Chili Cook-Off Heats Up
The moment you stepped inside the Martin Public Library’s Events Center, you could feel it … that unmistakable buzz of community, warmth, and friendly competition. The smell of simmering spices hung in the air as tables lined with steaming pots of chili invited guests to wander from booth to booth, tasting, chatting, and plotting their votes for who had the Best Chili in West Tennessee.
Trial & Error kicked off the evening with an energetic opening set, setting a lively tone as people settled in. Later, the smooth, soulful blues of Lew Jetton filled the Events Center.
The competition quickly became part of the fun. Face painting added a playful touch with adults and kids alike partaking in the fun while hot dogs, sweet treats, and cold drinks kept everyone’s bellies full throughout the evening.
By the end of the night, Woodfire Pizza emerged victorious, earning well-deserved bragging rights with a chili that struck just the right balance of bold flavor and spice.
Then came the Hot Ones Challenge, where Local 6s’ hosts Mike Mallory and Jasmine Youngblood turned up the heat, grilling Dwayne and SJCS community partner, 731 Pools owner, Harlin Wilkin, with questions as they worked their way through a lineup of increasingly fiery sauces.
Dwayne captured the heart of the evening when he spoke about how proceeds from the event go to The Pantry, a new community resource brought to you by St. John’s Community Services .
The Pantry makes sure individuals and families have what they need when they need it — food to keep tables full, clothing, and other essentials — so they don’t have to choose between paying rent, buying medicine, or having what they need. Week after week, your support helps so many individuals and families in our community .
This night wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible partners at UTM Alumni, the talented musicians Lew Jetton and Trial & Error, and our volunteers. Thank you to local restaurants Woodfire Pizza, The Hawk’s Nest, Bricks and Brews, Saben's Cafe at Discovery Park, The Hearth, and Millsauce BBQ who poured their heart into every pot, too.
To everyone who came to taste, vote, and support, thank you!
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