The first ever chili cook-off at Watauga.
Watauga High School organizes a variety of events for their programs, and our community never fails to show out. On March 22, Watauga held a chili contest/fundraiser in the school's Commons to support our OCS program. Families and friends attended to show off and sample more than 15 different types of chili, as well as various chips, bread, and beverages.
Our OCS program, also known as the Extended Course of Study (ECS) program, serves students at Watauga and helps to provide them with unique educational experiences that further their life and job preparedness. The program's goal is to provide several opportunities for this program to connect with the community.
Freshmen Student Council treasurer, Anna Byrne, is the one who made this event happen, she chose to organize this contest as her student council final exam.
“The reason I decided to organize this event was because my father, JB Byrne, works with the ECS program so I became close with the teachers he works with!” Byrnes said, “I noticed how much hard work and dedication the students and staff put in, so I decided to raise money for the ECS Program to provide them with supplies and more community involvement.”
The event as a whole was successful. Many different teachers of Watauga and families happily participated in this cook-off. They had tons of chilis, ranging from chicken chili to venison chili. Teacher Mr. Breitenstein and his family were one of the many different contenders, bringing two different chilis to the cook-off.
Eric Breitenstein with his family at the cook-off.
“I am teaching the chili cook off coordinator herself Anna Byrnes. She asked if I would be interested and I jumped at the opportunity!” said Breitenstein.
Each family that came to the event paid a $5 entry and then proceeded to vote for their favorite chilis by putting money in the cups in front of the chili of their choice. This fundraiser raised almost $700 to benefit student. These funds have now given the program more chances than they would’ve had to get out into the community.
The contest did result in a winner.
“Jackie White, a junior here at WHS claimed the top prize, and it wasn’t even close,” said Breitenstein. “I think she got over 50 votes- completely putting my chili to shame,”
Ashley Winkler with her chicken chili.
Another faculty participant, Assistant Principal Ashley Winkler, brought a delicious recipe of white chicken chili.
”I wanted to participate in the Chili Cook-Off to support our EC department. I personally love tasting all kinds of chili, and I enjoy cooking for others,” said Winkler. “When I heard of this event, I knew it would be a fun way to spend a Friday evening.”
Overall, the event was successful in terms of bringing in donations and fostering a feeling of community. It was a lot of fun to go and try something new. Potentially, we'll see this event and more like this one in the future.
“I am very happy with the amount we raised and would call it a success because the ECS Program now has the ability to use the money in a positive and effective way for the students.” Bryne said. “With all the support I got this year, I am hopeful this can become an annual event that can improve each year!”
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