Town of Branford Combines for Great Chili Challenge

Coordinated by the Branford Chamber of Commerce and Membership Coordinator Susan Finkle, The Branford Chamber teamed with over forty different groups to stage the first Chili Challenge for a Cause. Thirteen different locations around the Town Green were in host locations for special chili recipes!

Why? Well this is a classic example of the cooperation of a myriad of different organizations to make a difference in Branford. While coordinated by the Branford Chamber and Chair People: Sally Esborne of Sir Speedy Marketing and Printing and Chris Guadalini of Nationwide-Mobeck and Guadalini, Thirteen different locations, both merchant and restaurants were represented. Each chef and location represented a  non profit or charity!

The result--491 people cast as ballot!! Somewhere between 500-600 people came to our town and experienced the charming New England ambiance. Scores of  people came from well out side the shoreline location to visit for the first time. Special thanks to the Chamber Board who understood the importance of bringing new people to Branford and backed it up with both ticket sales and donations.  

OK, so who won? Mango's! A  very close vote edging out La Cuisine won first prize on behalf of The Cosgrove Animal Shelter. Runner up La Cuisine representing Branford Educational Collaborative came in a close second! However, there were NO LOSERS SATURDAY. What was demonstrated was the collaborative willingness that exists in the great location of Branford to achieve GREAT THINGS. When working together, nothing is impossible.  Believe it!  Branford, centuries, old is still cookin!

Please go to www.branfordct.com, your Branford Chamber website, where all community events appear. For additional information go to the site late Monday! Many thanks to all. Special thanks beyond our sponsors (on web site) to the Town of Branford, Tery Elton and The East Shore Health Department who helped make this possible!

Ed Lazarus

President Branford Chamber ed@branfordct.com

203-488-5500