best entree and best booth decor.

A total of more than 20 caterers, restaurants, vendors and organizations provided samples. People who attended the event voted on their favorites.

Colorado Legacy Coffee won the award for best beverage. Gelu Italian Ice won the award for best sweet creation. Zoup won the award for best soup, side or snack.

Flavors Grille at Colorado Canyons Hospital in Fruita placed second in four categories: overall taste; booth decor; sweet creation; and soup, side or snack.

The Ribber placed second in voting for best entree. Four Winds Coffee & Tea came in second for best beverage.

More than 20 exhibitors showcased their foods and beverages at the event, which attracts more than 1,000 people.

The Home Loan Taste of the Grand Valley serves as a fund-raiser for United Way of Mesa County. Over the past 15 years, the event has raised more than $350,000.

Proceeds from the latest event will be added to the contributions collected in a campaign to raise $1 million.

United Way of Mesa County raises and allocates funding to meet needs in the community while also fostering cooperation among businesses, community agencies and government agencies to encourage a balanced network of services. United Way monitors funded programs throughout the year to make sure outcomes are achieved.

For more information about United Way of Mesa County, call 243-5364 or visit www.unitedwaymesacounty.org.