Community Corner
Chili Cook-Off benefits Alzheimer's Association
South Salem Presbyterian Church holds fourth annual event
The South Salem Presbyterian Church held its Fourth Annual Chili Cook-off on Saturday, Nov. 3, in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter.
“The South Salem Presbyterian Church and the Alzheimer's Association Hudson Valley share the goal of caring for our neighbors in times of need,” said Robyn Musicant, who organized the event along with Kaitlin and Martin Watkins. “Our fourth annual Chili Cook-Off was a fantastic event that brought the community together to celebrate good food and increase awareness of Alzheimer’s services in our area.”
The chili competition included five categories: Traditional red (beef-based chili), white (chicken/turkey/pork-based chili), game (chili incorporating venison, elk, bison or other wild game), professional chef and firehouse divisions. Chili tasters were invited to sample chili offerings and vote for their favorites, and Taster’s Choice awards were presented based on popular vote.
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The judging panel included culinary students and professionals who awarded gold, silver and bronze medals in each category. Additionally, trophies were awarded for the overall champion and overall reserve champion for combined scores in judges and tasters’ choice, for a total of 29 awards. Various side dishes and kid-friendly foods and deserts were also provided.
The event organizers said they plan to continue to event next year, when it will be called The Chip Andrus Memorial Chili Cook-off in memory of the church’s former pastor, who passed away over the summer.
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“We are committed to teaming up with the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley every year until there is a cure,” Musicant said.
The Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter, which received 25 percent of the money raised, had an information table at the event where people could learn about the many programs and services it offers families living with dementia as well as its advocacy and fundraising efforts.
About the Longest Day
Funds raised went to the Association’s The Longest Day fundraiser, in which participants choose an activity – biking, hiking, playing bridge, swimming, knitting and more – to shine a light on the 5.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and the more than 16 million family members and friends providing care and support. On the actual longest day, the summer solstice on June 21, all their efforts are celebrated in honor of the long days spent by caregivers of those with dementia. Learn more at alz.org/tld
About the Hudson Valley Chapter
The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. To learn more about programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley.
About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit www.alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
