Dear Editor:
Hoboken Volunteers, a not-for-profit organization in Hoboken New Jersey whose mission is to connect residents who want to volunteer with worthy causes and organizations, held their first fundraiser Chili Cook-Off for a Cause on Saturday Feb. 27 at the Shannon.
The event was an outstanding success. Hoboken Volunteers raised approximately $2,900 with a portion of the proceeds donated to the American Red Cross’s relief efforts in Haiti. It was a fun-filled afternoon of chili eating and socializing. The event was MC’d by Ryan Orabone, marketing director for Hoboken Volunteers.
Hoboken Volunteers would like to thank the judges, Jennifer Iserloh, Martha Slutzky, and Ryan Yacco. Iserloh is better known as the Skinny Chef while Slutzky is a former chef in the Dominican Republic that now resides in New York City. Yacco won the HV guest judge raffle.
First place went to “Midwest Connection Chili” submitted by Jacqui Gabel and Eric Jovcevski and second place went to “Chipolte Chili” submitted by Rachel Goldberg and Jenny Davis. Jacqui and Eric received the Hoboken Volunteers “Cup of Chili” 2010 trophy, gift certificates to local restaurants, and a gift certificate to Hoboken Golf. Rachel and Jenny received gift certificates to local restaurants.
Fan favorite was the second category of the day where each participant was given tickets to drop into their favorite chili. The first place winner went to “Chilly Willy Chili” submitted by Kristin Belaski and Tricia Goss, second place went to “Sweet Heat” submitted by Brian Pilipak and Erin Morris.
Hoboken Volunteers would like to acknowledge Assemblyman Ruben Ramos, Freeholder Anthony Romano, and Councilman Dave Mello for their support and attendance.
We would also like to thank the following sponsors: The Shannon Lounge, EatDrinkHoboken, Restaurant Associates, Hoboken Golf, Court Street, JRP Designs, Solid Threads, ZogSportsNJ, H-Mag, Hoboken City Guide and all members of Hoboken Volunteers who volunteered at the event. We would also like to especially thank the City of Hoboken for providing the tables at the event.
Hoboken Volunteers displayed its new t-shirt to the crowd and sold advance sales to those in attendance. The t-shirts can be picked up and purchased at Solid Threads on 1st Street in Hoboken.
We also thank all those of you who brought medical supplies for Dr. Tahzib’s trip to Haiti this month. We donated approximately $200 worth of supplies.
If you missed our event this past Saturday, we will be hosting another event soon. Check our website, www.hobokenvolunteers.com, for continued updates as to how you can get involved helping in the Hoboken community.
Thank you again, Hoboken!
Board of Hoboken Volunteers
Taryn Crosby
Mike Novak
Tim Occhipinti
Ryan Orabone
Ed Wentzheimer