Annual chili cook-off helps 2 local causes
A church is ready to add a little heat to an otherwise cold January while raising money for two local causes.
Saint Andrews United Presbyterian Church will host its 12th Annual Chili Cook-Off from 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 26 in the church's Bethany Room, 201 E. Washington St.
Ticket-holders will vote on their favorite chili dish from one of seven variations prepared by local restaurants and chefs. There will also be a bake sale and a basket auction.
The proceeds raised will be split between Saint Andrews and Operation Spay Neuter of Butler County.
Lesley Bachman, the president of Operation Spay Neuter, said last year's cook-off raised $2,000 for the group that partners with local veterinarians to subsidize the spaying and neutering of pets for individuals who have a financial need and for those who care for homeless companion animals and strays or ferals.
The group also brings a mobile veterinary clinic to Butler County fire halls for cat spaying.
She said the church and her group started splitting cook-off earnings 12 years ago.
Bachman said, “We partnered with them because board member Natalie McKay and former board member Lori Love went to Saint Andrews. So we decided to team up together and do a chili cook-off.”
“The money goes directly into subsidizing spays and neuters,” said Bachman.
“So, we have local companies that sponsor the event,” she said referring to the chili cook-off. “It's fun to get people together to have a good time and support our causes.”
The Rev. Merry Meloy, pastor of St. Andrews, said the church's share of the proceeds go to fund programs helping people.
“The money goes to support ministries and missions which include the Wednesday evening dinner program,” said Meloy. “We also help provide the Sunday lunch program and the building is used to support a variety of programs.”
Meloy added last year's cook-off attracted between 100 and 150 people.
“The last Saturday in January seemed like a good time for people to get together and sample some chili,” Meloy said.
Bachman said there has been a need for Operation Spay Neuter's services since the group was formed in 2005.
Last year, 650 cats and dogs were spayed or neutered, said Bachman, and 7,300 animals have been sterilized since 2005.
Bachman said pet owners who may qualify for a reduced rate should call 724-287-7729. Fee reduction is based on income.
Her group's actions, she said, “will cut the overpopulation so that we have less unwanted kittens and puppies.”
And the operations can have an added benefit in addition to curbing the cat and dog populations.
“There are reports out there that says it (spaying and neutering) reduces mammary gland cancer, so we have health benefits as well,” said Bachman.
WHAT: 12th Annual Chili Cook-OffWHEN: 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 26WHERE: Bethany Room of Saint Andrews United Presbyterian Church, 201 E. Washington St. Use the Cliff Street entrance.INFO: For tickets, call the church office at 724-287-4777. Tickets available at the door are more expensive.Proceeds will be split between the church and Operation Spay Neuter of Butler County.
