The Chili Cookoff team would like to extend a giant thank you to all who helped make the First Annual Chili Cookoff such a phenomenal success. The day would not have happened without such fantastic support.
The day started with a rousing New Orleans style tribute to our recently departed Mayor, April organized by Joann Frances and Sylvia Biddick with music provided by Orcas’ very own Dust Bunnies.
Things really got cooking with the 11:30 kickoff of the Chili Cook Off. Nine teams threw their ladles in the ring to compete for the top prize. We would like to thank the following teams for bringing their best to the table.
Team Captain
The Hot County Employees Ron Gillelund
Chiladas Chillen Chili Cy & Julie Fraser
The Lower Tavern Jim Passer
Chickweed Chil Co John Steward and Maple Rock Farm
Saturday School Kyle Freeman
Orcas Hotel Ryan Houser
Flaming Avengers Kevin O’Brien
Orcas Fire 911 Memorial Valerie Harris
Islanders Bank Barbara Ellenwood
The competition was fierce but when the tickets were counted first place honors and a check for $150.00 went to The Orcas Hotel – Ryan Houser, second place and an award of $125.00 went to the Flaming Avengers – Kevin O’Brien and his firehouse team and third place honors and $75.00 in prize money went to Orcas Fire 911 Memorial Funs – Valerie Harris. Without such overwhelming support the event would not have happened. The biggest winners were the kids that are served by the Giving Tree.
Our gratitude also goes to event sponsors: The Lower Traven for their donation to the Beer garden. To Island Market, Orcas Kiwanis, Orcas Lions Club, Orcas Island Farmers Market and Orcas Family Connections. Thanks to the many volunteers and attendees that turned out to help make this event a success. And a special thanks to JP and the Okay Rhythm Boys and Almost Canadian and friends that generously gave of their time and talent.
With your help this event raised $2,600 for the Giving Tree surpassing our goal. This money goes directly to help our island children have a happy holiday.
We are very much looking forward to next year’s smokin’ hot Chili Cook off event!
The 2012 Chili Cookoff Team:
Jennifer Pietsch – Orcas Island Farmers Market
Judi Lundgren – Island Market
Dyan Holmes – Kiwanis
Amber Paulson/Erin Odell – Orcas Family Connections
Martin Arnold/Jim Biddick – Orcas Lions Club
Jim Biddick
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