Letter to Editor: Thank You Again, Orcas

— from Jim Biddick & The Chili Cook-off Team —

The third annual Chili Cook-off is over and it was a great day. First time in three years we didn’t have rain and in fact we had some sun late in the day. Once again Orcas opened it hearts for the Holiday Giving Tree insuring no child goes without a gift during the holiday season.  Special thanks to the Orcas Island Lions Club for all of their work and the loan of the tents and Island Hoppin Brewery – James, Becca and Matt – for their continued support of the community, the Museum and the Lions Club. Thanks to the many volunteers that came out to help and most of all thanks to the teams that participated. The Chili’s were as varied as much as the teams were. There was a true Texas Chili, an outstanding Vegetarian Chili, a Lamb Chili, a home grown Pork Chili and on and on.

This year’s teams were:

• Hot County Employees – Ron Gillelund (third year)
• West Beach Farm – Kathy Morris (second year)
• Washington Federal – Jamie Cier (first year)
• Texas Road Kill Chili – Tom Burg & Rollie Sauer (first year)
• Orcas Christian School Culinary Arts Program – Beth Smith (first year)
• Warm Valley Orchard – Bob Nut (first year)
• Island Skillet – Dave Yerly & Matt Carpenter(second year and last years winner)
• Team Gus – Gus “ The Mushroom Man” Lohman (first year)
• Lower Tavern – Jim Passer (third year)
• Red Rabbit Farm – Christian Orchid(first year)
• Team Gil – Gil Bacera(first year)

And the winners were:

• First Place – Team Gil – Gil Bacera
• Second Place – Red Rabbit Farm – Christina Orchid
• Third Place – Texas Road Kill Chili – Rollie Sauer & Tom Burg

Through the generosity of the locals, the tourists and the Chili Cook-off, you were able to present Orcas Family Connections and Island Market with $2,300.00, for this year’s Giving Tree. Watch for next year’s event the last Saturday in September at the Orcas Island Farmers Market. If you want take part in next year’s competition contact Jennifer Pietsch at 360)317- 8342 or Jim Biddick at 360)376-2488 and they’ll put you on the list for next year’s invitation.

Thanks again for all of your support.