On February 25, National Chili Day, our first ever Chili Cook-off was an event not to be forgotten! Thanks to the overwhelming neighborhood support among friends, Resident families and neighboring homes of the Little Sisters, our Chili Cook-off was one of our most successful activity events of the year!
There were nine participants willing to cook up a storm and present their favorite chili recipes. Not only did they bring plenty of chili but brought along original and creative decor for their display. Liz made her No Mercy Chili, Robert and Alex presented Chili Chili Bang Bang, Ruthie Rodriquez made her Tantalizing Texas Chili, Andrew’s made St Joseph’s Jack Pot Chili, Mother Margaret’s presented her Mother Margaret’s Mexican Miracle chili, Janet Fries made Jano’s chili, the Throgsneck offered their Clipper Rockin’ Chili, Kathy Gallagher brought Wicked Wolf’s Howling Wicked Chili, and Irene Ten Hoeve brought Irene’s Irresistible Jersey Chili. Each contestant introduced themselves and their chili, gave a brief description of its contents and where their recipe originated.
25 Residents from our home in Totowa and 14 from Queen of Peace joined our Residents, staff and volunteers for this exciting event. Everyone chose the chili they wanted for lunch and afterwards the Judges were given “samples” of all nine chilis to judge. Awards were presented for Best Chili, Most Creative Chili and Most Animated Chili Station. After enjoying their favorite Chili, the Residents were up dancing to the great Mexican music provided by our DJ, DJ Rob (Robert Moschetta).
The winners included: Mother Margaret Charles, (Totowa), for Most Animated Chili Station, Robert and Alex (Bronx) for Most Creative Chili and Kathy Gallagher (Wicked Wolf Restaurant) for Best Chili.
We hope to see everyone next year and are grateful to all who made the day such a fun one!
