SPECTATORS, PARTICIPANTS AGREE: 35THANNUAL
CHILI COOK-OFF A GREAT SUCCESS
BY: TOM GARIEPY
FORT PIERCE, FL, July 18, 2017 – Thousands of Treasure Coast families played games, sampled chili, and had an old-fashioned good time at the 35th Annual Chili-Cook Off Saturday at the Havert L. Fenn Center, Fort Pierce. The event, one of the most family friendly summer events on the Treasure Coast, raised almost $70,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County (BGCSLC).
The coveted Jim Lamb Memorial Award for Best Chili was presented to a team of devoted chili chefs from Fort Pierce Westwood Future Farmers of America. Second place went to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, while Mary Kay took third place. First Place in Fundraising, given annually to the team that raises the most money for the Boys & Girls Clubs, was St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners Public Works Department, which also won the Challenge Award, given to the team that has the best combination of chili and fundraising scores.
Community Collaboration
“Each year the Chili Cook-Off is the perfect example of community collaboration. Multiple businesses, organizations and individuals come together for one common cause, to support our youth,” said BGCSLC Chief Operating Officer Melanie Wiles. “This important fundraiser ensures that we can continue to serve thousands of young people at the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County. Special thanks goes to presenting sponsor, Southern Eagle Distributing.”
The day also featured plenty of activities for children. This included a rock-painting room, face painting and a visit from Bubbles the Clown. Spectators lined up to taste more than 30 chilis. Then, they took part in themed activities at each booth, representing a board game. Next year’s theme has been announced as “Cartoons”.
“It is a fun experience for the whole family. Lots of games to keep the kids entertained and a huge assortment of chili to taste. Looking forward to the next one!” said attendee Ron Cohen.
Visitors also had the opportunity to visit the BGCSLC Art Gallery, a room filled with artwork produced by members of the local Boys & Girls Clubs. The display is part of the National Fine Arts Exhibit, a program sponsored by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
About the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County
The Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing youth with a world class Boys & Girls Club experience, assuring that success is within reach for every young person who walks through our doors, and that every Club member graduates from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship and living healthy lifestyles. The Club enables all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
With 17 locations throughout the county, Boys & Girls Clubs programs serve a diverse group of kids age 5-18. The 3,200 Club Members come from a variety of backgrounds. Contact the Club by calling (772) 460-9918 or visiting www.bgcofslc.org or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
