Gov. Bill Ritter nominated Paul Anders, executive chef of Sweet Basil in Vail, to represent the state in the 5th Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans. Ritter extended good luck wishes to Colorado’s team as it readies to compete in the event.

Anders will be using a hybrid striped bass farmed in Alamosa by family-owned Colorado Catch. Co-owner Tyler Faucette says the company produces 350,000 pounds of the bass each year and nearly half of that stays “local,” being consumed within the state.

Anders is keen to highlight regional produce as well. His recipe uses Olathe sweet corn and locally grown onions.

The idea to highlight the state’s own product came from Derek Figueroa, chief financial officer of Seattle Fish Company. The family-owned, third-generation business is the largest wholesaler of fresh and frozen seafood in the Rocky Mountain region and is marking its 90th year in business.