River Valley Provisions repeats as chili champions

River Valley Provisions Chili Champions

Submitted by VFW Post 3336

On March 21, the East Haddam/Moodus VFW Post 3336 hosted their second annual Chili Cook-off and raised $2,654 for their Veteran Relief Fund. This fund provides emergency and short-term support for local veterans and active-duty service members (including their families) and spouses of deceased veterans in need (such as food, fuel, lodging).

River Valley Provisions from Tylerville returned and defended their title against some spicy competition: Westchester Marketplace, Fresca Tequila Bar & Grill, Higher Grounds at 32 Main, Moodus Sportsmen’s Club, East Hampton VFW 5095, Winchester Café, Mindy K’s, Chestelm Health & Rehabilitation Center, and the American Legion Post 156.  

More than 235 patrons traveled to the American Legion Hall in Moodus to sample chili from 10 vendors. For a $10 entry fee, each person was allowed to vote for the chili of their preference. The coveted silver ladle trophy, plus a $250 cash prize, was awarded to River Valley Provisions for the second year in a row!  

Also returning to this year’s event was Flour and Feather LLC selling homemade baked sourdough goods, Zombie Face Melter Brands vending their hot and savory sauces, and Yankee Cider Company with their flavorful ciders. 

New to this year’s event was a competition for the “best decorated table,” also chosen by attendees. The colorful ponchos and sombreros, along with the free swag at their table, landed Chestelm Health and Rehabilitation with the most votes. Raffles also helped raise funds this year, including one for a 40-minute plane ride (a $495 value) generously donated by Goodspeed Seaplane.

Thank you to Post 3336 member Don Henson, who chaired the event and to the many Post 3336 members and their family who volunteered their time to make the event successful. Many thanks to Consumer Reports for loaning Post 3336 a golf cart to help transport patrons from the parking lot to the Legion Hall. 

If you know a veteran in need who might benefit from the Veteran Relief Fund, reach out to Post 3336 for more information (ctvfwpost3336@gmail.com).  The veteran does not need to be a member of the VFW to receive assistance. Referrals to veteran support agencies and funds are available for qualified recipients.