News Release - Contestants Sought for Chilly Chili Challenge at City’s Lakeside Winter Celebration

City of Rochester

News Release

(Tuesday, January 14, 2013) – The City’s Bureau of Recreation, along with the Ontario Beach Park Program Committee invites local chili masters to compete for the prestigious designation of having the “Best Chili in Rochester.” The chili cook-off will be held on Saturday, February 8 from noon to 3 p.m. inside the Port of Rochester Terminal as part of the 30th Annual Lakeside Winter Celebration at Ontario Beach Park. The winter festival attracts 10,000 or more people each year.

Chilly Chili Challenge contestants from well-known local restaurants, caterers and food service operators as well as amateurs, will cook and serve over 8,000 sample-sized portions of chili during the festival.

“There’s no better way to warm up when it’s cold outside than with a hot bowl of chili—and you can taste the best at the Lakeside Winter Celebration,” said Mayor Lovely Warren. “Amateur cooks can gain bragging rights and local restaurants can gain new customers by having a presence at this well-attended festival.”

Contestants will be judged on their recipe’s creativity as well as presentation in professional, amateur and “people’s choice” categories. Winners will receive cash prizes and trophies. Vegetarian chili is also welcomed and encouraged. Non-profit organizations and individuals are also invited to compete, but must have access to a commercial kitchen and obtain a Temporary Food Service Permit from the Monroe County Health Department.

Interested participants must register by February 3. Entry forms are available on-line, at www.cityofrochester.gov/chili, and can be mailed or hand delivered to: 400 Dewey Ave., Rochester NY, 14613. Forms may also be faxed to (585) 428-6021. No entry fee is required.

For more information about the Lakeside Winter Celebration, visit www.cityofrochester.gov/wintercelebration or call 428-6755.

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News Media: For more information, Contact Assistant Director of Recreation Jim Farr at (585) 428-6866.