Teen members of the City’s Community Character Committee are gearing up for the committee’s first Chili Cook-off Sunday to benefit a good cause.
The Chili Cook-off is from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kershaw Garden at City Hall, 200 Civic Center.
Several chili cooks and connoisseurs will create their own unique version of the “Best Chili” and compete for the chance to take home the $100 grand prize and forever bragging rights. Entries will be judged by Mayor Dave Leckness, Lt. Mike Gavin, and local Executive Chef Shane Cassidy. Community members at the event will also cast their votes along with the committee’s mascot, the infamous Banana Man of Character.
Proceeds from the red-hot competition will benefit the committee’s Mission Viejo Relay For Life team “Goin’ Bananas for a Cure.” The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Mission Viejo event takes place in June.
“Over 11 million patients are diagnosed with cancer every year,” said committee member Sao Mai Nguyen. “Even through all the charities that support this cause, there is still not enough. Every penny counts. So the youth committee is joining the fight to find a cure.”
Chili aficionados are encouraged to support the event by savoring chili samples for suggested donations and enjoying music, crafts and games for kids and more.
After filling up on chili and fun, the public can join the committee for its free monthly character movie that starts at 2 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Illustrating Integrity, “Pinocchio” is the endearing classic that will be featured. A brief discussion follows.
For more information, contact Tammy Descoteaux at tdescoteaux@cityofmissionviejo.org or 949-470-3094.
