On April 22, one of Hendry County’s own had the honor of traveling to the NYC Hot Sauce Expo in Brooklyn, New York. Felda resident, Buddy Taylor, learned that he was being inducted into the Hot Sauce Hall of Fame Class of 2017.

According to ScottRobertsWeb.com, Buddy began his hot sauce company in 1989, and continues creating masterpieces today. Over time he has created a full line of various sauces that have won several awards from the Fiery Food Industry. His sauces are available nationwide.

Four nominees were selected, and inducted into the Hot Sauce Hall of Fame Class of 2017. The newest members are Luther Hearn, Dave Lutes, Wilbur Scoville, and Buddy Taylor. At the induction ceremony, each inductee received a distinctive Red Jacket and a Hall of Fame ring.

The Hot Sauce Hall of Fame Class of 2017 nominees included: Alvin Baumer (Crystal Hot Sauce), B.F. Trappey (Trappey’s Hot Sauce), Buddy Taylor (Gator Hammock Hot Sauce), Craig Migawa (Pepper Palace), David Ashley (Mad Dog), Dave Lutes (Hot Shots Distribution), Jose-Luis Saavedra, Sr. (Tapatio Salsa Picante Hot Sauce), Luther Hearn (Peppers.com), Si Brown (Louisiana Brand Hot Sauce), and Wilber Scoville (pharmacist who created the Scoville Organoleptic Test).

Gator Hammock products can be purchased in LaBelle at Winn Dixie, Curtis Honey, and Save-A-Lot. Gator Hammock is located at 15025 FL-29 in Felda. For more information about Gator Hammock products, please visit Buddy’s website at www.gatorhammock.com. He can also be contacted at 863-665-0687.