Dear Editor:
As Executive Director and Founder, I would like to extend a gracious thank you on behalf of Hoboken Volunteers, and everyone who was involved with our 3rd Annual Chili Cook-Off & Homebrewing Competition, for helping us spread the word on this year’s event.
On February 25, 2012, over 350 people gathered at the Hoboken Elks Lodge to sample chili recipes from 27 competitors and beer from 18 local brewers. We were able to raise $9,000 for Hoboken organization, HOPES CAP, Inc. and their adult services programs that provide their clients assistance with employment, self-sufficiency and education. It was great working alongside the entire HOPES team led by Marisa Musachio, Director of Program Operations.
Prizes for Best Judged and Fan Favorite for chili went to Zach and Jay Leonard, two brothers from Queens, who donned their chili “Pork Zilla” and topped it with a lime-infused sour cream. Second place was awarded to Abbey Bell of Hoboken for her “Hot & Sassy” chili and third place was awarded to David Rousseau of Jersey City.
First place in the Homebrewing Competition went to Jersey City resident, Tyler Hutchinson, for his “Chipotle Cream Ale”, and Fan Favorite was rewarded to Jim Fiebelkorn for his “Hoppy Amber”. Second place awarded to Derek Bassen for his Smoked Porter and third place went to John Sywensky for his Vanilla Porter.
Judges included Anthony Pino, owner of Anthony David’s and BIN 14; “Good Morning, America” weather-anchor Ginger Zee; and Star Ledger food critic and Munchmobile writer, Peter Genovese, for completing the difficult, yet delicious task of judging some of the best chili’s in town!
We’d also like to thank Peter Kennedy of Simply Beer for organizing our first homebrewing competition and brining the beer judges to the event.
A special thank you is owed to our headliner, Zog Sports, and all of our generous sponsors:
Inserra Shoprite, Carlo’s Bakery, Dino & Harry’s, Bayonne Bank, Gallery 1200,Freeholder Anthony L. Romano, Sunshine Fundraising Corp., Body Balance, East LA, EatDrinkHoboken, SERVPRO, Bliss, Cask and Kettle, Mimi Yoga, 340 Grill, Elysian’s Café, Wicked Wolf, Leo’s Grandevous, Zylo, Court Street, Village Pourhouse, Green Rock, Black Bear, The Hoboken Man, Quays, Melting Pot, La Isla, Sparrow’s Wine and Liquor, Brown Stone in Jersey City, Hamilton Inn, Anthony David’s, Balbo’s, Texas Arizona, CKO Kickboxing -Madison, Starbucks, and to Hoboken Fire Department for submitting a chili and supporting the event!
Again, our utmost appreciation for your support and generosity in helping us raise community awareness and funds for HOPES CAP, Inc.
We hope that you are already looking forward to next year’s event. Stay in touch with HV by signing up for our newsletter at:www.hobokenvolunteers.com
Warm Regards,
Tim Occhipinti
Executive Director & Founder of Hoboken Volunteers