How can chili save a life?  When it's enjoyed like it was at our Cookoff for a Cause on August 25, at The Grove at Grand Oaks in Middletown.  Over 300 guests enjoyed chili samples from twelve area restaurants, BBQ favorites from talented chefs at Lincoln Culinary Institute, vibrant music by the Jon Peckman Band, and giveaways all evening, including the 50/50 cash raffle that netted about $500 for the winner.  Middletown's New England Emporium took first place honors in the chili contest, which was judged by the celebrity panel of City of Middletown Mayor Seb Giuliano, State Rep. Matt Lesser and WTIC-AM Morning Host Ray Dunaway, who emceed the event.  First & Last Tavern of Middletown won the coveted People's Choice trophy for the second year in a row.

Dr. Kathleen Savino, a staff member of The Connection and gold medalist with TeamUSA Women's inline hockey, spoke about her experience this year when her team won the world competition in the final seconds of play in Italy.  Peter Nucci, Heide Erb and Lisa DeMatteis-Lepore, senior staff of The Connection, also expressed appreciation to guests for their generosity in helping us to build communities and rebuild lives in Middlesex County and Connecticut by attending the Cookoff on a pleasant summer night.  Special thanks to our sponsors (see at left), participating restaurants and guests for making this a special evening.


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View dozens of photos from our 2011 Cookoff for a Cause on our Flickr page