Park's Chili Open not too chilly
EVANS CITY — While organizers had hoped for at least a coating of snow, the springlike temperatures on Saturday produced the warmest EDCO Park Chili Open in the event’s seven-year history.
“It was 30 degrees higher than what we’re used to,” said John Rogers, EDCO Park Authority president. “We’ve played when it’s been 5 or 6 degrees.”
Rogers said about 100 people came out to play the short nine hole course, where temperatures hung in the mid-60s. Last year, the event was held in eight inches of snow.
He said about $4,500 was raised for the park and pool Saturday through golfing, the basket auction and donations.
But Rogers, who is the founder of the annual Chili Open, said something equally important to the authority board was gained at the event.
“In addition to getting 15 to 20 new people to participate in the event, they now want to (volunteer) with the park,” he said.
The chili that is always available to golfers was complimented this year by hot dogs, which were cooked over an open fire in the park’s fire pit.
“Where else can you play golf and stop and have a hot dog in the middle of the course,” Rogers said. “There’s nothing typical about this event.”
One of the park pavilions was enclosed last week in single-digit temperatures by Rich Szwaczkowski, owner of Swiss Construction. Propane to heat the enclosure was provided by ProGas in Zelienople, but was obviously not needed.
“People still came because they know it’s fun, and it’s for a good cause,” Rogers said.
