The First Presbyterian Church of Burbank recently hostedits in augural Chili Cook Off and Music Festival.

The church's parking lot was transformed into a carnival atmosphere, with food and game booths forming lines topped by a stage. Several local bands entertained those attending the chili cook off.

David "Gator Dave" Cook headed a group of musicians and singers to form the Media City Church Band. The group has performed as part of the Media City Church worship team. The band members included singers Molly Malone and Yvonne Colón, musicians Shane Russell (drums), Michael Paul Mervine (bass guitar), Elijah Davenport (guitar), and Cook (lead guitar/singer).

The band performing prior to Media City was called Corn Pop Gospel. The voice of the lead singer reminded me of the song "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer." His voice was well suited to the country style of the three-member band and the music offered a message of faith and hope.

The chili cook-off appeared to be a major success, with the music well worth listening to. In this age of rushing from one scheduled event to another, First Presbyterian Church demonstrated the joy of sitting back and enjoying a time of true Christian fellowship.