Chili lovers came out in droves to support the community.
The Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual chili cook-off on Friday, July 27.
There was a line-up of hungry residents down 50 Ave. throughout the event, and a couple of participants even ran out of chili before winners were announced.
“There was a line-up down the block at 12 o’clock for the chili cook-off,” said Serina Parsons, executive director of the chamber.
The Bonnyville and District SPCA sold bowls that bought unlimited chili during the event, and there was 16 different options to choose from.
“All proceeds from the bowls of chili goes to the Bonnyville SPCA,” Parsons explained. “Not only is it a fun community event, but funds go to where we need it most.”
Judges this year included Mayor Gene Sobolewski, Reeve Greg Sawchuk, and chamber board member Caitlyn Thompson.
“The judges were all very full after trying chili that ranged from hot and spicy to sweet and saucy,” added Parsons.
Businesses this year weren’t messing around with their recipes, and Sawchuk said there was a lot of great options.
“Judging was tough this year. They ran the gambit, from super hot to sweet and everything in between.”
The big winner of the day was the Dove Centre, who won tastiest, people’s choice, and “sense”sational.
“I’m truly amazed to have won,” exclaimed Andrew Misiak, community disabilities practitioner for the Dove Centre. “I really love the event, this is just wonderful.”
It was Misiak’s first time competing alongside his Oceans 11 crew, as he nicknamed his team from the Dove Centre. It was his chili recipe that the group chose to cook for the competition.
The Dove Centre was looking to give back to the community, and when Misiak suggested the cook-off, the whole centre got involved.
“We never thought we’d win this much,” he explained. “This win is for all of our individuals at the Dove Centre, and we just want to show the community that we want to contribute in a positive way.”
Sawchuk said, “The Dove Centre’s chili was one you could have easily eaten a couple of bowls of.”
Other winners included Blue Wave Energy for hot stuff, team spirit went to Canadian Natural, and the award for most unusual was presented to NCSG for their German-themed chili.
