The chili gauntlet was thrown once again as the Community of Character’s, 4th Chili cook-off competition heated up at the Norman P. Murray Community Center in Mission Viejo on Sat., March 15, 2014.
More than 100 chili lovers chowed down on hot, spicy, vegan and traditional chilies. Samples for a dollar each or six for $5 were donated to the American Cancer Society's 20th Relay For Life/ Mission Viejo to raise money to fight against cancer.
The judges for this year’s competition were kept a secret until the event began. Lisa Inlow, Saddleback College Culinary Arts Professor and Mission Viejo’s Chief of Police, Lt. Brad NewMeyer were joined by last year’s Chili winner, Trent Wolfert.
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“I decided to take a break from cooking all that chili. I am happy to be judging and it is fun,” said Wolfert.
The many chili recipes were judged on their appearance, aroma, color and taste. There wasn’t even a bean left to be seen at the cook-off which is a testament to the deliciousness of all the chilies.
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One family’s recipe, Descot's 10 Bean Militia Chili, was dished out by Tammy and David Descoteaux. David said, “ I like to put Italian sausage in because not only does it add a lot of flavor, but the meat doesn't fall apart during the long cooking”.
First prize went to Kyle Brant and family for their Cowboy Chili. Kyle proudly wore the 2014 Chili apron and accepted $50. Second place went to Erik York for his Birth Right Chili. York accepted a 55 minute massage donated by Elements, 2400 Alicia Pkwy, MV, CA in the Gateway Center. Wendy Bucknum’s White Lightning Chili took third place and received a Starbucks gift card and a mug.
The crowd was entertained by Zephyr, a progressive rock band comprised of teenagers, Matt Young, Dakota Nunez, Daniel Janbay and Jeff Gelbmann, all students from Capistrano Valley High School. After a few beats, the crowd was drawn to the patio to applaud them on and enjoy the beautiful weather.
Not only does Relay For Life raise money throughout the year, it gives hope for those participants fighting cancer. Relay is a healing experience that offers a chance to meet others who have claimed victory over cancer. For caregivers to those who are facing cancer, Relay offers compassion and understanding.
Look for Zumba on March 8, Yard Sale for a Cause on March 22, Youth Glow Dance For a Cure, April 4, Mission Viejo’s Got Talent and Roaring 20s Dinner/Dance on May 21, 2014.
For more information or to register for the 20th Relay For Life/Mission Viejo go to www.mvrelay.org, www.facebook.com/mvrelay or twitter @mv_RelayForLife.
If you have any questions, please call Margot Ferron, Publicity Chair at 949/309-1235, gomargotgo@aol.com
