SAXTONS RIVER — The Saxtons River Rec recently announced the winners of its annual chili cook off, held Oct. 24 on the lawn at Main Street Arts.
A record crowd of chili tasters voted young Austin Mallan their favorite individual winner, with second going to Dan Zimmer. Both are of Saxtons River. First in the commercial category was Jamaican Jewelz Catering, followed closely by Smokin' Bowls' signature Cheech and Chong chili.
Also entering were the Bacon, Douglass, and Smith families; Justin Gallion and Sofia and Lisa Bianconi in the individual category; and Shona Grill, the Saxtons River Inn, the Village Market, and Alpine Glo Farm in the commercial category.
Josh Maiocco and Ben Carr provided background music for the tasters. Vermont Academy donated cornbread to cleanse the palate between tastings.
The event raised approximately $1,100 for the Rec and its programs, organizers said.