PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. - A Chili Cook-Off featuring 18 different varieties prepared by arsenal employees and family members raised more than $2800 in little more than an hour, March 11.
The event historically kicks off Picatinny's Army Emergency Relief (AER) campaign each year and is a significant contributor to the overall total of funds raised for the benefit supporting Soldiers, retirees and military families.
More than 160 volunteers showed up to taste test samples for the competition, which offered six chances of winning. A panel of judges conducted a blind taste test and provided their findings for first, second and third place winners. In the end, Chris Greenley won with his extremely popular "RJ Slow Chili."
Army Emergency Relief (AER) is a private nonprofit organization established in 1942 by the Secretary of War and the Army Chief of Staff.
The mission has not changed since its inception: to provide emergency financial assistance to Soldiers and their families.
According to Tammy Mitchell, Director of Picatinny's Army Community Service Directorate, the Picatinny AER fund does not limit its assistance to Army personnel.
"We have helped not just Soldiers, but Marines too," she said.
Any active-duty service member, regardless of branch of service, can apply for assistance. This assistance is also available to retired military personnel.
Funds provide assistance in a variety of situations: unexpected funeral expenses, travel, permanent change of duty station, food needs, utility bills, and late car or rent/mortgage payments.
Since 1942, the program has helped more than 3.2 million Soldiers and family members by providing more than $1 billion. Loans provided are made without interest in contrast to loans from a financial institution.
Winning Chilies:
Most Popular:
Chris Greenly - RJ Slow Chili
Table Decoration - Picatinny Fire Department
Most Exotic -- Ruth Bailey's - Gobble it Up - Thanksgiving Chili (turkey and cranberry)
Blind Taste Test Picks:
1st - Chris Greenley - RJ Slow Chili
2nd - Robert Zandstra -- From the Back Refrigerator Shelf of Building 12
3rd - Nancy Jacob - Kitchen Sink Chili
Donations presented by:
Picatinny Federal Credit Union: $1,500
National Defense Industrial Association: $250
National Contract Management Association: $250
Donations can be mailed to:
Army Emergency Relief, Building 119
Picatinny Arsenal, N.J. 07806
Related Links:
Picatinny Prepares for Army's Emergency Relief Campaign
Picatinny Arsenal launches Army Emergency Relief Campaign
Chili cook-off gives analyst another shot at cooking glory
Annual chili cook-off competition raises money for Army Emergency Relief - Ted Cole Wins Again
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