The rain didn’t stop chili-lovers from coming out to enjoy all they could eat.
The Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual chili cook-off on Friday, June 28.
The poor weather had the annual competition heading indoors to the Bonnyville and District Centennial Centre.
”Despite the weather, the turnout was amazing,” exclaimed Megan Wakefield, acting executive director for the chamber. “We’re really thankful to have so much community support.”
The Bonnyville and District SPCA sold bottomless bowls to raise money during the event, with over 550 sold.
Chili-lovers had their pick of 21 different recipes.
”People went around to all the booths, and you had the option to try them all... You could eat as much chili as you wanted until you dropped,” Wakefield exclaimed.
Once finished, residents had the opportunity to cast their vote for their favourite.
Attendee Linne Bowler thought there was something for everyone.
”I went through (most) of the chili. There was hot, regular, and they were all really yummy.”
For people’s choice, the top prize went to Canadian Natural.
The toughest job of the day was the judging. This year’s panel was made up of Town of Bonnyville Mayor Gene Sobolewski, MD Reeve Greg Sawchuk, and chamber board member Miranda Kelbough.
The Bonnyville C2’s Hawaiian-themed booth scooped up top honours in the team spirit category.
The hottest recipe was awarded to the Bonnyville Community Church, while most unusual went to the Dove Centre.
Serving up their own recipe secured Jennie’s Dinner the titles of tastiest and most “sense”ational.
”It just seems appropriate that we come out, and show everybody our chili so they can come to the diner and have it,” explained owner Jennie Hamel.
During their five years of participating, the business already had one victory under their belt and were happy to add another.
Hamel was blown away by the number of people that came out to try all of the chili available.
”It was nice to see so many people out, and even though it was raining, we still had an awesome turnout and it’s great to see.”
Along with kicking off the Spirit of Bonnyville Chuckwagon Races, Wakefield believes it was a great chance for businesses to show support for the community.
”Lots of our businesses in town love to give back, so this was a great opportunity for us to get together. It’s also good to showcase your company for those who aren’t familiar with what you do,” she added.
