AER runs its annual campaign from March 1 through May 15 to raise funds to assist active d... VIEW ORIGINAL
PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. (March 10, 2015) -- Approximately 120 volunteers arrived to the Cannon Gate Catering and Conference Center March 9 to taste the various chili samples and to vote for the competition during Picatinny's Army Emergency Relief annual Chili Cook-Off.
Sticking to tradition, a panel of judges conducted a blind taste test and provided their findings for first, second and third place winners. The 13 contestants were also competing for most popular chili, best table design and the most exotic chili. But this year's competition introduced a new category, the golden ticket award.
The golden ticket was chosen by a certified chili judge and was awarded to Chris Greenley for his "RJ Slow" chili. The chili was fully loaded with a popular ingredient, bacon. The key ingredient helped Greenly receive multiple awards in addition to the Golden Ticket award. Greenley's chili also received 2nd place from the judges and was voted most popular.
Army Emergency Relief, or AER, raised $466 during this event.
AER runs its annual campaign from March 1 to May 15 to raise funds to assist active duty and retiree service members in financial emergencies. Assistance includes no interest loans or grants depending on need. Funds provide assistance in situations such as unexpected funeral expenses, travel, permanent change of duty station, food purchases, utility bills, and late car or housing payments.
"Fundraiser events are vital to Picatinny's campaign since those, along with donations, are the only source of income received by Army Emergency Relief," said Army Community Service Program Specialist Marci Keck.
"Last year we raised just over $40,000 but I awarded almost the same in loans and grants. I assist not only Soldiers, but Marines, Sailors and Airmen, both active and retired," added Keck. "Those still wishing to make a tax-free donation can drop of a check to AER or cash to me at Bldg 119."
AER is a private nonprofit organization incorporated in 1942 by the Secretary of War and the Army Chief of Staff. AER's sole mission is to help Soldiers and their dependents. Loans are made without interest.
Winning Chilies:
Most Popular: Chris Greenly -- RJ Slow Chili
Best Table Decoration -- Lt. Col. David Jacob -- Buffalo Bill's Chili
Most Exotic -- Aaron Lieb -- Nancy & Tito's Punishing Pumpkin Chili
Blind Taste Test Picks:
1st -- Scott Miller -- Hooah Chili
2nd -- Chris Greenly -- RJ Slow Chili
3rd -- Aaron Lieb -- Nancy & Tito's Punishing Pumpkin Chili
Golden Ticket Award: Chris Greenly -- RJ Slow Chili
Donations can be mailed to:
Army Emergency Relief, Building 119
Picatinny Arsenal, N.J. 07806
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